One Day at a Time.

One Day at a Time.

Hi there!

Thanks for popping in. It has been a while since I switched on my computer. In fact it’s been a while since I set foot in my art room above the garage, which has been our communal Shac Shac home for so many months.

This morning I woke up and thought about you; it’s time to explain to my pals why I have “disappeared”, gone off the scene, stopped blogging. When you usually live your life so openly and visibly as I do, you can’t just disappear off the face of the earth without some kind of explanation.

I know. You think we’ve been having a family reunion. The kids are finally home after 2 years , and we’re enjoying being a close family again after so long. Which is true in part. But as we know, things seldom run smoothly; Life has a way of changing the best laid plans.

Grace and Mark did make it home from the States. And we did get to hang out together in the sunshine in the garden for a few days whilst in quarantine. We even managed a pottery afternoon together!

It has been great to see them!

But what we didn’t see coming round the corner was that my Dad would get so ill – and so suddenly. He had a very bad turn, was admitted into hospital 3 weeks ago today, and is still there. So I have been driving back and forth, between Mum’s house, the Hospital and the kids at home since then. It’s a full day’s outing, and my little Audi has seen more action in the last month than it’s seen in one and a half years! My brother Steve has been taking over on the weekends, but with the Clarity Members Sale falling in the same time, he has had to keep production going, so we’ve juggled priorities. 

Mark had to go back to San Fran – unfortunately, he wasn’t able to see his Grandad because of COVID rules at the hospital. But we got to hang out together a fair bit in the evenings. Grace has extended her stay till Friday, and is going to stay with her Oma, but whether Dad comes out before she leaves is up in the air. 

Hospital COVID rules restrict visits to 2 named people. So that’ll be Barb and Steve then. I get it. I really do.

How’s Dad doing? Just when we think things are improving, something else flares up. Just when they raise his/our hopes and tell him/us he can come home, something else is flagged up and he has to stay. You want him home, but you know it’s critical he stays put.

How’s Mum doing? Fine. Thank GOD she had the two hip replacements when she did. Thank God for that.

You know the situation. So many of you have first hand experience of this. I know. And there’s nothing you can do except be there, right?

He’s a fighter is our Dad. Tough as old boots. It was touch and go there for a while, but he’s out of the Critical Care Ward now. The nursing staff are amazing, brilliant. Having spent 3 weeks, hours at a time, sitting with Dad, watching them work, graft and run around, getting to know the nurses, the people in the uniforms, I must tell you, the gratitude, respect and admiration I have always had for the NHS staff runs even much deeper now. They are so patient and kind to the poor people on the ward. It’s also quite harrowing to see the suffering all around. But there we have it – it’s real, and it’s happening in every hospital in the country.

So our own family situation continues. Tomorrow I shall pack a little basket of Dad’s favourite food and head over to Gills again. who’s Gill?!? Gillingham!! I have been granted unlimited visitation, which is good for Dad. A familiar face. A family face. Then of course, I head over to Mum, to make sure she is okay too. 

Ever optimistic, I’m sure Dad will be home this week. And then – there is so much to consider, so much to plan. 

I am sure you understand now why I still won’t be around much, in the Shac and on the Blog. As things settle down here, you will see more of me again. But one day at a time, the priority has to be my parents and their well being right now. 

Dave, Paul and the Clarity team are running the business perfectly well without me – which is a huge relief, I must say! I do phone in daily, and they know where to find me if they need me for anything. But they have got things under control.

So yeah. Not quite how we planned our big family reunion. But it is what it is. We did manage an afternoon at Hever Castle..

..and the obligatory Fish n Chips at Tom Bells in Edenbridge…

We even had a run out to Pevensey Bay one evening…

Thought I’d explain why I’ve gone off the radar anyway, and will be for a while yet.

Paul and Linda are doing a cracking job on Facebook LIVE in the Pergamano Summer School, and – provided things stay calm, I shall be doing a TV show next Sunday 2-4. I’m sure I have your understanding and empathy.

Stay safe

Love always,

Barb xxx

188 thoughts on “One Day at a Time.

  1. Family is all important and it’s only right you should be there for your dad. I’ll keep you in my prayers Barbara. Best wishes to your dad . Hope he gets home soon . 🙏🙏🙏

    1. Sending prayers and every good wish to you and your family. Will miss your sessions but understand family must come first. You have kept us going for many months and given us a focus in this horrible time. Now you need space, and we will wait patiently for your return .

  2. I guessed something was not quite right. I even said I hope no ones poorly! So sorry to hear Dad is not well. I wish him a speedy recovery and of course you need to take each day at a time. We miss you Barbara but we understand !! Thinking of you and your family. Much love.

  3. So sorry to hear about your dad. Pleased that he seems to be improving though. It must be taking it out of you so please take some time to recover yourself too. Lovely that you had some time with Grace and Mark as a family and that mum is keeping well. The Clarity team are so great I am sure they can keep everything going for a while they are all great folk . I have been so proud of our NHS people this last several months they certainly are the best. Keep safe and keep doing the important stuff for you and the family everything else will wait or will be picked up I am sure . Sending love and hugs to you all xxx

  4. Thank you Barbara for letting us know what has been happening. I am sure everyone has been a little concerned. My prayers and thoughts are with you and the family and I know you’ll be back with your wider friends and family when it’s suitable.
    God Bless and love to you all

  5. You have been there for us for so long. Now time for you and your family. Hope your Dad makes it home soon. Don’t burn out, take time before you come back to us x

  6. Wow, what a hard time you have had and what a shame it happened when the kids came, but in some way I expect it was good for them to be near when everything was happening, it’s horrid when you are so far away. Fingers crossed your dad is on the mend and back home with your mum very soon. Take your time and don’t think about anything else except your lovely family xx

  7. Oh dear Barbara I’m sorry to hear about your poor dad. Let’s hope he comes home soon. So sorry your little meet up with the family didn’t go to plan but at least you got to see them first a while. Bet it was very exciting for you all. Arh how lovely. Take your time to be with your family. Paul Linda and gang are all doing a fantastic job. I don’t live far from pevensey bay. Glad you liked it there. Take care xx

  8. Hugs and Prayers for your dad….hope it all goes well
    Sounds like you have a lot on your plate to take care of..don’t forget to take care of you..so happy you got to see the kids..and I’m sure they have been a great support system for you…take care we will all be here for you when your back.

