I never thought I would type a post like this!

Hi everyone!  Jack* here.  It's been well over a year since I posted on this blog and it's time I did, so here goes.

I haven't been to my friend's house for well over a year now because of knee problems but she's been to see me many times.  Just before Christmas she came and brought me a Santa bag which I wasn't expecting.  In it there was a woolly hat, a Christmas jumper, some cans of Mackeson, a sugar mouse, a book and a DVD each about Lincolnshire, some hand-warmers and many more things, about eighteen in fact.  If there was an award for kindness she would win it hands down.  I'm not the only one she visits so I hope the others appreciate it as much as I do.

The last sixteen months have been the worst in my life.  I was restricted in what I could do but after waiting 390 days I've finally had my knee done.  I've never had pain so bad.  I was on painkillers every two hours but now, fourteen days after the op, I can finally feel an improvement.  I just can't imagine how people on their own manage.  My wife has been brilliant .  I just couldn't have managed without her.   She's had to do everything: cooking, cleaning, washing, ironing, putting the rubbish out, and taking our little dog for walks.  To make matters worse I've only been sleeping 3-4 hours a night, getting up with her help from 3am.  She must be so tired.  I say to all husbands, "Treasure, treat and look after your missis: they expect so little in return."  We have a very special anniversary celebration coming up to which my vicar friend is invited.  It will be a nice change for me to take her out for dinner but I might see the chef and ask him to put a hook or something in her's to make up for some of the stuff I've had to endure over the years.  We put on the invites that we didn't want any presents or gifts.  The only present we ever wanted all our married lives was each other.  We will enjoy our special meal with family and a few friends for a couple of hours - that will be perfect.

I'd like to finish by thanking everyone who has asked the vicar about me.  To Boyett-Brinkley, Rambler and Margie from Toronto, your kind words meant so much.  I'm sure The Vicar will keep you all up-to-date.  Once again I'm sorry I haven't written before but I've been so down in the dumps but things are now looking up..  Look after yourselves and remember that riches come from the heart, not the pocket.  Take care and God Bless.

Jack.

Note by Frugally Challenged.  New(ish) readers may not know that Jack is my gardener and handyman and most of all my friend but it is rare that he is as polite about me on my blog. For explanations about "hook cuisine" see click on the labels.   Overseas readers may not know that Mackesons is Jack's favourite tipple.  It's a stout (sort of beer).  I also took  him a couple of cans yesterday so he should be a happier bunny.