To see that Mawbe had posted a birthday message to me on Wednesday 4th August!
I had quite a few surprises that day!
When Mr P opened the front door to let Oliver Sprout in (he was rather a soggy moggy, his own fault for for going out in the rain. He does it because he likes being rubbed dry!)
But I digress. Mr P said "I think you'd better come and have a look. So being in an affable sort of mood, I did.
Well, you could have knocked me down with a Tena Lady wrapper!
There was a cluster of balloons with helium numbers 6 &3 attached, a rather small balloon arch (handy if you were expecting a visit from a troop of little people, which I believe is the correct term to use, and a good hostess should always be ready to cater for all types of guest. None arrived though.
) and a beautiful plant.
Later a friend arrived with a delicious apple and almond tray bake, complete with candles and sparklers!
, then another friend with flowers and champagne!
I had lots of cards (more than usual) and Mr P cooked a delicious meal
It really was a fabulous birthday, which was great, because you see it will be my last.
I was diagnosed with terminal cancer back in mid December and despite the best efforts of all staff involved, the prognosis given during my last consultation in July, was that I had about 3 months 
I won't bore you with details of the various treatments I had, but will reassure you that I'm still pottering about and enjoying what I do.
Please don't inundate me with PM's. I would feel that I had to respond to each one,and my time and energy have to be used carefully these days (quite interesting planning ones own funeral though
) but I will read any posts on this thread.
With love, and every good wish for a successful gammon at Christmas!
phoenix
xxxxw