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A peaceful departure for a very beautiful person. Early this afternoon I was alone, sitting quietly outside at The Cedars at Hahndorf, listening to the sound of the gentle wind in the pines, in Hans Heysen's old world garden amongst many beautiful flowers. I was thinking of Sheila as I have been most of today. And unknown to me, at that time, Sheila was quietly departing. Now I can easily imagine that her spirit was passing by me there, in the gentle breeze.
Glad she waited till Rob arrived and stayed on long enough to catch the Thirsty Night Singers.
You have all been so wonderful in the way you have handled the past few weeks.
Love to you all as you do what now has to be done.
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Dear Martin and Peter,
I'm so very saddened to hear of your wonderful mother Sheila - such a treasured elder in our community - passing. Its hard for me to imagine her not being alive... if spirits exist I know she'll be there in the valley with you... she was always such a gentle, kind, calm, admirable person... Such an impressive life with so many achievements, including bringing up children she loved so much and will have made her happy and proud through her very last breath.
Dad told me about singing with the choir at her bedside. It sounds like the kind of goodbye people dream of having - her children and their friends there surrounding you, singing their love for you.
I hope to see you soon and I'll be thinking of you and Rob too.
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Dear Peter and Martin,
My love is with you and Rob, and I am sincerely sorry to hear of Sheila's passing. I thoroughly enjoyed spending time with her, as everyone did, and she will be sorely missed.
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I'm reading the Sheila Blog daily..... I'm just sending you lots of love, and transported back to a time, 26 years ago, watching my dad go somewhere else. If Shelia finds him soon, I'm sure they'll get along. They can swap stories of having slightly troublesome offspring.
But seriously, my love and strength to you all.... and it goes without saying that if you want someone to play at her memorial service I would do so - but only if that's want you want. I'm in no way pushing myslef forward here. I think you understand ...
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here's Sheila with her youngest sons in c.1994 (Peter's the chubby one on the left, wearing that silly party hat)
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Thanks so much for letting us know. My thoughts have been with you all these past few days particularly and I am happy for Sheila that her time has come and that she was so loved and cared for by her boys in her last few months and years.
Much love to you all ...
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My thoughts are with you all, and prayers are with Sheila.
I will light a candle tonight.
Love, and peaceful thoughts ...
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Dear Pete,
I had just read your earlier email and was about to write to you. I am now so sad to read this news, but so pleased Sheila had her boys around her. What a beautiful and gracious lady, always. No doubt a wonderful mother, judging by you boys and your devotion to her. You could not have given her a gentler last part of her life than to have her pass her days in such a secure and lovely setting. Love to Martin and Rob as well as you. It doesn't matter how "grown up" we are or how rich a life our parents have had. They are still our parents and it is just plain sad. Thinking of you ...
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Dear Peter
I'm glad it's all over - it's a hard time for all, but as deaths go, hers was pretty good. She was so fortunate to have you all there and she must have been so aware of how many people loved her.
I was grateful for the few years I had to get to know Sheila. She was the same age as my mother and so I felt a special bond, especially since my own mother died just over 3 years ago.
The Thirsty Singers will be extra glad they sang such a beautiful song to her last night.
Let us know if there's anything we can do.
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Hi Peter. Thank you for informing us all of this sad news. Aunt Sheila did indeed live a life to be celebrated. I am so pleased that you were all able to be there at the time of her passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you in the days ahead. God bless.
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Dear Peter, Martin and Rob,
My thoughts are with you are your time of loss. Your Mum was much loved and admired by me and I am sure by all who knew her. I am sorry I have not had recent contact and seen her since she came to live with you in the Valley ...
My love to you all ...
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Hello Peter,
Sorry to hear the very sad news. I still remember meeting her in Sydney and Kangaroo Valley, she was the most lively woman I have ever met! And I always admired her secretly for raising four boys, I wouldn't have survived a year! I imagine her life must be very fulfilling seeing you all growing up nicely.
My thoughts are with you and talk to you later!
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dear darlings
Thankyou for letting us know about the beloved, wonderfully long-lasting Sheila. What an incredible mother! You have been fantastic sons to her: she will be so missed in the landscape of your lives.
Many floor to ceiling hugs to you, and a wish to be kept informed of any commemorative function being held for her.
Thinking of you ...
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Dear Peter, Martin and Rob,
Being with you last night and having the opportunity to sing for Sheila moved me deeply, so I am fighting back the tears as I say to you that we don't get to choose our mums but what a lucky ticket you all drew.
It was clearly evident to me when I first met Sheila of why you are all what you are and it was always apparent in her gentle, approving smile of just what you all meant to her. What a great lady!
You are in our thoughts.
With love and best wishes ...
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Hello Martin, Peter & Rob
We are so sorry to hear the news and thanks Martin for letting us know. Please contact us if there is anything you need and we will see you soon.
Much love ...
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Hi to Martin and all the family,
Our sincere condolences on your loss.
One can assess the important contribution that Sheila made as an influential director of "her boys'" pursuits in life more easily from the blog, which has been quite uplifting and spiritually satisfying since we first read it at Martin's invitation.
Our belief is that she waited till Rob came and the family were all together again before setting out on the last journey through her temporal space.
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Dear Peter,
Thank you for letting us know. We've been expecting it, of course, having followed the blog.
What an amazing time you've all had and how wonderfully well you looked after her.
Love to all the family ...
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Dear Peter,
My condolences on the passing of your mum Sheila. Mum forwarded me the beautiful message you sent out by email. Your words are touching and inspiring, and speak of a remarkable and extraordinary woman. My heartfelt thoughts are with you and your brothers ...
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Peter, Rob and Martin
(We) are with you in spirit today and please accept our heartfelt
condolences. What a remarkable woman was your mother, with a fine spirit.
The bell tolls for all of us today. It is sobering.
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What a beautiful sweet passing.
My thoughts and tears with you now. It has been a very long and fulfilling journey indeed.
How fortunate we have been to have a real Sheila in our lives.
May peace be with you, and all my love, and of course, thanks.
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Ohhh... I am so sorry to hear that Martin... Glad to hear it was peaceful and she would have to have felt all the love surrounding her. I hope you are all ok - very sad no matter how prepared you were. I would love to come to Sheila's service whenever it is ... Take care, love to Peter and Rob too. xxx
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Sheila was an extra special sheila who bred a bunch of fine Australian Wesley-word-Smith sons ...
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Sheila with Rob, Royal Darwin Hospital, October 2008 (see the roblog)
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Dear Rob, Martin and Peter
Sheila has won the race, taking with her the blessings of so many, while leaving everyone richer for her very being.
For you three, how sad and empty it must be, her wonderful and indefatigable spirit having finally slipped away in your presence. So hard to believe.
I was thinking about Sheila and all of you, while listening in the car this afternoon, to Leonard Cohen's 'If it be your will'. She had already gone.
You are amazing and loving sons in the way you thought about and cared for Sheila in every possible way to the end. It must have given her deep gladness and great comfort.
Thank you for letting me know.
Much special love to you all ...
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Dear Peter, Martin and Rob, (and of course Jed, Olivia, Alice, Oskar and Bassy and Ann),
WE are sad to hear your news about Sheila. She was a mighty dame despite her tiny frame! It is good that you were all there with her. Indeed her life is something to be celebrated!
We all send our love to you all, even though she had a long innings, 'tis hard to lose one's mum!
Gosh ... who will keep you all in check now?!
With love from us all ...
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brother Jerry, on the right of this shot of the family in 2005, died less than a year later
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Dear Peter and Martin,
Thank you for letting us know so we can remember Sheila as she was...a wonderful lady. And how special it was that all three of her sons could be there for her at the end - how generously she lived her life and loved and you loved her back. You will miss her dreadfully but those sharp sweet memories will be shared over the table as you remember her vitality and her fairy loveliness and her mothering that was never ever insipid or suffocating and those memories will bring a consolation.
