Can you believe this guy is forty? Me neither. He's a bit gray around the edges but he's still as handsome and wonderful as ever.
Such a big milestone deserves a big celebration. But Austin has never been into big celebrations that are all about himself, so we settled for having a group party for all the friends turning 40 this year (see last post) and extending his actual birthday into a weekend of fun.
We started Friday night with cake (angel food, made from our chicken eggs, with whipped cream and fresh-picked blackberries) and presents. The kids wanted to give him an i-pod touch, which they haven't let him touch since they gave it to him. I got him a couple of books and some very practical new Brooks Brothers shirts and a tie.
The gift Austin gave himself is a horse named Major. Major is not a permanent acquisition; like the ponies he goes home in a couple of months. The horse arrived on Thursday and he and Austin spent Friday exploring trails around the farm while the birthday cake was in the oven.
Saturday we took Austin to Quebec City to turn forty in a foreign land. We spent the last day of his thirties and first day of his forties wandering through Old Quebec.
We visited Austin's favorite patisserie for chocolate croissants and hot chocolate every morning for breakfast. How is it that the Quebecois can make amazing pastries? And why can't anyone south of the border figure out how?
The kids' favorite part is always the street performers. Quebec is the home of Cirque de Soleil, which puts on an amazing free show every evening. During the day, the town squares are full of acrobats busking for change.
Austin was recruited to help with one of the performances.
My sister Christina came with us -- she's here to visit for the week from Montana -- and her favorite part of Quebec city was the ferry ride. Views of the old town are truly spectacular.
I hope you had a happy birthday, Austin. I look forward to another decade of adventures with you!