Bittersweet

[Andy01]

In case anyone was wondering why I've been off the air, it's because I lost my dear old mum a fortnight ago, and have been dealing with all the physical & emotional stuff that goes with that.
Not unexpected at 93, but still a shock as she was independent and sound of mind until the end, and will be sorely missed by us and my kids, her grandchildren.
Last week we also had the annual Aipp Australian professional photographer of the year awards. I won 2 Golds and 2 silver Distinctions with my astro images which made me a finalist in the Science category for the 3rd year in a row, and I picked up the "Grand Master" award for the highest scoring folio by a GM (there are now 28 of us in the country).
... and then our studio manager of 5 years, quit- by text, without notice, the night before my Mum's funeral!
So I'm sorry that I've been off the air recently, but rest assured- I'll be back soon.
Clear skies
Andy

[Atmos]

So sorry to hear about your mother Andy, even when it is expected it's hard; more so when it happens suddenly.

[PCH]

Oh dear, so sorry for your loss Andy. I had the same some time ago so I understand exactly what you're going through.

My thoughts are with you, but only time can heal the pain.

Blessings to all who are feeling the pain.

[The_bluester]

Talk about ups and downs AC. Sorry I could not make your mums funeral due to work, at least Raz was able to be there.

Our thoughts are with you as always.

[Octane]

Sorry to hear, mate. 7 days from now is 1 year since my dad left us. The emotions of those final few days are starting to well up again. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't broken down a couple of times already.

Chin up, mate.

H

[The_bluester]

16 years ago for me, it still comes back to me now and again.

[JA]

Sorry to hear of your mother's passing Andy. May she rest in peace.

Best
JA

[ZeroID]

My condolences to you and your family Andy.

We just lost my wife's mother last Friday, a rapid decline in health over about 5 weeks. Last week was so fast , she went from maybe a year to go on Monday, to only hours left on Thursday. 88 years old so not bad but she'll be miseed also.

[Shano592]

Sorry for your loss, Andy.

In April, my wife's dad lost a long battle with mesothelioma. He was exposed to asbestos in the 50's, and fought it once diagnosed, from about 2010.

Like Brent's Mother-in-law, his prognosis went - in a week - from months, to weeks, to "say what you have to say now." (an actual quote from the specialist visiting).

Father's day was tough, as we always had a big gathering, but this time it was a quiet day.

I hope that your support network is a strong and caring one. In any case, there are a lot on here who are happy to help.

All the best to you and your family, in a really tough time.

[Andy01]

Thanks Colin, Paul M, Paul, Humayun, JA, Brent & Shane for your kind thoughts.

I appreciate the kind words and support, seems it's a hard time for everyone when they lose their parents. :(

It's been a trying, difficult period, and now it's time to start getting back to whatever normal is, in our crazy household anyway :)