It’s been a while since my last blog and now the seasons have most definitely changed. The trees were remaining defiantly green in early September, despite the cold chills, but now autumn is definitely here! I love this time of year – with so many trees in the surrounding landscape; it’s like watching a firework display in slow motion - plus I also get to dig out my favourite woolies and winter boots.

I had a fabulous week away in Ibiza at the beginning of September, staying in a quiet bay and trying to hang onto the final glimpses of summer. I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed just basking in the ocean for hours, it’s been so long since I’ve been in a warm sea – and that was even when it was pouring with rain!

It’s also been a month of huge inspiration and encouragement. I met my mum up in Edinburgh in late September, for the opening of a new Silver Exhibition, which opened in the National Museum of Scotland. ‘The Silversmiths’ Art’, featuring the work of 66 silversmiths from the last 15 years, was a real delight to see with such highly innovative, utterly beautiful and courageous work. It was also a massive honour to be one of the exhibitors. The opening night was a great and glamourous affair, thanks to The Goldsmiths’ Company and it was lovely to be able to catch up with many of my fellow silversmiths again.

Sadly I didn't manage to get a pictures of my mum and I all glammed up, so this will have to suffice from the following day.

Shortly after that came The Goldsmiths Fair, which is internationally renowned for its leading edge, contemporary jewellery and silverware, with prices ranging from £100 to upwards of ‘many’ thousands. It’s a veritable Aladdin’s cave of sparkles, craftsmanship and innovation, with work unlike anything you’ll ever see on any high street.

I mentioned last month that The Goldsmiths’ Company has an annual tradition of showcasing Christmas decorations, made by silversmiths, which are available for purchase. I couldn’t quite decide which design to go with, so in the end I made two sets. The idea behind the Robin came just as it won the UK’s favourite bird of the Year. A report in the paper caught my attention saying it was ‘terratorial, chippy and punches above it’s weight’ - which is why Britains have voted it as it’s national bird!

Since arriving here at Burghley, my work has certainly been quite varied. I recently arrived at work one day, only to be presented with a box of digits in it, which looked more like something from an episode of Dexter…. Apparently, a statue of Mercury, who adorns the fireplace in the Marble Hall in the main house, had suffered an unfortunate accident. Several hours of crouching on a rather cold marble floor later and I was able to reunite Mercury with his toes again!

Remarkable how unnerving it was to find these toes in the box

Well, I’d best get this off and I’ll catch up again soon. I also wanted to say a huge THANK YOU for all the wonderful comments and encouraging words. If I haven’t written back personally, I just want you to know that I really appreciate it. It’s easy for self-doubt to creep in sometimes, so it means a lot to feel you all cheering me on. It’s the perfect antidote, helping me believe in my abilities and myself.

Have a great weekend x