My friend Tina loves to give. She doesn't need an occasion. She just gives. And I have been the lucky recipient of many of her gifts. But more than that, I have learned from her how much fun it is to give, especially the unexpected gift. Once when I was with her at a pottery show, she admired a black vase. So I bought it for her. I don't know who was more pleased. When Tina sees something she thinks someone would like, she just buys it. The first person who said, "It's better to give than receive" definitely had Tina in mind.

Tina called today. She's planning to come see our grandkids when they are in town. She asked me for their exact ages. It wasn't until I hung up that I realized why she asked. I'm sure that she will be bringing something age-appropriate for them when she visits. I told Peter that I should call her back to try to talk her out of it.

"That wouldn't work with Tina," he replied.