Customize your LightSwitches: Easy Modge Podge Project

I recently moved into a new home and in setting up my new home-office I decided to take my private space personalization up-a-notch. Since I was going to be able to stay in this home for more than my normal 6 months or a year stint, I re-painted and considered how to funkify my office space.  While I waited for the wall-paint to dry I considered the dull, plastic light switch on the wall and thought, "I can do better."

I have seen painted and decoupage'd light switches online and they are truly the fastest and easiest art project you can do to customize a room in less than a few hours. Think about the overall style of the room decor and then collect some images, text or whatever and start gluing or painting that simply wall plate.

For mine, I started by spray painting my white plastic light switchplate a metallic iron/coppery color to match my dark "drama" wall in the room.

Since my office is where I do my writing, and my overall decor in the room was going to consist of vintage photographs, old typewriters and other related stuff like that, I decided to print out some old photos, and use an old typewriter font to print out the definition for the words "illuminate" and "darkness" since it was a light switch.  Get it? Clever huh?

I ripped the paper and crinkled it so that it looked old, and used an old photo (of myself, cause I was so cute) and applied them to the plastic wall plate with Modge Podge.  I added a final coat on top to seal the whole project when everything was in place.

The final project turned out kind of cute... a subtle artistic touch that reflects my love of language and the other vintage photos in the room. 

Get creative today, just grab that switch plate off the wall and get started!

Happy Holidays from ATA Girls

Holiday Wishes

I don't know about all of you, but I use this holiday time to do some reflection.  With only 5 days remaining until Christmas is here and only 11 days remaining of 2012, it is the best time for me to take a minute or two out of the hustle and bustle of the season to sit down and just breathe.  As big fluffy flakes of frozen water descend from the sky to coat everything in a blanket of white, a silence falls over the wintery world. Isn't it wonderful!   The sounds of cars traveling on snow covered roads becomes the gentle crunch of tires moving slowly through the drifts.  All is quiet.

This is the time of winter I love best. Just after a big snowfall, before the snowplows come barreling through, before the sounds of shovels hitting pavement and snowblowers roaring down driveways.  It's the perfect time to sit by the window with a cup of hot chocolate (and a cookie or two), look out at the world and think about the past year.  What am I thankful for? What do I wish I had accomplished?  What regrets do I have? What can I do better?

This year I have much to be thankful for. I'd like to say a big THANK YOU to my sister, Diane, who is the developer of this beautiful blog and does all of the behind the scenes stuff that makes the page, facebook page and ATA girl store come together.  She's an ATA girl with fingers in many pots of paint, able to create works of artsy goodness with a snap of her fingers.  She's given me an outlet for my writing and allowed me to let my creative juices flow so that this blog can be filled with cool things for you all to read.  I'm thankful for all the wonderful ATA girls and guys I've met, some of whom I've been able to share with you here.  I'm also thankful for our many followers and friends that have "liked" us here or on our facebook page.  Your support has been a guiding force for our endeavors.

So to all of you who take the time to visit our page, support our stores, and enjoy our projects.... we wish you a Merry Holiday Season and a Safe and Happy New Year.

Dani

Pecan FIngers! Christmas Cookies

15 Days and Counting

Can you believe it - -only 15 days left until all the excitement is over!  I know - I've been crowing about the fact that all my Holiday pressies have been bought or made and wrapped up ready to go. And now (thanks to a 3am start time on Sunday) all my cookies and treats are done and in containers ready to be shipped off or presented in person. Since I'm in the cookie mood - thought I'd share a favorite with you all.

Our family has always LOVED these cookies.  These finger-sized pieces of powered sugar delights are easy to make with few ingredients and one of our family staples.  At least until I can master the Hungarian Butterhorns Aunt Rosie used to always make - just can't get them quite right!   Anyhow - here's a recipe for you to try.

Pecan Fingers

Cream together:

1 cup butter

¼ cup powdered sugar

¼ tsp salt

1 tsp vanilla

1 tblspn water

 

Mix in:

2 cups flour

2 cups ground pecans

 

Heat oven to 350

 

Make finger shapes by taking 1 large tsp of dough and rolling it into an oblong in the palms of your hands.  Place on ungreased cookie sheet.  May be placed close together as cookies do not raise.

 

Bake for 12-15 minutes or until slightly brown on edges

 

Immediately roll warm cookies in powdered sugar and place on wire rack to cool

 

Makes 5-8 dozen depending on size.

Enjoy -- and yes Diane - I made enough for you!   Happy Holidays everyone!

Hand Made Holiday Cards

Only 25 days til Christmas!

Not long ago I wrote a post telling everyone how far ahead I was in the Holiday present preparation area.  Well... I lied!   Not really - but come on - even those of us who make most of our presents and have worked diligently over the past 10 months to make sure everything is done in time can run into problems. The baked goods haven't even been thought of, and while most presents are done I completely forgot about the Holiday cards!

