Although never likely to be in the running for 'domestic goddess of the year' I do find a certain novelty in trying out new things – even vacuum cleaners!

Our old model was tending to spit out more dust than it actually picked up, so the flooring this week has never looked so good.

I remember my first new machine 22 years ago, managing to suck up two socks and the cat's tail on its initial outing.

This time it was my skirt and the lounge rug which almost made it up the tube. I am glad I managed to resist the offer of my youngest son who was keen to have a go – he has been known to cause havoc with a mere dustpan and brush.

Another 'new' which has propelled mum into the almost 'cool' category is a return to 'classes and homework' after a 'few years out'.

Although creative in various ways, the art of drawing has always eluded me.

With a number of artists in the family I have often wondered why I missed out on this skill.

Both of my sons can draw better than me and the embarrassment of having to ask my nine year old for help in illustrating a piece of craft work recently, finally brought things to a head.

Now, as I sit patiently practicing my apples and pears, surrounded by a growing pile of charcoal dust and pencil shavings, at least I have the prospect of another outing with my new toy at 'tidy up time'.

Cool, huh – I think probably 'sad' is the correct current expression!