Oh dear, I have been away for far too long, just catching up and reading of so many sad losses of loved ones, words are never enough to heal the sadness but they are all we have. I lost a very dear cousin two weeks ago and although he had been very ill for some months and fighting bravely, it is still a shock to know that he is no longer just a phone call away, and there will be another empty chair at the Family Christmas dinner.

A death of a loved one is never easy but at this time of the year when others are full of joy and happiness it is very hard to put on a brave face.As many of you know I lost my darling mother at Christmas 2 years ago, the loss is still there, sometimes it catches me out when I see a familiar figure in the street and then realise that it isn't mum, but an elderly lady with the same hair or walk! But Christmas was her favourite time, she loved to see the children open their gifts, her delight was a full house, everyone sat round the dining table sharing Christmas memories of years past. So the circle turns and our memories this year will of happy times we shared with mum and remind ourselves how lucky we were to have her in our lives.

Wishing you all much love, healing thoughts and prayers, happy memories of loved ones no longer here.

Wendy