Birthday Bash!

Last Tuesday I turned 45 years old which means I am half way to 90 and can look forward to arthritis, memory loss, repeating the same stories continuously (have I written this blog before??) varicose veins and droopy boobs. Interestingly as soon as I reached this age, I discovered a rather large vein beginning to stick out of my right leg! Does the fact that I know myself fairly well and I’m a little wiser and knowledgeable than in my 20s make up for this slow deterioration? No it bloody doesn’t!!







Anyway back to 28th Sept 2010 and celebrating my Birthday in West Africa. In 2009 I was in the UK, 2008 I was in Miami, Florida and can’t remember further back than that! On 'B' day was at work and didn’t tell anyone, but in the morning I was in a meeting with most of the senior ministry staff and they all sang Happy Birthday to me which was nice and a bit bizarre! I had some calls from home which was a bit emotional including from my Mum and Grandma and Otto. Gran just wanted to know when I was coming home.
The working day was therefore OK but ended badly when I couldn’t get a lift home and couldn’t get a poda or taxi either. So, I walked home in a strop which quickly dissipated as I watched people sell things and greeted passers by on the way. Also, the storm that threatened did not materialise. Later I went to Senegalise (an African restaurant on Wilkinson Road) where 19 of my closest friends (!) had turned up to celebrate with me and this even included chocolate cake, a candle and singing (and prior to this an outstanding baracuda kebab!)!! As no-one can really send me a card here, I had a small but perfect collection of 6 cards, from home and friends here but the dearth of presents and cards hardly mattered as I had a great night. Thanks especially to Natalie for organising it and to John and Allie for the lift!

Also thanks for the 50 or so messages on Facebook and numerous emails! I might be far away but I was very touched at how many folks remembered, makes turning 45 almost bearable!!! Thank you.

There doesn't seem to be any photos of me, so here's the cake instead!!