Where I’ve Been (and What I’ve Been Up To)

I’ve been a little quiet on here lately… but for good reason. It’s been one of those months that feels full in the best possible way — busy, exciting, and full of new experiences.

The biggest highlight has to be my recent trip to Costa Rica. I’ve just come back from the most incredible adventure, and I’m still buzzing from it. From the misty cloud forests of Savegre, to the wild canals of Tortuguero and the sun-soaked shores of Manuel Antonio — every place felt completely different, and all of it was unforgettable.

I’ll admit, I was a little nervous setting off on my own. Solo travel felt like a big step. But as soon as the trip began, that feeling disappeared and I didn’t look back. Between spotting sloths (definitely my favourite! 🦥), zip-lining through the rainforest, and even white-water rafting, I found myself completely hooked.

What really made the trip though was the wildlife, the sheer variety of landscapes, and the lovely group of people I met along the way. It’s one of those experiences I know I’ll carry with me for a long time.

And, as always, travel has left me feeling inspired. Coming home, my head is full of ideas and I’m excited to get my hands back into clay and see where it all leads.

Back on home soil, there have been some really special milestones too. I feel incredibly lucky (and a more than a little proud!) to have joined the Kirkcarrion Artists Collective. Being part of a group of artists and having my work displayed in their beautiful gallery in Middleton-in-Teesdale feels like a big step forward.

Even more exciting — I’ve now sold two pieces. It’s hard to describe how that feels, but knowing that someone has connected with something I’ve made and wants to take it home is pretty amazing.

Outside of the studio, life has been just as full. We celebrated my sister-in-law Bev’s 50th with a games night that turned into one of those evenings you wish you could bottle — full of laughter and including performing a choreographed dance routine!

I’ve also quietly been working away at Couch to 5K, and I completed my final run recently. Something I wasn’t sure I’d ever say — but I actually enjoyed it. There’s something satisfying about sticking with something and seeing it through.

And it doesn’t stop here. There are lots of lovely things coming up — I’m starting a clay club at another local school, I’ve got a stall at Darlington Makers Market on 9th May, and as I write this, the kiln is full and ready to be fired.

So yes… a very full month. I’m feeling grateful, a little bit tired, but mostly excited for what’s next.

Watch this space....