When I met Ann 25 years ago, we were looking for a holiday let. I am Dutch and she addressed me while we were parked in front of her Farm. She joked and we immediately knew we wanted to rent the cottage. We returned the year after, and the year after. We became friends and when Peter had died we took digital photos at the Celebration of his Life.... 
Our friendship grew deeper as the years passed and more happened. I think we were both glad to share intimacies about our rather eventful childhoods and current lives. 
It took me a while to gather courage to write here ... I feel far away, 1200 kilometres or so. We phoned regularly. In May 2023 as I left after staying for a fortnight we openly said it might be the last time we hugged. Then, a year later, she was still there with such a sharp mind but, unfortunately a failing body. It annoyed her not to be able to do the things she wanted. Like working in the garden. Like many more times before she still drove me to the local nursery to buy annuals and she directed (oh yes, she directed) me while I put them into pots. I was so glad to be able to do so.
I went to visit her friend Pam too, in Kingsbridge, who she rang loyally every morning at 10. I loved the two ladies, their humour and wit. 

My heart breaks when I think of the hole she must leave behind  for many, but also to Pam ...  poor girl.

I am afraid I won't be able to make it in November, but still hope to visit the South Hams and Ledstone also without Ann being there. It is an end to an era for me, though.

Wishing all those loved ones the very best ....  
Ann . ...  will even miss your bossy saying "Right, you must now stop, save the money on this phone call!"  OK then...if you say so Ann..

May you rest in Peace my friend

Wilma Moolenbeek