Auntie at 96

Remember my Auntie from last year? 95 years old. Keeps busy with crocheting toys. Lives joyfully and is thankful for each new day.

She's now 96 and is looking forward to turning 97 in November.



Notice her sweater. She made it. And the lapghan. Yep, she made that too.

There was a book next to her on the couch: Afghans for All Seasons. I asked about it and Auntie said she's planning on making an afghan, but that she's having a hard time deciding which one. She told me that she'd choose a pattern and pull out the yarn. Then the next day, another afghan would catch her eye. Or she'd start thinking that she'd prefer to work with different colors and then that would lead to yet another pattern.

I was hoping that next-project-on-the-needles indecisiveness would be something I'd outgrow. But, I guess not!

Auntie

Last week, a visit was paid to my Auntie.



95 years old. Lives by herself. On the couch is everything she needs to keep busy during the day. A book, TV remote, a radio, a mini-bar bell, pattern book, polyfill, a crocheted penguin in progress.

Yes, Auntie is one of us--a needlecrafter.
A very, very talented one.





Look at this colorful golfer:



Aren't those toys amazing?!

Most of them aren't made with anybody in mind. Auntie is making the toys for the sheer joy and pleasure of doing so. Hands are busy. Working crochet hooks and knitting needles provide a soothing rhythm. A challenge in the pattern gives the brain a work-out. The finished product makes us smile and marvel.

Isn't this why we all pick up needles?

Auntie is also one of the most stylish women I've ever known. Her style was always expressed in little details--a ruffle, chic gloves, a hat worn just so. Please notice the ribbon around her neck in this photo:



Auntie was not expecting company that day--this was her hanging out at home outfit. But, look how she added a jaunty ribbon and brought a bit of style to a blouse and shorts.

A remarkable, kind, joyful, talented woman.

So what kind of a stash does a 95 year old have?