So this week has been a bit of a big one for family news. Big things have happened for the boys that have once again highlighted how much we need and miss Claytie. So many times I feel just not quite enough. I am who is left so I have to be, but I am incredibly conscious of what is missing.

My youngest son was nominated for, and won the award for ‘Qld Bread Baking apprentice of the year‘. He started his apprenticeship about 6 or so months after his dad died. We had to talk him into it, he is not great with change – very much like his mother!! But he has done it, and has done it incredibly well. I am so, so bloody proud of him and I know that Claytie would be too. He should still be here, and it is really hard when stuff like this happens to not have him here sharing the cheerleader spot with me.

The other big thing that has happened for us this week, is that the company that the other three boys work for has had to go into voluntary administration. This company has been a turning point for the boys, and it is really sad that this has happened to their employers. It is a FMCG (fast moving consumer goods – Food and beverage) company, something that was Clayties world for the 20 plus years before he started FIFO work.

I try and keep up with the conversations about work, but we all know that Claytie was the perfect person for this topic. He would understand exactly what they are talking about and have all kinds of advice and opinions. I know that he would be incredibly proud of the work the boys have been doing, and it is shit that he’s not here for these conversations. I try, but it’s not the same. I am sure that the boys will be fine, and that everything will work out as it should. They are just sitting tight for right for now waiting to see what happens.

The end of my week took an unexpected (but very pleasant) turn as well. I have been on and off the dating apps again in the last couple of weeks – very half heartedly as you can imagine. I started chatting with someone new and met up for a drink after work without really knowing what to expect, and based on past experience not holding out too much hope; but I was very pleasantly surprised and had a fabulous time! My planned half hour or so turned into about 4 hours of non stop conversation and laughing. It was fun and easy and I’m very much looking forward to a second date!