A shorter update this week, but one that begins with a key anniversary, that of my final chemotherapy session, one year ago. I did not know that then, as a further session was planned. However, that would not take place and inbetween, I would have some of my most challenging times yet. Currently, my health is manageable and the back pain continues to vary. I took part in a short 1-hour outdoor activity session with my grandson, and during that, I did some vigorous activities that I should have avoided; they exacerbated the mid-back pain. Another learning lesson and future adjustment, but that is par for the course at the moment. Alongside that, trying to get more walking in, which is helpful, plus the weight is beginning to go in the right direction, but still much more work to be done there.

Activity-wise, Sandra and I had a meet up with Marian mid-week. Marian was one of my close team of managers, when I was at the holiday company and we worked closely together for many years, with Marian managing my customer relations department. I had not seen her since last September, when I had the special get together day there. It was nice to catch up with her and update each other on life, since we last met up. The following evening, we met up with Martin, my colleague from the auction company and again, a nice opportunity to stay connected to people I have met along my journey and also people I am happy to spend time with, by choice. Both pleasant evenings and light hearted catch ups; good for the heart and soul.  

The key, final stage on Volume 6 is underway and I am aiming to have this completed by the end of June. That is moving it into the printing program and it requires everything to be reformatted, with the maps and photos to be re-inserted to. A laborious task, but an essential one in ensuring that the look and feel of the previous 5 volumes is replicated.

A relaxing weekend to round off the week, with dreadful weather in the UK right now. Sunday started the same, but thankfully, brightened up later on. I had Alanna and the grandkids for lunch (Dan is on a business trip to the USA right now), as well as Karl and Rachel. Great to have almost everyone there, to help mark and celebrate father’s day; like birthdays, these milestones are important to spend time on.  

Before signing off, I will ask you to deviate of to a short video I have posted on my profile. It contains a key message and one that every single one of you can easily make your voice heard; I look forward to your potential interaction with that ‘side-line’ focus.

Thanks for the continued input, support, comments and overall interaction; welcomed and helpful.

Regards

Peter