50 Years Young

Yesterday was the 50th birthday of the big boss of the lab - Yusuf and so, being such diligent workers (and not wanting to creep at all), a surprise party was thrown for him at his house. This was the brainchild of Ashley, Chiara, Stefka and Kellie - and involved much whispering around the corridors for the previous week. Yusuf is something of a wine and cheese lover, so this was the theme of the party - with wine and cheese (and other nibbles) from four countries - Italy, France, Spain and the USA (Yusuf likes Zinfandel so the latter was a must). The surprise just about worked although was nearly given away by Fernando (a Spanish member of the lab) who had decided that half-heartedly hovering behind a chair was enough to conceal himself from Yusuf (who had been deftly steered out of the house for a couple of hours by Lina). Anyway, Yusuf was surprised, much fun was had by all, the wine flowed and it was very pleasant indeed.

In addition to all the fab cheese and wine (good choices from Ashley and Jim again), there was, as you'd expect, cake on hand including a 'ball and stick' model made out of sweets (only at a scientist's birthday party, eh?) It was rather amusing that Yusuf figured out what the molecule was within seconds of him opening it - i guess it just goes to show that you can take the man out of the lab, but not the lab out of the man! As you'd expect, we all ate lots and drank lots (especially the latter) but i managed to avoid too much of a hangover by drinking nearly a gallon of water when i got in. So a happy 50th to Yusuf - halfway to 100. It's all downhill from here!!