I agree... is this google pic for anyone that gets an email from you? In which case, its nothing to do with you, just a new picture.
What is with the beard? Is it in any way connected to his religion? Or is he just being a bit eccentric!? I agree with Essie.. you've been apart for nearly a year or over now (?) and you have only recently enjoyed more contact with him.. so you've got to be realistic..so up the contasct and be damned I say!
I am also interested.. have you met anyone that floats your boat in any way, other than your ex, in the last year? I have met one guy (too young), but thats all. I tend to not fancy 99.9% of the population. Just curious!