The day had dawned sunny and we got up fairly early, but before we could set off we needed more diesel. Luckily there was a garage across the road from where we were moored so we went over with our trolley’s and containers, and after some help using the pump from a local (you have to put your credit card in a little machine to the side of the pump first before filling with fuel), we managed to buy enough certainly to take us as far as Dunkirk. We also felt filthy, and I certainly welcomed an opportunity to wash my hair after not washing it for five days! You feel so much better after a wash and with fresh clothing.
We finally set off for Bruges at 10 am. Today was such a contrast from yesterday the sun was warm on our backs, so we were able to travel without coats or hats. We were now driving along a

bringing us in to Belgium

the wheel instead of ending the day with numb feet!
The journey then became much slower when we reached Bruges, we drove along the ring canal

but there are some lovely windmills in Bruges as well.
After Bruges, we made our way towards Nieuwpoort. The first lock took an hour to go through, although this wasn’t too much of a hardship, as the sun was still shining, and it was still pleasant to sit outside. Not long after that though, we were stuck waiting at a bridge in Oudenburg. Nobody seemed to be answering us at all on the VHF radio, by this time it was beginning to get frustrating, as we not only needed to crack on, but we also needed to get somewhere where we could pick up water and food supplies. I managed to find a telephone number for the bridge, and we finally got an answer!
By this time it was getting late, so soon after the bridge we moored at Snaaskerke for the night. We decided at this point that we had really had enough of long days of motoring, and that if we continued to travel in this way fatigue would soon set in which would affect our judgement and decisions. We wanted to get home, but we wanted to get home safely! Whilst I prepared a much needed dinner, Martin went out to find a supermarket for us to stock up on supplies in the morning.
Looks quite picturesque today and your list of wildlife gets longer by the day. Enjoy your current surroundings as our experience of Dunkirk was one of the worst looking places we've ever visited – hopefully you'll find it a little more pleasing on the eye? Nancy is with us this afternoon and is thrilled to follow your adventure on her iPad every day. We're off to Lord of The Dance tonight. Did you manage to sample a Belgian beer or two on the way through?
By the way Martin: the photo of you sat at the wheel with your arms behind your head shows a worrying resemblance to another family member, be careful!!
Whatever Dunkirk looks like I think we will be thrilled to get there! We have sampled beer, wine and chocolate. Have a lovely time tonight. Love to Nancy. X
The adventure continues – and I am in awe of your courageous nature to take this on. Well done to both of you. We can't wait until you are finally on The Thames and we can come and see you at various points, as you journey home. Keep safe and take care. x
I reckon the amount of beer you guys are carrying is slowing you down – however, if you drink more then you'll go faster but not get under the bridges – Catch 22 never felt so boozy!
Looking forward to reading about your crossing of La Manche.