July 4, 2007

Hello everyone. I have survived the 1/2 century mark fairly unscathed. It was made so much more bearable and less formidable by everyone's kind sentiments and greetings. Telephones and emails are a real life-line, and I even received a text message. Bless you all, and thanks so much for being there. Some of the ecards are hilarious. What a neat era we live in.

I had a lovely lunch with Cathy, who is the wife of Stephen Baldry who works for the same company as Dale. She arrived bearing a beautiful bouquet of flowers, and a very cheery smile. I then spent a very full afternoon on the computer, laughing and crying over emails etc. from my delightful friends and family. What a treat. I was then invited out to dinner with some of Dale's colleagues, and it was very nice to put faces to names. David had even ordered me a cake and they sang Happy Birthday. It was not according to the plan, but was a lovely alternative.

I spent today back at the Khan al-Khalili market with Cathy, who wasn't keen on going at first, but was such a good sport to accompany me. It is much more comfortable to go with someone. We had a lovely time, and did some very tough bargaining. It is very lively entertainment to work your way through the market - some of the comments are unbelievable. (Hey lady, its OK, I am married - I just want your money!) Cathy had been once before and found it too crowded, but we went during the day which is supposedly saner. It is one of those 24-7 places, which actually gets more crowded from 10pm to 1am. Dale bought me a beautiful bracelet which I will show him when he gets home tonight. We also bought a couple of very brightly coloured scarves. We didn't stay too long, as it doesn't take long for the heat to get to you. Even with all the hustling and trying to get your attention, I find the people very friendly, energetic and fun. I would like to go back at least once more before we leave. Hopefully Dale will get a couple of weeks off at some point or another, and we can go a bit further afield too.

So for now, bless you all and thanks again.

Love,

Laurel

p.s. http://www.theweathernetwork.com/weather/EGXX0004