My dream was always to be a published author, fall madly in love with a wonderful man and have a family. It was a white picket fence with a touch of quirk. I dreamt of a gorgeous family, a dog and a home surrounded by trees, filled with love, jazz and the smells of fabulous cooking. And in this most glorious year, all those dreams came true.

And the best of all, better even than seeing White Knights on the shelves, was becoming a mother. I always knew that I wanted to be a mother, always knew it would be wonderful. I just never imagined it could be quite so phenomenal. When I saw Annabelle in Andrew’s arms, I fell into love. A deep, swirling, seemingly endless pool of love that envelops, comforts and colours everything. The sort of love that you gulp in, savour and get lost in.

She’s wiggling now, is round and plump and more gorgeous every day. The dark haze of sleepless nights is easing and the uncertainty of new motherhood is fading. The gloriousness of Annabelle being part of our wonderful home still sometimes catches us by surprise. When she smiles, I see Andrew and I love them both more than words.

And so this year, apart from finishing novel #2 (about half way done but with loads of twists and turns that still need to be sorted out!), Annabelle and I are collaborating on an African fairytale… filled with magical fabulousness and the wonderousness of childhood. It is my indulgence, a delectable project that I can’t wait to begin!