A Change of Direction

I have not been blogging for a few months now. In that time I have been thinking about the things that are really important to me. Life has a way of making you stop and reconsider sometimes.  In July I was diagnosed with Invasive Lobular Carcinoma ( Breast Cancer). It happened very suddenly... I felt a lump, thought nothing of it. I have been told that its normal for women to develop lumps sometimes. I thought I should check it out, only to have peace of mind. Listening to the doctor confirm what it is was, was surreal... surely it can't be true!!!!!

Just like that, instantly my life and the lives of my children and my husband changed. Instantly I knew the only thing that mattered was that I see my children grow up, that I be around to be in their lives for as long as I can.

Ireland 2015

Ireland 2015

Everything has settled down now. I am having chemotherapy and I am grateful that my situation is not as bad as other people's.  Now I have begun to think about ME, what about my life. How would I like to live? Many of us forget about ourselves when we are busy with our families. I now know that I need to find time to do what I enjoy too. I mean, don't get me wrong. I love my children, I love my husband. However, I am a person and I need to take a moment in time to do some things that are just for me.

This is how the weekend retreats were born. For the past two years I have run workshops for yarn lovers that lasted only for a day. It is great fun, but after the busyness of the workshops were over, everyone left to go home. There was no time to sit and enjoy a meal together, to talk about our lives and our interests, to listen to what is happening in the lives of others.  This, I feel, is really missing in today's society for some of us. After all, talking, eating and enjoying a meal, getting to know another person better, whilst enjoying crafts and activities together... surely these are life's memorable moments too? Surely when we go back home to our busy lives of caring for others, of working, of being the responsible adult...we will do it so much better? Refuelled by inspiration , relaxation, laughter...a moment in time to be YOU.

Life is too short, in my opinion. I can't sit around waiting. The first retreat is planned for 10-13 June 2016. It's in a beautiful house in Rye, Sussex.  There is a heated pool, a Hamman steam room and a view of the sea.  More details of the house can be found here.  There will be two workshops on Saturday and one on Sunday. Details of the workshops will follow, but I guarantee they will inspiring.  A cast on party on Friday night will kick start events ( Crocheters and beginner knitters will be catered for too). All meals are included, and of course delicious cakes will be enticing us throughout the weekend.  The retreat is for three nights, check in on Friday evening and check out on Monday morning.  Prices and booking will be available soon. However, if you are keen to find out more, visit my Facebook page here .