June 1 2007 Card tricks, Browns

I always tell anyone keen on journalism as a career that it's a fantastic job. And one of the very best tings is that every day - EVERY DAY - no matter how grim (and some of them are grim) I have a really good, honest belly laugh.

Sometimes uncontrollable.

It's that sort of industry, that sort of job, that sort of people.

Was having the same discussion with an old colleague in the Radisson last night when I attended a drinks party hosted by the chic and sophisticated PR Geraldine McEntegart.

Debbie Johnson, once one of the Echo's quickest and most popular reporters and now a freelance, was earning my approval by telling those within earshot that jounalists were great company, and, while often less-than-gifted academically, were immensely intelligent and lived on their wits. Debbie confident as ever, and now blonde with it, expanded the theory along the 'every day's a good laugh' route which I mentioned earlier.

Then we were interrupted - very politely - by one of those clever close-up magic guys who entertain partygoers with card tricks.

He was rather good and we clapped and tutted in disbelief in all the right places. Then came his grand finale: Clasping his hands firmly behind his back and holding the pack between his teeth he announced loudly: 'I am now going to find it with my mouth'!

Debbie, quick as a flash and twice as loudly: 'I've heard that one before'!

The partygoers' reaction moved from stunned did-she-actually-say-that??bewilderment to helpless mirth in a moment.

Theory proved. Another great day.

Which had begun delightfully with a visit to Kirkdale's Old St Lawrence School to see 100 Heads artist Anthony Brown and his partner Lorraine. Always inspiring to see his work and to talk to them about their experiences.

Tme too, for a chat and a cup of tea with LA Productions who are based in the same premises and have been working with us, and with Red Hot Media, on our exciting new TV project.

Home very late last night after long admin slog in office post-party. Felt bit guilty about not having seen much of Harry over half term, so suggested we watch movie together. (He adores movies and knows everything about all of them).

Watched Spanish cult classic 'The Devil's Backbone.' Most miserable depressing movie I've seen since Harry last showed me a Spanish cult classic.

At the end: 'What did you think, Dad'? 'Bit short on humour, would you say'? Again, helpless, uncontrollable laughter.

Bed at 1am, Lynne still awake. But she'd had a good day and was smiling.

A good day all round.