I am kicking myself for not buying Sweet Snowmouse when I had a chance.  This ornament from Hallmark was released as part of their 2011 collector's event.  I liked it, but didn't figure I needed it.  But I decided I had to have it, after the price had begun to climb.  It will probably only get higher since it's proved to be the inspiration for a new series that starts this year.

The idea is creative genious.  The outside of the ornament is shaped like a five pointed star silver cookie cutter.  And in keeping with that cookie cutter theme, the back of the ornament is solid and even has a bump for a handle sticking off of it.

But inside?  That's the fun part.  We have a cute mouse making a snowman.  He's just putting the finishing touches on the smile (which is only half there).  To read the head, he's standing on a piece of chocolate.  The arms of the snowman look like licorice, and the buttons on his front could be small cookies.  While the snowman himself looks like snow, complete with glitter, the snowy ground could also double as frosting.  Behind this scene is a blue background with snowflakes painted on it.

The ornament overall is only about two and a half inches high, so the scene inside is small.  Even so, the level of detail is wonderful.  You can see the buttons on the mouse's coat, and it almost looks like fir on his head.

Hallmark was so impressed with how it turned out, they announced at the event that they were going to turn the idea into a new series, to debut in 2012.  I have a feeling that will only increase the value of this sought after ornament.

The bottom of the star is almost but not quite flat, so the ornament stands without any difficulty.  The balance is almost perfect, with the ornament tipping slightly to the right.  It's hard enough to notice, however.

Since this is a companion piece and not part of the official series, there is no number on it like Hallmark usually puts on their series ornaments.  However, the year and "Club Exclusive" are painted on the bottom in black.

I'm really excited about this new series from Hallmark (because I need another of their series to collect).  If the response to Sweet Snowmouse is any indication, this is going to be a hot series, and with good reason.  This ornament is very cute.

Cookie Cutter Christmas Series:
2011 - Sweet Snowmouse (You are here)
2012 - Sledding

Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 12.95