    1. Barbara, our thoughts and prayers are with you all. You have been more than generous with your time for us, in the shac Shack etc. Please take the time you need now for your parents and yourself.
      We understand.
      Love and Very best wishes . X

  9. Barbara… a blue candle will be lit daily for your mum and dad and your family at this worrying time….Bless Audrey J xxx

  10. Hello Barbara
    Sending you all a big hug. You don’t need any of us to tell you to take it one day at a time and you know your priorities. Clarity will keep ticking over as you have a fantastic team, your job, at the moment is to look after your parents and yourself.
    Don’t forget yourself.
    Love
    Roz.xxx

  11. Barbara you and your amazing family and team have kept us all going through the pandemic. Now we are all here for you guys. Sending love and prayers to you all.
    🥰

  12. Barbara your family and aspecially your Dad and Mum are the most imported people to care for now!
    Glad to hear there is improvement in your Dad’s situation and wish he can come home in the next days ahead.
    Take care and wish your Dad all the best and get well soon!
    Lots of love, Trijntje Huppel

  13. Thinking of you all, I’ve been there when my dad was very poorly so know what it’s like. Glad you’ve managed some family time but make sure you don’t burn yourself out get rest too when you can xx

  14. So sorry to read your news and sending lots of positive thoughts to your Dad and Mum and all of you. It’s such a shock when something happens suddenly and you just go on to automatic pilot. In a way it was good you had everyone around you and despite all your plans going up in the air you have had them around you. Fingers crossed your Dad gets back home this week and you can then plan the next period. Knowing you have an amazing support team in other areas must be a great help. Hopefully Mark and Grace will be able to fit in another visit to see your Dad in the not too distant future. Lots of love and see you when you’re ready and not before. Look after yourself. Lots of love to all. Jackie x x x

  15. Thinking of you and your family and praying for all to be strong. Sending so much love, family and friends are so important 💗

  16. I’m so sorry to hear that your dad has been so poorly but I’m glad he’s starting to make a recovery.
    You need to concentrate on him and your family and everything else will carry on ok.
    My thoughts are with you and your family.

  17. Liebe Barbara,
    ich hoffe von ganzem Herzen, dass es deinem Vater sehr schnell wieder besser geht und er nach Hause darf … gute Besserung und eine dicke Umarmung schicke ich zu ihm aus Deutschland.
    Und schön, dass du endlich wieder deine Kinder in die Arme schließen konntest, nach dieser doch ganz langen Zeit.
    Genieße noch die restlichen Tage mit deiner Tochter Grace, bestelle deiner Mutter ganz viele Grüße aus ihrer alten Heimat und passt alle gut auf euch auf und bleibt gesund.
    Viele herzliche Grüße und Umarmungen sendet dir, deiner ganzen Familie sowie auch dem Clarityteam
    Sabine aus Berlin

  18. Oh Barb. I felt something was wrong. I’ll keep you all in my heart. Take care. We all understand. Live and hugs x

  19. So sorry to hear about your dad I’m sure he will be home soon, as you say he’s as tough as old boots. Please send him my best wishes. It’s a shame Mark didn’t get to see him before he had to go back to the states. So glad you still have an extra week with Grace tho and hopefully she’ll get to see her granddad before she has to go back. Don’t worry about getting back to the Shac Shac until things are better and dad is well. Although it will be great to see you when you can. Sending all my love to you and family with huge hugs for you all.

  20. What a shock to read about your father’s sudden illness when expecting a bright report on your time with your children! Just to see what plans are good for … — Of course your family, your dear parents come first!!! So glad your Dad is getting better by and by. Here’s thinking of you all and wishing him a speedy recovery!

  21. All the best to you all xxx It is a hard thing to do – every day at the hospital but it becomes “routine” in the end.

    Healthy hugs sent to your father xx Gigantic smiles and hugs to everyone.

    Stay strong x You have helped so many through so much, and now it is your turn to receive x

  22. I was afraid all was not well as I have never known you to disappear for so long. So sorry to hear your reunion was not all you hoped for but I am sure the closeness of your children helped. I have missed your pearls of wisdom so much but your dad comes first. Take time for yourself, we are going nowhere & have lots of sale goodies to keep us occupied! Thinking of you all & sending love & hugs xxxxxx

  23. My thoughts are with you and your family.
    We all know how things can suddenly disrupt our lives. I’ve told you all about my Brother and the road accident, he’s been with me now for a few weeks, and will be for sometime. The broken leg healed well but the accompanying brain injury will be a little more of a challenge.

    My heart is with you. Give your Dad all your time, we’ll be here.

  24. Hi Barb,
    So sorry to hear your Dad has been so poorly especially when you had Grace and Mark with you. I totally understand that you have to put your family first – Paul,Dave and everyone have been doing a great job and it’s good that you have them to take over when you need to elsewhere. I sincerely hope that your Dad makes a good recovery and that he can get home soon – nothing better than having your family with you. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Love and hugs, Alison xx

  25. Oh Barb, so sorry to hear about your Dad. I guessed something was wrong and have had you constantly in my thoughts. Fingers firmly crossed that your Dad will be home this week. I’ve been there, Barb, with both of my parents so am well aware of what you are going through. Don’t worry about us – we will be here when you get back. Families are precious and must always come first. Take care and love to you all. Xx

  26. Oh Barbara
    As you say things never go as planned. The biggest thing for you is to look after your Dad and Mum. I am sure Grace and Mark have been a big comfort to you. We miss you but so glad you have got your priorities right. Love and best wishes to your mum and dad. Thoughts and prayers are with you all. Stay strong and safe. Carol xx

  27. Love and big hugs to you all. Family always comes first so take all the time you need. Hope your Dad will be better soon and home with you all. Am sure your children have been a great comfort to you through all this. Take care. Lots of love x

  28. So sorry that your dad is ill, and I am sure he will be home soon. Family comes first in everything. You have lovely staff and friends that you can take a back seat to look after your dad and mum.
    Thinking of you all and for a speedy recovery for your dad.

