Went to Uni - Hatfield - did a B.Ed. Did lots of things whilst I was there. Played music professionally - joined a few bands. Got my golf handicap down to single figures (not any more.) Jumped out of an aeroplane for charity (change of underpants.) Met C. - who was to be my partner for the next 16 years.
Graduated - went to teach English in France - brilliant job. C. was with me - we had 3 children - the middle one we sadly lost at birth - I have never cried so much in my life - and don't suppose I ever will again.
1999 - I was a deputy head teacher in South Essex - I was driving home after a particularly heavy day. Next thing I know I am at the roadside - shaking like a leaf - couldn't drive any more.
Police took me home - couldn't go to work - like a helpless baby!!!
I had been hit by stress-related depression. I have never felt so STUPID in all my life. I thought I was strong - if I had a broken leg or the big C. I could understand it - but why should I be laid low by a stupid mental illness (my thoughts BTW - not my beliefs - I know now that depression can be even worse than physical illnesses.)
C. did not support me very much through this!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Hanna said - are you awake? One of those questions that cannot have the answer 'No.'
My neck was aching from sleeping on the settee in the ante room. I soon forgot my neck ache - I looked at Hanna - she was really beautiful. I had now slept - for the first time in a couple of days - see my thread on not being able to sleep in a plane - and I felt 'normal' again.
We had spent the night together - but not together. I really wanted her to believe I was genuine and - well - I wanted her for love...........
Is this beginning to sound too 'yucky?'
It was 6 in the morning and already 28 degrees!!!!!!!!!!!
We went downstrairs - I had a coffee and Hanna had - remember I told you she could eat for the Philippines? - pork and rice
Later that day - I asked her if she would marry me - she said 'yes!'
