'Drink is never the answer to anything.'

Even after twenty-seven years of marriage, she never hesitates to tell me that I could have done better then Rick. I look at him now and don't think that I could. He has been the rock of this family through thick and thin.

'You're a great mum. You've always been so fab, and I've taken it all for granted. Now I'm going to appreciate you more and try to be more like you. I only hope that I can do as well for my kids.'

With Mum, it was all about criticism and being made to feel that whatever you did wasn't good enough.

I want us all to have fun together, the way families should. I want to forget our troubles

I like my home filled with laughter and love, overflowing with presents and food. If you can't go completely over the top at Christmas, when can you?

"Christmas isn't just one day, Rick."

"Aren't advent calendars supposed to be religious?"
"Get a life, Dad," Chloe advises. "Christmas is about fun and presents. What's God got to do with it?"

After finding out that Rick has a secret from me, I have no idea what to expect this Christmas. There's nothing I need, no trinket that I desire. All that I'd dearly love is for my husband to stay true and faithful to me. I hope that's not too much to ask.