All our sympathies and love, my darlings ...
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I am so very very sorry.........
I actually know she died today. This morning I checked her website and very strangely this afternoon thought of her very suddenly and wondered if she had gone...
Was going through an old pile of letters this week and found one she had written to me many years ago. I will show it to you sometime.
Let me know if there is anything I can do, any support I might lend.
Otherwise, my thoughts are with you and your brothers and I wish you comfort and peace.
The world has lost one of its best, and I am honoured to have known her.
Love ...
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My deep condolences to you and your family for the loss of such a lovely lady. She is blessed to have a loving family who took such good care of her in her last days. I am sure she is now in a better place with Harry.
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Dear Peter, Martin and Rob,
(We) I will miss Sheila's presence in Green Valley Rd. It was a privilege to have known her, both in my adolescent years and again, for both of us, since she has been in KV. We will always remember her gentle humour and fine spirit.
We send you three our warmest love and condolences ...
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oh Martin
that's so sad.
but lovely that she left the way she did.
it was so good to see her recently - a really marvellous woman!
much love to you and the family ...
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Sheila was a second mother to me. And that is one of the great gifts of my life. Her parting has been done with such soft sweet grace that it is a blessing for all of us.
Thank you dearest mother-in-law. Thank you for living long and well and for giving so many the pleasure of your equable company.
I will miss you. Miss your listening. Miss the oohs and ahs and 'Oh he didn't!' and 'did she?' and the endless chattering that we always did. For forty years. She was a joy to me especially when we shared news of my children and grandchildren, her dearest grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Oh yes and to end with I mustn't miss her droll sense of humour, even to the end. I give thanks, Sheila, to you, as do we all. She is in our hearts.
Much love ...
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Dear Wes, Martin, Peter & all the Wesley-Smith family
Thank you for your email about your Mum's passing and some of the highlights of her life. We are sorry to learn of her death because we found her to be a very friendly and warm person and we loved meeting her when you came to Adelaide on your frequent trips.
It sounds as though she had a very interesting and adventurous life ...
En solidaridad
A la lucha continua
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Hi Wes
Sad news. My condolences to you and your brothers and extended family.
Thanks for keeping us informed. It was great to read your recent travelogue. I am glad Sheila had maintained her alertness as you say, I know she would have been happy to see her family doing so much of value for this world.
All of you take care.
Hope to see you soon.
A luta continua ...
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the driveway leading to Sheila's house in Hawthorn, Adelaide, where she lived for 55 years
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Dear Martin, Thank you for allowing us the privilege of singing to Sheila in her last evening. The time she spent with us as an extra alto was lovely and being able to share our music with her on Thursday evening was a special honour. Much love to you and all the family at this time ...
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Dear Peter, Martin and Rob
We have just read that Sheila died today.
We join you in your sadness and rejoice with you that her death was peaceful and with you boys there to care for her.
It has been a privaledge to know Sheila and we will remember her for ever with affection. I thought she could not be well when we did not get a Christmas card this year.
Your blog was wonderful Martin and we enjoyed the photographs and the stories of the early days. Sheila was such a beautiful young woman and Harry was so handsome.
We send you our best love and wish we could be with you to celebrate a life well lived ...
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Dear Martin, Peter and Rob,
Sheila's presence was always so calm and loving. Her life in the Valley was filled with joy and it was easy to see how much she loved and took pride in all of her boys. You have looked after her well and cocooned her with love to help her through these last few weeks. Take strength from that. No mother could ask for more.
Our thoughts are with you and all her extended family ...
click on photo to see Sheila with her brothers Les (left) and Keith
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[this received not long before Sheila passed away]
Bondia all at road ends. Just a note to say I am thinking of you all, as always but especially now as your Darling mother closes her chapter on life with us. Peter was very teary telling me how she was last night so I guess this really is Sheila leaving us. What a lucky girl to have you all embracing her so lovingly as she moves on from her glorious life, you will always be thankful and proud that you chose to care for her at home. Wishing you all a gentle time and lots of love and hugs to Sheila and each of you ...
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Alas. But sounds like as good a death as anyone would wish for.
Well done, thou good and faithful Sheila. How blessed she was to have born and bred such a beautiful family.
My coverage at Myponga Beach does not let me into the web. I return to Tusmore today and will get your story then.
Much love to you all.
I weep with sadness for her passing and joy for her lovely life.
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Dear Martin and all,
How sad...how wonderful...what can I say? I opened this some minutes ago now and have been trolling blogs and letters and pictures with great pleasure, many smiles and even a few giggles, despite teary eyes.
What wonderful care she has had and what an opportunity for all of you - especially you and Peter - to express your gratitude for all that she did for you, in childhood and beyond. You are indeed all blessed to have had the relationship with her that you did, to have wanted to care for her in this way and, importantly, to have had a relationship which was such that she accepted this.
There is no greater testimony to the wonderful woman that she was than the quality of the loving, witty, cheeky, irreverent (yet utterly respectful), honest and intelligent relationships that she had with all of you and the extent to which all these qualities continued to the end - and beyond - in the tender and attentive care that you provided over the last years of her life.
Whatever else needs to be said, the care that she had was exemplary. You put it in a nutshell in an email to me some time ago, when you said that while caring for her was sometimes time-consuming, it was never onerous. I bet that this was exactly her attitude to caring for you all as babies and children (especially when she had twin babies and two small boys to care for!)
I think that her soul will not depart - it will hover around you all for all time. She will always be present in the house in Kangaroo Valley. Something as beautiful as that will not go away.
Much love to you all ...
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Just received the news. Have been in Darwin for a few days. We're sure Sheila would want for you all to remember the wonderful lives she gave to you as the beautiful mother she was for you. We loved having her visit at Tortilla Flats and the older children will recall how they enjoyed "Kindergarten of the Air" when Sheila was the presenter. We all know that our time on earth is limited and peace in that time of departure is what we wish for, and I'm sure that is what Sheila had with her loved ones near, speaking and singing to her. She's at rest now. Love to you all ...
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So sorry Rob, thinking of you all. She was a marvellous marvellous woman ...
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It feels like a feather dropped and the whole world just rippled.
My biggest love and hugs to everyone.
We'll talk soon, know you'll be busy.
Love ...
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Dear Wes, Martin and Peter,
We are truly saddened by Sheila's death. Sheila was more than just a friend; she was an amazing person. She was always so kind and caring.
Her passing will not only leave a void in our lives, but in the hearts of everyone who knew her. Sheila's memory will always remain deep within our hearts.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
With deepest sympathy ...
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Sheila's tennis-loving grandson Jed
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Dear Rob, Peter and Martin,
It has been a privilege to get to know Sheila during her time in Kangaroo Valley. Whether subtly pulling her sons into line with a witty response, or diplomatically providing feedback to the Thirsties during those late night practices, Sheila would maintain grace and poise.
What an amazing time you have all shared with Sheila these last few months - your love and devotion a testimony to what a wonderful Mother she was; and how special for her to have you all together at Green Valley Rd. for the end of her amazing life journey.
My little family have you, Jed, Sally, Oskar, Bassy, Olivia, Alice, and Ann in our hearts and thoughts.
Love to you all.
xxx
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Martin, Peter and Rob,
Sheila valued us all and brought her love to KV. So quietly, she left but her spirit remains in all those she touched. Sheila enriched us all. Thank you for sharing her with us through the blog. Love to you all ...
Click on the photo to see Sheila at home in Adelaide not long before she came to Kangaroo Valley.
