The only gift is a portion of thyself

That was Emerson, who was clearly behind the times when it came to consumerism and birthdays.

So thanks to all of you who've given me such excellent gifts: food, books, Penguin postcards, Amazon giftcards and a Moomins mug!

This last and the cake, gently teasing my addiction to all things Apple, are from Christine, who took me for a delicious and gossipy lunch.