A Friend Loves At All Times

It is coming on that time of year again.  Time has once again marched on and is quickly approaching February 8---my birthday.  Another birthday-YIKES!!! This year I will turn 44.  I can remember when I thought of that age as being "old".  I no longer think of it as OLD, just more mature. (hehehe)  Eventhough my birthday is not until Monday, I was invited on Wednesday to an early celebration lunch by my sweet friends Michele and Joyce (Scrap for Joy).  It was the most delightful afternoon filled with friendship and laughter.  Joyce prepared a wonderful lunch of grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup.  It could not have been a more perfect menu.  That is one of my most favorite meals.  There is something so warm and comforting about hot soup and a warm sandwich.  I felt so special as I walked into the dinning room and saw how pretty the table had been set. 

After lunch there was dessert!!!  My favorite cookie of all time is shortbread.  Michele bakes the yummiest shortbread and as it turned out she baked a whole bowl of the prettiest shortbread hearts. 

Joyce served them with chocolate ice-cream that she promised was low fat---hmmm it sure didn't taste low fat :)

What a perfect afternoon.----But there was more!!! They had gifts too.

  It is such a special feeling to have friends who really know you---friends that know just the thing to make your gasp in delight.  And believe me that is exactly what I did.  First from Joyce......This beautiful box which she hand decorated.....

Look what was inside!!!!!!!

Joyce had several surprises tucked into that beautiful tin but one that I can't wait to open is this....

Joyce thought I needed another chick flick (besides EverAfter)  to watch as I craft.  I can't wait to pop it into the DVD player. 

And then there was this most amazing gift from Michele.....

Another little surprise from Michele were these sweet little flashcards from K & Company.  I just can't wait to create something with them.....

My favorite....

There were more delicious cookies for me to take home, a sweet new border punch and the prettiest pink ribbon.......

I am so blessed by these ladies and their friendship.  The best birthday gift---friends that love me at all times.  Thanks Michele and Joyce for making my birthday so special.