October 24, 2019

Keeping up when I can.

My friend Douglas King celebrated his 80th birthday on Saturday, October 19 with a lovely party at L'Atelier.  Only about 20 people in attendance, so I felt privileged to be invited.

Douglas has had a very interesting life and is still vital and engaged at 80.  He rides his bike everywhere he can, now lives on a narrow boat when he is in England, is still very involved in primary children's education and is building a primary school in Katugastota just over the river from where I live.

This is the venue.  L'Atelier is an 8 room guest house that the owner is trying to make into a bit of a cultural event hub.

These were pictures of Douglas over the years with explanations of the events depicted.

The food prepared by Douglas himself except for the vegetable balls.  

Making sure everything is hot.

Catching up.

These are the three teachers who will be the core of the teaching staff at the school Douglas is building.

The Birthday Boy, young as ever. 

Live entertainment provided by the Sri Lankan version of a Mariachi band.

From left to right:  Deanne Dallas, Douglas, Me, James Aitken.  

It has been raining unceasingly.  Even cold enough to need a blanket.

A swaddled Aya.