I’m approaching a funny stage – forget the 7 ages of (wo)man [although with my pregnancy hormones taking centre stage, I play all different stages in one day] – I’m in the midst of the three ages of childhood. Jury is still out as to whether this will be a thriller or a tragedy.

I am increasingly becoming an (albeit suntanned) beached whale as my baby cooks nicely in my tummy, and I cook beautifully in the sun-shine. I’m slowing down, being forced to watch a bit more from the side-lines rather than centre stage as the girls play and posture in summer silliness. They are funny little mites, and I settle down in my front row seat at the most amusing, amazing show on earth. And I need my rest, because it all kicks off in September. Usually I’m a mess at times like these (Daisy just finishing Monetessori for good) unable to let go. But this time I know September is going to be full of new beginnings.

Daisy starts school – a seismic shift in my parenting experience, mother to a schoolgirl.
Poppy starts Montessori – after three years of being home with me this is a huge step for us both.
And my new baby arrives – a unique show beginning all over again.

Three stages, each with its own challenges and triumphs, each mesmerising and unmissable. Three little people embarking on three huge steps of their lives – and I not only get to watch, I get to clap and cheer and hold their hands. Pass the popcorn and show me the emergency exits – I suspect come September I’ll be too stressed, sleep-deprived, hyper, emotional and exhausted to appreciate any of it!