It is apt that it rains on my birthday as I was born in the year of the water rabbit. We have had five days of perfect Spring time weather in tropical far North Queensland, Australia. Lunch by the pool today may become lunch in or playing pool.

The showers are an inconvenience more than a burden. The 50th celebrations not going according to plan are a reminder that there are greater forces at work. Rather than dampening my spirits the water helps me to reflect on life and the misplaced importance I allot to creating the perfect occasion. It is more than enough that I am joined on my birthday by my partner, our dog and a group of dear friends.