  29. Dear Barb and family, my heart is with you 100%, and thank God you are able to visit your Dad. If it was was a short while back it would be a different story. 100% the NHS are amazing and will be giving your Dad the best care possible. I’m so sorry this has happened when it should have been an amazing celebration having the kids home. Looks like you’ve been making the most of the time your not travelling to and from the hospital. Must be a relief to have the Kids home for support too whilst you deal with this. We are all here for you and if there is anything we all know, its what a strong woman you are even if you don’t feel it, and you can manage with the great support system you have. Sending you all positive thoughts and praying all will be well with your Dad he will be home soon. Sending hugs. Xx

  30. 1 day at a time Barbara. And doint run around so much for everyone else, I know you want to keep busy . But remember to keep some time for yourself to. You know what I mean.
    My regards to your loving ❤ family.
    God bless 🙏
    Thinking of you
    Pauline Canham x

  31. God works in mysterious ways. Thank goodness you had your children with you at such an anxious time. I pray your Dad recovers well and fully understand your need to be there for both your parents. You have such a wonderful team to support you at Clarity Towers and we will be thinking of you.

    Ros x 💗 x

    1. Sending prayers and every good wish to you and your family. Will miss your sessions but understand family must come first. You have kept us going for many months and given us a focus in this horrible time. Now you need space, and we will wait patiently for your return .

  32. Thoughts and prayers with you and your family especially your mum. I am sure none of us would expect you to not put your parents and family first at this time. You have been more than generous with your time and expertise over the last 18 months so you now need to take as much time as needed for yourself and your family. We will still be here when you get back and we have the others helping us while you are away. God bless and keep you all safe.🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻💐💐

  33. Wow wasn’t expecting that news & although I hoped it was because you were spending time with Grace & Mark as planned I had a feeling there was something else going on.
    My thoughts are with you all, thankfully you can visit as our local hospitals are still in no visitor mode.
    As everyone else has said you must be with your parents first & foremost. We will be here ready & waiting when you feel that you can join us in the SHAC. Meanwhile we can listen & watch Linda work her magic with the Pergamano tools on a Tuesday & complete the projects by Glynis each Sunday.
    Take care of yourself as well as everyone else. You tend to go on auto pilot whilst there is a crisis on then its when its over you need to think of number 1 as well xx

  34. Barb, Steve, Mark, Grace, Oma and all extended family.
    There is nothing more important than your loved ones, so glad for you that Grace and Mark were here as you can all support each other. Don’t worry about your business, you have the best team ever looking after it for you. As for us ‘SHACERS’, we will all be here when you come back to us. Thinking of you all 😘

  35. I thought something must be wrong with no blogs from you but hoped it was just the kids being over here. Wishing your dad all the best and make sure you look after yourself.
    Love and hugs
    Yvonne xxx

  36. My thoughts are with you and your family. Family is very important and you need to do what you need to. We all will be here when you are able. No pressure just do what you need to. Will be thinking of you all and send big hugs.

  37. Family first, second and third.
    Hope everything turns out well.
    You and your family are in my thoughts.
    Xxx

  38. Barbara so sorry to hear about your Dad but thinking of you and hope he will soon be home. Family comes first and I for one appreciate so much what you have done for us during this pandemic, but now is your family’s time. Glad that you got to spend some time with Grace and Mark. Hugs to you and all the best to your Dad, xx

  39. Sending healing thoughts to your dad, and a big hug to you and your family. Hope you have good news soon that he can come home xxx

  40. Dear Barbara I was so sorry to read about your poor Dad. Hospital visiting and supporting family is extremely exhausting and emotionally draining. You are doing absolutely the right thing. Family comes first. My thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family. Take care. Hugs xxx

  41. Barbara, I’m sorry to hear that you and all your family have been having such a hard time of it lately. I do hope your Dad is on the road to recovery and all will be well before too long. I’m glad all the family have been with you even though it didn’t go to plan. Take care, especially after the “crisis” seems over as the full effect of all the stress and strain can take time to show itself. Wishing all of you well.x

  42. Perfectly understandable why you have taken a back step on things. Your mum and dad must always come first. I so wish mine were still here. Thank goodness for the NHS who are here to not only look after the patients but also care for the loved ones as well. We are so fortunate in this country to have them. I wish your dad a good recovery and sending lots of love to you all

  43. So sorry to hear your Dad is so poorly, fingers crossed he really does get home this week, you are doing the right thing, family first. Look after yourself and take care.

  44. Dear Barbara,
    Thinking of you and family.
    Best wishes to all. Take your time to support them as best as you can. And also take care of yourself. No good to them if you get sick. We,ll still be here quietly waiting till you return. Lots of love.🥰

  45. I had assumed your absence was so you could spend time with the younger family members, so sorry it has been because of your Dad. Parents are precious, so pleased the NHS are giving him their excellent care and you will be doing the same for your Mum. But remember you & Steve need to be cared for too so that is why it happened when M & G we’re here to help. Love to you all.

