Long about this time of year I used to go digging through my stash of Christmas gifts for something to do that was different. Toys, puzzles, and games that had been played often during winter months no longer held much allure. This was my cue to break into crafts.

How well I remember the year I opened a bag of multi-colored cotton loops, pulling out the square, wooden frame with metal pegs on all four sides to make potholders. Weaving totally consumed my attention, but one error in the pattern was a spoiler. Oh, how I hated having to take my handiwork apart. It was so much more fun to focus on combining colors. Those small, woven potholders were great gifts and can still be found in grandmother's linen closet.

Crafts can help a person get through the gray days of a long winter. Each generation seems to find its own crafts, hobbies, and arts. I'm fascinated to watch my seven-year-old grandson making bracelets with colorful, little rubber loops. This craft seems to wildly popular today. While I've watched some youngsters making their bracelets with looms, my grandson does it all with simply his nimble fingers.

Crafts often lead to lifelong hobbies and practical skills. My middle school granddaughter is already sewing clothes thanks to interest that was cultivated by our crafting together. Presenting her with her first sewing machine couldn't have made me happier. I imagined her learning to try new patterns with fun materials to make things she can wear as well as decorations for her room when I gave her a sewing machine of her very own.

One of the best pastimes is art-drawing, painting, sculpting. These creative endeavors can be satisfying at any age or skill level. Our own Indianapolis Art Center, indplsartcenter.org, whose mission is "to engage, enlighten and enhance through art education, participation and observation," is a great place for adults and children. Take a class, enjoy the exhibits, or check out the gift store. The IAC is a gem that can help all the residents of the area express their inner artist and keep busy until the weather calls us outside.

I think a good part of arts and crafts is the sense of accomplishment, ending up with something you've been wanting for yourself or a handmade gift. Hours spent crafting are hours well spent in my book. Just as I was encouraged to try my hand at lots and lots of things when I was young, I like to cheer others along. Also, the more you do, the more you're inclined to do and be willing to try. Arts and crafts are good for every stage of life, teaching little ones to enterprise and engineer as well as channeling interests through life and keeping us challenged in the golden years. If you don't have a project in process now, this just might be the perfect time to start one.