Monday

 Good morning, everyone.  It isn't a very pleasant morning; it's been raining overnight and looks as if it's going to rain again very soon.  What's the betting that in a few weeks we will be moaning about a heat wave and wishing for more rain though!  That's just how it always seems to go.
Ideally, I'd love sunny days and rainy nights.  That's what I'd order from the weather catalogue!  Great for the fruit and veg.

Yesterday was a very strange day.  It seemed to go on for ever.  I did some sorting out and clearing, somewhat limited by the fact the the relevant bin is full!  John looked up paperwork in order to take it in to the registrar (or whoever) this morning.  We contacted the minister who advised us on who does what, I sent out what felt like endless emails (thank goodness for the Internet) and replied to several.

One thing I was very happy about.  Mum and Dad had some beautiful 'best' china, Wedgwood, expensive at the time but not actually fetching all that much nowadays.  To my delight, Beth loves it and is very happy to take it.  My parents would be so very pleased.

It's awful, throwing things away.  It's like you are throwing the person away.  Yesterday I ditched copious amounts of pants and socks (why so many??  I don't know) as they can't be sold on.  I am hopeful that the charity shop will take the rest of Dad's clothing after I have weeded out any really tatty stuff - it's good quality and well looked after.

Enough of all that!
This morning, the church that Dad attended is opening its doors for an hour and I will be going along for a short time.  That's going to be hard, I think, especially if people cry.  He was such a big presence at church that they will miss him terribly.

Then I have to do a few tasks such as stopping the paper and paying the final bill, returning some slippers to Hotter that he never got to wear and sorting things out in the fridge.
Then I'm going home.  I need some time at home now, in my happy place.  A few days at home feels wonderful.  Beth's coming over this evening after a work and staying for a meal - something simple.

John is staying here to deal with all the official stuff.  I am very grateful to him for doing all of that as we are joint executors.  I may have to come back if joint signatures are required but, if not, I will come back on Friday for the weekend.

I've been planning resuming my normal life again after a month (more or less) out.  I have contacted my students' families.  The eleven plussers found another tutor as I suggested, thank goodness, as time is so short but the other two are happy for tuition to resume next Monday.  I'm going to Lindsey on Wednesday to talk and for some massage on my still uncomfortable calves (although they are slowly improving)  And resuming Slimming World on Friday morning.  Jen has started a new daytime group which suits me much better than evening groups so I'll be there, hammering on the door, to start losing the well-over-a-stone I have put on by comfort eating and drinking over the last month.  

So, the plan is to be at Dad's from Friday to Monday morning and live my own life Monday to Friday lunchtime.  Fingers crossed.

Your messages/comments over the last few days have been just wonderful.  I can't thank you all enough for such kindness.  They have really helped and you are all lovely.  A heartfelt thank you to you all.  xx