What was the last time you went to a new place?
I assume this actually means WHEN was the last time you went to a new place, and where was it! Last October we visited our soon-to-be new home, Pretoria in South Africa, to check out houses and schools. We were lucky enough to be there in Jacaranda season so the city looked at its best. We really enjoyed exploring – the highlight was probably when we turned a corner to find a group of zebras by the side of the road. But it has also helped our children with the transition, as at least they know where they are going now…

Beautiful Pretoria

If you were or are a writer do you prefer writing short stories, poems or novels, other? And what type of genre would you prefer?
I prefer to write non-fiction, as a former journalist I think it comes easiest to me. However, I have written 4/5ths of the first draft of a novel and really enjoyed that. I just need to get it finished – and then start polishing it! It’s taken me 4 years to get back to it so far – although I did finally get one of the main protaganists out of the boot of a car last year…

Out of your five senses (touch, taste, sight, smell, hearing) which is your favorite?
Taste. I love food. Who doesn’t? In particular, I love ice cream…

Ice cream!

If 100 people your age were chosen at random, how many do you think you’d find leading a more satisfying life than yours?
In some areas of my life, none! I am very lucky, I have achieved a good work/life/family/creativeness balance. In other areas, quite a few….

Bonus question: What are you grateful for from last week, and what are you looking forward to in the week coming up?
I am grateful that I managed to get to the end of the week with two children still alive, fed, watered and reasonably clean! Next week is half term so I am looking forward to lazy mornings, visiting my parents and a few meals out with friends