Today started off a little blahhy as I was suffering a little from the after effects of a ‘girls night out’ the evening before. But the fact that I was able to have a lie in worked wonders! Dave brought me a cup of tea and a gorgeous necklace….very simple and elegant on a fine silver chain. I sat and opened all my cards which was lovely (I work with about 25 ladies and we all remember each others birthdays, so there’s all theirs to open to start with!). Luckily the postman was on time with other cards (including a delightful home crafted one from Sadie). One of the problems with having a birthday at Christmas can be cards and presents never arriving on the day!. However I was thrilled to receive on the correct day, a little package from my friend Pixie who has made me a fab pair of fingerless mitts and matching socks which go perfectly with my plum velvet coat. I love them and have been wearing them all day (well the mitts when I went out!). I’ve taken photos of them (which don’t do them justice I’m afraid) and the beautiful card from Sadie. I’ve also included the sweetest little sigtag that dear Elizabeth has sent me today 
Thanks so much to everyone else who sent me good wishes in one form or another
During the morning my mum came calling, bearing wonderful gifts! A beautiful bracelet, an orchid and the sweetest little china jug. She was followed by an old teaching friend who brought me a Gisela Graham angel and a calendar by one of my favourite artists, Gustav Kilmt. I also had more fab jewellery from friends at work along with some Next smellies! Tom called me at lunchtime to say happy birthday
After a big meal out last night I haven’t felt hungry all day so when Dave asked what special request I had for tonight I hummed and haaahed and eventually decided that I really fancied a KFC!! It’s been a good few years since I had one so it’s a bit of an inexpensive treat and means Dave doesn’t have to cook
Tomorrow I’ll be packing for our little holiday. Fortunately the cottage is so well equipped we don’t need to take much at all apart from clothes and Dave’s dialysis equipment. We’ll be leaving Saturday morning after taking the doggies to their holiday accommodation 
Hi Nikki!
I’m a friend of Sadies’, Jackie’s, and Elizabeth’s- they can vouch for me… maybe
-but I saw it was your birthday so thought I’d pop over and wish you a great day! It is hard having a BD so close to Christmas. My new son-in-law’s BD is on Sunday. Have a great holiday! (((Hugz)))
Dear Nikki,
I answered your mail, I hope you got it. I hope you got my e-card (now I’m doubting), and my snail mail card. (and I’m doubting too) 
& to Dave my best regards.
I am so glad you got spoiled by your Dave (what a man !) & by your colleagues. You deserve nothing but the best.
I wish you again, a delightful birthday, my friend.
Have a safe & joyful vacation, and Christmas celebrations.
Sending you much love
Take good care. OXOXOX
I don’t mind admitting I am shocked and rather pleased that your card arrived on time! I was determined to make you one (sorry it was such a short cut version, normally I would have sewn it), because I always think people with birthdays around Christmas probably get their day forgotten quite a lot. Bill’s is on the 2nd Jan, and I am always in a rush to get him a pressie and a card. I know, how long have I been with him, and I still always forget! I usually make him a cake though
I’m pleased you had such a great day. ooh, KFC, yum. I think we can have that for tea tomorrow. Save me from cooking. Tonight is take away Friday, and we are having fish and chips, because like you, haven’t had that for ages.
Love your mitts, very nice. Bet they look excellent wtih your coat.
The snowball animation on meez costs 6 coinz, or 4 coinz. I forget, anyway, I bought it ages ago ‘cos I thought it was brilliant (when you watch the whole ani).
time for a shower. Happy Friday! xxxx
What great goodies you got and good on the postie, delivering on time
KFC haven’t had that in ages and sounds an ideal birthday tea to me.
So pleased your special day was splendid as that is what you are to us
Have fun in Dorset and I will wave to you from Devon lol
Merry Christmas and a Very Happy New Year