Hi Dad, It's the first real fathers day since you left last year and we miss you as much as ever. I don't suppose that will ever change...we just get more used to the grief and learn to live alongside it. I still can't believe you are really, truly gone from us and we still expect you to come through the door. So what's new with us? Well, we've planted a tree for you up at Loch Earn and I'm sure it will be a view of the loch. We thought a living memorial was much more suited to you as you loved being outdoors so much and we're going to see it in a few weeks once it's planted. I'm mastering the art of your lamb curry because very helpfully you left the ingredients but not the combination or how to actually do it but I've given it a bash a couple of times and I have to say it wasn't too bad. We often wonder what you are up to now. I imagine you living in a log cabin in the wilderness with your log burning stove, a comfy chair and your crosswords. Kirst likes to think of you travelling the world and mum, well I think mum just imagines you with her. She's not the same since you went (well none of us are) but adjusting to not having you around is hard for her, so if you can...make sure you keep letting her know you think of her. We are going for a pie and a pint on Sunday in your honour to the Carbeth Inn so if you're passing.... Like most people I didn't tell you when you were here what you taught me so I'm telling you now...you taught me not to judge (although I'm still working on that one), to be generous (Steve will say that I'm still working on that one too), to be loving (I'm trying)and to look after the family. We all do that one. Such simple traits and yet their true value is so overlooked in this world until you no longer have them. Something I miss most is our book club as I have nobody to share my taste in books with now (and vice-versa)and after I've finished them they just pile up in the corner. I'm going to have to give them away I think! Anyway - another year closer to seeing you again and we're all looking forward to that. Love you always dad - Shanny xxx