Calista Flockhart had her hands full when she spent a day at the beach with her adopted son Liam. The waif-like actress appeared to be struggling under the strain of carrying the strapping five-month-old to the car. Fortunately her personal trainer was on hand to take care of the bags and deckchairs.

The Ally McBeal star is said to take her son with her wherever she goes, including the set of her show. Despite the rumours surrounding her health – there has been much concern over her apparent weight loss – friends say that motherhood has transformed her. “It’s wonderful to see the joy Liam has brought her,” said the show’s singer Vonda Shepard. “She’s so content.”

For more photos see this week’s issue of HELLO! Magazine, on sale now.