At Crochetree, we believe the most meaningful stories are best told by the makers themselves. Terry Hansen shared her journey with us, and we’re honored to share it with you below, in her own words.
"I am fairly new to crochet, just started last year. My father had a stroke in March of last year, one day short of his 90th Birthday. For many hours over the course of the next few months, my sister, Julie and I sat together at his bedside and she usually brought her crochet with her. Eventually, I asked her to show me how to crochet. Julie and I are the 2 middle of 4 sisters and are only a year apart in age. As children, we were extremely close, but as we grew older, we grew apart. Even though we only lived about 30 minutes away from each other, we only saw each other at family gatherings and rarely even spoke on the phone. I guess that happens sometimes in families, with life changes, disagreements, etc. But as we sat together with my father, we talked as we crocheted and shared project ideas and wonderful family stories about our life.
Now in the year since my father passed away, we continue to see each other regularly and talk on the phone almost every day. When she calls me, the conversation usually goes like this, Julie: "what are you doing, crocheting I bet"? Me: Yep, got another project started. Want to go yarn shopping with me?" "or how about I come over and we work on a project together". She says she created a monster. And she will be the first to admit that my crocheting skills have far surpassed hers already.
My father's illness and passing brought us back together and crochet has kept that newly healed bond strong. I have 6 grandchildren, ages 23, 19, 19, 16, 13 and 1. The 5 older grandbabies grew up near me and have many memories with "MeeMaw". However, the youngest lives in North Dakota and I live in Texas and I have had very few opportunities to see her in person, and when she does, I usually have my crochet with me.
So when I was looking through Facebook and saw an ad for the Crochetree dolls, I was excited, especially when I saw the Granny Grace pattern. I thought the Granny Grace Doll looked a little like me (maybe) so I was excited to give her a try. I was amazed at how easy the pattern was to follow. Of course, I had to adapt the clothing to reflect the way I am usually dressed (I pretty much only wear legging and bright colored tunics). I am really happy with how she turned out and I am excited to give her as a gift for her 2nd birthday, her very own MeeMaw Terry Doll to be with her when I cannot be.
So once again, crochet has helped create that connection across the miles. I also purchased the Pattern for the Akshaya Doll, since I am into Bellydance and a few months ago, I was at a Bellydance convention and took a Bollywood dance class. Akshaya looks very much like the lovely lady who taught the class. I am looking forward to creating many more of these dolls to join me as I continue my crochet journey.
Thank You for allowing me to share my story."
