One Single Crochet at a Time

Are you a crafter? Sewer? Crocheter? Knitter? or have a gift to create something new out of something else? If so, how do you use this gift. I have friends who use their creative gift to provide for their families and others who volunteer for different organizations to provide for others in need. I have friends who do both.

At Christmas or on your birthday, which do you prefer ~ the hand made gift or one from the mall? I love the gifts made with love by my parents, friends, and family. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy being spoiled by the material things in life yet these are the gifts I remember for years or that generally bring a tear and memory when I see them after a loved one passes away.

I come from a family who gifts from the heart. I never realized what a blessing this was until I was older, yet now, I'm thankful on a daily basis because of it. My hope is to pass this tradition to my daughter.

Each Christmas I "make" something for my daughter. One year I made a simple quilt, only squares. Thanks to the help of a friend, the backing was on and it was finished before Christmas morning.

This year I crocheted a bag for her. The only thing she saw on Christmas morning was a crocheted star, with a black and orange pattern. I also put the pattern with it, but on the bottom. Her face was priceless as she asked, "Thanks Mom, it's ? ? ? great? But what is it?" I chuckled and then took the pattern from the bottom of the bag and showed her. Excitement ensued. She asked where the rest was. I decided to let her choose the colors, it's her bag after all.

It was fun to watch her choose the colors and decided what order they would be crocheted in. Once the actual bag was finished, I used left over fleece from her eighth grade home economics sewing project, to make a liner with two pockets. I was able to crochet, sew, and add buttons. Mom found a peace sign to add so there is a little of her Aunt Heidi with her too. The large button used for the clasp, is from one of Heidi's sweaters. A bag made with love for someone very near and dear to me.

I enjoy making and gifting personal items to those I care about, whether it's a crocheted dish cloth, a bag, or a quilt. My hope is that the recipient knows each stitch, crochet, design, and project was done in love and covered in prayer. When I know "who" I'm making it for in advance, I pray for them specifically as I make it.

My daughter doesn't carry a bag to school, she carries a reminder she is prayed for and loved by her Mom. An unconditional and life-long gift...

A friend mourns the loss of her Mom today - will you lift a prayer for her and her family. The bond of mother and daughter is strong. I pray she, and you, can hold on to the memories and treasure the gifts of love left behind.

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What gift of love means the most to you?
Can you pick just one?