I often rail and rant against people sending me gifts, I hate for people to spend their hard-earned money on me, they ought to get themselves something with it, but today, for second year in a row, we got a surprise gift we are in love with. Flowers from Hawaii, Maria was beside herself laughing and admiring them. The donor is anonymous, she sent a similar bunch last year and after this dreary winter, we were pretty happy to get them, I have to admit.

We don’t know who you are – Maria thinks it is someone who bought a quilt a few years ago – but we thank you, we are giving a few away – make a joyful noise, share the good stuff – and keeping the rest. Maria wouldn’t let me take them outside for a photo, she said it was too cold. They are quite amazing. Whoever you are, thank you for thinking of us this winter. A nice kickoff to brighter days.