Thankyou All

Big Birthday!!!!
 
Just a quick to note to say thankyou to everyone who wished me well on the BIG 40!!!! Thankyou especially to my family for all the phonecalls, it was wonderful to speak to everyone, but didn't help me keep my emotions intact over dinner. I celebrated on Sunday by having a dinner with close friends (15 of them) at the Greek Club where I am now officially a member and have been asked to participate in the next tennis tournament!!! Yippee.
 
We all enjoyed some moussaka, Greek salad, dolmades, some lovely South African White Wine (almost impossible to get here without paying a small fortune) and of course a couple of ouzos. I was spolied with pressies from my Addis friends, including an ode written for the occasion and a cake with large 40 candles and sparklers. I broke down in tears saying the thankyous as I felt the joy, love and support of all my family and friends in Glasgow, Addis and around the globe. Though it was difficult not to miss everyone at home. I am truly blessed by thoe I call friends and family. My Addis family want my Glasgow family to know they wanted this to be a special day as they knew how difficult it would be to be away from those I love at home. They did an excellent job.
 
I received cards from home yesterday. I think VSO did not collect their post last week due to the arrivals of new volunteers, but in some ways was glad as I was already and emotional wreck (with happiness) on the big day. Cards already received from Madeleine and Grace Cairns, Aunt Eileen, Paul, Teresa and family and Gail and Scott and boys (gosh Gail how big is Fraser now????) Clara (by email). I also have a slip from the post office to collect a small parcel which is exciting. Individual emails of thanks to follow. I particularly liked the sharing of my birthday by those of you who raised a glss in my honour - be it a G&T or Whisky be sure I was raising one (or two) as well.
 
Thankyou one and all for all your birthday wishes, including texts (Mo and Jas) and Nuala and Josie for your Happy Birthday song. Thanks for emails, Gill, Paddy.
 
I am going to sign off now as I think the torrential rain has lessened a little - now I know what 'real' rain is - it is even heavier than Glasgow rain!!!! and all I am wearing is a pair of flip flops!!!!
 
Big Love and Big Hugs to everyone, and if I have forgotten to mention anyone please forgive me - when I get a minute I'll be in touch (after my three day National workshop, two day field trip, another two day workshop and all before Monday when I start my new job!!!) But be assured I'll be in touch.
 
Love, Love and more Love
 
Joey X x 40

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