A thoughtful gesture

My birthday is next week, and I got a card in the mail yesterday from a friend in Montreal (actually my dad's second ex-wife). We always exchange b-day and Christmas cards, nothing unusual about that. But this time she had included a cheque for a small amount, so I could treat myself to some little thing. (She's the one who always takes her entire birthday week off to pamper herself and do whatever she wants--whether that's doing nothing or going to a spa or taking a trip, etc.)

Her gesture totally took me aback, as she's not done that before. I didn't know how to take it--was she taking pity on someone whose funds always end up being doled out on bills and vets? Part of me feels like a charity case and I've been wondering whether I should cash the cheque at all.

I called her and thanked her, of course. She meant it purely as a gift and told me it was for me (lunch or whathaveyou), not for the cats (lol), not even to put toward something for the new bed.

I feel odd, though, accepting. It doesn't sit well. It's not like it's gift money from a parent, which I have no problem accepting. LOL.

Maybe I should buy myself flowers and/or a nice dessert or even a good bottle of rye. I'll think about it.

It was a very kind gesture though; I know she meant well.

Potted crocuses that someone in our office suite has on their desk.

Purrs from the boys and peace from me.