The day started out as normal. I got up and had breakfast. I, then, had to do some shopping. I needed some things for lunch and breakfast. I walked over to the Victor Hugo market to get what I needed. On the walk over I noticed, that Friday morning seems to be the day when deliveries are made to restaurants in Toulouse. There were lots of vans and small box trucks blocking the narrow streets. I had not seen that many vehicles on the streets but guess I did not go out walking early last Friday.

Also, there were not as many people on the street. I think that was because the wind was still blowing like crazy. It was the third day in a row with 25 mph winds blowing continuously. The wind is supposed to dissipate today.

I went to Le Panache as is my usual activity for Friday night dinner. I love Le Panache as the food is great but what is even better is the staff. They are very friendly and definitely make me feel welcome.

I had posted on IQ last Saturday what a good dinner I had for my birthday at Le Panache. The staff at Le Panache had seen the post since I had tagged them in my post. The first thing that happened when I sat down was to be asked why I had not told them on Saturday that it was my birthday. I kind of laughed and just shrugged. I was told that I should have told them.

Next thing I knew, I was being presented a dish that I had not ordered. It was a delicious scallop dish with fantastic sauce. It was not on the menu. It was the start of my second and more fun birthday celebration.

During dinner, I talked to Diego and found out that his birthday was on April 2nd. His wife had taken him to Marrakech for his birthday. They had one a hot air ballon ride in the dessert as his birthday gift. He showed me pictures of his trip. I showed him some of the pictures of my trip to Morocco.

I ordered my favorite dessert – the pavlova! When it was brought out, the whole staff including the chef came out and sang happy birthday to me. It had a sparkler in it. I should have taken a picture of it but was too embarrassed by the attention to do anything other than thank them and blush. The dessert is below minus the sparkler.

As a couple was leaving, they stopped and wished me a happy birthday in English and were very nice. The wished me a good stay in Toulouse.

All in all the second birthday celebration was more fun than the first. It made me feel that I have friends here in Toulouse!

Walking home was much better as the wind had died down and it was a beautiful night. The next week is supposed to be gorgeous spring weather which will be great.

I am very fortunate and blessed to be living this life and having the experiences I am having. I will never forget my times in Toulouse.