A birthday in Hong Kong
I have now lived in Hong Kong for fourteen years. The other day I figured out that six of those years I have been traveling and/or alone for my birthday since Tess would typically be back in Canada during the summer. I have still celebrated my birthday before or after the actual day, such as the amazing pirate party Tess and my family threw for me last summer. Or, in 2002 when Tess gave me a trip to Antigua Race Week as a 40th birthday present. But actually being around family on my birthday and in Hong Kong, too, kinda foreign to me. Therefore, I was at a loss to find myself in Hong Kong, on my birthday, with my family here. Tess asked me what I wanted to do – I didn't really know. Tess asked me what I wanted for my birthday – I had no idea. I have everything I need. Seriously, I have too much stuff and should be throwing things out.
So, yesterday I woke-up and after promptly making a cup of coffee for myself, Tess and the kids booted me out of the kitchen. I sat at the computer reading CNN while lots of whispers and scurrying could be heard around the corner: footsteps stealthily dashing between the kitchen and dining room. I am pleased to report the kids were incredibly quiet and well behaved. Shortly I was invited into the dining room where the family greeted me with breakfast: fresh orange juice, cinnamon rolls, and a variety of homemade cards from Tess and the kids. Amongst the little pieces of paper included a coupon for Tess to have a pair of my shoes re-soled, Bolaven Coffee, and a coupon to buy an Ipad. Wow, lucky me – an Ipad for my birthday and a 4G iPhone for Father’s Day. Neither of these devices have been purchased, though, and I am considering cashing them in for something else: a piano.
The idea of introducing the kids to formal musical training has been on my heart for several months. I think the upcoming school year could be labeled, “The Year of Musical Gifts.” Tess and I would offer the kids one of two instruments to learn, piano or guitar, to gain a foundation in one instrument. These days, technology provides very affordable but beautiful sounding electronic keyboards. Even with headsets. What's in it for me? The opportunity to play the piano again, something I haven’t done much of the last fifteen to twenty years. What do you think ~ good idea?
Back to my special day: atypical day at work. Tess and the kids joined me at the end of the day. We went out for dinner to a new place – Ruby Tuesday’s – an “ok” family restaurant but hugely overpriced. It was a bit late when we got home so off to bed everyone went, but today the kids surprised me with a terrific birthday cake. Thank you Terrific Tess and kids for a wonderful day. Thank you to everyone else who sent me birthday wishes by phone, e-mail or Facebook… and of course huge thank you to my dad who sent a traditional card in the mail!
