So said Frédérique to me today, via email. She was talking about the picture I used on the blog to celebrate her daughter Manon’s birthday on Sunday, specifically how Manon & Chloe have become such good friends. Back in 2000 when Manon was 5 and Chloe was 7, who could have predicted that they would describe themselves as sisters today?
But I want to go a step further about life’s good surprises and mention how much I appreciate receiving that email from Frédérique today, seeing that it is her birthday. A year ago today our families were together to celebrate at Les Carroz. I took several pictures of Frédérique that day with her birthday cake but she wouldn’t let me use any of them on the blog.
This year, however, I get to use this one taken in Nantes earlier today by Laurent and sent to me via email.
Happy birthday, Frédérique!
Today’s Prompt: Share a “good surprise” you’ve had lately.
Andy Smallman 
My good surprise is discovering the inherent goodness in the people around me – friends, neighbours, people I chat to in the street. You just have to stop for a moment and give yourself the opportunity to open up to people – and them to you. Something as simple as a genuine smile given without expectation.
Thank you Andy, you are lucky that year to have a picture ! … Fred.