loopylou darling girl, I didn't know whether to wince, laugh or cry when I read about your experiences regarding leaving your husband to help around the house in your absence. Bless you. Family planning matters well and truly "sorted" in your case. 
jane I cheated when it came to a nicely knitted cable sweater for Torben. I went to eBay and found a beauty that had been hand-knitted by a very capable lady. Apparently, Torben thinks it is a good as it gets.
I've a scarf knitted (by me) in beautiful Jaeger wool...it must be well over 6' long. I knitted it in my 30s and, at the time, didn't know how to cast off the stiches. However, it did get finished, and it is still going strong.
My pal, who is a fine knitter and a member of a 'knit and natter' club, has been making 'prayer shawls'...to give to people in need.
Charleygirl I can well imagine how much you appreciated and enjoyed dining with your friends in a fine restaurant. I love the rice puddings that are served in hospitals. Oban hospital staff gave me double portions...because I used to put a wee note of thanks on the menu to the kitchen staff. 
Hot thick toasted bread, butter and Marmite are pretty high on my list of comfort fodder. Also, crumpets. I cannot recall when I last feasted on one.