Dear Grammie,
I was so lucky that you and Nannie taught me to quilt back in the late 1990s. I still love to quilt and crafts have become such a big part of my life over the last ten years.
When we were together, though, I had no interest in knitting. I don't ever remember trying to learn to knit with you. I did with my mom, and later with Aubrey's mom, but I don't think we ever did that together.
I do remember you knitting and crocheting, though. Well, to be honest I don't remember you actually working on your projects, but I remember many, many sweaters that you made for us and the rest of the family over the years. I remember you and Grampie wearing matching sweaters in Pugwash. I remember lots of holiday decorations and ornaments made by you. I'm sure my mom still has lots of those.
For almost 30 years I had no interest in knitting at all. And then I became pregnant with Ethan. Before I even knew I was pregnant I had this overwhelming desire to learn to knit. I'm not sure where it came from, but I am so grateful to be knitting now.
It turns out that quilting with a toddler is not an easy task. It's just not something that you can do with ten minute chunks of time. And it's certianly not something you can drag around the house with you all day. But I can pick up a (simple) knitting project and hang out with Ethan while he plays. It's a great way for us to spend time together - he's doing something he loves and I'm doing something I love.
So far I've finished a hat and a baby sweater. Right now I'm working on a lap blanket, a baby blanket, a pair of felted slippers and a stuffed bunny.
I often think of you when I'm knitting. Mostly I think "what would you say if you knew that I've learned to knit with YouTube videos?" Times have changed so much in the last ten years. Most of my knitting patterns and ideas online on Ravelry. When I come to a tricky stitch that I don't know while I'm knitting (recently I learned how to wrap-and-turn) I just load up a video on YouTube and I'm all set.
I am sad that I missed out on learning this craft from you. But I am happy that I am able to share my knitted gifts with my family and our friends.
Love,
Michelle