I wrote some time ago about "Ugliness' and I am now ashamed I actually posted my problem. Since then I have nursed, and lost, my husband. We had been married for 62 years. I now realise what a pathetic whinge I posted when there are so many things one has to be grateful for, I posted in a weak moment.

I married a good man. If he had a fault it was that he protected me too much throughout our marriage. Our Offspring are very caring and also protective ; they want me to be comfortable, happy, and to enjoy life for as long as I am able.

Yesterday Older Son took me around some lovely gardens and I found I was able to be comfortable "in my own skin". I talked to strangers and forgot my insecurities. Why? I realise now that life is short, too short to be silly about insecurities, real or not.

I have re-read the comments so many left when I posted earlier. I am humbled by the wonderful advice so many gave me; surprised, also, that some feel as I do/did. Maybe we are affected, even subconsciously, by the so-called "perfect" lives led by so many on line. We forget that often these lives have no real basis. It is so easy to post an image of one enjoying a foreign holiday ; a glass of wine ; a tasty meal. Is that really St Moritz or a nearby beauty spot? Is it the best red wine, or grape juice?

I now start a new chapter in my life. I have started serious de-cluttering; I am culling my wardrobe. I intend to learn a new language: find pen friends: treat myself to twice-weekly hair-do's; eat out more. It won't be easy at first, but the resolve is there. That resolve comes from the encouraging help so many of you gave me. My THANKS.