Sixty-one with Thirty-nine to Go!

Mick greeted his birthday with of all things, a dental appointment. I had missed my appointment the first of the month and Mick wasn't due, but wanted us to be on the same schedule. We had made an appointment with Dra. Paola Dominguez. She was kind, gentle, and spoke a little English.
Mick ended up not only getting a cleaning and check-up, but also a filling. There is no grace in a dental chair.
I was fortunate in that I had no problems or repairs. The grand total for cleanings and checkups for both of us and a filling for Mick was $70. Like our dentist in Brasil, she handled the cleaning and everything, alone. She did a great job and we were very pleased. We have appointments for March.

A get-together was planned for the birthday boy at La Terrace. When the plan was begun, it was suppose to be a secret; however, that doesn't usually work. In actuality, even if he knew of it, I think he was surprised by the event itself.

He was greeted with a glorious celebratory chapeau from Bob and Elaine, which he donned all evening.

Some of us needed a burger fix. The burgers at La Terrace are great and there is a variety of condiments offered. Mick is enjoying his.

Fernando Moscoso and Carlos Machuca were there. They are tour guides here in Cuenca that have been invaluable to us. Both do horseback and hiking tours in addition to car tours and driving services. This is evident with Fernando, in that he's sporting the remains of horse kick on his face.

Sherry and Hank were there.

Nancy and Chuck

Ed and Tresa

Chris and Jenny

George was there stag due to Carol's trip to California.

Bob and Elaine took time out of house hunting to find the beautiful hat and join us.

Henry and Mayra joined the old folks also. Henry supplied a magnificent cake.

Brian was having a burger fix also.

Mick was presented the cake. Needless to say, none of those present should quit their day jobs for a singing career.

Mick and the cake.

The Ecuadorians present said that it was a tradition for the honoree to bite the cake.

There were some gifts.

Everyone had a great time.

It was a great evening. Mick truly had a great time and was greatful for all our new friends that joined in the celebration. The food was delicious. The staff at La Terrace was so accommodating. The conversation was delightful. What a wonderful way to celebrate a birthday, the first of many more to come. We need 39 more of those. Hopefully, with the next one, Dale, Joan, Rod, Shelley, and Denis will be here; that's all that was missing.

Until next time,

Mick and Kathy