Hi guys!

[Pat Mustard]

A friend suggested I drop in to say hi, and I thought it was certainly about time I did that.

Things have been going really well for me. I have almost finished my level 3 diploma in accounting, and I've been helping friends out with their books. I have been volunteering at a cat sanctuary, where I talk to the public, spend time with the cats, help with admin and do whatever else I can. I've been really enjoying it and it's been great for my confidence.

A part-time receptionist job has come up there, and although I never thought I'd ever have the energy to do it, several people at the sanctuary (and my wife) urged me to go for it. I applied, and somehow I have an interview on Thursday! I'm really scared, since if I get the job, I'll lose my ESA benefit, and I'm worried I'll crash out and not be able to do the job. I'd then have to reapply for the benefit. (I have ME/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.) But I'm trying not to be negative. My body tells me I can do this, and it would be a crushing blow to my depression. This could turn my life around.

The operation to fix my intestines seems to have been a complete success, and I've been gradually eating more and more things. It's been going so well, I'm now not far off a normal diet! I've eaten just about everything now. It's been amazing to eat proper food again (I was on an extremely bland diet for about 6 years).

My wife, doggy, hamster and two rabbits are all doing very well.

How are you all doing? I've missed you.

Quick quick, get the rope people, get the rope! We only have this one chance to keep Rob around.

In all seriousness, though it's great to see you up and about and getting on in the world. Best of luck with getting the new job, I know you'll look great in heels.