Oh, dear. I suppose I should be nicer, but the truth is I frequently like the gifts I give more than the gifts I receive. Yes, yes, I know it is better to give than to receive, but . . . .

In fact my English friend gave me lovely gifts, including a shawl and an evening bag I think she bought at a local craft fair. But her best gift--the best I've received so far, Is two copies of an alphabet book she illustrated and for which her friend wrote the text. I will give one copy to my grands and keep the other for myself!