Three birthdays

We had three significant birthdays to celebrate over the past four days: the city of Canberra's 97th birthday on Friday, Sophie L's on Sunday and Judy L's today. We took a low key approach to celebrating our city's birthday although those early morning views of the big air balloons over the lake during the week were very much admired. However we were lucky enough to be there to celebrate Judy's big birthday on Saturday night and give Sophie our best wishes.

Judy's kids had the entry to the house festooned with garlands, balloons and tea light candles. Fairy lights threaded through the hedges in the back garden and live music (talented musicians on baby grand piano and double bass) lent the gathering an easy, yet stylish vibe.


It was an opportunity to catch up with the latest dramas, and stories of irritating French backpackers, out at Murrumbateman (Jenny and Wayne are in the middle of the wine harvest) in between enjoying fabulous food and wines, expertly served by the kids who all seemed so grown up tonight.

My contribution was the cake. A chocolate mud cake, enough to feed 35 people and able to withstand a blazing inferno of candles (Judy's description). I was feeling a little concerned at this stage.

And I think even Judy and Jurgen were a bit concerned at this stage too (especially with the fire sensor close by).

But all was well...and time to take a moment to reflect on and celebrate a wonderful life, lived and created by a wonderful woman, the centre of her very blessed family and close circle of friends. Happy birthday Judy L. We hope we can share many more with you.