Recently, I was at the funeral of a friend’s mother. I was very upset during the ceremony - the kind of sustained crying which makes me sweat and gives headaches. I did not personally know this woman but my friend spoke with such clarity and
control even when he was so distraught. I knew that I would not be able to accomplish this if I were in his place. I wonder what I will remember of that day in the years to come. ... that a few hours after the graveyard we all swam together and
lay on warm stones at the seafront in Bray ... and that “she loved flowers”.

Years from now (hopefully) my friend will be there at my own mothers funeral. I am losing her now, slowly, forgetting. She loved flowers too... and collecting recipes.