November

Hi All

I couldn’t write earlier just found it a little difficult. It was a tough week for all of us I’m sure. I felt the pressure of the painful memories building up.

Iona was well aware of the significance. But didn't show it outwardly. I did try and see if she’d want to do anything in particular on Friday, not surprisingly for those of you that know her, she flatly refused. Which was fine. Friday is my day for picking Iona up from school and we did some cooking! (Thanks Margot great children’s cooking utensils &cook book). We did look at some family photos after and that was nice. Then Iona had the Colston’s Spooky Disco. Iona took her broom, cape and mask. Far to cute, to be a scary Witch. Well, I am biased. Finally, a sleepover at Orla’s. Those two are such good little friends.

I went out on the Friday evening with Jacqui, Hannah and Shane. We decided to go to the Deco Lounge. It was where Vicky had her 40th Birthday Party. We raised a glass or two. Chatting with Jacqui, it did dawn on me how the last year has changed some many people’s lives. And how we have all had to live with the huge empty void that is life without Vicky.

Emma Gray came down over that weekend. We took Iona down to the Waterfront on Saturday. One of Vicky’s favourite parts of the City. We took a moment to drop some flowers in the Dock, remembering mummy. Iona was worried if people saw us throwing flowers in, but it was ok. Iona helped drop a few into the water. Felt, I want to say comforting but it doesn’t sound enough. It just felt appropriate to do that.

Iona then showed us round the SS Great Britain. Joan had taken her there earlier in the year and Iona loved it. In fact, for a Bristolian I have to say I’d never been on board. It was fab. All of you at Destination Bristol must be proud. Well worth a look if any of you visit our lovely City! After Woodstock Rd of course!

The Destination Bristol Girlies had some pink cakes last Friday which was a great way to mark the day. (Sorry I couldn’t get there!) We had lots of very lovely texts, phone calls, poems, cards, and flowers. Thank you to all of you.

A year passed. I know you all miss her terribly, as we do. One thing I do know she’d be very proud of her little girl. Like I am.

Lots of love

Martin & Iona x