Presents

I've been trying to get round to posting this for weeks, but I've just not managed it. Still, here it is now.
Just in time for my birthday, at the very beginning of this month, an envelope arrived from my dear blogging friend Nydia in Brazil. Inside was a little package wrapped in pretty baby-dragon paper.

Inside the dragon paper were two lovely bookmarks made by Nydia's son Lucas - one for me and one for Aileni. This photo shows one side,

and this shows the other.

Lucas has included autumn leaves, which really brought home to me the difference between the southern hemisphere and the northern spring!

Next there was this almost-monochrome fridge magnet, depicting the famous Sugar Loaf Mountain, made by Nydia. It smartens up my fridge.

Lastly there was this cute dragon, also made by Nydia. It could be used as a keyring, but I'd hate to risk damaging it. It hangs above my desk, guarding my computer.

Isn't it lovely? I'm so lucky! Thank you Nydia - and Lucas.

Look What I've Got!

A parcel came for me recently.
It came from the lovely and bubbly Liz in Wales.
It contained a book I've wanted since I finished the previous one in this series.

There was a pretty card with the book...

... and it was signed by both Liz and George!

Isn't it wonderful what friends you can make through blogging?

I've started reading the book, and I'm thoroughly enjoying it.

Thank you so much Liz!

Stephen

Yesterday was busy. Stephen had to take his new scooter for its 500km service, a ride of 34 miles (can't think in kilometers yet!) The scooter is only 125cc, but fortunately it's a quite powerful machine for its size.
Stephen was very worried beforehand (I wasn't, of course - LOL!) as he finds anticipation of any kind almost unbearable. I'm so proud of the way he coped. He set off early while I walked the dog, and we followed on in the car.

I should maybe explain that those 34 miles run through hilly country, and it is winter. He coped with rain (nothing unusual there!) and nasty hail showers. One such shower hit him on a hilltop and left him driving slowly over icy marbles. Once through it he looked back in his mirror and saw the road behind hidden by a white wall of hail.
When he arrived at the shop, he found that the workshop was across the town. He had to follow the mechanic through busy streets and around three fairly large roundabouts. Not an easy trip for him, but he did really well.
I'm so proud of him.

While on the subject of Stephen, let me show you what he gave me for Christmas.

You know I love ear-rings, and these are quite something!

Here's a photo (not the best ever - who is that old woman?) of me wearing the 'gunmetal' pair. He also gave me the necklace.
Nice presents!