Rayna...as you say...it's a great way to meditate! That's how I feel exactly. I have a cat and a dog and I have to put my yarn in a small plastic garbage can which seems to help keep them from mangling it, but even with that, if I'm not careful, they get into it.
Glad your boyfriend called and is okay.
I'll have to check out the crochet stitch you use.
Love
Patty