Today I had a real taste of what summer will be like this year, in a town where I actually know and socialise with other parents.

A friend and I decided that as the children were off from school, we would take them all on a mini day trip. Since the weather forecast was favourable for once, we decided on a trip to the farm, and a picnic lunch.

We chose Brookhall Historical Farm as it is only about 7 miles from home, it is really cheap, and it has loads of room for the children to play.

The kids all had a ball, and for once there were no arguments and no fighting. My two were thrilled when a kid goat began chasing them around a field, and they were hysterical when the donkey began to ‘Hee Haw’ at a deafening volume.

Daniel was fascinated by the mini lake and tried to jump out of my arms and into the water many times. And when the kids were amused and playing in a safe environment, my pal and I were able to have a great gossip and chat, uninterrupted for once.

It was a lovely day, I am looking forward to repeating it many times during the summer holidays!