  46. Oh no I’m so sorry your father has been so poorly. I had a feeling you going awol must be something pretty serious, but family must come first. You’ve been here for all of us the last 16 months so now we’re here for you. I’m so pleased Grace and Mark were over here to support you all even if it wasn’t the holiday you all hoped for. Having them close must have been a great comfort. Now take the time you need for your family, love and hugs x

  47. Like many other Shacers I was worried about you. I’m so glad that you were able to spend some time with Mark and that Grace is still here for you. Your Dad could not be in better hands and thank goodness restrictions have been lifted enough for you to be able to visit him. Your priority has to be your parents. My thoughts are with you x

  48. So sorry to hear about your Dad’s sudden illness Barb, but as you say he is a fighter and hopefully he will be home with you all soon. Love and big hugs to you and all your family, they must come first so come back to us when you are really ready, remember to take time for you as well. Best wishes to your Dad and Mum, take care Barb.

  49. Hi Barb,
    So sorry to hear that your Dad is poorly in hospital. I wish him a speedy recovery. It is good Mark and Grace are here for you. Take care of yourself too.
    Love to you and your family,

    Lorraine
    XX

  50. Sorry to hear your sad news but expected something up when no blogs etc. Lucky you had both kids with you even though it hampered your reunion plans, but I am sure you made the best of things & obviously this upset had to be dealt with immediately. Hope your Dad gets well soon & rest of your folks stay well and strong, including yourself, and we look forward to resumption of the SHAC when you’re able….no rush, take care and best wishes to you all.

  51. I’ve been thinking of you a great deal as I had an inkling there was something amiss. Your whole family are in my thoughts and I hope that your lovely Dad will soon be home. With much love xx

  52. Family always comes first ,that’s the way it should be. Your dad needs you far more at the moment. Probably for some time to come. As you say most of us have been in this situation, we certainly have. Remember though to look after yourself as well. Sending our best wishes to you, your dad and your family.x X ❤️

  53. So sorry to hear your dear Dad is poorly. I hope he’s home and well again very soon! – I’ll be thinking of you all pushing through such a difficult and exhausting time. Thank goodness you have such a wonderful team at Clrity Towers so you can get on and do what’s important for your family right now. I am sure Grace and Mark have loved coming home to Mum albeit not quite as planned. Look after you too! Sounds like you are going to need a holiday yourself once things have settled down. 😘XX

  54. Family is priority. Hope your Dad continues to improve and is home soon. Glad you got some time with Grace and Mark. Balancing work and family is stressful but you need to shift your focus to what’s most important. The team at Clarity is amazing. Take care of yourself too.

  55. Good to hear from you but sorry to hear about your father and the worry it must have caused your family.
    You were right prioritise your family. Take your time we’ll be here when you have time for us.

  56. I too like several others had a feeling that something wasn’t quite right. Everyone has already said what I would have done. Do, however, take care of yourself in amongst all this and all the time you need. You are all in my thoughts. Xxx

  57. Just a very quick message. Do whatever it takes for your family, stay safe and take good care of each other.
    Family – the meaning of life.

  58. Hi Barb – so very sorry to hear about your Dad. It’s a very worrying time for you all, but as you quite rightly say – these things happen. Your team at Clarity are wonderful and they have been doing brilliantly and there is no doubt that they will continue to do so. You have no need to worry about that, and all of us understand perfectly what your priorities have to be. So sad that it happened whilst Mark and Grace were here, but perhaps that has helped you to cope better!? How wonderful that Grace has been able to extend her stay and spend this time with her Oma – that will be wonderful for them both. Sending you love and caring hugs, Gilly xx

  59. So sorry to hear your dad’s not well – it’s so worrying for family and friends. Good to know you’ve got limitless visiting but don’t forget you need to take care of yourself too. Fingers x’d he gets home soon and sending hugs to you all xx

  60. Totally agree, family first, but you must be a very close second – looking after yourself is essential at times like these. Love to all x

  61. Hi, my thoughts are with you and your family and wish a speedy recover for your dad. I totally understand, family comes first and you take all the time you need. We will still be here when you are ready. Sending hugs xxx

  62. Family comes first. Your health and well being is just as important. Take care and don’t forget to look after yourself as well. Lots of love to you all xx

  63. Dearest Barbara
    I am so sorry to hear your dad is so poorly. Let’s hope he gets stronger everyday knowing he has his loving family there for him. Sending you all love and hugs. Take care xxx

  64. Family is the most important thing and time with them is ptecious. Work will be there when Dads on the mend. Sending love and prayers xx

  65. That is such an honest heartfelt blog.
    You have given so much to so many of us. I thank you from the depth of my heart.
    Family are important and so are you. Make sure in the midst of all of this you take great care of You.
    Love and prayers to You and Yours xx

  66. The Shac shack is fantastic and has been a God send but I would rather look after you than see you on my computer. Please don’t worry about us and do what you need to do. I’m sending every good wish for your lovely Dad and wish him a full and speedy recovery and then I hope you will take some time for yourself. Regards to Grace and Mark too

  67. Beautiful photos of you with Grace and Mark!
    Hope your dad comes home soon so Grace can see him before she returns to America!
    Sending you all so much love! Xxx

  68. Dear Barbara I had guessed that things were not so good. You are very much in my thoughts and prayers. You are a wonderful person and it will be great when the time is right to see you on our screens again. Love and Blessings.

  69. Family first . Take care , take time. Take some time out and recharge your batteries at your pace. Xx

  70. Dear Barb, I can’t add to what everyone has already said, except to send my love and thoughts to you and all your family. Praying that all will be well and thank you for taking the time to let us know. Please take care of yourself. Hugs. Annette X

  71. Dear Barbara, keeping you and all the family in my thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
    Sending big virtual hugs x

  72. So sorry to hear your news. Nothing comes before family. My heart goes out to you all especially your dad. You will be in my prayers. It is our turn to support you. Paul and the gang will take care of the business. Don’t forget to look after yourself ( I’m sure Dave we to that). God bless all of you xxx

  73. Oh my lovely, those curve balls come out when you least expect them. We shall all be here quietly in the background, sending much love and healing blessings to you all. Know you are loved and cared for by this wonderful community and ‘just be’
    Now more than ever is your phrase ‘one day at a time’ more appropriate.
    Reiki Blessings 🙏❤️

  74. There are no words that can take away your worries but you are doing everything you can in being there for your Dad and looking after your Mum. Life has a way of testing us and our priorities change for our parents . They looked after us as children and now we can be there for them. Love and prayers for you all Barbara. X x

  75. So sorry to read about your Dad, so pleased Grace and Mark made it and you have had some good quality time with them. Sending lots of love to you all and we will all be there when you are good and ready to return to the Shac Shac. Take good care of yourself too, I know what the hospital situation is like as my husband is going in shortly for a bypass op having had a heart attack and routines are restricted. Hope you get your Dad home this week. Keep safe xxx

  76. Oh Barbara, this is so sad. Looks after yourself and your family, they come first nothing else matters in these crazy times. I hope your Dad will be back home soon, and it is great Grace and Mark were able to be with you for some of the time. Love to you all.

