I wrote this shortly after my mum died in 2007, and it was published in its complete format in the Guardian’s Family section later that year. I’m posting an edited version here because it deals with a side of bereavement that affected me at the time, and many people who read it said it reflectedContinue reading “Cast adrift”
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Showing friendship
Over the past few months I’ve learned a lot about friendship. About who my friends are, the various ways in which friendship can be shown, and how sometimes it’s the small things carried out with thought, and the most unexpected people, that can mean the most. I’ve also realised what a terrible friend I’ve beenContinue reading “Showing friendship”
Future imperfect
Two things happen when your partner dies. The first is that you lose your partner. The second is that you lose yourself. All those plans that you had for the future, big and small, the things you were going to do together, are gone. The trip to Pisa, renovating the kitchen, enjoying watching your childrenContinue reading “Future imperfect”
Head in the clouds
There’s a scene at the start of the first Mary Poppins film where she’s sitting on a cloud, powdering her nose, waiting I assume for her next call to help a family in need. That’s me. Not the face powdering part – I prefer the natural look – or the helping the family in need. Continue reading “Head in the clouds”
When I try to work out how to be me
One of the many things I’ve learned in these last few months is that you’re never quite sure how you’re going to feel about anything. Things I’ve dreaded – my birthday, putting up the Christmas tree, singing Auld Lang Syne at New Year – turn out to be much less emotional than I imagined, whileContinue reading “When I try to work out how to be me”
I have a mini revelation
I’m thinking of buying a mini skirt. My legs are pretty good. I play tennis and do pilates twice a week so they’re strong and shapely, and if I look at them without wearing my glasses, there’s not a hint of cellulite. I was born too late to be a child of the 60s soContinue reading “I have a mini revelation”
The first one
Today is my 60th birthday. A few months ago when I was thinking about how I’d like to mark it there really was only one option for me – a massive, fun Glam Rock Disco Party where we dressed up in sequins and velvet and boogied the night away to ALL my favourite songs fromContinue reading “The first one”
Selfish At Sixty 