LAST TRAM HOME and BLESS YOU BEE

Yesterday was a very emotional day. In the morning OH and I attended a full Civic ceremony of remembrance for the seven local people killed in the tram crash a year ago on 9.11.16. Our very own nine-eleven. Children from the primary school my kids attended and my grandson still attends led the singing, for the youngest victim, Dane Chinnery, was a former pupil and often a soloist himself. Dignitaries such as the MP, councillors, Croiydon Mayor, council Leader, blue light services top brass and heroes of the day attended as well as bereaved families and the injured. Also the Mayor of London, who caused controversy amongst some of the affected families, being in charge of Transport for London and therefore held responsible by some for the lack of care TfL had hitherto shown. TfL by the way was conspicuous by their absence. 

After the wreath laying at the new memorial on the New Addington market square, there was a civic reception at the soon to be demolished community hall. We did not attend as we had to go to visit mother in law in hospital and sort out further problems with the NHS.

Arriving home late evening, my one and only little sister rang me with the awful news that her op for breast cancer had not been successful, there was nothing much more to be done other than try a further op and apply for a place on a research programme.

Since my sister was diagnosed in March I have been rereading dear Bees work; so much of what she so bravely wrote has struck a chord and been so helpful through laughter and tears, thanks to her asnd her equally brave and talented daughter for sharing it with us. So once again for our family, it's a case of Keep Calm and Carry On. Or as some might say, Smell the Rose, blow out the candle.