I Love Your Smile

I have a wonderful American friend called Ron, who always makes me feel good.

He's a smooth talker with a silky smooth voice that would put Barry White to shame and looks like a big, chocolate-coloured teddy bear - in the nicest possible way.

I bumped into Ron yesterday on my way to the station, having spotted him while I was crossing at the traffic lights.

I gave him a big smile and when I reached him he said:

"I could feel the warmth of your smile from across the street" (or words to that effect.)

Corny, yes, but did it make me feel good - it most definitely did!

Ron calls me 'Maam' and is the most polite man I know.

In my book good manners go a long way.

So thank you for liking my smile, Ron. I like yours, too. :)

Mother's Day

Calum, Me and Lola

Today is Mother's Day and I've been spoilt rotten. I haven't had to lift a finger all day.

Joe made me a special breakfast and also cooked me a fantastic lasagne for lunch, washed down with some very good wine.

The children have been on their best behaviour and gave me beautiful cards, plus some yummy chocolates and a Corinne Bailey Rae CD I've wanted for ages.

I've been listening to it and it's very soulful as her voice is like honey. It reminds me of lazy summer days - perfect chillout music.

This afternoon we all watched The Matrix, a firm family favourite - those sunglasses are so cool.

All in all, it's been a lovely day and I feel very lucky to have such a wondeful family.

Lola's New Look

Lola's new look

Lola's curls

Lola had her hair cut yesterday.

It was quite dramatic as it was waist length and very thick, but it now rests on her shoulders.

At 13 she wanted a more sophisticated, grown-up look, so we went to our favourite stylist, Wanda, who did a brilliant job.

Lola is delighted with her new hairstyle and so am I.

Lola, you look fab!

Franco's Farewell Bash

Me and Franco

Franco gives an emotional speech

It's a disco night!

My lovely friend Franco recently went back to his native South Africa for good.

In one way I'm sad as I miss him terribly. But I'm happy for him too as, after 15 years in the UK, he was ready to return to his roots - to his friends, family, the beautiful South African sunshine and a new beginning.

However, he left in style with a fantastic leaving party that went on into the early hours of the morning.

It turned out to be one of the best nights Joe and I have had in ages and, most importantly, brilliant fun. It was a chance to drink champagne, catch up with old friends, meet some new ones and dance until you dropped.

Everything was perfect - the music (wall to wall disco), the food, the venue (a trendy London bar), but most of all the people. There was a great atmosphere and everyone was in the mood to party, party!

Franco gave an emotional speech and presented a slide show of special moments with his friends to the background of Whitney Houston's 'I will always love you' (disco version of course). It was incredibly moving as we saw 15 years unfold before our eyes and realise that this really was the end of an era.

So, Ciao Bello. Be happy and may the sun always shine wherever you are.