  77. Oh Barb and Family. Big hugs and love. You deserve to be off the radar. Family definitely comes first. As much as you’d like to be superhuman to cope with everything thrown your way, sorry m’luv, it don’t happen. Fingers crossed your lovely dad is home soon. I know exactly what you are going through, unfortunately it feels like one brick wall after another but there is light at the end. I think you are aware of my upheavals well here we go again, like you, a hopeful high then a disappointing downer,
    a phone call from nursing home and he’s back in hospital. Life is sad at times but you are lucky to have a fab family and many supportive friends. You’ll get through it, lovely the kids were with you and sad it halted alot of your family time. love to you all xxx

  78. So sorry to hear about your dad, and would like to wish him a speedy recovery, quite understand that your time must be devoted to him and your family, take care and look after yourself too, best wishes to you all x

  79. So sorry to hear that your Dad has been poorly. I hope that he does get home and back to your Mum this week. It is a blessing you have had Grace and Mark home to look after eachother. Distance can be really difficult in times when you need to be together. You must also look after yourself. Take care of yourselves, hugs and thoughts xx

  80. Sorry to hear your dad is not well hope he makes a speedy recovery . Sending love and hugs to you and your family xx

  81. Sending empathy, love, best wishes, hopes and prayers to you and the family. All the people you have helped will be sending their love and understanding. You take care of yourself too. X

  82. So sorry to hear about how poorly your your dad has been. It’s such a shame you haven’t managed to have the fun/relaxing time with the Grace and Mark that you have been waiting so long for.
    I hope your dad is
    soon well enough to come out of hospital and you manage to lighten the stress of all the driving and worry.
    Take care ♥️xx

  83. Sending love, hugs and best wishes to you all and hoping that the ailments will be soon sorted and that your dad can go home…..xxx

  84. Hallo Barbara
    All you can do is take one day at the time but don’t forget to look after your self as well I know you are going to a hard time atm hopefully your dad will recover for your Mum’s sake and of course yours love Anja x

  85. So sorry to hear about your Dad Barbara and hope he is better soon and can go home. I am so pleased that Grace and Mark were able to come and stay with you. It does help. My love to you all. Take care of yourself.

  86. Hello Barbara and all over there – You really don’t owe anyone an explanation, you have shared your life with us for a long time, and now your family must come first. Always has been that way. I wanted to let you know that I fully understand what you are doing since I took care of my Dad for his last ten years. It’s not easy and sometimes very hard, but it is what you do. I had a package here to send you (I told Grace about it) but I just felt that it wasn’t proper at the time. Even though you had what you thought wasn’t a long time with your children, you did have the time, and many do not get that much. Even though right now you can’t see beyond “the storm” you are very blessed. Like you said – “it’s one day at a time” and no matter how strong we think we are, we still have our moments and our weaknesses. You have to put your trust in God and just carry on. You are in our thoughts (as apart of our life now) that you have put your footprint in our life. Love to all – Ruth, Drew, and Honey girl

  87. Knew the kids were home and assumed that you were all having a lovely time together (which you all deserve)! My love, thoughts and prayers are with you all! Hoping your Dad comes home soon.

  88. So sorry to here about your dad ,of cause you must be there for your mum and dad ,hope he is soon better lots love to you all ,Pauline xxxxxxx

  89. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family Barbara. Spend as much time as you possible can with your family they are precious beyond measure. Lots of love xxx

  90. Dearest Barbara Family must and always come first, you have neen there for us over the past year and a half, iam also glad you got to spend time with Grace and Mark. Now it’s our turn to be there for you. My thoughts and prayers are with your Dad, for a speedy recovery sending big hugs to you all xxx

  91. Dear Barbara,take great care of your Dad and your Mum. They are very special people and need you now more than ever. You have cared for so many of us in the Shac and we can now wait for your return when family is safely back together. My love and prayers are with you all and a safe journey home for Grace on Friday.

  92. Bless you all, such a difficult time for your family. Thoughts and prayers with your dad and fingers crossed he’ll soon be home. Please make sure you take care of yourself too xx

  93. So sorry for for all you are all going through – may your Dad continue to improve each day, and soon be home again. With love and prayers, Rosemary Xxx

  94. So sorry to hear about your dad and hope he will be home with you all soon. Sending love and hugs to you and all your family. Don’t worry about Clarity, you have a great team who will keep things ticking over for you. You just concentrate on looking after your mum and dad, spending time with Grace and don’t forget to take good care of yourself. Take all the time you need. We will all be fine and still here when you get back. Sending love and virtual hugs your way. xxxx

    1. Barbara so very sorry to read about your Dad’s illness.
      I think we all feared there was something wrong as you never just stop! Please look after yourself too.
      Pleased you had the family over .
      You are in my thoughts and prayers.
      Lots of love Myra xx

  95. So sorry to hear about your dad Barbara. Fingers crossed he will soon be home. Sending best wishes to you all. X

  96. I’m sorry to hear about your Dad’s problems and I do hope that he is home soon with you all. I know that your big reunion didn’t go as you planed but your photos look like you had a great catch up and it was wonderful to know that your children were with you at this time. My husband who is a similar age had a heart problem on Monday even though he runs or rows most days and it is amazing how hard the NHS are still working and it is wonderful to know that they are there to help and support us all, I’m very grateful for them all. Stay safe and I hope you are all together soon.

