It feels like our family is in one of those “all change” moments right now – a bit like when the train pulls into the station and suddenly everyone’s hopping on and off at once. Life has been busy, full, and a little bit emotional as we start a new season with lots of changes for the children (and for me and Marc too!).

Harry has just turned 21 – I can’t quite believe it. It hardly seems five minutes since he was born, and now here we are celebrating his 21st with a lovely family meal. He’s back home for the summer, and although he’s the “quiet one” of the four, the house always seems noisier when he’s here! In October he’ll head back down to Oxford for his third year of Maths. This is the big one – his degree year – and such an important milestone in his studies.

Jacob has also had big news this summer. He’s passed his A levels with fantastic results, and he’s heading off to university to study Paramedic Science. I’m so proud of him – it’s a course that feels like it was made for him. He’s always been caring, calm in a crisis, and the one who wants to help, so seeing him step onto this path feels very special. He’ll be leaving home for the first time, which is going to feel odd for all of us – especially as it means both big brothers will be away at university. But I know he’s going to thrive, and I can already picture him coming home full of stories from his placements and training.

That leaves Grace and Leon holding the fort with us. Grace is now in Year 13, her A level year, so it’s going to be another big year of studying, decision-making, and open days. We’ve already been to Durham, which was just stunning – such a beautiful city – and we’re off to Oxford soon. She’s also looking at Lancaster, all with an eye on Chemistry as her degree subject. Exciting times for her.

And then there’s Leon, our youngest, who’s just gone into Year 8. It’s a big step up from Year 7, but he’s taking it all in his stride. He’s absolutely sport mad – football, cricket, rugby, hockey, you name it. Over the summer he had the best time, fishing, cycling, and generally having a whale of a time outdoors. He’s got his own little fishing set up now, complete with his chair, sandwiches, and a drink – he just loves it.

As for me and Marc – well, we’ve spent the summer mostly running after the kids, but we did manage a very special trip up to Shetland. My brother got married, we got to meet their new baby, and of course, I had precious time with Mum and Dad, who I hadn’t seen for ages. That was just wonderful.

And now, while all of this family excitement is going on, I’m knee-deep in Christmas planning for the shop. It always feels a little odd planning wreath kits, festive shawls, and yarny gifts in the height of summer, but as every small business owner knows, you have to work a season ahead. So while the kids are all off doing their big exciting things, I’ll be here keeping the wheels turning and the shelves stocked, ready for a very busy few months ahead.

So yes – lots of changes, lots of milestones, and plenty of proud (and slightly emotional) moments. I’m not sure the house will ever feel the same without two of the big boys here full time, but I know it’s exactly where they’re meant to be. And just like at home, the shop is changing and growing too – with new projects, new yarns, and new ideas ready to share with you all.

Thanks for reading my little family catch-up – it’s lovely to share these moments with you. 

Dymphna