One of my favourite places to walk is Ashton Hill woods. Half way along the forest trail is a Giant Sequoia grove. Every time I reach this point I take a great big breath and marvel that this spot is only a few minutes drive from the centre of Bristol. It's a magical place come rain or shine.

Last week this deer scampered across the trail and stood to watch for a few moments before crashing off into the undergrowth. The leaves are taking longer to turn and drop this year but soon the Autumn display will be in full show.

No blogging of late, and now October has arrived I've realised how little energy I've put in to broadcasting activities and other life events. The last few months have been a time of reflection, and although I'm still loving Red Ruby Rose  (in fact it has kept me going day to day) I haven't felt the need to talk about it. Maybe not the wisest way to sustain a micro-business but these things can't be forced.

Family events have cast a long shadow over this year and I realise I have retreated inwards to cope with it all. I ditched my social networking, got myself the sweetest little puppy dog and have been putting much of my energy into keeping up with his goofy antics and getting out into the fresh air.

Now I've got a nice life/work balance back I'm back online with my Red Ruby Rose facebook page and have been stocking up my Etsy shop with lots of new designs. It's so nice to be finding my feet again.... with Paddy pup by my side.