  97. So sorry to hear your dad has been so poorly but hope that he will soon be home with his family agaiin. As you say family always come first. So glad you got to spend some time with your children. You’ve been there for so many of us during this pandemic and we will be here for you . I think that I can safely say that all of us in the Shac will be sending prayers and hugs to you and yours.xxxxx

  98. Thank you so much Barbara, for taking the time to tell us about your Dad. Like everyone I couldn’t believe how very poorly your Dad has been and my heart goes out to you and your family. Not quite the reunion you were planning with Grace and Mark, but so thankful they weren’t far away at such a worrying time. I hope and pray for a speedy recovery for him. Certainly all the good wishes, thoughts and concern from all your friends and followers must mean that lots of positive energy is being directed to Dad and family. We completely understand your absence for as long as it takes and we’ll all be waiting with love when you return. Love and hugs. Pam xx

  99. Hi Barbara
    I am so sorry to hear about your Dad – I did wonder what had happened – I am glad you have been able to see Grace and Mark – you are all in my thoughts and prayers xxx 💜
    Much love
    Katharine xxx💜

  100. Hope your Dad is home soon .
    Look after yourself as well as your mum .
    I know how exhausting it is , looking out for mum .keeping the family running smoothly , and working as couldn’t have paid time off
    (. Our dad had a fatal heart attack 4 Weeks ago , so sudden and unexpected . )

  101. Hugs and prayers to you all especially Dad! Take your time family is so important. I am getting to see my granddaughter age 2 years 4 months for the first time since before she was one this Thursday and looking forward to cuddles. Take care. Lovely to see Grace and Mark xx

  102. Aww Barb I feel for you, I’ve lost both my parents but I understand how harrowing it must be for you the joy that your son and daughter are over to see you but the your dad been ill, happiness and sadness, well hopefully he’ll be out the hospital soon. You remember to take as much time as you need you have been here for everyone during this horrible time with the shac shac. I’m sure everyone will understand and as you blog is named appropriately at this time “One Day at a Time” that’s all you can do.
    Love ❤️ hugs
    CraftyJacq
    XX

  103. Thanks for the update and I’m sending best wishes to everyone. Family always come first, I’m sure you know your Clarity family are doing a great job in your temporary absence. Don’t forget to look after yourself too, we’ll all be waiting on the bus when you’re ready to return. xx

  104. Travel gently dear lady now is the time for you to look after you and yours. I’m sure I speak for all of the shackers for whom you gave your time freely and willingly. We appreciate you more than you can imagine. Wishing only the best for your family, especially your Dad and Mum. Love and take care of you.xx

  105. So sorry to hear your Dad is not well Barbara, I hope he recovers well and leaves hospital very soon.
    Love and good wishes to you and your family .
    XX

  106. So sorry to hear your news Barbara and of course your family must come first. Will keep you and family in my Prayers and hope you soon have some better news of your Dad.. Take care. Love Suexxx

  107. So sorry to hear about your Dad, hopefully he will be home soon. Take care of yourself, family comes first. Everything else can wait. Love and best wishes to you all

  108. There is so much love in these pages for you and your family. You’ve given us so much in the past 18 months now it’s our turn to give some back in the form of love and understanding and prayers. Of course your family must come first much love and best wishes to your Dad and Mum. Come back to us when you are able xx

  109. Best wishes to your dear Dad, Mark and Grace will be so pleased they were here and not hearing about it at distance, I send good wishes to you all, dont stress about us just take care xxxxxxxx

  110. Wishing you and your parents the very best! Take your time and take some ‘you time’.
    We all will wait until things have settled….
    xxx
    Lonneke van Hemme

  111. It was good of you to blog today and let us know the situation with your Dad. When I heard you were disappearing to see a man about a dog I assumed you were preparing for he arrival of your wonderful children. However, my witchy senses got itchy and I guessed something was wrong.
    Don’t worry about us crafters, you have done so much for all of us during the Covid crisis and I am sure there are many like me who will carry on supporting you and yours. We will still be here when you are able to return.
    Just make sure that you take care of yourself as well as the rest of your family. It is good that Grace is able to stay for a few more days, she must be a great support for you.
    I do hope you Dad makes a steady recovery and is able to come home soon.
    Love and hugs to all. 🍒

  112. My thoughts are with you and your family as you go through this difficult time. Of course your Dad must be your number one priority and I am so glad you are able to visit him in hospital, it must help him to be able to see you every day, but it is exhausting for you. Look after yourself. Hope he continues to improve and come home soon. Grace will be a great support to her Oma xx

  113. Dear Barbara ,so sorry to hear how unwell your dear dad is .such a difficult and precious time for you and all the family .You have a wonderful clarity family to steer the ship through all your hard work .Take your time and take care .
    Carmel x

  114. And from my heart to yours Barbara
    Good luck and god bless-sending very best wishes to you and your dad and all your family. You’ve done so much in the last two years for all of us. Now you need our support – we’re here! Take the time you need. We will all still be here! 🥰

  115. Sorry to hear your news Barb. Hope your dad is able to come out of hospital soon. Glad the kids were able to come and visit. Positive thoughts all round sent your way.

