THE BEST GIFT I EVER GOT

Handmade or bought, these presents don't skimp on thought

DRIVING DOWN MEMORY LANE

My son was visiting for my birthday. He arrived, not in his own car, but in a sleek black Corvette with tinted windows and black rims. He handed me the keys and said, "Mommy, this is your car." I was stunned and told him to go get his money back. He refused and said if he didn't do this for me now, he might never be able to. I have loved Corvettes since I was 18, but I'd never expected to own one. We spent his visit cruising around, and the smile wouldn't leave my face. He died a few years later, but I'm reminded of his generosity every time I drive. However, my son was really my best gift ever.

-DANNIE DAVIS Jacksonville, FL

THIS ONE TAKES THE CAKE

My husband and I had a small wedding in a chapel, then adjourned to a local restaurant for the celebration. Dessert took my breath away: a three-tiered white chocolate cake with lemon curd filling and fresh raspberries, festooned with flowers.

We devoured the whole thing, forgetting to save a piece for our one-year anniversary. On our 10th anniversary, my husband conspired with the restaurant's pastry chef to bake a miniature version with all the same scrumptious details. It was even more delicious than the first cake because it celebrated 10 years of life and love shared.

-CARVER WEAVER Hurdle Mills, NC

THE OLD COLLEGE TRY

I grew up in a family that didn't value education, and I was told I was too stupid to go to college. When my kids were teenagers, they said they didn't think I would have been able to raise three intelligent kids if I was stupid, and they encouraged me to enroll in community college. Years later, when I was ready to transfer to a university, they were gainfully employed young adults. They informed me that turnabout was fair play, and from then on, all my college expenses were on them.

Best gift I ever received.