August 31, 2024 photograph by Ian Galsworthy |
Being alone on my birthday is saddening. That was almost
the case this year. My eldest daughter Alexandra had a dental implant on
Thursday 29th, and on Friday and Saturday (my birthday) she was not
well. She was cared for by her sister Hilary. I was resigned to spending the
day without company. At 4:15 I went out for a walk with Niño and ran into my
neighbours Ian and Kathleen Galsworthy who were walking their dog Chunky. They
wished me a happy birthday and invited me for dinner. I declined but added that
tea would be fine. They told me to come back at 5:15. They had set up a table
in the garden and on it was a small chocolate cake with a candle. Imagine this pleasant
surprise! Their daughter Isobel who is about to go to study in Wales was present. I had good company.
At his point I would like to stress that through the years I have photographed many of our family birthday parties. But Ian’s photograph is my first for blowing a candle.
Thank you Kathleen and Ian. Isobel good luck in Wales.