  116. Thinking of your Dad and praying for you all. Hope he is able to go home soon and glad you’ve been able to see Grace and Mark. xx

  117. Oh Barbara, life certainly threw you all a curved ball with that news. I am very pleased that you prioritised family. Totally, totally understandable that you put your mum & dad first. Do remember to look after yourself too. Sending you much love, and keeping you all in our thoughts xxxx

  118. So sorry to hear about your Dad, hopefully he will be able to come home soon. Take care, love and best wishes to you all. xxx

  119. Hi Barbara
    Sorry to hear about your Dad, as you say we all understand and have probably been there but it always seems more real when it’s you own. Our thoughts are with you, family will always come first, because without them we are not whole. Hope your Mum continues to hold up give her our love.
    Lots of love
    Ruth & Jackie 😘 xx

  120. Hi Barb, so sorry to hear that your dad is so unwell. Glad that you’ve been able to step away from Clarity and focus on him and your mother, as well as having Grace & Mark back for a while. We never know what’s around the corner – family and loved ones must come first. You have a great team at Clarity who will keep your show on the road. As you say, one day at a time, and you’re exactly where you need to be right now. Keeping you all in my prayers. xxx

  121. Hi Barbara
    I’m so sorry to hear your dad has been so poorly, my thoughts and prayers are with you all. Lovely photos of Grace and Mark, looks like the time you’ve had with them has been fun. Thank heavens they have been close to you and not many miles away, even if they couldn’t see grandad. Take care.
    Love Diane xx

  122. Im so very sorry to hear this Barbara especially because it has coincided with the much longed for visit with the kids. But then I’m sure having them here, being able to hug each other, sharing the pain and feeling them close after such a long time apart has meant the world to you and helped hugely. I knew in my gut that your absence couldn’t just be explained by the kids visit. I knew there was something wrong. Thank you for taking the time to share it with us. I’ve missed you but you must take as much time as you need to look after your parents and yourself. We’ll all be here when you’re ready and we’ll be fine in the meantime. God bless you all. xx

  123. So sorry to hear you’re dad is poorly. Hope he is soon on the mend. Sending you all love and hugs. Family comes first 💖

  124. I thought someone was ill. I’m glad you all had the strength from being physically together to work through such a hideous experience. Let the TV show go now. Your place is not preparing it or doing it. That time is far too precious just at the moment. The products will still be there next month and, hopefully, you will all be in the right place by then.

  125. Dear Barbara , only just seen this as I’ve also been away from Facebook for a while (also fighting a personal crisis atm). I am very sorry to hear about your Dad and of course you’re worried and have been at the hospital every day. Sounds like your Dad is stable now so do hope he will recover soon! Shame this happened just when you had Grace and Mark home after not seeing them for so long. But like you said, that’s life, and I’m glad you had at least some time with them. Lovely photos, btw.
    Barbara, I am thinking of you and your family, especially your Mum. How is she? She must be so worried too and then she can’t visit your Dad in hospital. So sad!
    Sending hugs, prayers and lots of love Heidi xxx

  126. Dear Barbara
    Family first. My thoughts and prayers are with you and all your family. You have kept me and so many others safe and carried us emotionally with all your daily imputs, wise words and life time stories. May you be strengthened by knowing others care for you and allow yourself to be carried during this time. God’s blessings. Beryl

  127. Dear Barb, sending you and all your family huge hugs and keeping you all in our prayers, especially for your Dad’s speedy recovery. Take care all of you. Bx

  128. Oh Barbara. I do hope for a good outcome with your Dad soon home again with your Mum. So hard to keep everything going. Sending love and good thoughts.

  129. Barb – thinking of and praying for you all.
    So glad you’ve got to spend time with Grace and Mark, and that you are able to see your Dad as much as you want, even in challenging circumstances.
    Know that there is a groundswell of love and support hoping to buoy you all up from afar.
    Make sure you take care of yourself too, taking time out to be with family is always the right decision
    Love, Cx

  130. Dear Barb. Sending all good wishes for a speedy recovery for your dad. Glad you got to spend some special time with your children after such a long wait. Take care you xx

  131. Instinct told me all was not quite right. Can only reiterate what everyone else has said, Barbara – sending your dad every positive vibe I have, and hoping your beautiful family are all reunited as soon as is safely possible. Take all the time you want and need – we’ll all still be here when you return.
    Lots and lots of love and hugs xxxxx
    Debbie

  132. Just managed to get internet . – none from hospital ward, but home now.My love and thoughts to you and all your lovely family. One day at a time is the way to view life at present. Take care xx

  133. So sorry to hear of the very distressing time you have been going through recently, speedy recovery to your Father and very best wishes to you and all your family, stay safe and well, family should always take priority, look forward to your return. My very best wishes. xx

    Margaret

  134. I have just read this and my heart went out to you and your family. I am so glad you are able to visit your dad, we weren’t able to when my dad took ill. Just take your time. Big hugs to each of you – you are in my thoughts and prayers.

  135. So sorry to hear of the very distressing time you have been going through recently, speedy recovery to your Father and very best wishes to you and all your family, stay safe and well, family should always take priority, look forward to your return. My very best wishes. xx

    Margaret

  136. barbara
    You gave so much of yourself over the last year and half, now you must give youself time to look after dad mum & and the family, you have a fantastic team looking after the shop so in looking after everyone else please find time to relax with Dave and look after yourself. prayers and vertual hugs from margaret bird

  137. Aargh Barbara sending huge hugs love to you all. Family are most definitely, the most important and should always come first.
    Life throws out challenges to us all and we have to make changes in the moment. Paul and Linda are amazing as are all your family and Clarity team. Sending much love Tracey xxx

  138. My heart goes out to you Barbara, you must be in turmoil and yet you have found time to let us know about your situation. I am sure every member will be praying for a good outcome and will want you to know how much we love and appreciate you. You are a truly caring person and we know how much priority you rightly give to family so we will wait with patience for ‘normal service’ to be resumed. Love and best wishes to you and yours.

  139. As with many others, I guessed things were not good. I hope Grace gets to see her Grandad before she has to go home, as it must have been awful for Mark to be so close and have to leave without seeing him. I wish all the best to your family, along with many here, we have been in that situation, and the responsibility, virus or not, is usually upon one or two people and the stress can be hard to bear, so look after yourself as well as them.

