That's Maisie, one of my two "grouchy cairns" in my avatar! Actually, Rex is the original grouchy cairn but I have used his picture so much I decided to give the other grouch a place! Really they are very sweet for the most part and Maisie in particular is incredibly smart. Gotta' love 'em.
I learned to crochet over 20 years ago when my Grandfather's lady friend called me up one day and informed me I needed to learn. I have loved it ever since. I enjoy how much crochet patterns have developed over the years and the variety of yarns that are now available -- I just wish I could afford more of them!