I hear Jerusalem bells a-ringing

So we hurtle towards 2010 and I feel a review of the year coming on.

I have travelled, and visited some new places and some old places. I have made new friends, reconnected with old friends, met one friend in the flesh for the first time, and been neglectful of some others.

I have been happy at work, cross at work, disappointed at work.

I have been to one wedding and not been to four funerals. I have seen one couple decide to marry, and I await the birth of a baby to a mother whose nappies I changed when she was a baby.

I have watched my beautiful tiny girl grow into a big girl, who reads and writes, and looses teeth, and has grown in confidence, and still brings me so much joy that I am crying as I write this about her.

This year I have laughed and smiled and enjoyed. But I have cried and shouted and despaired too. I have been sadder than I have been for a long time, and found myself in a place I didn't expect to be in twice in my lifetime. This isn't the life I expected, but then, whose is?

Next year.....
I hope the hostilities cease.
I would like to loose weight.
I ought to try to drink less.
I should exercise more.
I will be rid of my glasses.
I suspect I shall still be me at the beginning of 2011, whoever me really is.

HAPPY NEW YEAR Y'ALL

Remember my name

I am going to a family funeral tomorrow (actually, looking at the time, it's later today). As we reach the end of another year and in the style of the TV review shows, let us remember who we have lost this year:

Ron Lemmer, the last of Albert and Annie's four children.

Jack Lemmer, in his 103rd year.

Michael Horkan, 74, after a long and dibilitating illness.

And Nigel Lancaster - suddenly and too soon.


-- Post From My iPhone