Dear Mary, How did the plum and almond crumble turn out? Lovely to hear from you, and glad that you managed to get the Molton Brown TSV – me too in the Warm! IT’s such a great deal, and I took the little travel sizes away with me to Kos. I am sorry to hear about your mum and the fact you and your sisters are still unable to physically touch or hug her, but having listened to the news last night I fully appreciate the importance of keeping everybody 100% safe because of their vulnerability. I do hope the latest news won’t affect the pub? Keeping everything crossed for you. I imagine you won’t be alone in setting your Christmas decorations up early this year, and I think you’re right, maybe a bit of sparkle and cheer is just what we need. We got back yesterday in relatively warm weather although it’s pouring with rain today… exactly a year since mum died and the weather was the same then. Hard to believe that long has passed, but with my brother’s first grandchild due in December I am focussing on the circle of life and in truth am glad she’s not had to contend with the world as it is now. Are you watching the Bake Off? Bit of a choux pastry disaster last night! 🙂 Take care, and do keep in touch. I hope you and Olly can keep p your coastal walks. Love Ali xx

Dear Cecilia, so sorry to know that you have to go through this with your mother-in-law – I lost my godfather to the same disease 15 years ago and it was an appalling situation. Joe is settling in well though, and as his son lives nearby he’s getting more company than he used to. It’s nice to know you enjoy the blogs, and thank you for taking the time to comment. It’s nice to know you enjoy the blogs, and thank you for taking the time to comment.Love Ali xx

Dear Susan I am sorry to know that on top of the Covid situation it sounds as if you have had a huge amount else to deal with. You’re right about Joe and being on his own – I know it’s much harder for those who have family they can’t see or are just left to fend for themselves. I hope that things will be easier for you moving forwards. Love Ali xx

Hi Suzi, I hope you found some nice bulbs for your garden? I also hope the weather was good enough for you to get them into the ground or into your pots? Yes, Honey went back to school although it’s tricky as little ones with coughs or sneezes have to quarantine for 14 days… difficult for parents to cover. Fingers crossed these latest changes all help. Take care, love Ali XX

Dear Kathryn I am so glad to know that 32 years on you are still well, and although as you say you are “lucky“ – to have her breast cancer and surgery when you were so young must have been terrifying. Thanks for getting in touch, and stay well love Ali xx

Hi Allyson, that’s very kind of you to say, although I have found it a great deal easier since we have introduced so many more fashion brands to the company. So much to choose from! Love Ali. Xx

Hi Karen, so glad to know that you’re also enjoying Cornwall. I hope you’ve been lucky with the weather also 😊. So many parts of the country that we have yet to explore. Yes, the hotel was a real spoiley as I’m sure where you’re staying is lovely too. Take care and safe home love Ali XX

Dear Julia, as always it’s nice for you to keep in touch with us here on fit to know how you are coping. I am sorry you’re still struggling with sleep – have you thought of maybe trying the Headspace app? Kathy Tayler suggested it to me and there are a number of different programs that you can listen to quietly, that help you to relax by concentrating on something different? It just might be worth a try? I remember my mum getting her cataracts done, and she said exactly the same thing. Your family were right in encouraging you even though I know it’s not that comfortable. It’s one less thing for you to have to think about. I’m so sorry your facing lockdown once again and fully appreciate the problems this is going to cause for your family. I know you will worry about Charlotte coming up during half term but I think it will be a comfort not just for her for you and her dad too. I hope that by lying flat he is more comfortable now and it makes it easier for you to just sit together rather than bunched up on the sofa? I’m glad that Susan got in touch with you too – this is very much a network and even if folk don’t make a comment I know they are thinking of you. Take care, stay strong and please do keep in touch. Love Ali XX

Hi Susan, I just wanted to add that maybe you too could benefit from the Headspace app? . It has some really good sleep programs on it. Just a thought. XX

Dear Martin, I’m really sorry to know that you’ve had vetigo! Such a horrible thing to have to contend with – and number of my colleagues at work had it and they were away for quite some time. So glad you’re feeling better now. Yes you’re right, Honey was five back in May and is at school full time now – so grown-up. Take care, love Ali XX