Another orbit well celebrated

Many thanks to everyone who called or sent various kinds of electronic messages for my birthday. I will respond to all of them, in the fullness of time. Special thanks to the various people who sent me kind gifts. In emulation of Emily, I will list a few in order to highlight the amusing diversity:

• Green wine
• Hand-made cufflinks
• Nepalese woolen socks
• Murchie’s Earl Grey Tea (my favourite kind)
• Fudge from Vermont
• Delicious Sri Lankan food
• A large book of Canadian artwork
• Rare earth magnets (still in the mail)
• Twelve cans of chick peas

Despite my relative isolation in Ottawa, I am fortunate to have so many considerate family members and friends.

[Update: 4 December 2007] Two new items joined the list today:

• A guide to tying knots
• A CD by the group Afterparty

My magnets also arrived.

[Update: 22 December 2007] Emily gave me a couple of nice things:

• Ichthyosaur t-shirt
• Safari Outback Water Filtration Kit

Author: Milan

In the spring of 2005, I graduated from the University of British Columbia with a degree in International Relations and a general focus in the area of environmental politics. In the fall of 2005, I began reading for an M.Phil in IR at Wadham College, Oxford. Outside school, I am very interested in photography, writing, and the outdoors. I am writing this blog to keep in touch with friends and family around the world, provide a more personal view of graduate student life in Oxford, and pass on some lessons I've learned here. View all posts by Milan