My Lovely Dad MBE - The Gallery Week 7 - Joy

I have even dispensed with the TV Theme titles for this week's Gallery (Had anyone even noticed?)

This week's Gallery subject is Joy.

This is my lovely Dad - He became a Master of the British Empire in 2001 for services to the Employment Service. This is a true case of the right person receiving credit where credit is due. My Dad was a quiet, gentle and wonderful person who never craved attention and appreciated everything he had.

The couple of days we spent in London when Dad met the Queen were simply joyful. 6 of us went down (Mum, Dad, the 3 daughters and my husband). We were only allocated 3 tickets into Buckingham Palace which my Mum amazingly gave to us 3 daughters. I have never felt as nervous as when Dad's 'turn' was coming up - I really didn't want him to trip or break any of the millions of rules - He didn't - it was just wonderful! (I broke a rule by taking a piece of Buckingham Palace toilet roll home but we won't say anymore about how classy I am!) I have probably committed treason or similar by copying the official photo too!

An added bonus was always going to be which celebrity received their honours during the same ceremony - We got Jeremy Beadle MBE! Oh well!

After Buckingham Palace, we met up with Mum and my husband and had a trip on the then new London Eye and a sightseeing tour around London followed by a show.

The next day was Dad's 60th and the day he officially retired and time for home - We were upgraded to 1st class when the driver heard about what we were celebrating.

All in all, a wonderful time to be together and see the most wonderful man get some of the attention he deserved.

My Dad passed away a year ago next week - We are all still devastated and will always miss and love you. x