Introducing: Metalico Cowl Knitting Pattern

 

Hello, pretty yarn! I received a hank of Metalico by Blue Sky Alpacas during our Christmas yarn swap at my knitting group. I hadn't seen the yarn before and I fell in love! Metalico is a blend of baby alpaca and raw silk. The yarn is shiny and luxurious and I wanted to make something I'd wear a lot. So meet the Metalico Cowl! This cowl is knitted using just one skein of this yarn and it's the perfect size. 

Metalico Cowl – #211
Size: 6" high x 21" circumference
Yarn: Blue Sky Alpacas Metalico - 147 yards
Color Cinnabar #1615 – 1 skein
Needles: US 5 16" circular needle
Supplies: stitch marker, darning needle
Gauge: 22 sts to 4" in stockinette stitch

The Metalico Cowl knitting pattern is available for sale in my Ravelry store. Click here to view on Ravelry.

My little Lola

I don't know what it is about this dog but she makes me laugh at every turn. Lola is either on or off. There's no in between with her. She's alert or she's passed out like a champ. See, here she is completely interested in what I'm doing, am I going to get her a treat? 

Of course I am! How could I not after that little face? 

But then there's this. Did she have too much bourbon? Passed out cold!

Oh, Lola! 

{Recipe} Honey Chipotle Spiced Pecans

Meet your new favorite party treat. The Honey Chipotle Spiced Pecans are a crowd pleaser. They're spicy, salty, sweet and totally irresistable. They are easy to whip up and they'll disappear fast!

Honey Chipotle Spice Pecans

 

2 tbsp honey
1 tsp chipotle powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
3/4 tsp cinnamon
2 cups pecan halves
2 tbsp granulated sugar (I use raw sugar)
3/4 tsp salt
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. In a medium bowl, combine the honey, chipotle powder, cayenne and cinnamon. Warm through. Stir nuts into warmed honey mixture to coat well. Spread honey-coated nuts in a single layer on to a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake until fragrant, about 15 minutes. Remove from oven and allow to cool for 1 minute. In a clean mixing bowl, combine sugar and salt. Add hot nuts to bowl and toss to coat. Return nuts to baking sheet and allow to cool completely. Yum!