As the sun set on undoubtedly the most enjoyable springtime in memory for me, change loomed; a new home, new sheep, a new boss and above all, a new country.

A move across the Irish Sea had been in discussion for some time but as a contract hill shepherd, lambing took precedence and relocation was put on hold.

It seems fitting that my last lambing time at home was filled with endless sunshine and healthy lambs. I skipped around wearing shorts and the farm had never looked better. At times I’d swear the unbelievable spell of weather was sent to pull on my heartstrings and make sure I knew what I was leaving!

Regardless, as soon as the last lamb hit the ground I waved goodbye to my wee house in the Perthshire hills, central Scotland and I now sit writing in Aughabrack, Co Tyrone which, luckily, turns out to be equally as stunning.

Whether it be strategic or unfortunate, I’ll let you decide, but one week into the move and my new boss (also my significant other) has fractured his knee.

While I’m duty bound to be sympathetic, especially after his care and attention over Christmas whilst I had a broken foot, I struggle to not suggest that it does seem coincidental that his injury arrives just as we start clipping. Boyfriend or not, my complaints have fallen on deaf ears and I seem to be spending a lot of time with a handpiece in my hand and hundreds of Blackface ewes patiently awaiting a new haircut.

Lucy's sheepdogs have also made the trip from Scotland to Northern Ireland.

As a sheepdog enthusiast, I’m excited to have moved to an area with countless sheepdog trials and like-minded people. My own pack have settled in well and we even made it to a trial at The National Sheep Association (NSA) Sheep NI event this week (Tuesday 1 July). No prizes but I was pleased with how my boys ran and it was a great opportunity to meet people and attend a great event showcasing agriculture in my new home.