Today I had reason to turn the tables on myself. I tried to imagine how my children will feel when I take off on my travel to Africa. Ive always been there, just a call away, they have always known how to reach me, where to reach me, and if I felt it necessary and urgent I would drop things to be there and present for them. Thats how its meant to be, sometimes not easy but at the end of the day, that simple.

Patrick leaves on Wednesday, I feel a mixture of pride, pleasure and shared excitement for him.  He, as he said he would, is travelling opting for Venuezela, Caracas and backpacking down to Brazil. 

S**t , that was the first thought that entered my head,I asked if he didnt fancy a month just relaxing on a beach in Spain,  but having already explored a few options with him, I knew this was of no interest to him.  His choices were limited due to not being able to acquire necessary Visa’s for his first choices  at the last minute. So hes off, not really prepared I feel, or am I just a mother…lol

I perhaps shouldnt have shown him my travel brochures from i to i who arrange overseas placements nor told him about STA travel who arrange student travel, but I did and now Im nagging or at least thats how it feels..Have you got this, have you got that, promise you will keep contact every couple of days etc etc etc.

I think my main issue or concern is that he is travelling alone, but Im sure he will be fine.. 

There now Ive got that off my chest I can shut up, it has however made me realise the importance of little things, informed risk taking, the importance of preparation and keeping contact with those sitting at home wondering if you are ok,  I may just slip a few little reminders in his Calvin Kleins ***RING YOUR MOTHER***  CALL HOME OR ELSE!!!  any suggestions welcome..

Patrick wants to see Angel falls which is apparently the highest waterfall in the world, and having found it on Youtube I can fully understand why, its absolutely astounding, now I wish I were going with him and that this blogsite would allow me embed from Youtube, but sadly it doesnt.

For some months I have been one of many visitors to one very special space on blogger.

Ruth opened her world to us with such honesty and openess, and very often a lovely warm humour as she wrote from the heart about caring for her beloved Mick. 

 But most of all she showed me a face of love that is not always seen in todays world. Ruths dedication and care for her Mick was flooring yet inspiring,her courage and strength humbling and her giving of herself to others despite her own emotional struggles truly astounding.

Mick left as he lived Im sure with a quiet but certain dignity…and without a doubt Ruths loving care and devotion was an all important part of that, what a gift for the man she loves.

To have been given a glimpse of Ruth and Micks life has been inspiring and humbling indeed, a gift I shall remember always

 The love and thoughts of many sit silently with Ruth and her family today

For Mick, a man who gently touched the spirit of many through one very special person, his soulmate Ruth, a genuine and rare gift in this world of ours.

The many lovely tributes to Mick and Ruths love and life together spread around the world, a testimony to its depth. 

Its an honour to add my own, and thank Ruth and Mick for their gift to us.