I'm heading to the craft store later to buy some supplies.
Fantastic, are you expanding your interests in knitting? That is a highly skilled hobby.
Yes, I've been looking to find something new to take up my time since retirement.
You have chosen a fun and intricate hobby, for sure. I bet you can give hats and mittens away for holiday gifts soon, that would be cool. 
Indeed, my first project is to knit a beanie hat for my grand daughter like my grandma did for me when I was young.
Wow, you must really value and love your family and enjoy them to spend so much time on hand made gifts. That is a valuable lesson you're teaching them too. Do you like to crochet or knit more? 
I think I like to crochet more, but only because I'm more familiar with it. But they're quite similar. 
Are the patterns for crochet and knitting the same or completely separate type of patterns? I was wondering if you can use the same patterns or do you have to buy two of everything at the craft store?
Yarn is universal between the two. Crochet only uses a single needle and your finger where as knitting uses two needles. Patterns are more pronounced in knitting.
I understand, it is not an inexpensive hobby and can probably add up. Have you ever considered selling some of your items as a retirement side gig?
No, I don't think my work is good enough for that. It's only a hobby for me. 
I admire that you've chosen a neat way to spend your time and are such a great example of healthy retirement.  
That's kind of you to say. My little dog enjoys the sweaters I make for him.
Oh, boy! Now that is a blast seeing dogs walking around in little outfits! You will have a little fashion show designed for your dog in no time, everyone will be begging for outfits! 
Indeed. I've made him different outfit for every day of the week.