I awoke this morning with the tolling of the morning bells here at St. Claire's. They usually ring at 5:30, but on the weekends we students are allowed to sleep until 6:30. I still think that is rather early.
I was rather excited about today. It is Palm Sunday and we always carry palm branches in our procession to the chapel. Usually, we gather in the convent gardens to begin the procession, but today it was muddy, dreary, and rainy, so we had to have our procession inside.
I was hoping to play outside after Mass, but it is still rainy and dreary. I wouldn't dare go outside in my Sunday dress. We are to remain in our Sunday dresses until after tea and I dare say I would be rather scolded if I muddied my shoes and got rain stains on my dress. So, I resigned myself to sitting at the window with Minuet to write in my journal.
A few minutes later, Marietta, my dear maid who has been with me since the day I was born, called me. She told me there was a birthday surprise waiting for me in the drawing room. I have already had so many lovely surprises I couldn't imagine another one.I went into the drawing room to find the best birthday surprise of all....Mama had come from London to see me! She had meant to arrive yesterday but the carriage wheel became damaged on the muddy paths and her arrival was delayed.
I was so excited to see her that I fear I almost knocked Mama down with my hug!
Mama is going to stay all week! I am thrilled beyond words! She even brought me an extra special birthday treat from London...Chocolate!!! Just the thing to share with my dear Mama during our tea! Suddenly, this dreary day doesn't seem dreary at all!
