Its such a strange day. And the lead up to it isn't much better.... Ive tried not to dwell on the memories of the day 2 years ago and have mostly succeeded. It was a hard enough day without reliving it. Des you are coming over shortly as you have spent the day in the library working on your thesis and we decided a champers was in order if you felt like it after you finished. I talked to Jenn and we plan to skype her when you arrive. Even Ralph looks a bit forlorn today.
There were a number of your mother's attributes that I find I really miss - she was the only person who could say "I think you're getting ahead of yourself" to me and I'd take note. I do it all the time - get ahead of myself - and I can hear her saying it to me at times. It still helps.
I haven't heard from anyone today and I remember when my Dad died, after a couple of years people kind of went their way in life and my life was still strange. It took me quite a long time to realise that things wouldn't get back to normal - this was the new normal. I was only 11 but the memory is quite vivid of my realising that. Kind of how I feel today. Strange. I think I understand that she's not coming back. I don't want to understand that but I think I do.
Des and Jenn, you are both extraordinary young women. You are, all things considered doing really well, with your study and focus and direction in your lives - Keith and Helen would be incredibly proud of both of you. Above all be gentle with yourselves.