Well, 12 years has passed. I don't suppose anyone has read this blog in those 12 years - I know I haven't.
So what have I been up to? I finally got my degree in 2013. It didn't help with my work - but it wasn't supposed to, because I had done this all for personal pleasure, and a personal challenge. My wife died in 2015 - our two boys were still teenagers so I devoted all my time to making sure they were OK. One of them is now married, the other lives with his girlfriend. They have done well.
I took early retirement as soon as I was able. I had become disillusioned with my work, and I figured that time was of more value to me than money. On their deathbed how many people wish for more money, and how many wish for more time? Time wins!
So now I walk and hike as much as I can - several thousand miles a year. I broke my ankle two years ago when I fell off a stile! It was fine until I hit the ground, so really it wasn't the fall that broke my ankle, it was the landing! I limp a bit now - trouble with the ligaments. The bone mended with the help of a plate and some screws. And I paint, and photograph - old interests that have resurfaced now that there is time.
And I have a new partner. Life is good again.
I hope that all the people that I 'met' during my OU studies have been able to enjoy life - it's what it's all about.