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[this received not long before Sheila passed away]
Dear Peter,
I've read Sheila blog and really feel much pain visualizing what dear lovable and saintly Sheila is going through. We will never understand why God does what He does, and why even Jesus had to go through so much sufferings before he died. But I do believe that God is love, unconditional love given and received. Sheila always has plenty of love for her family and friends, and to me she is nearer to God than most people I know. She is also blessed with a long and rewarding life surrounded by a very caring and loving family, and so many caring friends. I trust that God will continue to bring comfort and loving care to Sheila through you, Martin, Rob, family and friends.
Please forgive me if what I'd said annoys you and your belief. I only want to express my true feelings, and in my way try to offer some comfort to you my very dear friend. You are a very caring and loving son and I greatly admire you for that, and I do feel the pain you are going through. I am glad to know that you have a very special someone in your life giving you love and support during this difficult time.
Peter, please give Sheila a big hug and kiss from me and tell her that I am so very sorry that I can't do it in person. Even if it upsets you, I shall continue to pray for Sheila's comfort and peace. She is such a beautiful person and I do love her dearly.
Take good care of yourself.
Much love ...
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Dearest Pete, Martin & Rob
Thanks for the news. Glad Rob was able to get down there to be with her - but possibly had exchanged final good-byes earlier.
Your mum was such a gorgeous woman, and obviously a wonderful mother to many others in addition to you four. She showed so much motherly/grandmotherly love to me and Alisia while we were in Adelaide, enriching both of our lives.
She's been a delightful gift to all who have known her. Her memories, values and warmth will live on.
I'm so sorry for your loss at this time.
Fondest love ...
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Dear Rob, Peter and Martin,
We were very sad to learn of Sheila's death and our thoughts are with you. Though I know it must be a very sad time for you I'm sure you are able to reflect on her long and fruitful life and the love and joy she gave to others.
Love ...
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Dear Rob, Martin, Peter .......
I just heard from Ernie Chamberlain about Sheila taking her leave from you all.
So I went looking for Martin's blog that Rob mentioned in passing the other day. Very moving to read the last few days of the journey for all of you. As I said to Rob, she was so lucky to have you all caring for her in her last days; we were not able to manage the same for our mum in 2008.
I never met Sheila but I feel I almost knew her through Rob's frequent and warm mentions of her over the years. She was clearly a special person, especially special for you all as you were so clearly for her in return.
All blessings (in any sense that you wish) to her and you.
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Wes
Sad news about your Mum. Please accept our condolences and pass them to your brothers and other family members.
At least you had the few last days with your Mum.
Regards ...
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Sheila, as a girl, on her horse
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Dearest Peter,
I am very very sad to know that I will never have a chance to see Sheila again, and hate myself for not making more effort last year to come to Kangaroo Valley to see her. She was such a beautiful, warm hearted and giving person - a perfect mother and friend. She is my role model and God's gift to all of us who had the good fortune of knowing her and loving her. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Martin, Rob and rest of the family. Peter, I know and am very pleased that you have a very special person in your life now to be by your side and give you all the love and support you'll need in the days ahead. But please remember, if you should ever need me to do anything, just ask.
Take care.
Lots of love ...
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Peter, Martin and Rob. Thank you for letting me know. I had the highest possible respect and regard for your lovely mother. In every sense of the word Shiela was the quintessential LADY. Stylish, beautiful, decent, gentle, respectful, intelligent, caring, giving, loving, completely devoted to her loved and loving family - it is a great joy to have had the pleasure of knowing her. As is always the case in times like this I reproach myself for not having made the effort to keep in contact with her as she asked me to do. One of the worst experiences I have ever had was when my mum passed - I hope the next few days/weeks are not too difficult for you all. My thoughts are with each of you ...
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Hi Martin,
Yes sad indeed, yet I see her time had come ...
Thanks for the blog, it is a great tribute to a very special lady, and paints a beautiful picture of her final days and the love that was returned to her ...
Sheila,
many share the happiness of her company,
some of us have the privilege of having been in her care,
her passing gift to me is the many happy memories of her and the home she shared,
her cooking from the delights of Christmas pudding to her breakfast marmalades,
the fun of tennis and her garden,
and the down-to-earth cheerful and positive conversations,
a mum when mine had departed,
she gave me the courage to step over the little problems,
may the beauty of her life live on in the many people she touched.
With love ...
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from the program for Heritage, Adelaide, 1936
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[from Korean WWOOFer Amy, who met Sheila seven weeks or so before Sheila died (a WWOOFer is a member of an organisation called WWOOF - Willing Workers On Organic Farms - who works in exchange for bed and board)]
Dear Peter
I'm so sorry about that. Finally she passed away. Sheila might be go up peaceful place.
She was such a wonderful woman that I ever met and she is my another grandmother.
I'm arrived Korea well yesterday. Here is so cold, still under the peak of winter.
I can't realized that I'm in Korea. I'm missing you and Kangaroobelly's wonderful scenery.
I don't know how can I delivery my sadnes and offer words of consolation to you in English.
You and Martin must be care of yourself as I told you before leaving.
Even I'm in here, my heart is with your family.
Sending my love from Korea.
Amy
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Sheila with middle son Rob, way back
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Dear Peter, Martin and Rob,
Please accept our sincere condolences. We are sorry that we did not have the honour and pleasure of meeting the grand lady, who must be very special indeed to have such individual and talented sons, and to maintain warm and strong family ties, and caring for each other.
We are sure that you guys shall be able to swap and spin good yarns about Sheila, or maybe better still do a musical for her. Take care, thinking of you all.
Warmest regards ...
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Dear Martin, Peter and Rob.
I was so sorry to hear about Sheila's passing. She will be greatly missed by everyone who was fortunate enough to know her. My thoughts are with you all.
Best wishes ...
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Dear Wesley-Smith brothers - and you are dear to us all,
It's with sadness I hear of Sheila's passing away, but we will remember our last meal over goat curry for a long time to come. I remember how touching it was to see you all united in your care for Sheila during those last months. Her life clearly was rich, fullfilling and now fullfilled. Please accept our sincere condolences, from all of us.
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Dear Martin and Peter,
I am saddened to learn of Sheila's passing this morning. Though you have been expecting this for a while, it must still be hard to accept. Sheila was a remarkable woman of her time and I am very proud to have known her. I am also glad to have had a chance to see for the last time a couple weeks ago. Her smile, her sense of humour are what I remember most from the last visit and certainly will forever.
Take good care of yourselves ...
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Thankyou Pete,
No I hadn't heard ...
Yes I would think most people would wish to die this way. Surrounded by loved ones and in little pain. She was an amazing woman and will be missed by many and especially her precious boys.
Give my love to all the family and if there is anything at all you need help with please ask.
Special hugs to you.
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Dear Martin, Peter and Rob,
Thankyou so much for contacting me both by email and phone and I'm sorry I wasn't available to receive the news at the time.
Sheila's capacity for love was responsible for producing a fine family, wonderful friendships and quite frankly, a better world.
From Middlemarch by George Eliot:
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Her finely touched spirit had still its fine issues, though they were not widely visible. Her full nature, lke that river of which Cyrus broke the strength, spent itself in channels which had no great name on the earth. But the effect of her being on those around her was incalcuably diffusive, for the growing good of the world is partly dependent on unhistoric acts, and that things are not so ill with you and me as they might have been is half owing to the number who lived faithfully a hidden life and rest in unvisited tombs.
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Dearest Wes and Pete,
I join with so many others who knew your mother in offering our deepest sympathy on her passing. Although it is little consolation at this sad time, it should be of some satisfaction to know that in her passing you can celebrate the end of a very long and productive life.
The measure of a life well-lived is not in how much money one has or what possessions they have accumulated, but rather through the lives they touched and the sorrow they leave behind. If the outpouring of sympathy on her loss is any indication, and it most certainly is, you can proudly and confidently say that hers was indeed a life well-lived.
