Nov 13 2006

New Hobby

Thanks to Shari’s patient guidance, I learned a new skill this weekend: crocheting.

Crochet. It’s the kind of activity that you envision little blue-haired ladies doing whilst sipping Earl Grey tea and sitting on their rocking chairs on the front porch. But recently, it seems that knitting and crocheting have shirked their old lady stigmas and a new generation of young and hip needleworkers have arisen. Books like “Stich ‘N Bitch” have turned knitting into a revolution of sorts. I discovered that the same author followed up with a book for crocheters called, “The Happy Hooker.” (Sitting on my bookshelf, that title will certainly raise some eyebrows, I’m sure.)

Ever since Shari gifted me with a cozy hand-made crochet blankey and Winnie sent me two beautifully knit scarves, I was determined that someday I would be able to return the favor.

I love crafts, but keeping the schedule that I was left me little time to pursue time-consuming hobbies. Since homework is now a thing of the past, I now have some flex time in which to fill with pursuits that please me. I have found that crocheting is a relaxing diversion that helps me decompress after a stressful day at work. This weekend, I enjoyed lounging outside on the patio with Shari, crocheting and chatting the afternoon away. (”Crocheting and chatting” doesn’t have the same ring as “stitching ‘n bitching,” does it?)

I had forgotten how wonderful it is to spend time with friends. School had forced me into a state of virtual hermitude and friendships sometimes fell by the wayside. I am so thankful that I have patient and understanding friends. Hanging out with Shari never fails to transport me to another time and place — where our cares are few and laughs are plenty. This weekend was no exception.

I need more three day weekends. More time to relax. More time to crochet. So, who wants a scarf?

10 Responses to “New Hobby”

1. # lindaon 14 Nov 2006 at 10:51 am

   >>whilst sipping Earl Grey tea and sitting on their rocking chairs on the front porch

   that sounds like a perfect afternoon to me! wonderful job donna, i can’t wait to see the finished blanket!

2. # Aprilon 14 Nov 2006 at 3:57 pm

   On top of my desk hutch there sits a book on Crochet, several hooks, and a yummy skein of yarn. But, alas, books aren’t quite as helpful as a real live friend and not quite as fun so there sits my “to-be” hobby. Just waiting. You are SO lucky to have Shari to help you!!!

   April

3. # susanon 14 Nov 2006 at 5:37 pm

   I crochet off and on…more off than on… I find it relaxing for the most part, but sometimes frustrated when it just doesn’t look right. Your stitches look very even…no surprise. Keep it up! Who wants a scarf? I’d love to have a scarf. Would have to wait for that one day in December or January to wear it though.

4. # zayon 15 Nov 2006 at 9:29 am

   I love crocheting. I think I’m going to purchase “The Happy Hooker” this weekend. I have been eyeballing that book for a little while.

5. # lindyon 15 Nov 2006 at 9:05 pm

   i use to love to crochet too! it was relaxing, while i watched tv. knitting on the other hand stressed me…could not watch tv and knit at the same time. i agree with susu ..your stitching is very even! you virgo, you!! i’m glad you can do these things now instead of studying!

6. # Donnaon 15 Nov 2006 at 10:41 pm

   Thanks for the encouragement, everybody! As I get better, I’ll start working on gifts! Right now, I have a lot to learn and a long way to go before my stitching looks nice enough to give away. (I am hoping by the time I’m done with this blanket, I will be an old pro. ha!)

7. # Mark From Hawaiion 16 Nov 2006 at 10:18 pm

   Remember those knitted hats with the Primo beer can cutouts on the side? Errr… maybe not because that was from the 70s I think. Anyway, I think it’s about time to revive that design.

8. # Donnaon 16 Nov 2006 at 10:36 pm

   @Mark from Hawaii: Oh my goodness, yes, I remember those. Not that I ever owned one, but I remember seeing them. Wasn’t that hat featured on “Raps Hawaii” in the “I like the crackah” spot? Anyway, if I ever learn how to make a beer can crochet hat, you got first dibs. However, I would be hard pressed to find Primo beer these days. You might have to settle for Heineken or something.

9. # winnieon 17 Nov 2006 at 2:08 pm

   i’d like to place an order for a crichet-thingy-a-majigy please. looks good d!

10. # Mark From Hawaiion 17 Nov 2006 at 9:06 pm

    OOoo YESSSS!!!! But uhhh, better make that a Barq’s rootbeer hat (if I wear it at church).