No belly dance costume in sight, but that’s because we’re having a night off. Our teacher is on the far right and you can just about see me on the back left. The food was plentiful and the stomachs empty, but, because of my dodgy belly from the night before I stuck to dishes without sauce. It wasn’t difficult – I had crispy duck in wraps and millions of prawns (butterfly in garlic, and salt and pepper sauce.

As a result of forgetting my secret Santa gift, it was suggested that I put one of my books in the sack. It was a blessing as the person who pulled it wanted it signed. Another member of the group, Claire, had bought Dare to Love last week and had nearly finished it. She gave it such a good report that others have ordered copies for when we meet after Christmas. One person suggested taking it to her readers group. So much exposure from a mistake!