This week I was invited to deliver a guest speaker presentation to the Women’s Guild about my life, career as a consultant forensic psychiatrist and my developing art business.

Talking about the influence of my elder sister’s disabilities on my career choice reminded me of why I always adopt a non-judgmental attitude in life. I didn’t judge her and valued her for who she was. That carried on in my career.

I didn’t judge the mentally disordered offenders on my caseload because of their illness or their behaviour, instead trying to see the person behind the problems and working out how to improve their well being and reduce the risk of offending.

I talked about my husband’s illness and death and the journey beyond bereavement which led me to write my memoir and take up my passion for art after a 38-year hiatus. I believe life is for living and that I should seek out positive experiences and positive people.

Developing my art business has brought me in to contact with a myriad of artists, gallery owners, shopkeepers, business people and customers. The positive buzz I get when someone purchases my art is hard to beat, especially when there is a story behind the purchase.

They may be reminded of a favourite holiday by one of my images or ask me to capture a significant moment in a new commission. That makes commissions one of my favourite things to do.

A sweet lady at the Guild asked if I could do a mug with an image of a fox ... why not? That was today’s task. I look forward to seeing it winking at me from the side of the mug.

The launch of the candle tins went well this week too, with positive responses to the designs and the scents. Caroline is going to be busy producing them for me.

I have a craft fair in Melrose next weekend, organised by The Colourful Edit, my favourite fabric necklace company, so I will be stocking up my car with candles and coasters for that.

Rhona