  140. Dear Barbara,
    Thank you for the blog update. Sorry to hear about your Dad. Hope he will soon be home, perhaps before Grace goes back to New York.
    Take care of yourself. Stay safe. Love to all the Clarity family. Susan

  141. Dearest Barbara, thank you for your update re family matters; like many above guessed something wasn’t quite right, particularly when you used the expression, sometimes used by my Grandfather. As a small child, I thought he literally was seeing a man about a dog and fully expected to see the ‘dog’ next time I saw him, it was only as I grew older that I understood it meant that something was up and he had to go and deal with it. Please take as long as you need, for family and yourself. We certainly have two excellent temporary bus drivers and a great ‘behind the scenes’ crew; we can also get on ourselves catching up on and revisiting shack episodes plus our own doodling until you are ready to fire up the old bus and take us traveling once more. Best wishes to you and yours, take one day at a time, each one is precious, Carole

  142. Barb you only have one dad and there are a shed load of us, we will wait, get your head in gear and life in order and breath, best wishes to your dad god I only wish mine was here to visit cherish every moment love to all

  143. Hope your dad is on the mend Barbara. Family must always come first, there are so many good wishes out there for you and your family. Don’t come back a minute before you want to, we’ll all still be here, happy to wait for you.
    Ann

  144. Oh Barbara like so many others that follow your blog I also thought something was not right. But what a shock I got on Sunday night hopefully your dad comes home before Friday so at least Grace gets to see him before she leaves for America. Like all the others love and best wishes to you and all the family.

  145. Hi Barbara sorry to hear about your dad being in hospital. Am in the same position, my wonderful mum was into hospital 6 weeks ago, we nearly lost her but she is fighting back. I have been going up everyday as they only allow one person to visit. I know what you are going through. Faith in the good Lord helps, best wishes Patricia,xXxX.

  146. Oh Barb, what a worry for you all. I’m glad to hear your Dad is on the mend. Please call on me if you need anything, I’m only a few short minutes from the hospital and your Mum. Anything at all. Samuel is home so even if it’s just a comforting hug, he gives the best (we are both double jabbed and weekly tested xx)! Miss you loads and thinking of you all xxxx

  147. Dear Barbara. So sorry to hear your Dad is in hospital, and pray that he will soon be home. It’s sad but lucky that Mark and Grace were home, it’s always worse when your all apart.
    Will be thinking and praying for you all. Love xxxxxxxx

  148. Sending love, hugs and prayers for all your family during this fraught time. Take good care. We can wait for as long as it takes, and then a little bit longer xxxxx

  149. Hi Barbara,
    sorry to hear about your Dad. I am thinking of you all and hope he soon will be better and comes home again. Parents are, next to partner and children, the most important persons in a family, so we truly understand why you don
    t have the time for us now. As you probably know I live in Sweden, but when my father had to stay in the hospital in 2011-2012 due to an open wound to both his calves, I promised him that I would come over and stay with my Mam. Little did I know that it would take me about half a year to stay in the Netherlands again with my mother. But I am so happy that I was there with and for her. And we could every day drive to the hospital. I will never forget that quality time I had, even if it was hard sometimes. Now they are not with us anymore. My dad died in 2015 and my mother in 2017. Sometimes I wish I could meet them again to take care of them. so take care as long as you need to. That’s the least you can do for them.

  150. So sorry your reunion did not go as planned .Thoughts are with you and your family for a speedy recovery for your dad and hoping he will soon be home and settled . Of course everyone understands that family comes first and so it should .We miss seeing you and hearing your stories and instructions but I am sure that will come again one day and we shall look forward to that day
    In the meantime take care of yourself and your family and thank you for sharing with us .
    Sending lots of virtual hugs for everyone xx

  151. Barbara, so sorry to hear that your Dad is so poorly but hopefully he is on the road to recovery and will be home soon. I’m so used to seeing your parents at the Open Days and have seen how proud they are of you and the success you have made of Clarity and I hope to see them again at the next one. It must have been comforting to have Grace and Mark close at hand during this difficult time. Dave, Paul and the Clarity team are doing an amazing job keeping things running as normal in your absence. My thoughts are with you and sending big hugs to you and your family. xxx

  152. So sorry to hear your Dad has been so unwell, I hope he continues to recover and will soon be home. You must take all the time you need to be with your family, they must come first – everything else can go on hold until you are ready to return. Please take time for yourself, too, you need looking after as well – you gave us your precious time in the Shac Shack to keep us buoyant in difficult times, make sure you look after your mental health too. xx

  153. Oh my goodness have you got a lot on your plate, my thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family. Staying positive, although hard does help but you must also take care of you. When Dads home and everything starts to get onto a more even keel remember to still take time for you as you will still need it.

  154. Hi Barbara and your family. Just to say that I’m thinking of you all at this extremely difficult time. Unfortunately, I know exactly what it’s like. But hang in there and stay positive. Hopefully your dad will be home very soon. With love and thoughts to you all, especially your mum. Diane. Xxx

  155. I am so sorry to hear that your Dad has been so poorly: we all know how much your parents mean to you.

    It is very generous of you to think of us at this worrying time to explain why you have not been around. That done now just concentrate on your Mum and Dad. We know we will hear from you when everything has settled down and you are again ready to share. You have also gathered a wonderful team around you at Clarity so they can take the strain and reins of the business until you are ready to get back in the driving seat.

    Yes, you are right, many of us will have experienced what you are going through so can empathise but we also know that circumstances and experience can be very different so our reaction and how we cope is very different as well. What is the same is how mentally and physically draining this time can be so please look after yourself too.

    My thoughts and best wishes for your Dad getting back home where he belongs are with you and all your family.

    Lynn xx

  156. Hi Barbara
    I am sorry to hear about your dad and hope he is on the mend soon. What a stressful time for you all but I am sure seeing Grace and Mark has made life bearable.
    Hope you are looking after yourself as well as everyone else as it’s easy to forget!
    Sending you a big hug and positive thoughts your way . xx

  157. Just read this Barbara as been taking my own mini break from social media.
    Sending love and healing to you all💜💜💜

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