For Dad

Today is my wonderful Dad's birthday. I try very hard not to compare now with last year, but it was near impossible not to do that today. On his birthday last year, we spent a lovely day in the garden together in the sunshine; all blissfully unaware of what was to come. It still takes my breath away thinking about what has happened since that day. I can't believe he's not here with us now.

We toasted Dad by spending the day in the garden with music, drinks and a bbq. I'm determined to spend 19th August this way every year. We set off a lantern in the evening, watching it fly away until it burnt out. I know Dad would have really loved how we spent the day, I just wish more than anything he was here with us.