Despite the trials and terrors of the past several years, I trust that my readers have also weathered the ‘storms of life’, and Covid, and have moved forward with renewed vigour into 2022. That is my greeting: a Happy and Healthy New Year to you and yours!

Sometimes time flies, doesn’t it? Of course, it’s also true there are times when the days and nights ‘hang heavy’. But, resolutely we will, as always keep moving ever onwards even when the road becomes a bit bumpy at times!

The difference between grief and happiness is time. We all learn that truth as we age. The trick is to accept and use time: for enjoyment, for the creation of happy memories, and to find positive thoughts activities which enable us to live in the moment, certainly not in the past.

A year ago, I was busy and hardly enjoying anything! Frequent, sometimes difficult visits to Dorothy in care dominated my life. Her death last year changed my world and I have, since then, struggled at times to accept the new reality of this different life – now fully alone.

Let me hasten to add that I am so fortunate to have the support of a caring family and friends, and a belief in a loving God. What strength that provides!

Although this web page has been therapeutic for me, I have been considering whether to keep it going (after all, the annual fee was due for renewal!). Then, a few days ago, I received two, quite separate and welcome letters of encouragement from readers! That tipped the scales, and I have decided to keep it going for a bit longer…..

Right from the start I also wanted this site to be helpful to others coping with a partner with Alzheimer’s at home or in care. I will keep that focus but now, also try to add support for those, like me, who’ve lost their life’s partner.

As always, I would be glad to have suggestions for helpful topics. There is a reply option on my site, so please drop me line with any ideas.

Setting off on this next solo phase of my life, I’m aiming to face it with confidence, trusting I will find plenty of ‘meaning’ and reasons for staying healthy in mind and body. This web page might help the mind, but the ‘body’ bit is a bit of a worry! Now, what were my New Year resolutions?……..