THE BEST GIFT I EVER GOT

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

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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.