Over Easter weekend, we were up north at my parents place where the snow was still plentiful and my parents could watch Lila and James while we took photos in the backyard. We waited all day for the light to be just right, and seeing these photos reminds me that when we rush to just get the photos done, it’s never as awesome as waiting for the right light. Of course, getting the right light is easier when the grandparents are on hand to look after the little ones while we pop outside!

Ravelry project page can be found here.

Pattern: Arika Cowl by Jane Richmond 

Yarn: Ancient Arts Yarn Big Squeeze Bulky in ‘Frolic’ 

Needles: 6.5 mm (US 10.5)

Mods: None.

Notes: The Arika Cowl is such a fast knit, I think it took me longer to put the fringe on than it did to actually knit it. I love the construction, it’s clever without being complex. This knit does require a bit of seaming and actual blocking, but I’m not adverse to either of those. I love how the thick ribbing around the neck gently gives way to an open lattice work. It’s got a lot of style.  I’ve been seeing a lot of wonderful Arika Cowls popping up all over Ravelry, and it seems to look good on just about everyone. There is something classically interesting about fringe-  it’s never so trendy it’s on everything, but it never goes out of style, either.

I’ve got a lot of love for the Ancient Arts Big Squeeze Bulky yarn, it was so much fun to knit with, and is squishy soft around the neck. It feels wonderful! And I’m really happy with my colourway choice- Frolic looks like a forest full of beautiful cool greens and hints of earthy redwood. Just like the blue spruce and cedars behind me.

I’m a huge fan of how snow on the ground reflects the light- it’s nature’s photoshop. And while it’s bloody cold standing outside in the snow with no coat on, it only takes 5 minutes (after that, my nose turns pink anyway). Some people do polar bear swims- we do outdoor winter photos. Then back inside for cuddles and hot drinks!