My thoughts are with the Wesley Smith brothers at this time. I know how close you all were to your mother and I can only imagine what you must be going through right now. Your mom was one of the kindest and most thoughtful people I have ever known. I will never forget that time, when she came to visit Darwin. I was only a teenager. It was the first time my family and I had met her and we were all so taken by her kindness, warmth and gentleness. Your mom was a very beautiful and spiritual human being who helped so many people during her lifetime.
Wes, even though you and I are thousands of miles apart right now, please know that I'm praying for you and the rest of the Wesley Smith family. I know that you have the strength in you to move on and I want to remind you that my family and I are here for you. My case will be coming to an end soon. If my innocence is reinstated and I am granted freedom, I'd like to spend some time with you to give you a big hug and thank you for all that you have done for me. I heard that you were recently in Dili, I tried to call you on your old number but to no avail. I do not have your new number.
Can you please tell me the date of the funeral and the correct address for me to send some flowers and a card to your mother? It would mean a lot to me to be able to do this. May you find peace and comfort in knowing that her loss is felt by all of us who knew and loved her.
In Sympathy ...
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Martin, Peter and Rob,
How wonderful she was ... And how many of us she touched in the valley in such a short time.
Love ...
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Hello Marty,
Just a quick note:
We are saddened to hear of Sheila's passing, but it is good to know that hers was peaceful exit. We should all be so fortunate.
We really enjoyed getting to know your mum, and she was an absolutely delightful traveling companion touring around NSW. A really excellent hang.
While Sheila's dying wasn't entirely unexpected given her long life and declining health, still, it will be a big change in all of your lives.
Our thoughts and love are with you all.
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Dearest Martin ...
So the end of a special life - that in itself makes me pause and gulp back a sob. And the end of a very particular life - your darling mother whose presence was so steadfast and true. A woman amongst all her men - and how magnificently she went through her long life and her long slow ending to her life. Farewell Sheila - you touched many many lives and left indelible ripples across years to come with your beautiful grandchildren and great grandchildren.
Martin being primary carer for Sheila mustn't have been easy and with all her needs as she went towards her death. I'm so very touched that your wonderful beloved mother was able to be cared for so deeply and lovingly by her sons. Perhaps others dont feel that is so special but I sure do - maybe because it comes from my own pathetic background where in my family everyone ducks for cover at the slightest hint of fraility or vulnerability - both females and males. You and Peter, and Rob of course, really stepped up and gave and gave and gave. Not easy yet precious.
I haven't yet read the blog - but will do so later this week am very glad you created it.
Much love as always and farewell Sheila ...
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Guys
I know (my wife) has written a short note from us both but I wanted to add my voice just to say that I am thinking of you all at this time. (We) are very aware of the mixed feelings... we've been there, with our mothers. They both also reached a ripe old age and Peter's note speaks of the inevitable sadness, accompanied by knowing that there is also that feeling that though it is a release for them, we continue to celebrate their lives throughout the following years.
Hugs
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Hi, Wes,
Jill and I want to offer our condolences and support on your mother's passing. Although we never met her, we learned enough about her from you and her other sons to know that she was extraordinary person who, together with her offspring, had a great impact on many people's lives. We are all better off because of her.
If there's anything we can do for you, don't hesitate to ask. And we hope your next visit here fits better with our travel plans -- make it soon.
Love ...
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Dear Wesley-Smith Men,
Glad you were all at home with Sheila when she died. So much of the success of our lives is governed by our good and bad timing but we don't usually recognise the bad timing until after the event. That you were able to ease her final trying hours all together was the ultimate in good timing and would certainly have made her happy. Keep that togetherness of spirit, in the times to come, as her legacy.
From all that I have learned about your Mum over the years her timing was always very good. She handled her five very individual and strong-willed men with unfailing love, grace and constant good humour and clearly, despite the obvious pressures and difficulties of doing that, led a full and productive life of her own. In addition there was always a cup of tea and warm welcome from Sheila for any visitor to William Street.
We shed some tears up here in the Territory and Ellery and I toasted our absent friend at our double birthday party on Friday night. February 5 is now a much more auspicious date for us all.
What a woman and what a hard act to follow!
Love ...
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Dear Pete, Mart and Rob
I just spoke to Mum this morning, I have been away for ten days and she told me Sheila passed away on Friday.
I am thinking so much of you at the moment, and ! am sure that Sheila had a beautiful death. What a gift to have her family around her, loving her, nurturing her and just being with her in the way you have been. You are amazing men, and I am honoured to know you, Sheila said much of the same when I saw her last.
Sending you love and hugs ...
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Dear Peter and family,
I was very touched that you wanted me to know of your dear mother's death. There is nothing quite like the death of one's mother.
What a wonderful women she was l'm sure her presence will always be felt. As l type this email to you l can see her face and feel her wonderful spirit. I see her smiling and happy. I will carry this memory in my heart. My heartfelt condolences to you all.
Love & Blessings ...
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Dear Peter, Martin and Rob,
As I was trying to rescue my plants from the lashing rain yesterday, so carefully tended for Chinese New Year but now rather bedraggled, I could not help thinking about Sheila and smiling. I remembered her love of plants and the lovely garden in Adelaide. I remembered her tolerance, great sense of humour and infectious laugh. But most of all I recalled the love and pride she always held for the special men in her life, no matter how stubborn, contrary or disorganized they tried to be. She was a very special lady who will be missed by many. I hope that Flash is not too upset.
Much love ...
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"stubborn" is Rob, and "contrary" has to be Peter - can't imagine who "disorganized" could be ...
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Oh Martin - so sorry about your Mum - of course it's good that she was peaceful and that is a great blessing, but still very sad for you and your family because she was such a huge personality. Thinking of you all with much love ...
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Dear Peter ...
You supported me so nicely when I lost my own mother and you were so right: when departure occurs in a surrounding that is one of tenderness and care, one should be grateful since it's the nicest thinkable way to say farewell to a beloved. What you might be missing though in the days to come, is the evidence of her love and her tender presence. I wish you therefore strength, and trust you will find support in your immediate circle of kins and among friends ...
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Hi Peter, Martin, Rob, Flash and all the family ...
It is hard to know what I can add to all the wonderful tributes which express better than I could what a wonderful Mum and grandmother you had.
We only had the privilege of knowing Sheila for such a short period of her long life but I think we formed a close bond in that time. Sheila and I were drawn together in the beginning by our mutual love of gardening and we were forever collecting cuttings from each other's gardens (me more than her!!).
Over time we shared lots of things which drew us closer, yoo-hoos and cuppas, lots of laughs, Sheila's countless re-telling of funny stories from her teaching days, trekking back and forth across the road, ....and of course sad things too like being there with Sheila when Jerry died. We still miss not having her over the road.
I am so glad that Sheila got to spend her last years with you so happily, and that she had such a gentle, peaceful passing just as nature intended after such a long and happy life. What a wonderful gift you gave her! I know that you must feel great sadness and emptiness right now because of who Sheila was to you and how big a part she played in your lives, especially in the recent past when she needed you so much and you needed to care for her. A big part of your recent lives was devoted to caring for Sheila, and it will take time to get used to not having that role anymore. As time passes though and the raw grief lessens, you will have only happy memories and no regrets about how she lived and how she died to give you comfort. My own father had a major stroke at 52 and had to go into a nursing home where he died 25 years later having lost all his friends over time as well as two of his children. It is terrible to have to remember a much-loved parent like that.
I found myself surprisingly upset by Sheila's death, although I was expecting it and knew that she was ready to go. I really loved her. I guess any death also causes us to reflect on what has been and what is to come, and of course my own mother's future is always in my mind as well as my beloved sister and brother who both died very young and are still painfully missed.
I put the songs you sang to Sheila on my iPod and have been sitting quietly in the garden listening to them and thinking about her. I'm sure she is up in heaven having a cuppa and a good old catch-up with Jerry and Harry right now!!
