Very quiet I'm feeling lately. Not taking many pictures. Processing I suppose. Saw my mum last week for the second time since she's been in a home. Indescribably horrible. Like a bad dream. She was quiet and lost and probably unhappy and who can blame her. Horrible horrible places homes. I cried before I even got out of there.I was behind her and for a moment I was glad that she couldn't see, didn't want her to be upset by me but I have no idea whether it actually would have made any difference. Had my splendid niece with me who is more inured to the sight of my mum's lostness. She gave me most excellent hugs and comfort. I made the mistake of making eye contact with a frail wildeyed inmate. She said with profound despair “ Why have they all gone,Why must they all go?”
Think that's when I lost it.

My dear friend...Know that I'm reaching across that big, fine pond that separates us and giving the greatest hug I can offer.