Crochet: The Craft that Evokes Memories

Time Becomes More Valuable With Age

One of the ongoing conversations my husband, Mark, and I have is about time. As we grow older—and as our family does, too—we’ve started to think more deeply about how we spend our time.

When we were younger, we didn’t worry about running out of time or making memories. We assumed we had plenty of it and took experiences for granted. But these days, time seems to be on our minds constantly.

Choosing What Truly Matters

Right now, we feel like time is our most valuable possession. Why? Because it’s limited. It moves fast. We never know how much we have left—either together or with the people we love.

That’s why we’re more intentional about how we spend our days. We want to be present for the moments that matter and create lasting memories, even if it’s just by enjoying simple time together.

Wildfires and a Personal Shift

As I write this from Northern Arizona, wildfires are spreading through our state and nearby regions. Mark used to get deployed to help firefighting teams through his work with the National Park Service and US Forest Service.

Over the weekend, some of his former colleagues were deployed again. I asked him if he ever considered going back out on a team. He didn’t hesitate to answer: “No.”

He told me that he’d rather stay home with me, even with our busy lives filled with work, chores, and caregiving. Spending time together every night has become something we truly treasure.

How Crochet Connects Us

So, how does crochet tie into all this? I’ve found that crochet evokes deep, personal memories for many people.

At craft shows, visitors often stop by my booth not just to look—but to talk. They share stories of their grandmothers who crocheted. Some remember having a hat like one I made. Others recall learning to crochet as a child but regret not keeping up with it.

Many tell me they still have a cherished item made by a loved one. It’s so precious that they don’t even use it, afraid something might happen to it.

A Moment That Takes Them Back

While they talk, I can see the emotions rise to the surface. They’re not just telling a story—they’re reliving it. For a moment, they go back in time.

I can almost picture them in a cozy kitchen, learning from a grandmother. I imagine a living room filled with doilies and handmade afghans. Maybe there are baby clothes tucked away in a memory box, crocheted decades ago.

In those moments, their stress fades. What rises instead are warm memories filled with love and connection.

Creating New Memories Through Handmade Work

To me, those memories are everything. Our time with loved ones isn’t guaranteed, and the little moments are what matter most.

That’s why it fills my heart to know my crochet work might bring back one of those memories for someone. Even if it’s just a passing thought or a small smile—it’s worth it.