Reflecting on Hook & Book: A Week of Crocheting, Company, and Exploration

Our first retreat of the year was a huge success, and we’re already counting down the days until the next one! Here are some of our favorite moments from Hook & Book.

Each day had at least one workshop, allowing participants to learn new techniques, ask Lee their burning crochet questions, and chat as a group. Whether learning about invisible decreases, tension tricks, cluster stitches, or Tunisian crochet, there was always something new to practice. By the end of the retreat, participants had all the tools they needed to complete their Ursula amigurumi dolls, as well as a newfound knack for cables and Tunisian crochet.

Participants also received crochet swag bags, and we had a fun morning of unboxing the items. Packed with beautiful supplies from Lee’s partners, the swag bags held ergonomic crochet hooks, hand-dyed yarn, crochet books, pins, travel scissors, and so much more.

When we weren’t crocheting or enjoying delicious home-cooked meals, we ventured to various sites around Ericeira and beyond. Our day trip to Sintra was a definite highlight. After a delicious group dinner in town, participants explored the winding paths of Quinta da Regaleira. They immersed themselves in lush gardens and grottos, explored the enigmatic Initiation Well, and snapped photos of stunning castles and chapels.

In their free time, participants relaxed and explored Ericeira. They sampled the local cuisine, paid a visit to the local yarn store, and wandered through the cobblestone streets. Ericeira, with its ocean breezes and laidback charm, is the perfect place to recharge between workshops.

To cap off the retreat, we enjoyed a celebratory wine tasting where participants played Fiber Confessions (a fun card game centered around the fiber arts). We followed up the tasting with a trip to the coast to watch the sunset, then headed back to O House for a farewell dinner and a campfire under the stars. We traded stories and laughs, savoring a final night together before everyone headed back home.

Every morning with this retreat was one of gratitude and excitement for the day ahead. It really spoke to our motto of “wake up with a grateful heart,” and we are thrilled that the 2026 retreat season got off to such a strong start.

This Saturday, we have another crochet retreat kicking off, and we can’t wait to dive into more cozy days filled with creativity, appreciation, and connection.

We’ll be back soon with more updates on retreats and life in Ericeira - until then, take care, and wake up with a grateful heart! ❤️

Check out our recap video from the retreat here!