her picture in my purse

The only woman we’ve all carried a picture of, many pictures of. What a life of service and dedication, she certainly lived it well.

It’s so strange when a nation holds its breath and then lets out a collective swell of emotion. Quiet streets and shops and thoughtful tributes, sometimes the desperate need for laughter or normality. And we all remember our own private grief in amongst it all and those in royalty seem very human for a day. And the Queen herself goes to posture herself before a bigger throne - the most marvellous thought.

And it seems ridiculous to comment on anything else today, but I DID have much to be grateful for - work going well, lunchtime in the beauty of the bendy tree, conversation with our joiner and the mesmerising skill of Huw Edwards. And of course, HRH, may she rest in peace.