I didn't get a chance to pop in yesterday...it was a very busy day...a wonderful day.

One by one, children arrived to spend the weekend helping me celebrate my birthday.

They are all here except one...well, actually she was here in the form of a most amazing package deliver by the USP!

That Netta...whatta gal! Even though she couldn't make it here, she was well represented by her package.

It must have taken her months to put it together...each gift so thoughtful.

I think my favorite was the card...one of those that play music when you open it...and I could just picture her in the card aisle doing the White Chick dance as she picked it out. Whatta visual!

I love the hummingbird chimes she sent...they are hanging on my beloved front porch and as they chime, I can see her swaying with the music.

The package even included a birthday cake complete with candle...a very clever little concoction that requires a little bit of water and a few seconds in the microwave...how cute.

The truffles...mmmmmmmmmm...so chocolate...what can I say.

Then there's the little compact that says, on the lid, "Look at the face of a survivor" and opens into a mirror.

There was an old photograph of the two of us taken when we went to a mid-evil festival some years ago. We were dressed in costume and trust me when I tell you, its a pretty funny picture and brought back some great memories of a really fun time we shared.

There was lots more stuff...two very meaningfull books included.

It was a wonderful, wonderful package..made me laugh, made me cry and made me miss my gal. Happily, I know she'll be here soon.

The rest of the kids all pitched tents around the house and sat up most of the night telling stories and laughing a lot.

Today is the real birthday...70 years old and still climbing the hill. To celebrate it surrounded by people I love and who love me is the greatest gift of all.

Life is good.

peace.