We had a fantastic ten days in Scotland, showing the children all our favourite places in the Highlands, soaking up the fresh air and stunning scenery. We took them to the island where we spent our honeymoon with Moog, twelve years ago and drew up a most impressive wildlife list, including Golden Eagle, Osprey, Red Squirrels and Otters.
On the evening of the tenth day my brother phoned me with bad news. Our dear Dad, who has fought an incredibly brave battle with a terminal brain tumour for the past five years (since first having it removed in the late 1980s) had been admitted to hospital, gravely ill with an infection.
Needless to say, the need to be with him was greater than the need to finish the last few days of our holiday. Thank goodness, we got back down south in time to be with him and spent his last hours by his side, along with my wonderful brother and his family. Dad passed peacefully away just after 10am on Good Friday.
I cannot tell you how priveleged I feel to have been with both of my parents in their final hours. It's very nearly four years since we lost Mum, also to a brain tumour and I will be eternally grateful that they both passed without pain and distress and with their dignity intact.
Due to the timing of Dad's death we were told we would be unable to make any arrangements until Tuesday - after the Easter bank holidays. So, we decided it would be best to head home.
We had planned to pick Merlin up on Easter Sunday. With a couple of extra days to spare we decided to pick him up early.
So here he is - Merlin Moog.
The fluffiest, cuddliest, funniest little wonder-dog ever.
He's settling in amazingly well and is the very best distraction we could wish for.
I'll be back soon, with more puppy pictures and maybe a few photos of those glorious Scottish mountains.
Love Moogs xxx