January 1 (on the Julian calendar)

Today is January 1, according to the Julian calendar (that most Orthodox Christians follow, that's why we celebrate the Nativity of Christ later, it is really Dec 25th to us, but Jan 7th to everyone else who follows the Gregorian calendar)....so wishes for a Happy New Year!

*the above image is from the vintage knitting images found on http://www.agoodyarn.net

How to crochet a ball:

I use a size F hook/5 mm
(adapted from the happy hooker crocheting book)
Chain 3, then join with a slip stitch to make a tiny ring. Next, crochet 8 single crochet stitches into the ring; join with a slip stitch to the first single crochet stitch. For the next round, chain 1, then single crochet into the same stitch, then make 2 single crochet stitches into each of the remaining 7 stitches & connect with a slip stitch and chain 1. Now, single crochet into each of the 16 stitches, connect ring with a slip stitch and chain 1. On this row, you will decrease, insert your hook into the next stitch, yarn over a pull up a loop (2 loops on hook), then insert your hook into the next stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop (3 loops on hook), yarn over and pull the strang though all 3 loops. Repeat this until the end of the row, decreasing (turning 2 stitches into 1) each time. Pull the yarn tight and leave some for sewing or attaching to ponytail holder! I plan to make a necklace next.We have been enjoying the snow...