So summer's over. Can't say it's been enjoyable but it's certainly been memorable for all the wrong reasons. In a few weeks I'll return to finish what I started 3 years ago in America and 7 years ago in Australia. Having normality again is a must. Slowly you begin to move your life along and the pain from the loss of a loved one begins to fade. Don't get me wrong the memories never fade but definitely the pain starts to numb and you progress forward.

So what has happened since the passing? A whole house has been cleaned out. 3 skips and 2 tonnes of rubbish removed. Several wardrobes of clothes have been donated to charity. Local artist paintings have been donated to the oncology unit. Numerous sets of glasses have been donated to third world countries....

What have I gained from it all besides the headache of sorting through the years of memories, trinkets and bric a brac? I have further developed a unique understanding of my parents and grandparents. I have read through all of my mum's writings and have developed a new respect for what a remarkable woman she truly was. I have also discovered what she sacrificed, not only to bring me into the world but also raise me.

So what is left? Well Wednesday will be a day of farewells when my mum is finally laid to rest and her ashes scattered. Just her and I and a priest. No fan fare, just the way she would have wanted it.

To all the people who have shown their support and have been there during this difficult time, words cannot express my thanks. You have been and remain true friends.........

Remember

Remember me when I am gone, 

gone far away into the silent land;

When you can no more hold me by the hand, 

nor I half turn to go, yet turning stay

Remember me when no more day by day

you tell me of the future that you planned;

Only remember me; you understand

it will be late to counsel then or pray.

Yet, if you should forget me for a while

and afterwards, remember, do not grieve:

For if the darkness and corruption leave

a vestige of the thoughts that once I had, 

better by far you should forget and smile 

than that you should remember and be sad.