The child who ran weeping to you with a cut finger is now brought home, smiling gamely, with a broken collarbone and incredible contusions- 'it wasn't Jezebels fault, Dad.'

Becoming a grandmother is wonderful. One moment you're just a mother. The next you are all-wise and prehistoric.

A dog wakens your heart to joy and companionship.

Cats can work out mathematically the exact place to sit that will cause most inconvenience.

The courage of very ordinary people is all that stands between us and the dark.

Sisters annoy, interfere, criticize. Indulge in monumental sulks, in huffs, in snide remarks. Borrow. Break. Monopolize the bathroom. Are always underfoot. But if catastrophe should strike, sisters are there. Defending you against all comers.

The baby rises to its feet, takes a step, is overcome with triumph and joy - and falls flat on its face. It is a pattern for all that is to come! But learn from the bewildered baby. Lurch to your feet again. You'll make the sofa in the end.