they're tears of joy aren't they?

On my birthday I got some lovely pressies. This book (that I asked for) from B and the boys. I had it out from the library and loved it so much I really needed to have my own copy. It's full of gorgeous ideas for sewing and crafty things.

My lovely friend Anna took me out for coffee and cake and her wee boy gave me some rhubarb that he'd picked from their garden. My sisters, Aunty D, Mum and Dad, NanaR and Grandpa also sent me sweet gifts. I was very spoilt. B brought home a huge chocolate ice cream cake which we shared with Poppa and some cousins who came for dinner and games night.

But by far my favourite gift (and the one which reduced me to tears) was this wee notebook from my mum (NanaD)...

Poppa brought it over (Mum is still in Chch) and I opened it thinking that it was a sweet notebook. Once I opened though I realised that she'd filled it with stories of our boys. Funny things they've said and done over the past five years. She's been collecting them up and copied them into this book for me. What a beautiful surprise.

I burst into tears and had to stop reading it. It's one of the most thoughtful gifts I have ever received (close behind B's painting of our wedding vows). The kids were eating their dinner and looked at me a little strangely when I sobbed happy tears... "it's okay mummy, they're tears of joy aren't they?" said the 5yr old. He knows me so well.

Thanks so much mum, I love you!