And today is the yahrzeit for my much missed mum.

Back in the 1970s when her grandson was living so far from her and dad. She and dad came to visit regularly to maintain a close relationship with their first born grandchild.

And developed a close connection with her granddaughter, her second grandchild.

Mum was a loyal and loving wife, mother, grandmother (to mine and my brother’s children) and great grandmother . In their mid 80s mum and dad would babysit for their oldest great grandson. Quite an achievement.

Mum was also a good friend and confidante to many and her work colleagues adored her. She was fun and attractive, always up to date with football (Chelsea), fashion and politics. All of us could talk to her about absolutely anything. And we did.

Mum’s visits to The Gables were a pleasure for us and her and my new friends came to see her, brought her gifts and sent her birthday and Christmas cards. She made friends wherever she went.

She made new and close friends. She enjoyed the food and the activities and then… Covid!

A terrible time for everyone but for those in care homes it was dreadful for them and their families and the care staff.

We were fortunate. Mum’s room was on the ground floor and we could make “window visits” until restrictions eased slightly and we were once more allowed visits in person.

I miss the gossip, the laughter, the advice, the holding hands and the feel of mum’s soft skin. It was time, at 94, for her to leave us and she left us with so many happy and warm memories. She simply was the best.