This week’s episode of The Grief Lounge is a deeply personal one.

Today would have been Chris’s 55th birthday, and this is my third birthday without him.

I felt called to record this episode to share what it really feels like to navigate grief on birthdays and special days. The build-up, the decisions, and the reality of trying to honour someone you love while also holding your own needs and the needs of your children.

I talk about the time my son and I spent remembering Chris, the moments that felt beautiful, and the ones that completely broke my heart.

There were also moments that felt like connection. I asked for a sign the night before, and on the journey to the coast, two of the songs from Chris’s funeral played on the radio. Moments like that are hard to explain, but they stay with you.

This episode also holds something very special. On Chris’s birthday, I received my copy of The Feminine Arts, the book I have co-authored. Reading my chapter, where I write about Chris, our story and the life we built together, on his birthday felt deeply emotional and significant. More than coincidence, it felt like connection.

This episode speaks to anyone grieving a partner, navigating birthdays and anniversaries after loss, or trying to make sense of the signs, love and connection that can continue after someone has died.

It is about grief, love, memory, and the reality of living a life you never expected to be living.

If you would like to purchase The Feminine Arts book to read the chapter here is the link ⁠⁠⁠https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0GWWTX1DF⁠⁠⁠ I hope you enjoy it.

Please know you do not have to walk through grief alone. Join The Grief Lounge Community on facebook, a closed group for those navigating the loss of their loved one.⁠⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/thegrieflounge/⁠⁠⁠

My website ⁠⁠⁠www.thegriefcoachuk.com⁠⁠⁠

My Instagram ⁠⁠⁠@the_grief_lounge_uk⁠⁠