I'm not exactly sure where the time's gone, but I'm assured that my gorgeous daughter, Michal, was indeed one last Sunday. It seemed like only a few weeks ago that we spent two anxious weeks in and out of hospital with her!!

Anyway, I thought I'd take the opportunity to look back on her first 12 months... Following her arrival, Michal got an infection which resulted in several days in a local hospital on intravenous antibiotics, before being released home. Unfortunately, home time didn't last too long, as the infection got worse, resulting in a return to hospital and then a late night ambulance trip to Great Ormond Street. There can't be many more frightening things for parents than seeing their newborn baby being whisked off in some high tech machinery (looking far too much like a transparent coffin), into an ambulance, headed for the world's leading children's hospital! Having said that, having her in my arms as she was put under general anaesthetic wasn't a bundle of laughs either!

Thank G-d, she had excellent treatment and has not suffered any serious ill health since then. Please G-d it continues. In fact, since those difficult two weeks, we've been blessed by a true bundle of joy who sleeps through the night, eats well and is generally very happy...much like her older brother.

Once Michal had learnt to smile, it became a permanent fixture. And she's got a rather cheeky side to her too...whether it's pulling hair, throwing food on the floor, or climbing the stairs, she'll look round very slowly with a smile on her face that clearly says "I may not be able to talk yet, but I'm letting you know that I'm just pushing the boundaries!".

The interactions with her big brother, Ilan, are amazing too. For a 4 and a half year old, who is really getting into the physical side of being a boy - fighting, jumping, etc - he's incredibly patient and gentle with her, letting her climb on him, pull his hair and nick his books/toys...all without much response, most of the time! Let's see how long it lasts...

So, on reflection, it's been a hugely fun first 12 months as the Daddy of a daughter.