Thanks. These posts are very helpful for me.

~Saram~ - Yes every time I call her I can hear her son in the background. I can imagine it must make it very hard for her to concentrate on what I am saying. I have learnt to text her and ask when's a good time to call before calling.

maz - Thanks for the kind words. And for the advice. I think I do try and offer her advice sometimes instead of listening. I'll have to try and bite my tongue!

murraysmum - I guess it's still very early days for her. I do hope she lets me and others in eventually.

Because of all your advice I am in the process of organising a night out to dinner and movies. And she has said she'll come. I thought she could do with a night off and thankfully her husband has said he'll look after their DS. So fingers crossed she makes it out. If not I'll just keep trying other times.