Gifts Abound!!

Lately, it seems that Christmas is here, just for me. I have been the recipient of many lovely gifts that have come my way from various people, who have crossed my path and I am so thankful.

I received a package from Diane and Jerry, which included the following: a book entitled "Taking Flight"-life experiences of transplant people-I don't like to say patients.-it makes us sound sickly, beautiful note cards-I looked to see who had painted them, only to find the one and only, Diane Bluff and I am not bluffing you when I say her paintings are outstanding-I fell in love with her painting style and can, in no way, use those note cards-I've decided to frame them for my wall in my new home. I called Diane to tell her that she needs to be in a gallery, her paintings, I should say and have referred her to my artistic friend, Dan Tennant. I am hoping that he can advise her on what to do next. I told her that her paintings reminded me of my beloved France and guess what, she said they were painted in France at Giverny-Monet's home and water lily gardens that abound with a myriad array of sun dappled flowers. What French and American talent that Diane has. I can't wait for a gallery to represent her. It would be fabu. I will keep you posted on her progress in finding the right gallery.

Their card made me chuckle as it said, "Do you know how to cure the blues? The succinct answer, "The Browns" as in chocolate brownies, chocolate chips, chocolate bars, etc. Jerry said it works for him. Well, it works for me, too. Perhaps, a bit too much. Oh, you know the weight gain.

A sorority sister of mine recently visited EZE in France and has declared her love for this tiny place that steals your heart with its stone paths, cactus garden, shops tucked in crooks and nannies, colorful flowers blooming in every nook and crevice imaginable. Well, Lorrie R. has discovered my secret place and she loves it like me. She generously brought me back a tea towel with a bunch of lavender sewed on it with the word, Provence. I immediately fell in love with this souvenir because it reminded me of all the lavender fields that I have seen in France. I, even, bought my mom lavender after one of our trips as she fell in love with the smell and the purple colors. How absolutely kind of Lorrie to think of me on her vacation. I am deeply touched.

Dad stopped off with some steak marinade that only he knows the recipe to. I can not divulge his secret recipe as it is his homemade recipe that I just love. So, the secret stays in the container and on my steak. But, believe me, I will be enjoying every bite. Yum! I can taste it already.

So to all of you, I thank you for my delightful gifts. You've made me very happy with your generosity.

May your friends and family give you gifts from their hearts like my friends and family.