I, in my infinite wisdom, decided to once again make my Holiday cards. Am I smart enough to use all those wonderful stamps and paper I bought last year?  Nope!  I had to come up with a different kind of card and decided I was going to paint snow scenes on flat board canvas and send those out as my cards this year.  I do admit that there aren't that many that we actually send out - so I don't have a lot to make. However I did not allow for drying time - as of course I have to do these in OIL!!!  GRRRR   Between trying to find the time to actually paint them to spreading them near the radiators in my craft room so they can dry just a little faster, I am tearing my hair out! 

I went through all my old pictures for ideas that weren't already floating around in my head.  After clipping them to my project board where i could see them all at one crack - I tried to do multiple boards at one time.  Painting on an assembly line works - sure it does!  You put the gesso on all the boards first - then lay in the skies, trees, snow etc on each one after the other.  After all - you are using the same colors on the brush for each ... right?   WRONG!

My problem  was that they were looking exactly alike.  I might as well BUY the cards instead of making them. After all these are kind of the presents for these people - at least that was the idea! Something for them to have and to hold and sell for megabucks when I become a famous arteest.  I'm only thinking about their future you know!  As with any good painting - each has to be created separately - to allow the creative juices to flow.  But how many snow scenes can I put onto canvas at one time... I just can't paint the same type of thing over and over and over again.

I think I had better get out the stamps and paper before it's too late!

~ Dani

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Art and Craft Fairs - Oh the Humanity!

With the holidays fast approaching, the number of art and craft shows are increasing.  I decided to write this post not only as a nod to fellow artists and hopefully new "ATA Girls", but as a reminder to everyone that most artists and craft people make a living from these shows and our support is necessary to keep the inspiration flowing.  With the "shop local Saturday" looming on November 24th - I would like everyone to include artists everywhere in this number. Whether at a art show, craft shop or on-line - purchasing handmade and handcrafted items help support our community.    Now that my "preaching" is over - here's some fun things!

I attended the Brookfield East High School Holiday Arts & Craft Fair this weekend (located in Brookfield, WI) and was pleasantly surprised with the large number of artisans and crafters who had booth, not to mention the number of people attending.  We arrived early and just look at the line 30 minutes before the show opened - those are some dedicated shoppers!

I found some wonderful items - some of which I can't mention until AFTER someone (Diane) receives her birthday present.  Can't spoil the surprise now can I!.  However - I did come across many wonderful artists - some of which agreed to let me feature them in today's post.

Meet - Deanna Peterson of Bright As Day Designs!   I was floored by these pieces of fabric art that she has created.  Purses, clutches, book covers and more adorned her booth in vibrant colors and designs.  Each one a separate piece of art.  In talking to Deanna the one thing that struck me was she when she told me that she was never able to do the normal art like painting or drawing - but when she started to work with fabric the inspiration just came!  Take a look at just a few samples of her work.   I specially love the "cottage" purse.  The front looks like the front door of a cottage, while the back had the back of the house and a trellis with beaded flowers adorning it! Amazing.   Welcome to the world of ATA Girls Deanna.   More of her inspired designs can be found at www.brightasdaydesigns.com.  Check her out!

Another wonderful artist I found at the show is Rosemary Schires.  What incredible designs she creates with beads.  I was just amazed and found myself coming back again and again just to look at her items for sale.She told me that often she is up all night with her designs speeding through her brain just waiting to pour out from her fingertips.  While she also does other art - she feels shes found her niche with beads.  I completely agree!  Take a look below.   If you are interested in contacting Rosemary - drop me a line and I'll put her in contact with you!

One final note - as with any artwork or craft highlighted anywhere on the web - please be aware that these designs are the property of the artist and should not be copied or duplicated without the artist's permission.  Hence the first time we've used the "copyright" symbol on our photos for this post. This is the way artists earn their living and "swiping" the designs and ideas from them can do serious  damage to their livelihood.  Please be respectful of their incredibly inspirational ideas.   Thanks and don't forget to shop your favorite artists for your holiday gifts this year!

You're Gonna BUY That? Make it Yourself!: Beaded Holiday Decorations

Has anyone other than me, myself and I drooled over holiday decorations (while frantically writing down descriptions and taking pictures) as soon as they are placed on the shelves.  After all, why on earth would I spend $10 - $50 on something I'm sure I can make myself!  I see you all shaking your heads at me.  Yes, I realize it wouldn't be just that small amount because, of course, you need to have lots of each of them in order to make things look "right", not to mention all the accessories that you need to keep the themed look flowing throughout your entire tree, room, house, neighborhood........ (you get my drift here, right?)

How easy are beaded garlands..... I mean really!  I made mine by taking jewelery wire and stringing beads of various sizes on it, making sure to "loop" the ends and seal them with a crimp bead.  I used silver seed beads to make the smallest strings, some red shiny bugle beads I had left to make some accent garlands, and some Czech glass beads in various sizes of the same color to make a fancier garland.   I KNOW I saved myself a couple of hundred dollars - I just KNOW I did!

And don't talk to me about those beautiful beaded icicles that dangled from all the fancy display trees.  I took some more jewelry wire, found my stash of different sized AB and clear Swarovski crystals and strung them, smallest on the bottom to the largest on top.  I also had some unused head pins that allowed me to make some in different sizes and still allow them to hang nicely on the branches of my tree.

