It begins with the warmth of several small furry bodies as the cat and dog nuzzle close to combat the winter cold. Then the boyfriend, all strength and spicy smell, cuddles closer before leaving for work dropping kisses on my cheek and tucking me in.

When it’s time to wake the young man for school we wrap him in fleecy layers of sweaters and pants and balaclava’s to keep out the cold. Then he wants cuddles too, all soft and cozy, like a giant moving teddy bear cuddled in my lap.

Now back in bed with the fireplace on, the dog against my leg, and a cup of piping hot coffee sliding, sip by sip, down my throat.