And so into the new millennium! New years eve was spent in Cardiff at Mike’s home with Steve. The year seemed to be beginning wonderfully – but it as it turned out it was an eventful year! In April Steve moved in with me. Wayne moved out that month and a Summer as a couple ensued including a few days away in Dublin which was very pleasant.

Everything turned upside down on September 9th when Dad had a massive heart attack and died in his sleep. All I can really say is that the following week was more like a dream sequence from a film than real life as I went into auto pilot trying to organise things that were a direct consequence of Dad’s death. Cath took it really bad because Mum was in the house on her own that night as Cath had gone out to escape the problems at home. We are suffering the aftershocks of Dad's death today even. Mum was remarkably together about it all at the time. This was also the time when Steve was fully accepted by the family. In the run up to Christmas Mum wasn’t too grand and in the new year she made a quite harsh attempt on her life. The result was her going back into hospital for a couple of months. Cath in the meantime began an ill fated relationship once again which eventually led to her moving out when mum returned home. Unfortunately the relationship didn't last but in 2002 Cath started Seeing Kris and is expecting a baby now this Summer.

Mum's health has not been too marvellous as she has lost weight over the past few years and come to terms with the depression and anxiety. Unfortunately she also has problems with arthritis and in 2003 we are now looking into Mum getting a sheltered accommodation flat where she can be secure.

In the last few years my relationship with Steve has strengthened and developed as we mature with each other. We have had some great holidays to Ireland, Germany, Denmark, Paris, and the fabulous trip to Canada including Toronto and Niagara. I have just made a significant job change as I move on to the DVLA from the Inland Revenue. Still civil service but a promotion and greater responsibility, so who knows what is next?