For Mum

Your grace and beauty was carried at every occasion, your appearance was always important to you, but for you it was effortless, from head to toe you were always impeccably turned out. Your capacity in your younger years for long hours of sunbathing was always a fascination to me - especially as I wasn’t blessed with your mediterranean complexion!

The highlights of our long summer holidays in Cornwall was seeing mum relax as she spent time with her family, these days will always be fondly recalled. Happy laid back days with strolls along the headland to Polzeath for an ice cream, days on the beach surfing and a visit to Padstow for boat trips to Puffin Island. All accompanied by your beloved labrador Jason. At one with your family and your surroundings - there was no need for anything more in life we were blessed.

You talked of the times you spent walking the two tearaway labradors Toby and Sam in the woods in Clevedon as happy days. I think it reminded you of your childhood in Yorkshire with your Uncle Fred who was it seems a good judge of character as I understand he was very fond of you. He was I understand a bit of a rogue and taught you to swear for which you were no doubt admonished. Walking along hitting the undergrowth with a stick shouting “bugger bugger bugger” and referring to the “bloody flowers” feels quite liberating to me. An early sign, of your dry sense of humour that was often overlooked.

You quite regularly amused us all with an unexpected quip that summed up a situation perfectly. Even during your last days you kept us on our toes and reminded us that life is always for living.

You were keen to bring family and friends around a dinner table for long afternoons and evenings of laughter, musical interludes and the occasional game of trivial pursuit. Whilst I think you would agree cooking didn’t come naturally too you - you could certainly turn out a great sunday roast and an endless supply of fruit cake! I also remember the occasion when you took to serving up something more adventurous - chicken curry with pasta!! At least no food went to waste!!

You taught me many things. The most important ones were to be loyal to your family and those who love you most. Don’t crave unnecessary attention and live your own life but “don’t dash about too much”.

Its been a long journey to this point but it doesn’t mean its over. Mum you will always be with us and in our thoughts. You brought much joy, stability, serenity, and beauty to us all and will forever be in our hearts.

Rest in peace mum. Love you.

Bec x