Hi Martin, good to hear from you. Are you beginning to get ready for Christmas? We’re all well here and I’m glad you’re doing okay. Love Ali xx

Dear Debra, Thank you for writing to me and I’m very glad that you enjoy the blog and all the news. I applaud your decision to buy the Lime and Ginger TSV – it’s the one I plumped for as I loved their Lime and Ginger body scrub from years ago. I am though sorry to know that you’re lonely and don’t see your daughter or your grandchildren that often. My children and step children are of a similar age and I’ve learned over the years that their lives are so busy it’s sometimes easier if you suggest a time and occasion to meet and they feel more inclined to come along, rather than waiting for them to suggest something? Maybe that might work? I’m sure you’ll enjoy the chocolates and the dress you liked was an Ojenou design – its from QVC item number 191737 – the London Frida print Sharon dress £109.50 and is the most beautiful soft fabric. Take care of yourself and I hope that you will be able to make a date to see your daughter and your grandchildren before Christmas. Love Ali x

Dear Hazel, So glad you enjoyed the blog and the photos. It’s lovely to share the way we spend our time over the weeks and it’s lovely to hear about your Turkey and Tinsel coach holiday! Sounds right up my street 🙂 Nothing quite like a jolly good jig with wonderful people. Great to catch up on all the chatter too. Enjoy your next sojourn and who knows it may even surpass the one you’ve just returned from. Do keep in touch, love Ali xx

Hi Merche, loving the sound of that suede coat with the fur trim – reminds me of one we have from Ruth Langsford – although hers is faux fur! We had a giant willow tree lopped by tree surgeons last month and so the enormous number of leaves in our garden has halved which is good! I too though love the bright red and golden leaves and remember making pictures with them with my children when they were little. Thanks for keeping in touch and I’m glad you enjoyed the blog. Love Ali xx

Dear Jo, what a lovely way to describe the beginning of autumn although the last few days have been positively springlike! I know we are roughly the same age and the summer of 1976 is here I will never forget – sounds as though you are the same. Laura Ashley was much more my sister’s passion if I’m honest, although I have bought some beautiful jumpers and fabulous wool coat from them over the last few years. Your comments about the menopause are interesting – I’m in agreement with you that it is not a subject that would need to be taught in schools but should be made more public generally. Those that need to learn more can. I have just returned from a couple of days in Dorset to see our friends and always enjoy the peace and tranquility of this part of the country. I hope you enjoy the play – It’s one of those I’ve always meant to see so I will add it to my list of things to do. You take care, and thanks for keeping in touch love Ali xx

Love Debra xxx