Amigurumi is my summer obsession! Basically, it's a fancy name for crocheting stuffed animals. And it is so much fun!

I think everyone should try it, and this is why. Last summer I crocheted a baby toy for my sister-in-law's baby shower. It's a ring toy where the middle post is a snake and each ring is a different insect: a bee, a ladybug and a dragonfly. I was really proud of how it turned out and it inspired many other future creations.

My nephew Andrew was born in November and I got to visit him when he was a couple of weeks old. My brother and his family live in Pittsburgh, so seeing the new baby was a very special occasion.

When I went to Pittsburgh, I saw Andrew's room and my amigurumi ring toy was sitting on the shelf. I was glad it was on display, but I wondered if he would ever play with it.

Then, a couple weeks ago I got this picture from my brother.

My nephew Andrew with his amigurumi ring toy

The feeling I got when I saw this adorable picture of my nephew playing with the toy that I crocheted for him... there's nothing like it. I love seeing pictures of people wearing my beanies, but this was a whole new level of love, pride and fulfillment.

So, I want to share the amigurumi love. I've been creating lots of boards on Pinterest, so click here for some free patterns and amigurumi inspiration. And, this week I've been working on designing my own patterns, which is loads of fun and I'll be sharing those very soon!

Peace, love and amigurumi!