I spent the midnight of my birthday at Córtex, during a writing residency. During the day, between the daily routine of work in the studio, or in my case at the desk, everyone prepared a dish to bring to dinner, which was in the garden, lit by candles. There were sweet and savoury dishes, and a round almond cake for a sunny, energetic year. A spicy red beetroot soup that called for some bright months. We sang happy birthday at midnight and learned several dances. Some of those people became friends and colleagues who are still close, and we keep exchanging ideas and following each other’s work.