Sentimental or What?

I must be getting sentimental or something (or even more sentimental than I already am - must be my age) as tonight we were out with friends for my birthday supper. Our friend made a simple toast stating that he thought of me like a sister and wanted to say that he was proud of the things I was involved with etc and that he loved me like family. Well, (drum roll, tears please) it meant a lot to hear that.  I don't see my own brothers often as they are not living close by - even though they email often - so it was nice to hear that I was loved like a sister by someone who I do see often. We have been friends for many years but still....it's kinda nice to hear the words spoken and not just assumed.

He said since it was my birthday he proposed that as every new menu item was served, one in the party would toast the birthday girl (me) - doesn't matter what approach they took - it just had to be a toast about me. Well, next was my husband who said some pretty nice things too after the main dish was served.  He said he got married late but was glad he waited. He picked a good one and even his mom said so. He knew I would be a good wife and mom (already was) but even so he was more pleased to see me develop my spiritual side and to see me use my gifts and be involved with people and ministries that have even helped him to become more people-focused (yikes! did I do that?).

Last but not least was my friend (his wife) who said she had put it all into a card (which was lovely and very overflowing with good stuff) so simply stated that she appreciated me as a person and a friend. How much better could it get?

Gifts are great but you know....it's also nice to hear kind words spoken about yourself. Especially when they are spoken from the heart. They are hard to accept without putting yourself down a bit but in the end...I simply said 'thank you'. It was heartfelt. I appreciated their words and they appreciated me and our friendship. Another good end to a wonderful evening.

I received a perpetual calendar from a special friend for my birthday. It was called "Favourite Quotes for Friends". Today's seems very appropriate.
'When friends meet, hearts warm....a Proverb. 
I received and felt that warmth tonite. Thank you God for great friends.