COVID took a lot from all of us. The freedom to move and mingle, to pop out for a coffee or a glass of something a bit stronger with a friend.

There are evenings that remind you exactly why you keep saying yes to life. The 4th of March was one of them.

There are evenings that stay with you long after they’ve ended. Saturday night at the Houses of Parliament was one of those evenings.

Today I turn 85. As I reflect on this number, I’m reminded of something I wrote in my book: “I refuse to let a number on my birthday card determine the life I am going to live.”