A Birthday with Lanterns

 Wednesday 8 October

In may of this year, Joc and I spent a wonderful evening by the water at a lantern festival. Here is the link to that evening if you are interested.

https://outandabout3.blogspot.com/2025/05/n

At the conclusion of the evening we sat on, enjoying the balmy evening whilst the crowds dispersed. During that time we noticed that the tide and a strong breeze was beaching the lanterns. We managed to rescue 5 of them and hoped we could find an occasion to reuse them.

This year Joc's birthday actually fell on a Hungry Hiker Wednesday. It seemed the perfect opportunity to use the lanterns here in our pool. A plan was made and a most wonderful evening of lanterns and celebration was enjoyed this past Wednesday.

A goal of walking at least 10 kilometres every hiker day, was set at the beginning of the year. We have now notched up 400 kilometres. Our 'spring' temperature is now almost a daily 30 plus C. We didn't want to walk 10 km in the afternoon heat, so we each walked 5 km in the early morning cool. 

Setting off at 5.30 am, I was blessed with a foggy sunrise as I walked across the golf course.

Our meeting time was 4pm, but the M1 was a carpark. Frustrating for the drivers, but the half hour delay made a difference to the heat, as set off together to complete today's 10 km.

Midway through the walk on a quiet street, our shadows were lengthening.

Not surprisingly, our evening commenced with nibbles and bubbles.

The birthday girl.

Last year I created a celebration of elegance for Joc's 70th. I kept many of the candle holders. They were dusted off, and along with some solar lights, made a lovely atmosphere as night fell.

We have become experts at sharing the menu. Tonight we enjoyed Tuscan Chicken Pasta with a Bocconcini and Orange Green Salad plus a Greek Potato Salad.

Why the purple ring, you ask? Jenny is starting a new tradition for us. All will be revealed on our next hike with a morning tea or lunch. 

Now it was time to create our lanterns. Sadly Margot wasn't with us. She was too busy watching the Northern Lights in Norway. With only 5 bases, I was happy to watch.

And off to the pool........

Note the full moon plus 2 days, reflection.

Leanne created a delicious gingerbread cake with brandy marinaded pineapple pieces.

Too lovely to throw out just yet.

Joc loves Highland Cows. 

I would love to read your comment.