Olivia, Sheila will always be with us as long as you are around as you have her same gentle, beautiful soul. You are your grandmother's grand-daughter for sure. I send you special love and hugs to comfort you in your sadness. I didn't get to know Alice well but I am sure she shares the same qualities.
Much love and deepest sympathy to you all. Look after each other. We hope very much to see you in Adelaide when you hold the memorial service here ...
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Dear Martin and Peter
I am so saddened to hear your news. Sheila was an inspiration, a great character and much loved. I know you will all be very sad, and very proud of her life, but how wonderful that you cared for her in the way that you did, especially bringing her to Kangaroo Valley when she needed it ...
My deepest sympathies ...
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Dear Peter,
It is with great sadness that I learnt of the death of your beloved Mother ... My deepest condolences to you and your brothers and my thoughts are with you at this sad time.
I am deeply comforted to learn that Sheila passed away peacefully at home without having to suffer a long illness. Although I have only met her once, she made a lasting impression on me and I shall always remember her as a happy lady who lived life to the full. Yes, her life is something to be celebrated.
With warmest regards ...
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Good morning ... I have just read the magnificent tributes to Sheila ... and there is very little left to say that is new or original. She, and you too, have all been loved by so many - for very good reason - and those tributes must bring such deserved satisfaction. Although I have not been in KV during these last months, there were many moments of having been there, thanks to your dedication to almost daily reports on the blog ... She was all those wonderful things people have written about - truly a woman before her time and an inspiration to to all who knew her. I know you must be so very proud she was your mother, as I am that she was my aunt.
My love always ...
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Dear Martin and Peter,
Thank you for including me in the group to receive the sad news of Sheila's passing. She was so fortunate to have had such loving care at the end of her life. And of course, you were so fortunate to have had such a wonderful mother. I feel quite privileged to have met her in Adelaide if only for a short time during one of my visits there. She clearly exuded such energy and had such a spark about her. I only wish that I were not living a hemisphere away as I can imagine that the memorial services to her will indeed be truly memorable and I would love to be there. While of course sad, I can imagine that the tribute you will pay her will include laughter as well as tears. You and your family and friends have cared for her so beautifully in her waning time on this plane. I know of course that you will miss her, and trite though it may sound, the many memories of her plus the incredible support of all your friends I imagine will be a huge comfort.
(We) send you our love and condolences ...
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Hi Martin and Peter, so sorry to hear about your Mum, but clearly it was time. You must all be pretty exhausted, emotionally and physically.
How lovely that she was able to share this beautiful valley with you (and our lovely community) for her last years. We didn't get to know her well, but she always looked like she was having a good, if quiet, time when we'd run into her at a concert or wherever, and I imagine she made many new friends here. The valley is a place that 'takes people in'. I hope she felt she was part of our community, even though she came to it late in life.
I hope your day was loving and peaceful. We hope to join you for the celebration of her life. She sounds like she was a wonderful woman.
Love ...
(As to the Great Designer and Big Questions, I shall be re-reading the various thoughts and may be prompted to join in...)
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Very sad news but I wasn't surprised given her recent state of declining health. Sheila had a wonderful life (from what I could tell) and she died at peace with the world and knowing that she'd made a big contribution to many lives. I imagine there have been 1000s of people whom she helped, much of it as the wife of the Registrar of one of Australia's most important universities, in addition to caring for her immediate and extended family.
Much love to all and thanks for keeping me up-to-date via the Sheila blog. I was reading it every couple of days until I went overseas on 23rd Jan ...
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Hi Wes,
Hoping the family has recovered from the initial loss. Thanks for the photo. Mum looks in peace. It was time for her to go. I suspect she was waiting for her ratbag son Wes to return before she took off. I'm glad you made it and that you all were there.
Take care and say hi to your brothers.
From now on, think about living your life to the fullest and not getting cranky often. You don't have to worry about Mum anymore. Life is short.
Hugs ...
In response, Rob wrote:
I am usually very un-cranky, sometimes react when people keep talking and refuse to listen to the good advice I am giving - well that's my version anyway
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from a Hong Kong WWOOFer:
Dear Martin and Peter,
I am sorry to hear this sad news. My mind is now occupied by the memory with Sheila. Though I only stayed with her for a few days, her kindliness, humor, and beauty really impressed me. I am pleased to know that she gone comfortably and with you guys accompanied at bed side.
Hope you could get through this grieving period.
Love ...
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Dear Martin,
I met you once when I used to look after Sheila's garden and you had come to Adelaide for a visit. For a few years up until 2002 I would spend some time on a Saturday morning working in Sheila's garden before moving on to her friends, Jack and Evelyn Elhay's house to do the same. During that time I got to know Sheila and Jerry well. When I arrived each week, Sheila and I would potter around the garden and discuss what needed to be done. She very much loved her garden and, when I knew her, she would have liked to have been able to do more in the garden. She seemed to sincerely appreciate having someone to share her joy of gardening with.
After an hour or so, Sheila would call me in for tea. She would have prepared a delicious morning tea with a cuppa and cakes or biscuits and some fruit. We would sit and chat over tea. We would talk about the garden and Sheila would often tell me all about Harry and her four boys - of whom she was so proud. She loved Kangaroo Valley and spoke so highly of it that I have a yet to be accomplished ambition to go there myself. I would occasionally bring my eldest son, Dannion, with me on a Saturday morning to help with the gardening and Sheila would make a right fuss of him which he loved. He seemed to spend more time chatting with Sheila than helping with the gardening. But that was OK, he was only very little then. My wife and I found out that we were expecting our second child early one Saturday morning in December 1999 and although sworn to secrecy at the time, I had to tell someone. So Sheila was the first person I told. Naturally she was delighted and made a great fuss of me.
I got to know Jerry quite well too. Having been a musician in Adelaide for some time myself and having started my musical career at Adelaide University (although in a very different time and genre from Jerry), we had much to talk about. When I finally finished my studies and became a teacher in 2001, I got a short contract as a music teacher (although I was trained to teach Science) at Heathfield High School. I asked Jerry to visit my class and so he came and gave a jazz workshop with my students.
In 2002 I moved with my family to Mount Gambier. I visited Sheila and Jerry once that year on a visit to Adelaide, but lost touch after that. I have some great memories of Sheila. She was a lovely, warm and (despite her many great accomplishments) humble person. She did not judge people but accepted them for who they were. She has, since I first met her, been an inspiration and role model for me and, I believe, for Dannion who, despite only being very little when he knew her, still remembers her with great affection.
I would like to pass on to you and to your extended family my deepest sympathy. I am happy to have had the opportunity to get to know such a wonderful person as your lovely mother, Sheila.
Yours Sincerely,
Stephen Hards
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Wes,
Sorry, but not surprised, to hear of your Mum's death. Condolences from Judith and self. I'm glad that I re-made contact a couple of years ago. Our contacts in the 1950s were many and warm. She always had an impish sense of humour, and a high level of tolerance. So, fond memories.
By nice coincidence, I saw Martin here in Canberra in early December. He was leading his local choir at one of the David Pereira (eminent local cellist) concerts. We had quite a long talk, and Martin told me of Sheila's inability and reluctance to eat, her declining weight, but (otherwise) her overall equanimity.
Dying peacefully, at that age, with family nearby, is a minor triumph.
I'd be surprised if Peter's new woman-friend could sort your house out. That would be a major triumph ...
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Dear Martin & Peter,
Thanks letting me know about your Mum passing. I hadn't heard the sad news. You, Peter and the rest of the family are in our thoughts.
I think it was wonderful that she could spend the last part of her life close to her family in a beautiful environment before slipping away. I have read some of the blog entries and can see Sheila was much loved by friends and family.
Take care
Regards ...
