While reflecting on why I picked up the needles again, I realized that it was a process that began in January when my mom and I booked tickets to fly out to visit my sister who lives in Israel. She has 6 kids – 10 and younger – and so I always try to bring some crafts to do when I come out to visit. While thinking about what might be unique and fun, cruising the craft aisles of Michaels, I came upon the Knifty Knitter Looms by Provo Craft. Since Provo Craft is HUGE in the scrapbooking world, I was drawn to a tool by them for something different. I picked up a set for me, because I had to learn how to use them first before deciding whether my sister’s kids could master them. Fun Fur was also on sale at JoAnns that weekend (President’s Day) for $1 a skein, so I figured that I couldn’t go wrong.
Within 2 days I had my first scarf finished. 
I proceeded to make another scarf and a matching hat within a week, along with a few baby hats for my new nephew.
It was this success that gave me the confidence to pick up a “First Crochet” and the yarn to make a baby blanket for my nephew. I did manage to get that done in 2 weeks and was hooked (bad pun, I know). On the plane to Israel, I managed to crochet the single skein scarf from “Happy Hooker” which I gave to one of my nieces. It helped make the 12 hours go by rather quickly. While there, I was talked into making scarves for 3 of my nieces and nephews on the loom with Fun Fur and I also managed to crochet another single skein scarf for myself. It really is a wonderful pattern – so simple, and results in a beautiful scarf. My mom, who hasn’t crocheted in over 30 years, even crocheted one on the plane ride home.
I didn’t pick up my knitting needles again, however, until after our trip to Disney World in the middle of March….
