Yesterday was the 21st birthday of my very dear friend Bella. Where to begin?

Gathered at her farmhouse were family and close friends who (naturally) seemed to be all the great eccentrics of Bishops Stortford! It was more of a jam than a party, everyone taking it in turns to play old classics.

The harp Bella’s playing in the picture (apologies for the quality) is the one her Dad MADE for her. He’s a wood-turner you see, and the whole house is filled with instruments and furniture he’s produced.

They’re quite a family the Chipperfields. Bella’s brother Joe is the crazy and brilliant comedian of the bunch and her Mum Jane teaches art and makes the best food. They’re all crazily talented and play every instrument going. The best part? I’m,not sure I’ve ever met kinder people. Huge hearts of gold, the lot of them - the day after me and my ex broke up they insisted I come over and they cooked dinner for me.

I felt very lucky last night to watch all these friends get up and play casually together. It was a wonderful evening.

I necked a bottle of wine (and some malibu) and am definitely feeling it this morning, on my what is now twelve hour Saturday shift. Can’t complain really, i’ve felt worse at work! I’m a little shocked to be honest how completely not-that-bad I feel all things considered. I never drink wine!

Supposed to be out for another 21st tonight but i’m not sure I can face it. Work is manic and i’ve escaped to Starbucks on my lunch break trying to recover from last night with a toffee nut latte - it’s all I can manage.