There’s a bit of a flurricaine going on outside. That’s what my friend Sascha calls it when it’s snowing and also blowing 40+MPH winds. So, in honor of the dramatic weather I’ve decided to deluge you with ornaments. I seem to be running out of minutes and still have yet to gather teacher presents, make more cookies and maybe pack for our trip to San Francisco along with things like Girl Scout caroling parties, and the little Knit Night gift exchange we had last night. Oh, and hopefully get holiday cards underway!

I hosted a baby shower on Sunday afternoon. It was a tea, and it was fun to get out my grandmother’s Franciscanware. It is service for twelve, so perfect for a big gathering like this. I made mini sandwiches, cupcakes, cookies and of course tea and coffee.

Baby Shower

And I made a little something for the baby too – A chunky log-cabin-inspired carriage blanket and matching hat.

Baby Blanket

The blanket is made entirely in half-double crochet, and was worked out from the center using Plymouth Yukon – a soft, bulky wool blend yarn that has a nice sheen. It will be warm for a little Alaskan baby born in January.

Baby Hat

So just in case I’m away from the blog for a day or so, here are a few ornaments to consider.

I’m still stuck on Danish hearts!  I didn’t really get the last one to turn out the way I wanted, but I’ve found TWO on the Drops Design web site (which is full of such great christmas stuff, you could spend all month making it). This filet-crochet inspired one seems very promising.

Heart Ornament from Drops Design
Heart Ornament from Drops Design

Here’s the other–a little more traditional looking, and includes a little pocket to hide goodies.

Danish Heart from Drops Design
Danish Heart from Drops Design

I love this little pine cone, but to make it I will have to stray from my color palette, I did not include brown. I’m sure I can find some in the stash.

Crocheted Pine Cone from Planet M Files
Crocheted Pine Cone from Planet M Files

Have you ever tried Tunisian crochet? I’ve only dabbled, but I’d like to do more. This teeny tiny hat from Inner Child Crochet seems like the perfect way to get your feet wet. So little and cute!

Tunisian Crocheted Hat from Inner Child Crochet
Tunisian Crocheted Hat from Inner Child Crochet

Finally, I’ve been on the lookout for little wreath patterns, and while there are many, most require pipe cleaners or some kind of ring foundation. Nothing wrong with that, but I specifically wanted patterns that folks could just sit down and crochet without a lot of extra materials. Here’s a little wreath that I think would look nice with or without the attached bell.

Wreath With Bell - copyright 2004, Lalia Nordmark
Wreath With Bell - copyright 2004, Lalia Nordmark
Christmas Crochet-Along: A Flurry of patterns – Days 14-18