We finally got a nanny for Astrid. Just before we leave. Don’t tell, but we’ve got Mary Poppins. She talks to Astrid all day long, sings songs, whistles, plays games, makes jokes, feeds, bathes, entertains, laughs, claps. She is Astrid’s friend. It’s brilliant hearing the goings on during the day while I’m working here in the office; Astrid’s squeals, laughter and mirth! I am tempted just to go and join in the fun.

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But I’ll work instead. Work to get things finished. Work to tie up all loose ends. Work for clients. Websites for clients. Ads for clients. I’d forgotten how much I love my work. It’s a disaster trying to work and look after child, but independent again – out doing things, taking photos, visiting showrooms, coveting chairs, a little swap here and there – I couldn’t be happier.

My calendar now says just over five weeks. Five and a bit weeks ’til a little holiday in Singapore. Six weeks ’til our cottage by the Heath. And my London fantasy today? Walking up to Mistry’s in South End Green to buy Caerphilly cheese and oat cakes for afternoon tea.