"My life is brill-yunt" as the song says... well, if not always brilliant, then certainly it is fulfilling and contented.

And today has been an especially lovely birthday, mixed in with the inevitable seasonal events that happen this time of year!

First it was the toddler group end of term party... a wisely planned morning that followed its typical pattern with some festive treats, crafts and then ended up with me telling the story of "the smallest sheep, the littlest lamb, the wee-est woolly" using the knitted sheep from our 'sheep trail' two years ago!  It was very magical.

Then it was a delicious relaxed lunch with a friend in Zizzi (other restaurants are available!)

Back to church for the we-don't-do-parties group who were sharing plates groaning under the weight of cakes and doughnuts and warm mince pies as a celebration of Christ's birth (but it WAS NOT a party).  We sang some carols, listened to a speaker and had a pleasant time.

Then home to find this waiting on my doorstep:

A birthday gift from my "chemo buddies" who are now a group of precious friends scattered from me in Glasgow down to Sussex and all points in between.  You may spot some holly leaves - which they had asked to be added as a tribute to Holly cat.  We share a special bond, and I was really touched by the flowers and the accompanying message.

Lots of lovely cards, some wonderful gifts - toasty warm mitts, posh jam, posh toiletries, book shop voucher and an owl shaped handbag (!)...

I am feeling really spoiled, feted, loved... it is a very wonderful life.