Reasons to be thankful

It's a strange sort of day today - my wonderful cousin would have been 40 today. Sadly she died on Christmas day three years ago and is very much missed. 'Our Jo' was one of a kind in so many ways - she had Downs Syndrome but basically to us she was just Jo - a larger than life personality with a heart as big as a bucket! I still have the last Christmas present she bought me - in its bag - it's a bottle of red wine that I will treasure but never drink.

This week saw a milestone for a close friend and her family. If you read any of my blogs you will know that baby Harry was 'born asleep' and is very much missed. This week however, saw his parents and sister adopt a little girl - I know they have their own guardian angel and deserve happiness.

My mum is deteriorating - she is vacant most of the time, can no longer feed herself and is triggering all sorts of 'social service' visits and assessments. Dad is coping and too proud to accept help but seeing him nurse our Tommy who gazes at him adoringly makes it worthwhile.

Our own shining star is now 4 months old and developing his character - the Plastic surgeon declared that 'he is lovely just as he is' and I so agree - how can one little child bring so much joy?

I'm off to spend this evening with my cousin (Jo's brother) and his wonderful family - we have sparklers, sparkling wine and a heart full of love - Happy birthday Jo x