Crochet, Recovery, and the Power of Creating Through Hard Seasons

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Between hospital days, recovery, and new crochet projects, I’ve been finding strength and healing through the power of creating.

It’s been an emotional few weeks full of hospital days, healing, and a little bit of crochet sprinkled in between. From Britton’s surgery and recovery to new yarn finds and holiday projects, here’s what’s been happening lately.

Crochet diaries the Power of Creating Through Hard Seasons

Crochet Diaries: Britton’s Surgery, Recovery, and a Little Yarn Talk

In my last Crochet Diaries post, I mentioned that we had Britton’s surgery scheduled for his kyphosis and scoliosis. It’s been quite an emotional journey since then, and I wanted to share an update with you all — both for those who have been following along and those who may be going through something similar.

A Spooky-Fun Sendoff

The day before we left for Britton’s surgery, we decided to sneak in one last bit of fun and headed to our favorite spot — the Haunted Putt & Play. It’s one of our go-to places during the summer, and we couldn’t resist checking out their Halloween setup before the season ended.

The course was so well decorated — just the right mix of spooky and family-friendly. It had that perfect small-town charm with just enough jump scares to make you laugh and clutch your putter a little tighter. It ended up being the best “last hurrah” before we settle in for the long wait until it opens again next summer.

Preparing for the Trip and Surgery

In the days leading up to the surgery, I kept myself busy getting ready to leave town for a week while we stayed up in Syracuse for the procedure and recovery at the children’s hospital. I tried not to let my mind wander into the “what ifs,” but when I did, my thoughts would start racing. So keeping busy was the best way to cope.

On the drive up to the hospital, we saw a beautiful rainbow stretching across the sky. I don’t know what it is about rainbows, but they always feel like a little sign from above that everything’s going to be okay.

After weeks of worry and all the emotions leading up to the surgery, that rainbow felt like a gentle reminder to breathe — that even after the storm, beauty shows up in the most unexpected ways.

When the day came, we made the trip to Syracuse, and the process began. Britton was understandably nervous. Watching them wheel him away was one of those moments where your heart feels like it’s in your throat.

The surgery took five hours, though it was six and a half before I could finally see him again. The nurse called every hour to update me — always saying things were moving as they should — and I appreciated those calls more than I can say. Around 7 p.m., I finally got the call that he was in recovery and I could go see him.

Nothing prepared me for how hard that moment would be. His color was off, his eyes were watery, and even with pain medication, he was clearly in a lot of pain. I got choked up just saying hello to him.

The First Few Days After Surgery

The first night was rough. There’s really no sugarcoating it. Britton was uncomfortable no matter what position he tried, and we were both watching the clock for when the next round of pain meds was due. Over the next two or three days, things slowly improved — but it was still so hard to see a 16-year-old in tears, hurting, and not being able to do much more than sit by his side.

It was one of those experiences that constantly swung between heartbreak and small victories. One moment, you’re holding back tears, and the next, you’re cheering because he sat up or took a few steps.

A Week in Syracuse

I packed all my yarn (and even our bikes!) to help pass the time — but I did exactly zero crocheting or riding while we were there. Britton didn’t sleep much, and there wasn’t nearly as much downtime as I thought there would be.

I managed to do a little computer work here and there, and one afternoon my sister and I walked over to the Syracuse University campus. It was beautiful — and the students were so friendly! That was probably the longest I was out of the hospital room all week.

Heading Home and Starting Recovery

They ended up releasing Britton a day early, which was such a welcome surprise. We spent one night at our Airbnb before packing up to head home. His recovery will definitely be a long journey, but each day brings a little progress. There’s still plenty of pain and exhaustion, but also gratitude for how far he’s come already.

Right now, we’re staying at my parents’ house for the first couple of weeks of recovery. Their home is the most accessible — no stairs, a walk-in shower, and plenty of space for him to move around comfortably. I’m thankful for their help and support during this stage.

End of the Riding Season (Almost)

With all the rain and wind lately, my bike rides have slowed down quite a bit. I’ve been hesitant to set up my indoor trainer — not because it’s hard, but because it just feels so final, like officially saying goodbye to outdoor rides for the season.

I did stock up on some cold-weather cycling gear, so I might try to squeeze in a few more chilly rides before winter fully takes over. But for simplicity’s sake, I might end up giving in and spinning indoors until spring (as much as I really don’t want to).

That said, there were a couple of unexpectedly perfect cycling days recently — and you best believe I jumped at the chance to get out there and ride! There’s nothing quite like that mix of crisp air, quiet roads, and the freedom that comes from pedaling under a fall sky.

Crochet Updates: Christmas Projects and New Yarn Love

In other news, I finally finished the crochet portion of our upcoming Christmas event! Normally I’d like to be a little further ahead by this point, but with everything going on, I’m giving myself grace. I’m so happy with how these squares turned out — they might be my favorite yet!

Do you have any guesses about what this year’s Christmas event will be?

I still need to film the border tutorial for my Woodland Bloom Blanket — it’s been sitting there ready to go for weeks now. Once I’m back home for good (I’ll be here at my parents’ for a few more days), that’s at the top of my list.

And because I clearly can’t help myself, I also started a new project using Premier Anti-Pilling Everyday Worsted in a gorgeous green shade. I’m honestly wondering why I’ve never used this yarn before! It’s soft, has a subtle sheen, and the anti-pilling feature is such a bonus. The blanket pattern I’m working on is very textured — not exactly a mindless project, but once you get into the rhythm of the repeat, it becomes quite relaxing.

Wrapping Up

It’s been a challenging few weeks, but also a reminder of strength, patience, and the importance of celebrating small victories — both in healing and in life. Britton’s recovery will take time, but we’re moving forward one day at a time, surrounded by love, family, and (of course) a whole lot of yarn.

Thank you all for your continued thoughts, prayers, and messages of support. It truly means the world to us.

XOXO,
Christine