Where have I celebrated my birthday on January 12?

I certainly never imagined my chosen profession as an English teacher would have me celebrating birthdays in so many different countries and cities around the world: Kyoto, Japan; Nanchang, (Jiangxi Province), China; Taipei, Taiwan; Hohhot (Inner Mongolia), China; Luzhou (Sichuan Province), China; Longzhou (Guangxi Province), China. And now here in Vientiane, Laos.

“Who’d a thunk it?” as my Midwest upbringing would say.

While all birthdays to me are special, these milestone ones, such as my upcoming 60th, demand particular attention.

And who better to draw that particular attention than myself?

Treating Others: My Birthday Cake Begins

For my former decade-centered birthday gatherings as an adult, I made sure people knew this day was coming or had arrived by treating those in my midst. What better way to do that than through the internationally famous, well-beloved birthday cake?

Vientiane has so many cake shops for these distinctive occasions. I have a favorite one that touts numerous layered sponges lathered in whipped cream galore along with decorations of fruit, chocolate coins, cookies, flowers, figurines or miniature signages. Candles are included, along with a plastic cutting knife.

Yesterday, an all-day staff meeting allowed me to surprise everyone during our carried-in lunch with just that: a cake.

And I chose a big one, too!

With 14 at our meeting, I wanted to make sure everyone had a good-sized piece, including myself.

And we certainly did, as you can see below: Cake demolished, serving its purpose.

While my staff enjoyed a surprise cake, I received an even more treasured surprise: A birthday card signed with lovely sentiments and very touching comments. Each individual gave such thoughtful and meaningful wishes for my 60th.

We’ve known each other only for a year, with some even less than that but those heartfelt words written in my card reflected how much we mean to one another. I was quite moved as I read them.

You can bet this item is being placed in my box of other cherished cards, letters and notes from students, friends, colleagues and family members. I’m sure I’ll be adding more in years to come, but at present, this one I’m holding particularly dear.

Be sure to check this space for more of my 60th celebrations, yet to come!