When someone you love passes away, it can feel like they have disappeared completely from your life and the world.

This is how I felt when I lost my great Aunt Fay in 2011.

Even though I was able to say goodbye, her death left a void in my heart that I can still feel today. Recently, I found a way to keep her memory alive and feel connected to her again.

My Aunt Fay was a remarkable woman. One thing that I remember about her is that she loved to crochet. In fact, she dedicated a lot of her time to crocheting stuffed animals and donating them to the Children’s Hospital. A few months ago, I was cleaning my closet and found a box of items she had crocheted for me. There were scarves, purses, blankets, and a few plush toys.

I had forgotten all about these beautiful creations that she had gifted me. For a brief moment, I felt connected to her again. I wanted that feeling to last, and I knew exactly what to do. I called my grandma and borrowed some yarn, a crochet hook, and a list of basic stitches. With all the necessary tools, I was ready to start my first project.

It went horribly.

I assumed I would have a natural talent for it, but I was wrong! I couldn’t believe how difficult it was to crochet. I struggled to start a chain, get the yarn on the hook, and do a simple stitch.

While frustrated with my lack of ability, I developed a deeper appreciation for my aunt and the effort she put into her projects. Trying out someone’s favorite activity can teach you a lot about that person – even if they have passed away. Experiencing these little things can help you better understand who your loved one was and help you feel closer to them. I learned that Frances Giangiobbe must have been the most patient woman on Earth, and I would need to follow her lead to reach my goals.

It took a few months of hard work, dedication, and patience, but I completed a few of my own projects.

Now, my focus will be learning to crochet stuffed animals so they can be donated to the Children’s Hospital, just like my Aunt Fay used to do.

When someone passes away, projects are often left unfinished. If you are able, complete it as a way to honor their memory. The connection we have with our loved ones is something that cannot be broken by death, and it lives on and evolves, even after their passing. By doing an activity they enjoyed, you can feel closer to them.

As you perform their favorite activity, imagine your loved one by your side and tell them, “I do it for you.”

Written by: Paige Muttillo | Marketing Manager | Catholic Cemeteries Association