David's Diary: Friday, October 11, 2002

Allen Turns Seven In Malta

When we left on our trip in June, 2001, Allen was only five. He celebrated his sixth birthday in the south of France in Port St. Louis du Rhone. This year, after having traveled to Spain, across the Western Mediterranean, and been up and down the Adriatic, Allen celebrates his seventh birthday in Malta.

Just after 8:00, Allen burst into Karalee's and my cabin so excited to be having his birthday. There is something special about a young person's unbridled enthusiasm for special events, especially their birthday. It is a school day, but we only do school up to recess. Allen then opens his presents and starts playing with some of the toys that he got.

Seven Candles

Allen wanted a special volcano birthday cake and yesterday Karalee and he made it. This afternoon we were joined by Chris, Lisa, Connor, and Findly from the catamaran Ocean Breezes. Ocean Breezes is spending the winter here in Malta and Allen has been playing every day with Connor and Findly. With seven candles on his cake, it does look like a volcano as Allen blows out the flames. We cut the cake and share it around and join together in wishing Allen all the best on his seventh birthday.