It's nice to feel appreciated

Sampler, originally uploaded by Sparrows' Friend.

If a client takes the trouble to write and thank me after I've done a funeral, that's nice. I'm happy with just a letter or a card, or even an email. But some clients have sent gifts too. This is the latest, from the widow and daughter of a man who did a lot of embroidery. They found the little sampler and made it into a card for me.

Among other gifts, I've been given: a needlepoint picture of a dead woman's dogs (based on a photo), a crate of wine, one of Richard Dawkins' books (signed by the whole family), and flowers (lots of times).

The sampler will be framed.