My dear Linda thanks so much for your thoughtful words about mum, and I’m so sorry to know that you too have lost both parents. But what an inspirational post. And how fabulous that all those years of bringing the craft shows to you on QVC, meant that you were able to piece together your mum and dad’s lives – literally – and have a constant to look back on. Wonderful too for the future generations. I have always felt incredibly sad that my children didn’t ever get time to spend with my dad, but perhaps I should piece together a memory book for them, so that his incredible life doesn’t disappear once I’m no longer here to talk about him… Thank you for your sweet comment about my hairstyle, and your kindness – your big northern hug is very welcome. Sending you my love, and thanks for keeping in touch. Ali xxx

Dear Carol, apologies for the delay in replying, but the dress you’re enquiring about is a Phase Eight dress, and I bought it in November last year. They still make this kind of style, but I don’t believe this one is available on our website any longer. It may well be worth looking at Phase Eight’s website though as they always do a fab range of party wear. Happy Christmas! Love Ali x

Dear Merche, it does seem as though most of us, or definitely our children, have chicken pox around the same age. Luckily Honey hasn’t scratched her spots although she still has a few left on her back and in her hair. Her lovely little face is unscathed mercifully 🙂 Lucy definitely inherited the family skill when it comes to drawing, and I think Honey may well follow! Wishing you and yours a very happy Christmas, love Ali xx

Hi Kim, I’m realising more and more the family resemblance, but I must find a photo of my Lucy, because Honey obviously looks very like her mummy did at the same age too! My Nana was a really quiet soul, and definitely one for the smelling salts, so you may be right about a job choice 🙂 Wishing you the happiest of Christmases with your family, love Ali xx

My dear Lynn, such a lovely story, and thank you so much for sharing it with me. You’re right. There have been more than a few occasions when I’ve heard myself laughing, or seen myself smiling at work and felt guilty, but I realise we’re all the same there. How wonderful that you keep your mum and dad with you all the time – I love that 🙂 I hope that you are all set for Christmas and will be able to spend it with those you love, please do keep in touch. Love Ali xxxx

Dear Christmas – what a fabulous name! I do hope your niece is feeling much better now and that the antihistamines worked? And I take that as a mighty compliment that you think I look like Honey 🙂 I am starting to feel a little panicky as Christmas is so close and there is still a fair bit to do, but at least the tree is up now. Take care and thanks for writing, love Ali xxx

Denise, you’re right, and your words have moved me… wherever the journey takes you, it’s those memories that mean those of us left behind can hold fast to them and take comfort. Much love to you and yours too. Ali xx

My dear Vanessa, I am so sorry to know that you’ve been poorly again, and are feeling exhausted and unwell. It’s never easy coping when you’re tired, and of course you have your daughter to look after too. I very much hope that when your results come through, you can be properly treated and get better. I’m the same as you – things that need to be done, I have to tackle there and then, otherwise I’m lying awake at night worrying about them. It’s brilliant that you’ve got your tree up and all the shopping done. Maybe now you can take it easy? I am so glad that my book has helped motivate you, although it sounds to me as though you are an incredibly courageous and positive person. Thank you for your kind words too – it was very much a labour of love. Take care, and I wish you and your family a truly Happy Christmas too. With my love, Ali xx