Disaster struck

I am so sorry to have posted you a hopeful post all those months ago and then deserted you, but sadly a terrible thing happened.

On the day I posted we had news that my wonderful aunt had had some shock news.

She's no ordinary art aunt, we are very close.  She is my mother's twin and for all my life, she and her husband were told they couldn't have children and I became  like a surrogate daughter....until miracle.....my cousin was born when I was 14!  Oh what a joy...and my aunt chose me to be her God-mother.

I spent many happy hours baking, cleaning and gardening with my aunt and uncle.  My aunt taught me to crochet...a skill I greatly enjoy.  Over the years she has helped me to care for my family and we have shared decades of wonderful memories in her home.

The shock news .....she had metastases on her brain....the beginnings of tiny clusters of cancer cells...but this was not brain cancer.  It was kidney cancer that had spread, not only to her brain but her lungs, pancreas and hip.

With the support of my hubby I was able to help my cousin care for my aunt by staying a night or 2 a week and doing all those tiny jobs that irritated her but that she was unable to finish for herself.

We spent many happy hours together over the last 4 months, chatting and making and laughing.

I went on holiday in august and as I left she said to me to enjoy my holiday...this was code for......"and don't come back for anything!". which we didn't.

Sadly she died whilst we were away but I did as I was ordered and stayed on holiday, visiting the Tall Ships Regatta in her honour.

So there you have it.  The reason for my absence....and I know you'll forgive me for it.

Oddly, I am not sad but relieved she is no longer suffering.  I have no guilt, we parted with love which I shall have always.

I am however heartbroken that there are no more memories to be made with this wonderfully, kind, loving, special lady.

I leave you with... Auntie Jack...

See you anon

Nora

xxx