Do you see that blurred little bell? That is the sign of my new life, for tomorrow the eldest starts early morning swim training.

Too early.

I'm pleased for him, really I am, he has worked hard and put a lot of effort to get to where he has, but I feel for him myself and the early mornings.

I'm no early riser and I say that as someone who was up just after 5 this morning to take my dad to the airport. I was full of intention and energy on the drive home but when I opened the door and found it was still cold and dark and quiet I just climbed back into bed, switched the electric blanket back on and went straight back to sleep.

I spent the rest of the day on site with my colleague looking at trees and making decisions. It was cold but the trees are beautiful at this time of year and I do love that part of my job.

Our friends came for tea and we packed the littlest off to bed early so the rest of us could indulge in a game of times table towers by the fire. Well isn't that what you are supposed to do when your teacher is round for tea?