I was lucky enough to have a break in Cornwall in April at a wonderful cottage newly on the rental market, not far from Protreath. What a fantastic location.

The beaches are absolutely breathtaking and there was so much sand! Living in East Devon, you get used to stony shorelines, so it was lovely for Saffy the dog to run on soft sand for a change.

I finally made it to St Ives, a place I’ve never been – and now I quite understand the appeal. The Tate St Ives was an interesting experience. Perhaps I thought there’d be more on display, but I’m not really complaining as it was free for the children, who enjoyed the exhibition, and the view from the café across the beach was stunning.

Back to work and the spring sunshine has inspired me to think about what’s what. It’s time to take on some new challenges, so I’ve made a few calls, had a few meetings and I’m really positive about the future. Another feature lined up for Devon Life, a new agency client and a partnership on the horizon. Looking good.

I love continuing to learn – give me a new topic to write about and I’ll get my teeth into it. Why, this time last year I knew nothing about the eco-travel industry, now I can recommend exactly where you should go if you want an eco-friendly experience in somewhere off the beaten track (I’m up for the horse-riding in Patagonia, personally).

So watch this space and here’s to the second half of 2013 (now where did the first half go?)