As I write this, I am overlooking the Welsh Valleys while on our first family staycation – and the view is spectacular.

A holiday was well overdue for us.

I know many people say the best time to go away is when the children are babies, but we wanted to wait until they were old enough to enjoy it and we were not simply doing the same routine somewhere else.

We also thought staying on the island would work better as we did not want to pay more on excess baggage than on the tickets needing to take everything bar the kitchen sink.

Anyway, we made it, having had the comedy start of trying to fit everything in the car.

We decided Celtic Manor was the place to stay as they have fantastic facilities for children and we could have some fun too.

There are so many places to explore in the UK and it has helped that we have had fantastic weather too, making us feel like we are on the continent.

Michael and I have treated ourselves to facials and massages, the children have been running around taking in the fresh air, we’ve explored the local area and also eaten like we are royalty.

Needless to say, we have all been sleeping like babies and have allowed ourselves to have lie-ins. Heaven forbid.

I believe it is so important to allow yourself to switch off and focus on the world around you and, most importantly, those you love most.

We have had the best time, not looking at our phones or thinking of what needs to be done.

This is the first time I have opened the laptop, as I did not want to let the Surrey Comet readers down.

Now, I must sign off and enjoy the last full day of my break.

See you on the other side.