Wow – where do I even begin?! May has been an absolute whirlwind in so many ways. Let’s take a look back at this crazy and emotional month…

🍎 A New Chapter Begins with Apple Blossom Dreams

The month kicked off with something incredibly special – I became the new owner of Apple Blossom Dreams! I had the absolute pleasure of meeting the wonderfully talented Astri and her lovely husband Digger, who travelled all the way from the US to beautiful Skipton. How amazing is that?

Astri is retiring to enjoy more time adventuring and visiting her children and grandchildren, and I feel so honoured to be stepping into her shoes. Her designs are just so beautiful – here are a few for you to swoon over! I’m full of ideas and bubbling with excitement for what’s to come. Eek! Stay tuned! P.s check out the Instagram Page here!

🎪 A Magical Weekend at The Crochet Sanctuary

Next up – a weekend to remember at The Crochet Sanctuary, where I had the joy of being the guest designer! I introduced my latest design – the Marvellous Marquee Drawstring Pouch. Inspired by a circus theme, I imagined a cute little circus tent complete with colourful bunting and bobbles for texture. It was such a joy to bring it to life!

I had the loveliest time meeting so many kind and creative people. I must admit, I did far more chatting than crocheting – oops! Huge thanks to my hubby for joining me on the trip and doing his own thing while I immersed myself in crochet heaven. And a massive thank you to Lisa and Lynda-Rose – you made it such a special weekend. I truly had the best time!

🧶 A Little Stop at Black Sheep Wools

On the way to the Sanctuary, I popped into Black Sheep Wools and had a lovely catch-up with the wonderful Sara. We may or may not have had a sneaky chat about something very exciting coming later this year… but shhh, I can’t say anything just yet!

💖 Pattern Releases Galore

May also saw the release of not one, but two new patterns!

• The Blossom Hearts Baby Blanket
• The Hidden Diamonds Blanket

Both are available in my usual shops here, and you can also find yarn packs at Wool Warehouse here – how exciting is that?!

💚 Mental Health Awareness Week

This month marked Mental Health Awareness Week, and I opened up about how crochet helps me stay grounded. It was heartwarming to read so many of your comments about how crochet helps you too – this community really is something special.

I also shared My Story – a personal post about my amazing sister and our family’s journey. If you haven’t read it yet, you can find it on the blog here. Thank you so much for all the love and support.

🌈 New Projects & Yarny Joy

I’ve also started some beautiful new projects this month! Just look at this stunning mega yarn cake from Pufflower Crochet – isn’t it a dream?! And I’m currently working on a new blanket using the soft and gorgeous Pebble Haze Prints yarn – I can’t wait to show you more soon.

We also released the Spring in Bloom Cushion to accompany the blanket CAL – and you’ve all been loving it! It’s been such a joy to see your versions come to life. Keep sharing – it makes me so happy!

🐾 Remembering Poppy

Lastly, a more emotional note – this month marked the one-year anniversary of losing our sweet Poppy. I still miss her every single day. We visited the caravan (her favourite place) with the intention of planting her ashes, but it didn’t feel quite right. Instead, we’ve planted a beautiful plant in a pot and brought the ashes home – we’ll know when the right time comes. Until then, she’s still with us. I will LOVE YOU FOREVER Poppy ❤️

Phew! What a month it’s been. Full of change, joy, creativity, reflection, and love. I’m so grateful for every part of it – and for all of you sharing it with me.

Here’s to a beautiful June – let’s see where the yarn takes us! 💕
Happy Crocheting,
Helen