Tom is 9

We got pretty sophisticated with arrangements for this holiday birthday with a full and detailed program published on the caravan wall. The gifts were transported secretly it would seem, the cake was decorated with the resources available in a mobile home and a good time was had by all.

The accidental tribute to middleman (who has also holidayed at this very spot) just completed the picture.

Tom... you continue to be a joy even when you're not quite ready to comply with the draconian insistences of your parents. Your mum and me are so immensely proud of everything you achieve and feel every ounce of frustration and pain you feel with the challenges life throws at you. Each of them is making you stronger though - we can see it even though maybe you struggle to sometimes.

So keep on being you - Milo adores you and his insistence on showing this by claiming what's yours as his is only his way of idolising.

We love you big man.