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Hello Martin and Peter
Thanks for putting us in the loop and our heartfelt sympathy.
Everyone should have a mum like Sheila ...
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I've only now received your email - I'm so sorry for you and your brother. I didn't get to know her really but it was always so nice to hear you talk about her because it was evident that you had a rare and wonderful relationship. This also reminds us ... that we must make a better effort to spend more time with our parents ...
Take care ...
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Ah Teds
You have been much in my thoughts in these days since you lost Sheila.
Although I am paid to spout words, my scribbled thoughts seem so feeble and so inadequate at this time. Encouraged, however, by your quite beautiful unfolding story of her last months, please let me add a little in tribute to dear Sheila.
Over so many decades she enriched so many lives.
My fond memories come largely from the 1960s.
Sheila was the ever welcoming host and amiable caterer for our endless rehearsals at your place.
Sheila was the ever welcoming host and amiable caterer for our endless Wesley Three rehearsals at your place.
She was also our in-house perceptive and constructive critic as we quarried away at one of Martin's fiendish new arrangements (words by Peter, of course).
The William Street gardener will always be with me in a lovely rambling cottage yard. Knowledgeable and generous, she spread her beloved plants far and wide.
We are unlikely in our lifetimes to meet another friend so gracious, warm, wise, quietly learned and accomplished as your wonderful Sheila.
Thinking of you Martin, Peter, Robert and all your dear ones
Love
Keith (Conlon)
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To dear Martin,
Thank you for letting me know about your Mum, Sheila's, passing.
As briefly discussed on Wednesday night, I felt really sad to hear the news. I know it was a bit of a long time coming, but I figure that even if we prepare ourselves for the time of dying, it is still a shock, and a sad time for us. Our mothers and fathers are such an integral part of us, regardless of whether our relationships are good, bad or indifferent. And yours was good. So, my love and thoughts are with you and your children and grand-children, with Peter and Rob and all your respective friends and loved ones.
While not knowing Sheila well, I did know her for a long time, given that yours and my friendship is a long-standing one, even if we don't see each other that often. It always seemed to me that your Mum remembered who I was - or did a good act regardless - which was always very touching. You don't necessarily expect your friend's mother to remember all your friend's friends ... She was a gracious and beautiful lady, and hey, put up with all you lot. And loved you deeply. May peace be with her.
Much love ...
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Dear Peter & Martin (& Rob),
Somehow it seems appropriate to be writing this on Valentine's Day! For everyone loved Sheila. Peter, it was very thoughtful of you to ring and inform us of Sheila's passing before the notice appeared in "The Advertiser" - thank you for doing that. Sheila and Harry and Jerry were great neighbours, and although we didn't see a lot of them, they were always there, and came to be valued friends.
(We) enjoyed the opportunity to call on you at Kangaroo Valley last year and to see that idyllic spot where you and she live. She would have enjoyed spending her last years there. And now she's gone, but not forgotten. You were all wonderful sons to her. Please accept deepest love and sympathy from (us both) ...
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Dear Peter, Martin & Rob,
We will always remember Sheila's warmth and charm.
With sad best wishes ...
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Dear Robert, Peter, & Martin,
We are sad that Sheila has gone. We loved her and that love extended to Harry and the family.
From the days at Harcourt Gdns when the paddocks and trees were 'more important' than roads and houses Sheila would come through the back fence, make a little visit, leave a flower or a pot of jam - her face expressing friendliness and warmth.
I did not know many people: the area was new; I had a baby; I was a new mother and housewife. She was wonderful.
A friendship grew between our families. We enjoyed many times and activities together. We learnt of different attitudes, styles of living, more about music, the theatre, books, art - it was great!
We are very sad to hear of her passing - her spirit will be with us always - we loved her -
She was a dear and much beloved friend.
With Best Wishes ...
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To Dear Martin, Pete and Rob,
What a great Mum! Have such fond memories - enjoy the reminisce ...
Much love ...
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Hi there Martin
Andrew told me of Sheila's passing last weekend but my computer has been in repair shop until yesterday. I've had a look at the blog page and followed Sheila's struggle. I had no idea that a heart attack had knocked her around. I guess I still thought of her as an infallible ninety year old. I take my hat off to you and Peter and others for keeping Sheila comfortable in her home in, as you said, a beautiful place until the end.
My sympathy to you and all the family as I grieve the huge loss of a great lady. Over the years Sheila has been not only aunt but friend and foster parent (when Dad died). She wholly motivated me to quit smoking when she showed concern after Jerry died. And her passing is a reminder to me to live life to the fullest as she did like no one else I've known. My greatest regret of course is not having seen her in roughly seventeen years, but the memory lives on.
I would very much like to attend a gathering in Adelaide to celebrate her life. However it all depends on the timing.
My very best wishes ...
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This note brings my sincere words of comfort to you all. Sheila was a wonderful lady, full of kind thoughts and admired and loved by all who knew her. She was my very best friend during our 15 years in Adelaide. She helped me to settle down. My husband was taken ill during our first few years in Adelaide and before we had make many friends. He was rushed into hospital. I wa sitting alone, in the dark, feeling very sorry for myself, on the first night. Suddenly, there were car headlights in the drive down to our house - in came Sheila, with a basket. She said - "I know you don't know me well, but I can't let you be here all alone - I've brought a casserole and my nightdress. I'll sleep on the sofa, so don't worry any more"! And so began our long friendship.
I am sorry I did not get to Kangaroo Valley to see her once more. There were circumstances beyond my control.
I know Sheila loved the colour blue, so I am writing on one of my blue paintings ...
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I was sad to learn of Sheila's death. I had not been aware how frail she had become. She always had a tiny frame, but somehow it seemed she would last forever. Indeed I remember lots of comments that she would outlive you all - but she would have hated that!
Mothers endure beyond the grave. When I looked at the photos from Sheila's blog I see so many of her off-spring in her look - particularly her granddaughters.
Sheila was a mum in a million, it's hard to believe that only 18 months ago she was keeping vigil by Rob's bed without complaint and no doubt with all the worry a parent has for a child no matter their age. Her role as mum played to the end. What an example for all us mums!
A lucky family to have been adored by so doting a mum and a lucky mum to have had such loving sons.
I am sure she will be hugely missed by you all, and what a mighty effort it seems you all put in at the end of her life to make sure the road was not too rough.
We shall miss her perky smile and the way she could chuckle at a good joke or story. She was always interested in everything and everyone who met her it seemed to me ... and who will make the porridge now?!
We all send our love and thoughts and also feel lucky to have had the privilege of knowing Sheila, she always gave our children individual attention and time when we saw her. Hers was a life to celebrate!
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To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded. [Emerson]
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and Sheila ... did!
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We make a living by what we get, we make a life from what we give. [Churchill]
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A life well loved, dear Sheila - so many years, so many fine men in her life - (what) fine grandchildren and a wonderful family that she built. What a magnificent feat! In honouring her, nothing could ever surpass the way that you all took such care of her in her frail end-of-life time and that is truly magnificent. We think of you, send all our love ...
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Our sympathy and condolences for the passing of your mother, Sheila. We are sure you have many happy memories of growing up under her care and influence. You are fortunate to have shared the final period together in Kangaroo Valley ...
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Dear Martin,
Anni just said to me, 'Did you know Martin's mum had died?' (You wouldn't think we work most days in adjacent rooms, would you?)
So no, I didn't know, and belatedly send my condolences, also to Peter. I liked your mum a lot. It was always good to see her at concerts: her spirit of life, her curiosity about everything, her sense of humour. And that she produced the children she did -- such a bunch of caring ratbags -- is a lasting testimony to her. Good on you, Sheila!
Love ...
