I am having the best birthday ever!

Today I am fifty years old and far from being upset I am truly grateful for being alive, kicking, mobile and in a very very happy chapter in my life! even the blasted shingles pain has taken a back seat today.

I have had a steady stream of visitors all day, all bearing the most wonderful presents. From Eric I got my expression, Mum made me a beautiful little album with some stamps I wanted real bad and some embossed dies for the cuttlebug (hoping that arrives for Christmas) plus the Mumma Mia DVD. Many years ago I booked tickets for Eric's birthday to see the west end show but was so ill we couldn't go and Mum and Dad went instead so now at least we get to watch the DVD.

My cousin Sandra has made a truly gorgeous patchwork bag to take my packed lunch to crop in. Dawn came round early despite her poor old Dad being in hospital with a broken hip and spoilt me rotten with flowers and so many presents all booby trapped with "50" confetti, one of which is a white gold "S" charm. Aunty Peb has made me the most equistite miniature bear, the work on it has to be seen to be believed. I shall take photo's tomorrow. Another friend has knitted me a gorgeous shawl and I have so many boxes of maltesers it's just heaven.

A parcel arrived mid morning from my brother and family from America Champagne and chocolate, their daughter my niece also has her birthday today and before they went to live in America we celebrated with cake together, so I kind of miss that, Katie is having Ice cream cake yum yum. Happy Birthday Katie.

I received cards from so many people, god those crop girls are sneaky but I love them for taking the time to make me such beautiful cards.

But the best present by far has been Alfie Bear's news. He went to see the eye specialist today and she examined his blind eye and said

"IT'S A MIRACLE" HIS EYE IS NOW REACTING TO LIGHT !!!!!

SO FAR FROM LOSING THE EYE HE HAS GAINED A SMALL AMOUNT OF SIGHT. SO MORE TEARS FROM ME.

Tonight Marc and Vikki and dear Little Ben are coming round which will bring the perfect end having my kids with me on my Birthday.

I shall take lots of photo's and post them soon.

Thank you to everyone who has made my day so special.