Dear Dad

I don't know where this year has gone, it seems to have flown by in a blur.  This year we all went to Bristol for our Christmas meal, as it was Leonie's turn to host it.  David and I decided to stay the weekend, so we went afterwards to see the children ice-skating and had a coffee afterwards with Leonie and Tom which was nice.

I was offered a Guide Dog in November, she was a black Labrador called Suzie.  Sadly after two weeks of training with her and some training at home we realised she was not able to cope with demands of being a Guide Dog. I was really upset at first as she was such a lovely dog and I had really bonded with her.  Now I am back on the waiting list for another dog which I hope will suit my needs more.

This year we found out David is suffering Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis, we were both shocked when we found out and I still can't quite believe it.  We are both taking it one day at a time.  We are both having a quiet Christmas at home, Jane is going to Charlotte's this year which will be lovely for her and Roland to see Adam and Jacob opening all their presents.  I will cherish all the memories that I have of the Christmases we shared when we were growing up. Memories of trying to stay awake to see Santa and climbing up to see what was hidden on top of the wardrobe and the gold bell which we loved to pull so we could listen to the music.  We will all be going to Mum's to see in the New Year and I know that we will all be wishing that you were with us.

Dad, Merry Christmas. I hope that we continue to make you proud.  

Lots of Love

Katherine xx