Of course I wanted children. Bright, gorgeous, loving children. I could almost see them.

I have always believed that life is too short for rows and disagreements. Even if I think I'm right, I would prefer to apologize and remain friends rather than win and be an enemy.

I try to make my characters kind of ordinary, somebody that anybody could be. Because we've all had loves, perhaps love and loss, people can relate to my characters.

I'm getting better, happier, and nicer as I grow older, so I would be terrific in a couple of hundred years time.

I discovered that men were just like everyone else, really. They liked you if you were good-tempered and easy to talk to. And being a big girl meant other females trusted you more and confided in you.

After my hip operation, I had to cut out butter, which I loved, and salt. I no longer eat desserts with lots of cream, and I've cut right back on alcohol.

I think I'm brave because I've made decisions based - I hope not entirely selfishly - on what I think is right for me to do next.