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oh i'm so sorry to hear the news... are you holding on ok? i know everyone's kinda prepared, but then it must be a difficult time no matter how well one's prepared! my thoughts and prayers are with you and everyone in the family.
it's a blessing to die at home surrounded by family and loved ones, and as you said sheila did live an extraordinary full and beautiful life. i'm gonna miss her too!
hang in there ... although sheila is in heaven, which is quite far away, the memory of her will be in our hearts always ...
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Dear Peter, Martin & Robert,
We were all saddened to learn of Sheila's recent death. On behalf of all the Tatlers, please accept our condolences on the loss of your dear mother.
Sheila was dearly loved by her fellow Tatlers, not least for her warmth, wonderful sense of humour, clever wit and love of life.
On a personal level, I have fond memories of Sheila visiting my mother and sharing their love of gardens over a cup of tea.
Sheila will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
With deepest sympathy ...
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Dear Martin and Peter,
I'm sorry to hear Sheila has gone, you must miss her very much. Although I
only met her a few of times it seems she was always there with you in
spirit, and you clearly had a special relationship with her. It must have
been lovely for all of you to live together and share the last part of her
life. She was certainly blessed to die at home, surrounded by love and
beauty.
With love ...
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Dear Orphans,
Rob told me at Andrew's memorial that your Mum had died and said she died peacefully ... Perfect.
I remember her as a lady, in the truest sense, with a quiet grace and indomitable spirit.
in shared sadness ...
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Dear Rob and all the family,
Just received the news. Have been in Dar. for a few days. We're sure Sheila would want for you all to remember the wonderful lives she gave to you as the beautiful mother she was for you. We loved having her visit at Tortilla Flats and the older children will recall how they enjoyed "Kindergarten of the Air" when Sheila was the presenter. We all know that our time on earth is limited and peace in that time of departure is what we wish for, and I'm sure that is what Sheila had with her loved ones near, speaking and singing to her. She's at rest now. Love to you all ...
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Hey Martin. I would have loved to be there to celebrate the life of Sheila but am unfortunately tied up elsewhere. Wishing you and Peter and Rob a wondrous evening as is fitting for the occasion. My thoughts are there. Can i just add my memories of sharing a warm cuppa on one of sheila's mosaic tables by the grassy tennis court in adelaide. Such a lady! Much love ...
Sent from my iPhone
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Dear Rob
I want to say it was sad to hear of Sheila's death, and trust all was
peaceful at the end. She was a wonderful, special person, and part of my
live for as long as I can remember. I missed her when she went to NSW,
especially the lovely chance meetings at Banana Boys over the fruit and
vegetables! I look forward to the 'celebratory wake' here in Adelaide, as
she was someone who contributed so much in so many quiet and gentle ways.
She had a long and full life, but a mother will always be missed ...
With our love and prayers ...
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Dear Martin, Peter and Wes
(We) found out today about Sheila's passing earlier this month. We have been thinking of you all in recent months and often spoken to each other about Sheila and our few shared times with her. We enjoyed her humour and gentle, creative approach to life. She was ridiculously and unconditionally proud of you all ... a wonderful mother indeed.
Much love ...
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Dear Martin, Peter and Rob,
Please accept our deepest condolences for the passing of your wonderful mother ...
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Dear Martin,
I am writing on behalf of the University of Adelaide Women's Club to offer our sympathy to you and your brothers on the recent death of your mother. Sheila was a member of our club for 45 years, serving on the committee for 7 of those years, and as President in 1960.
On several occasions she was asked to give a short talk during our meetings. I remember two in particular. One was about her time as a presenter of the radio programme Kindergarten of the Air, and another was about her war-time experiences, being at sea with your father en route to Europe when war was declared.
Your mother was a charming and interesting lady and was missed by all our members when she moved to Kangaroo Valley.
Please accept our sincere condolences ...
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Dear Rob, Peter & Martin,
We were sorry to hear about Sheila's death and send our condolences for your loss. Sheila was a remarkable woman and we hope the happy memories you have of her will ease the time ahead ...
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Dear Peter,
I was so very sorry to hear ... of your mother's death. I think this was the first Christmas we did not correspond in all those years since we first met when she and Harry came over at the start of World War II.
She and I got on so well and though we met so infrequently it didn't seem to matter - we just took up where we left off!
I'm glad she was able to spend her last years with you and Martin. She had a very full life with so many interests.
She and I are about the same age, though I think she was a few months younger. I am 94.
I struggle along here on my own. I have just given up my car and miss it very much. I am expecting three more great-grandchildren this year - that will make it a total of 21!
My heartfelt sympathy to you and your brothers and all the members of the family. She will be sadly missed.
As ever ...
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To Peter, Martin & Rob,
With deepest sympathy to you all.
So sorry to hear about your mother. For me another family connection ended.
Sheila was my first cousin. My mother was her father's sister, and I've kept in touch with her all these years ...
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We send our love to you all as a flow on of Sheila's loving eyes, laugh and grace of spirit when we visited with Lois Mander-Jones. They were a wonderful pair of friends, and their chortling is probably making micro waves across the universe of heavens. It is wonderful that you all had each other ...
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Dear Rob, I have just heard that Sheila died and I wanted to say I am thinking of you and Martin and Peter at this time as you mourn, but also I would think celebrate hugely a full and wonderful life for so many years (I do not know how her health was in the last few years). I think you must have heard from so many people from different generations whose lives have been inspired by her. She is for me one of a handful of people from my parent's generation whose extraordinary qualities influenced me deeply - her rare combination of gentleness and quiet authority, a strong sense of direction, an ever-flowing creativity and always sensing with insight what those with her were thinking and feeling ...
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Dear Martin, Peter and Rob,
Thank you for your kind invitation to Sheila's last party. Mike and I are disappointed that we won't be able to attend (we'll be in Adelaide).
We didn't know Sheila well, but it was always a pleasure to have a quick chat when we met at a local event. I regret that we didn't get to know her better - she was obviously quite a woman (despite the legacy occasionally evidenced by her offspring resident in KV....).
We wish you well for tomorrow. I imagine Sheila would have liked to be there, and in fact she will be!
We'll be thinking of you all.
Warmest regards ...
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Dear Rob, Peter & Martin,
Life will never be the same again. Although I didn't see a lot of Sheila in the last few years, I knew she was there. That seemed to make everything alright somehow. I was once asked if I could be like anyone in the world, who would I choose? I answered with "My Auntie Sheila." You must be very proud to have had such a wonderfuk Mum.
Sheila & Harry always made me feel welcome - being so much younger than all my cousins etc - I'm sure I was a nuisance, but they always made a bit of a fuss, which I really appreciated. Sheila knew I loved Borsch & often had it made when we stayed. And I'll never smell marmalade without thinking of her.
How lucky you were to have her with you in her final years.
We have been thinking of you all & hope to see you in Adelaide in a couple of months. Take care.
Love ...
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Dear Peter,
It was good of you to tell me the sad news about Sheila - thank you. But of course it is sad for us who are left behind, no matter how long and wonderful her life had been. I'm sure you all miss her, and I know she loved all of you. I have fond memories of her and Harry and Jeremy (as a new baby!) in the 1940s when they stayed with us at the beginning of the war. And it was they who took me to my first-ever "real" concert (a Beethoven symphony - which? and what else?) and encouraged me to learn the piano....
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Dear Martin
I was so sorry to hear about your mother, and I send sincere sympathy to you and all your family.
One of my earliest memories, when I must have been about 4, is of going to the regular tennis afternoon with my mother at your former home in Adelaide. My parents, and all of our family, admired your mother very much. I'm sure that many people will miss her.
I am glad that I was able to speak to her fairly recently.
With best wishes
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Dear Martin,
Anni just said to me, 'Did you know Martin's mum had died?' (You wouldn't think we work most days in adjacent rooms, would you?)
