The year 2024 has brought mixed fortunes for me and husband Brian, with both pleasures and challenges. I’ve written this summary mainly for myself, but if you are interested please read on. Most of the topics mentioned have been covered in more detail in previous posts on this blog.

The first few months of 2024 were dominated by Brian’s medical issues. His artificial heart valve, inserted nine years ago, was failing and after a series of invasive tests he underwent a TAVI (trans aortic valve insertion) with a device similar to that pictured below.. The operation itself went well but was followed by two episodes of haemorrhage from the bowel, requiring emergency hospitalisations and multiple blood transfusions. Thankfully he has now recovered and, at the age of 91, is well and active. Modern cardiac surgery can achieve wonderful results.

After twenty-odd years as a member of the choir of St Patrick’s Cathedral, at Easter I made the difficult decision to resign. I loved singing in this setting, but the combination of Brian’s medical problems and the unreliability of the ferry service to central Auckland was preventing regular attendance. Also, since a few other long serving members had left, I realised I was 50 years older than almost everyone else! I have now joined a larger choir, Harbour Voices, which is nearer my home – and more appropriate to my age. Our three concerts this year have spanned a variety of musical styles and I’ve enjoyed singing in them.

As for my writing, my latest novel is slow going, but I’ve published some short reviews on the “Shepherd” site and one new book, Migraine and Me.

In September I spent two weeks in England, based in London and travelling round the country by train to see friends and family and favourite places. The photo below was taken on the Malvern Hills.

Since returning home there has been sadness with the deaths of three long-standing friends and colleagues, and stress with tenancy issues currently before the court. But on the whole life continues in a pleasant quiet routine, recently enlivened by the visit of Brian’s son, daughter and granddaughter from England. I keep reasonably fit with weekly TRX and Zumba classes, swimming in the warmer months, and daily walks with friends or one of my two “dog shares”, Ireland the Labrador and Buddy the Cavoodle.

Our two cats, Magic and Leo, are now ten years old and still in good health. Now that the New Zealand summer has arrived they spend a lot of time resting in the sun.

Happy Christmas and New Year, and thank you for reading my blog.