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There are many things in my life which I take for granted but I know I would find it impossible to live without them, like having food and clean water available whenever I need them. But to me, there are some things which, although I could technically live without, would hardly make my life worth living in its current comfort.

FAMILY

The first is my family. The immediate family of my wife and son give me love and comfort and a joy I could never imagine and never want to imagine being without. Whether it's being at home with them all day or coming back to them after a day out at work, they are the most special to me.

Then there's my other family which includes my Mum and my brother. Again, these people, my Mum especially, are people I take for granted all the time. Obviously, my Mum doesn't live with me to keep the house clean, cook or do the laundry, but she's always on the end of the phone and like all Mums does so much behind the scenes to try to make me comfortable and happy.

So, in different ways I'd find life without the love of my family really difficult and lonely but I suppose it's because we're so close and comfortable with each other that I take them for granted. I just wish I was more thoughtful around them.

THE INTERNET

After being on broadband for so long, it was so difficult when I moved house last summer and had to wait for it to be connected here. And then when it didn't work for a week or so, it was so annoying.

The internet is such an addictive thing and without it, there's no email and a complete lack of communication. Okay, it's not quite that bad but sometimes it's as though the internet is the beginning and end of life whether it's me writing, Helen on Ebay or Sam on CBeebies, wireless broadband has also made life much more manageable.

MOBILE PHONES

Although I rarely use my Nokia, Helen spends a lot of her time texting other Mums and meeting up with Sam's little friends. Without her mobile, life would be a lot slower and more tedious.

Now if that doesn't sound an exaggeration, I don't know what does.

APPLIANCES

Ordinary things like a cooker, kettle, oven and iron make life so much easier. They're just there to be used and save the hassle of lighting fires and boiling water. And as for microwaves, they hardly need mentioning.

Aren't power cuts annoying. When the electricity or gas supply is cut off and we have to use candles and sit in the semi-dark trying to find something to do, it's as though the world's coming to an end.

So why don't I have a lot more time to myself with all of these labour-saving devices and modern gadgets surrounding me? It's probably because I feel so guilty about taking everything for granted I'm overcome with emotion!

Learn more about this author, Ben Hughes.
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