So no, I didn't know, and belatedly send my condolences, also to Peter. I liked your mum a lot. It was always good to see her at concerts: her spirit of life, her curiosity about everything, her sense of humour. And that she produced the children she did -- such a bunch of caring ratbags -- is a lasting testimony to her. Good on you, Sheila!
Love,
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To the Wesley-Smith family
Dear Peter, Martin & Rob,
It is with much sadness that you bring us the news of Sheila passing away.
We have nothing but kindness in our hearts for the beautiful woman that put so much love into the house we call home.
Our thoughts are with you all in your time of loss.
Kind regards ...
With tears of rain
And smiles of sunshine
She sits in wonder of all that grows
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Rest peacefully, Sheila xx
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many thanks to all who have contributed!
re the Kangaroo Valley Celebration of Sheila's Life, Feb 27 2010:
from Terry Wesley-Smith:
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Dear Martin, Peter and Rob,
Firstly thank you for allowing us to be part of last night's event to honour Sheila. It was a wonderful night, which struck just the right balance between sorrow at Sheila's passing with a reaffirmation of life. She would have loved it.
It was also great to be able to get to know the younger family members a bit more, and to catch up with the rest of our generation again. We do too little of it.
I trust that you all enjoyed the evening, and that it gave you some comfort to see the number and quality of the people who came out to bid Sheila farewell. One of the things that struck me was that the same themes kept arising when Sheila was being discussed. She was a lovely lady and will be missed greatly by more than just her immediate and extended families.
I have attached my notes for last night as requested. I hope that they are adequate to convey my love and gratitude.
Thank you again for being part of last night. It was an experience I will savour.
Love from the Canberra W-Ss,
Terry
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SHEILA WESLEY-SMITH
A close friend of mine, who sadly met an untimely end recently, would frequently advise his friends that "Life is not a full dress rehearsal," meaning that life should be grasped with both hands and lived to the full.
My Auntie Sheila was an enormously talented lady, who would have agreed with that. She lived life to the full.
Sheila was the sort of person to whom others were drawn, both by her natural beauty, and by her genuine interest in other people. She had the most beautiful blue eyes, with an almost wicked sparkle, and a sense of humour marked by a most appealing girlish giggle, which lasted to the end of her days. She was caring, loving and generous, and she always found time for others. Above all, she treated everyone with dignity and respect.
Sheila married Harry and travelled to England just in time for World War 2, and had to endure a lengthy and uncertain trip home by sea with all the risk that such a voyage entailed at that time. Soon after arriving home, Harry enlisted in the Army and headed off on active service in the South West Pacific, leaving Sheila alone in Adelaide as a young married woman with a small and growing family: first Jeremy, then Robert, and after the war, Peter and Martin.
Sheila made a wonderful home in which she managed to mix support for her extremely hard working husband with the nurturing in every respect of her boys, while at the same time being actively involved in many community activities, including her time as the much loved presenter of the ABC's Kindergarten of the Air. And to this, she added growing support for her aging mother-in-law Ada, (our beloved Grandma), and also the role of counsellor and confidante to a number of young people who actively sought her company and guidance.
She lost her husband, Harry, to cancer at a relatively early age, but shouldered the loss and got on with life, living it to the full until the end. Their marriage was blessed with a surplus of love, which overflowed to those around them. And that love was reciprocated: It took Harry a while to die, but towards the end, he arranged with his nurse to send flowers, from him, to Sheila, on the day after his death. I think that that speaks volumes about the quality of the love that they shared. And when Sheila herself died, she wasn't alone, and she wasn't in a hospital. Instead, she died with her family around her, in her new home in this beautiful valley.
She was a lady who gave unstintingly of herself to anyone who had the good fortune to know her.
Perhaps the nicest things that anyone can hope to have said about them after their death, is that they are missed, and that the world is a better place for their having been here. That is certainly a most fitting epitaph for Sheila. She is missed, and she certainly left the world a better place, and she left many of us who, to some extent shared her life, better people for having known her. Farewell Sheila.
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Martin Rob and Peter
Last night was simply wonderful. Thank you
for making it happen as beautifully as you did.
I am all the more richer for your generosity
in sharing last night with many of us who are outside your kin
and family.
I gave the Eulogy at my mother's funeral. It was harrowing and
moving and heartfelt - but nothing quite like the emotion
that you shared with us all last night - so thank you so much.
with love as always ...
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Hello Martin,
That was such an inspiring and beautiful evening. I loved the poems read so feelingly by your lovely Olivia and the singing at the end moved so many of us to tears. Your choir is so good! I think all of us mothers could be inspired to become more empathic, loving and better listeners by your mum's example and all of the men to be more romantic and feeling. And then, as for the sons and daughters, to be selfless and caring for our aged parents following the example of you and your brothers ...
Thank you and Peter and Rob for such a lovely evening,
Warm wishes ...
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Dear Rob, Peter and Martin,
We thank you for inviting us to the celebratory wake of Sheila last Saturday night, and for the honour of being included among her circle of friends. Marjorie appreciates the opportunity she has had for excursions with Sheila, usually in the company of Chris ...
Apart from being entertaining and informative, the formal part of the evening was above all inspirational by illuminating the life of a remarkable woman. She was much loved. We enjoyed the opportunity to meet many old friends and some of your family. (The food was great, as well!)
With love ...
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Dear Martin,
Last Saturday's Celebration of Sheila's life was a wonderful expression of love for a beautiful woman.
What a brilliant mix of media! Rachel Scott was outstanding, of course - she always is - but so too were Sheila's greatgrandsons on piano and trumpet. Every time I hear the Thirsty Night Singers they're better than they were the previous time. I loved Alice's movie, and Martin's audio-visual compilation (the ship!). But what I loved most was the mix of emotions: unutterable sadness, of course, that Sheila is no longer with us, but, at the other extreme, great good humour.
The food, setting (lush green hills, sheep grazing in adjoining paddocks), atmosphere etc: perfect!
Thank you for putting on an event that I will remember for the rest of my life.
Lots of love ...
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re the Adelaide Celebration of Sheila's Life, April 25 2010:
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You ... certainly know how to do a good memorial. We loved it and felt honoured to be among those who knew and loved Sheila. She was indeed an amazing woman and she'd have loved Sunday night and the talent on display from the hearts of her loved ones ...
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Peter Wesley-Smith, Keith Conlon & Martin Wesley-Smith - The Wesley Three - in the Belair Uniting Church Hall,
April 25 2010. They sang Little David Play on Your Harp - the first time they'd sung together in public for more than forty years ...
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Last night my husband Scott and another member of University Womens Assoc. attended the Memorial Service for your mother Sheila Wesley-Smith.
Thank you for the invitation. The buffet meal was lovely and gave people a chance to eat and chat in an informal way ... The ceremony in the Belair Uniting Church has lingered with me all day. The Wesley-Smith family presents as extremely talented and an extremely good looking family.
You mother and father were such a handsome couple.
The vieo presentation gave us all a glimpse into the life of a wonderful woman. Having taught at P.G.C for a short time I was impressed with her travel program on a horse. I'm sure she gained a lot from her days at the school. My neighbour's mother also went to PGC by horse from Cross Rds ...
I was delighted to be the representative from the Ad. Uni. Womens Assoc. I felt there were many things I had in common with the family ...
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Omigosh. What a wake.
I am still chortling and weeping with joy and sadness for youse especially and also for me.
I felt part of the family but I reckon that you guys have the magic wand to make everyone you touch feel like that. And I have stayed hugged. I spent some time talking with the lovely David Bollard. Had not seen him for years, but no matter.
And Oh again for Li'l David and for Jerry and his song in your video. Just as well it was not Moon River. I would have howled out loud ...
Reassured to know that you are heading for full recovery.
Ever so much love to you two and Rob and Jed, Olivia, Alice, Oskar and Bassy as well.
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