As we all know, I’ve got quite a bit of time on my hands lately. A completely open agenda with nothing to fill my days besides scheduled gym classes, taking the dog for a walk, and checking various platforms for new job postings. The days were getting too long and too boring and I was on the verge of going crazy. I couldn’t even sit still through a whole episode of a show; fidgeting so much that I’d have to get up and find something new to do. I may not be able to sit still to read a book yet, but I’ve found a few things that have kept me busy, that allow me to relax, that I can do while binge watching Netflix series, and that are fulfilling and fun!!

Now be forewarned – you’d think after reading this that it was written by an 80 year old. Yes I may have skipped a few decades in the hobby department, but once we all accept the fact that I’m a grandma we’ll all get along better. I’ve started to fill my empty days with knitting and cross stitch.

Knitting is something I’ve always enjoyed. My mom taught me how to knit at a young age and I used to knit scarves in high school to donate as volunteer work. A few years ago, while I struggled to find an idea for Christmas gifts, I found a great winter headband pattern that I went crazy with and knit about 10 of them (sorry for everyone who got those for Christmas). Once I find a pattern I can handle, I keep going and make a ton before I’m truly sick of it. Now I’m stuck with a bunch of headbands, who wants one? Now I’ve found a different pattern that I’m sinking my teeth into. Corey became an uncle two weeks ago and as its the first baby in the family for either one of us, we’re going a little crazy (in an incredibly good way of course). I’m knitting a big, fluffy, baby blanket and I’m so happy with how it’s turning out! I still have a long way to go but I’ll show you when it’s complete.

Second is the cross stitch. This is a newer project for me. I once completed a cross stitch for a fourth year University assignment. Art Historians get a little clever with their line of study. I recreated a patterned altar piece from the 14th century and boy did I bite off more than I could chew. It turned out extremely well for never having cross stitched before and I wish I still had it today to show you. I’ve recently started a pattern from a kit bought at the craft store. If it turns out well it’ll be another gift for the baby. It has some cute animals and fancy designs and I’ve already messed up quite a few times. I find cross stitch needs more of my concentration so it’s more of a silent or audio book kind of activity.

I’ve finally come to accept the fact that my days are going to be boring and that I’ll laze around the couch a bit more than I’d like, but I have to keep my hands busy or I do go a little crazy. My knitting and cross stitch have helped fill that void, and it’s always better to have someone to make these project for. I may have skipped a few generations and gone a little past my years with these projects, but dang I’m good at it!

Have you ever tried knitting? Cross Stitch? Raise your hand if you think I’m crazy!

Ps. Another interview this week!!