Happy Heatherween!

Friday (31 October) was my birthday and I had a lovely party Thursday night ("Heatherween Eve") at the Slug and Lettuce on Borough High Street.  When I arrived in London in mid-September, I didn't know anyone, so it was really nice to spend an evening with so many new friends (classmates, flatmates and friends from ChristChurch).  I did a small, informal poll and I believe there were over 13 nationalities represented at my party (including a friend from Transilvania - whah, hah, hah...)  Halloween has become pretty commercial here in England, so I had no trouble tracking down accessories for the soiree (including plastic spider rings from Asda - the British Wal-Mart).  My birthday cake was from Konditor & Cook, a gorgeous bakery next to Borough Market.  I thought they did a great job (although I had to talk them out of using glitter.  Glitter on a Halloween cake?!?  That's not very spooky!)

On my actual birthday, I did a bunch of random "fun things" (Starbucks [of course!], walked around Chelsea, went to the movies, got lunch at Pret a Manger, walked along the Thames, sushi for dinner, etc.)  That night, I met up with some friends at ChristChurch' first "Evening Prayer Meeting."  There we were, mere steps off Oxford Street, hundreds of people singing to the Lord and praying for the people of London and around the world.  For me personally, it was a great way to launch a new year.  The last song we sang that night was "Spirit of the Sovereign Lord" which has a line that says, "this is the year of the favour of the Lord."  What a great message as I start a new year in a new country with my future a complete...unknown!  I had a lovely birthday and I'd like to thank everyone for their prayers and well wishes!!