I love making things for the sake of making things--it's as much about the process as it is about the finished product. I enjoy planning projects--picking colors and fibers, gathering supplies, working through problems and hiccups, sketching it out. The moment of anticipation right before I sit down to actually start something can't be beat.

(This may also be why I can't stop finding new crafts I want to learn. The lure of new tools, new supplies, and a new world of things to make is nearly irresistible. Knitting, sewing, tatting, and crewel embroidery are just some of the skills I intend to add to my repertoire.)

Of course, the downside to this sort of process-orientated creating is that I end up with more scarves that I could possibly wear, or a variety of hats even though I don't wear them, or an afghan that's perfect for the baby I don't have. Sure, I can inflict my creations on friends and family (and believe me, I have), but eventually, I decided it was time to send them farther out into the world. And that's where the Hooray Crochet adventure was born.

No matter what I'm making, there are a few qualities I think will always influence my work: I want to have fun, and I want the people who see my work to know I'm having fun. I want other people to enjoy it as much as I do. I will always love bright colors and beautiful textures. I'm endlessly inspired by traditional forms and materials and the myriad ways they can be interpreted. I will never say no to a good granny square...except in clothing. (Sorry, granny square clothing.)

Crochet as a craft has so much potential that's only barely been tapped. I can't wait to see what will emerge and I love being able to participate in the exploration.