Hi Tina, ooh thanks so much for the TV recommendation – we need something new to watch and Colin’s not too keen on Angela Black. Connie Nielsen is a new actor to me but I think Christopher Eccleston is great so I’ll get that lined up. So glad you’re enjoying all the goodies on QVC and yes, Dannii’s range of fashion and accessories is very popular with many folk. As you know I’ve been a Liz Earle fan for years and also think the rose and ginger is a lovely scent. I’m not on with Caroline Archer sadly, but may well treat myself for Christmas! I hope all is well with you and the family, and thanks for writing. Take care, Love Ali xx

Hello Mrs. D, I managed to snap that photo just as I was leaving Chobham – I love that brief moment between dusk and darkness. The bath was fab but difficult to sit up in as it was so slippery! Your dad sounds like quite a character and I can see now why you love your music so much. Never mind telling Luca, I’d love to hear about the time Cilla Black asked your dad on stage! My dad used to love the Barber Shop Quartets but classical music was definitely his thing. I’m not surprised you felt exhausted after babysitting him and his sister – I remember having Sam when Lucy was three and a half – it was very tiring! I can visualise your beautiful cupboard with the mesh and the material behind it and it sounds like the perfect place to keep things. I have a drawer on casters that slides under the spare bed but I’m rapidly running out of space there. Jenny did look great and I took the photo as she was saying how much it meant to her having us all there with her for her special day… a lovely memory. Take good care and thanks for keeping in touch as always, Love Ali xx

Hi Kay, as you’ll have seen in my previous response, I think your idea of wrapping presents ahead of time is a great one! I may well follow suit 🙂 The bath was fab although a little slippy!! Hope all is well with you and yours, love Ali xx

Hi Loraine, you’re right about Christmas creeping up on us! I have begun to start my Christmas shopping in Earnest and already the parcels are piling up. I’m rather liking Kay’s idea of wrapping them and putting them away. I think it might be a good idea to make sure I’ve got really sticky labels on them though otherwise things get confused! I’m glad you’ve had a chance to be with Ottilie – I’m sure Clare’s boss is very grateful and I hope you enjoy your time with Gary on Saturday. I am up to see Lucy and Huntley on Thursday, hopefully my son Jack is calling in to see me today and then we have Colin’s family’s Christmas tea party this Saturday. I hope you enjoy your long weekend with your sister and brother-in-law. Thanks for keeping in touch, love Ali xx