Hi Dot, (May I call you Dot or is that too familiar?)

If you need the break then take it. If you're too stressed out your writing usually shows it. I've slowed down for a while now as real life issues take precedence, (Nice issues though in my case. Though it's taken 60 years to get to 'nice'.)
I'm sorry I cannot be more supportive in the physical practical sense with you being 'over there' and me being 'over here'.
All I can suggest is that you 'keep the faith' and hang on in there. It's hard to know exactly what to say cos it's a bit like treading on eggshells.

I have found that sympathetic and supportive emails from fellow travellers who have walked similar paths to yours, can be very theraputic. If emails such as this are helpfull, (if only to fill up parts of what might seem like endless days,)then tell me and I'll write the odd one to help you tackle whatever it is that hurts.
I know what hurts but more of that in later emails.

For now it is enough that you're getting support, sympathy and all importantly, other people's time, - even if it is only over the internet.

I'll write again tomorrow, (PM if you prefer.)

Love and hugs.

Beverly.

Growing old disgracefully. But above all else, - growing old. (I will survive!)