1.   A few times, the birthday calls came from Italy or France during the World Cup.

2.   Despite her reclusiveness, Gibson is said always to take an annual birthday call from former New York Mayor David Dinkens.

3.   Many times, the birthday call came from London, where Wimbledon was nearing the end of its grassy fortnight.

4.   The president took birthday calls from his brother, his brothers-in-law and his stepfather.