Take comfort

This is my first crocheted hat.  I'm pleased with how it turned out.  Started on a Friday night and completed on Saturday, this charcoal cloche was a very quick project.  Crocheted in a soft wool-acrylic blend it is easy to care for and the brim comes down just far enough to shade the eyes, although you can't tell on the model because she's smaller than your average adult head.  The flower is pinned on and can be removed in case the recipient isn't much of a flower hat kind of gal. 

This cloche was crocheted for the mother of a coworker who will undergo chemotherapy this week.  She's already had a mastectomy and now fears losing her hair.  I can't begin to think that a simple hat can make her feel better but maybe she will find that it brings her a little warmth from the cold winter. 

Be mine Valentine

I'm going through a crochet phase right now if you haven't noticed.  I think crochet and knitting have different applications, for example I prefer the look of knitting for clothing but find crochet faster and easier for smaller, shaped items such as toys and these little love hearts from PlanetJune.  I crocheted these from leftover bits of Vanna's Choice in pink and red and made them in three different sizes.  They were crocheted all in one night, which was great and very satisfying, however my carpal tunnel kept me up all night and stayed with me the next day.  Does anyone else experience carpal tunnel from knitting or crocheting?  If you do I wouldn't suggest making all seven hearts in one sitting because although you'll have a festive heart garland to adorn your kitchen window in no time, shooting pain up the arm is definitely not worth it.  Valentine's Day is still over two weeks away so you've got time. 

-T

P.S.
The small sized heart would make a cute pin or could be glued onto some cardstock for a Valentine for your sweetie.