Who are your favourite people to be around?

The most obvious and honest answer is my family and friends. I consider myself fortunate because I have a great relationship with my brother and sister, and we see each other often. Of course, the saying goes that you can’t choose your family; friends are another matter.

I have a wide circle of friends of all ages, but the ones I value most have known me for the longest time. We met when I was a student, and since then, I’ve experienced many life events; starting my career, getting married, going through a divorce, entering a second marriage, and starting a family. I can count on these friends and they can rely on me. Although we don’t always agree, we respect each other’s views and agree to disagree.

Along the way, I’ve made friends through work, being a parent and having shared interests. My friends range in age, and I appreciate having older and younger friends. It is important that the people around me have a sense of humour, and that we can share laughter together.

The people I like to be around are:

• Fun
• Caring
• Positive
• Inclusive
• Dog lovers
• Quirky

I hope my friends see the same qualities in me!