Lockdown 40

Today was my 40th birthday.  I find birthdays a real struggle.  It's not because of getting older, but because of the pressure to do something special vs being an introvert who doesn't like a fuss, but a reluctant introvert who wishes I did.  As a result I often finish birthdays feeling disappointed.  But today has been a truly lovely day.  

The girls new climbing frame arrived so John put that up while I re-planted the sunflowers outside which I enjoyed.  The girls are thrilled with the frame and have enjoyed being outside all day.  I opened some nice presents and my sisters arranged afternoon tea to be delivered for lunch.  It was delicious and a lovely thing for them to arrange.

My friends on the virtual pub quiz last night had all put birthday banners or hand drawn birthday messages on their walls behind them for the zoom call last night, and during the interval John gave me a hamper of cheese and wine and other treats that they had got for me.  

Then today Dena messaged me and asked me to pop out the front drive so she could wish me happy birthday in person.  I went out and no one was there, but a moment later I see Marisa's car driving slowly by with a birthday banner across the bonnet, followed by Rachel, Rachel Nicky, Keira and Dena.  6 cars in total with all the gang inside their own cars.  I was brought to tears and a few of them were too.  They were hooting their horns and waving like mad and it made me feel so special.  They are the best bunch of friends.  I'm a lucky girl.