After I had just turned eight, my Nonna taught me how to crochet. I forget how exactly it came up— I think I just saw her crocheting one day and decided I wanted to learn. Next thing I know, I’m sitting in the back seat of my grandparents’ car, experimenting with my crochet hook after learning how to do a chain stitch. That’s how it all began.
My first project was a scarf— pretty typical. It wasn’t a bad scarf, but it was clearly a beginner that made it! After that, I decided to surprise my mom that Christmas with a set of things that matched the scarf— a headband, mittens, and a cowl. I was super proud of it but always wondered why my mom didn’t wear these items outside (now I know!).
From there, I learned new kinds of stitches and expanded my creations. I crocheted washcloths, more headbands, doilies, and a hat. I even tried making a shirt, which I wore twice and still have somewhere in my closet. There was also a crochet club at my library, and despite being the youngest (by about 40 years), I still went for a short time. Those ladies there taught me a ton about crocheting, like how to read patterns and the best kind of yarn to use for certain projects. They also taught me that it’s okay to make mistakes; that’s part of the process! To this day, I’m forever grateful for everything I’ve learned.
My first blanket was one giant granny square— if you don’t crochet, that is basically a pattern that goes around and around in a square until it is big enough to your liking. That project took a LONG time to complete, but it was worth it. I haven’t made a blanket exactly like that one since but instead have made four that are made up of a bunch of little granny squares. Even though they are baby blankets, they took a long time to crochet, weave in all the loose ends, sew together, and make the border. Below I have a full picture and a close-up to see the detail. 
So yeah, over the years I have accumulated quite a few projects: the above blankets and an additional one, lots of scarves and cowls, a sweater I made when I was twelve, little stuffed animals (that make great gifts), the list goes on. Right now, my current project is a pillowcase to match my room theme.
I’m glad crocheting is becoming more popular among this generation. It’s really a great pastime to have with cute results. I don’t know what to make next after I complete my pillowcase, but I know that crocheting is a part of me that isn’t going anywhere.