The kids put a lot of effort and creativity into the presents for their father.
Origami birds representing all 4 of us, a racetrack with a finish line, a trophy cup for the winner (me), a painting of the surrounding scenery, a postcard of Vilcabamba with small photos of the kids included and a custom painted Porsche 911 Targa for my 50th birthday. I finally get that Porsche I have been pining for my whole life!
Getting ready to make the cake with my helpers.
The chocolate frosting started out as vanilla then raw cacao was melted and added gradually until the taste was just superb. Taste testing was required at every step.
Vilcabamba has been celebrating "El Señor de la Buena Esperanza" (Lord of the Good Hope) for a week. Tonight Sept. 22 will be the culmination with the firing of a locally-made bamboo pyrotechnic device on the central plaza.
The kids wanted vanilla frosting and the parents wanted chocolate, so no problema.
I am a very lucky guy to have such a loving family.
Perched on a knoll overlooking Vilcabamba, "Cafe Cultura" is in the very first home built in Vilcabamba. It has been in the same family for over 200 years. Back then, this family owned the entire valley. There was no town, but only sugar cane fields. We chose this restaurant for its charm, surrounding scenic beauty and sunsets. We had a feeling the food would be excellent and we were right. There is a weekly menu that goes out on Mondays by email and reservations are required. Spots are limited. They are open for business on Thursdays and Saturdays only.
This is another view of Cafe Cultura.
Maya has a garden with herbs, plants and flowers. She had to make Louis a mint tea because he may have overindulged when eating cake and ice cream after lunch. It straightened him right out.
The photos do not clearly show just how beautiful the views are from this veranda. The atmosphere was quite peaceful. We showed up about 30 minutes before our reservation just to hang out. I have to say that this was a very special birthday and I am grateful to have shared it with my family. What else could a father ask for on his 50th birthday? The meal was fantastic, the best we have had since leaving Durango, and rivals the "Red Snapper" back home-which is a high compliment.
The sunset was nice but not as spectacular as we had hoped. So, we're going to have to go back. We are always searching for an awe inspiring sunset in life.
Louis has a natural affinity for plants and flowers.
Traditional coffee bean splitter for removing the husk.
Even the bathroom has a spiritual message.
Typical Ecuadorian door.
Yasu is the chef-he is a master. His wife Maya is the hostess and also has a gallery where she displays her artwork. Pictured with Yasu is a prep cook.
What better way to top off a birthday.
Some fireworks did not go off as planned so the pyrotechnician climbed up a little ways and manually set them off. Then he would duck and run.
No safety guards in Ecuador. Exist at your own risk. The motto here is "No es mi culpa." It is not my fault.
"El Señor" was dismantled one stage at a time. Unexploded fireworks were then set off and kids may have gotten away with some souvenirs.
This is the local Vilcabamba band.
I send my mom and dad, Russ and Donna, a special thanks for this life. It really is wonderful. With love, Peter.
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