My fiftieth birthday

I was dreading this day. But on my early morning walk the sun streamed through an inky black sky illuminating the golden leaves on the trees by the river. Travelled down to meet my sister at Helmsley Walled garden and it was as warm as July. I want to remember these colours as before the month is out I know I'll feel the monochrome of winter closing in.

Came home to piles of cards and phone messages from friends and family. Andy poured champagne, Eve hugged me and up popped a photograph of Rosh, matriculating at Emma looking as beautiful as I've ever seen her. Why on earth was I dreading this day?