To top it all off - I went a little crazy (I know you all think I am already!) and made beaded snowflakes.... take that Martha!  I love the look of these.  I've placed the pattern in our ATA girls store, and have also placed some of the extras I made up for sale (have to support the beading habit after all!).

I've already found the cool decorations I'm planning on making this year.... wait until you see it! The craft table will be busy making these cool things - not to mention the egg ornaments, steampunk ornaments, holiday cards, paintings, and who knows what else will come to mind before the holidays.

Did I mention the 10 dozen cookies that will need to be made too.   I think I need a clone!

Dani

Wordless Wednesday: Introducing Homer

We've been so busy creating interesting things to share with everyone, we haven't really taken any time to introduce ourselves to you.  I'd like to start by introducing the most interesting member of our family, Homer.

Homer is a Havanese and, in the 2 years he's been a part of our family, he's entrenched himself in our lives and hearts.  Given to me by a former boss who could no longer keep him, he joined us at about 8 months old.

Technically a companion for our father (who really didn't want a companion!), he is probably the smartest four-legged person our family has ever had.  The breed is known for being gentle and, although I scoffed at the idea, not barking.

 It took 2 months before we heard a sound out of him.


I think he realized that "grandpa" couldn't hear him (the doorbell, the phone, someone knocking, etc.) and so he took to standing at the base of whatever chair Dad was sitting in and "woofing" up at him.  When that didn't work - standing on his hind legs and putting his front feet on Dad's legs along with the "woof" did. 

He is an absolute joy and has become Dad's constant companion.  When we take Homer on "vacation" or to Doggy Daycare, there's always a phone call that begins with Dad singing "Oh where oh where has my Homer gone... Bring back, bring back oh bring back my Homer to meeeeeee!"

The pictures here were taken one day when "grandpa" and "daddy" were heading to the store together, leaving me "mom" alone with our little guy.



Picture one - -- ok Mom - where did they go and why didn't they take me!

 Picture two - -  you said they'd be right back -- where are they?

Halloween Skeleton Flying Army!

I know it seems like we've completed bypassed a couple of holidays with all of our talk of ornaments, snowmen, trees and decorations.... but I think we've saved the best for this week.   In the spirit of Halloween...let me introduce you to my SKELETON FLYING ARMY!

Yes folks - I took my inspiration from a skeleton fairy I bought Diane (who loves all things macabre!) this summer.  I thought - why not... afterall - I'll need something to combat the march of the zombie nutcrackers that are sure to make an appearance on our blog soon.   So here they are.

 

 

 

 

 

So easy to make - I took apart a skeleton garland I found and attached some appropriate colored butterfly wings to their backs.  Then it was just a case of raiding my stash of art supplies for accessories.  I added steampunk weapons to sashes and even created a steampunk shield for another.   Have to come up with some good names though..after all, how can I direct my defenses if I can't call them by name?   Any ideas?

I know it's late - but if you're interested in picking up one or two to fight your own battles - check our our ATA girl store.  With luck - they'll be flying into your home in time to battle your own ghosts and goblins!

http://atagirls.storenvy.com/

SteamPunk Christmas Tree Ornament

You know what they say, once you start steampunking... you just can't stop, (ok, maybe I am the only one that says that.) Once you get used to putting on and taking off your bifocals one hundred million times and gluing your fingers together while putting vintage watch gears on a small wood snowman or jewelery box, you get addicted to the whole Victorian, Science Fiction look of the Steam Punk Movement.

Previously we shared with you my work on a wooden SteamPunk egg and snowman, and my work on Holiday offerings for our ATA Girl Store Envy storefront is continuing and I wanted to share my work with you, our friends.

Lately, I have been working on the rest of the SteamPunk Snow family, including a SteamPunk Snowbroad (or Snowlady) and Snowbaby; complete with gear teddy bear. Cute hey?

The same basic ways and means of making them as explained in our Steampunk Snowman process applies here, painting and sealing the wooden snowman ornaments, then  applying the gears with a super glue adhesive.







I decided to expand the line a little with a Wooden SteamPunk decorated Christmas Tree, also an ornament and I like the way it is developing.

We added a little more glitz to the trees, using a red or green base color then topping it off with a glitter so that the trees bounce some light from your own holiday lights when displayed. I used some decoupaged lettering on the trees, in this case some text from "The Night Before Christmas" and some typewriter key font to spell out Noel on another in-progress.

The use of tiny watch parts and gears to replicate tree ornaments puts this SteamPunk piece over the top and makes it a fun, (if not eye-crossing) project.

Not into using tweezers to make art? No worries. Support your ATA Girls and purchase them at our StoreEnvy site here.     ~ Diane

Egg Dioramas: The Traditional Holiday Ornament

I know it's been awhile - but i thought I'd ramp things up again with a little lesson on Eggs.  With the holiday season fast approaching - my fingers are flying and the creative juices are flowing as I work on getting my Winter egg collection going.  What - you may ask - could I possibly make from eggs that would be appropriate for the winter holidays?  Well - read on my friends and bask in my artistic endeavors (ok - just a bit overdone - but it's late LOL )

I've taught many classes for young and old alike during the months up to the Christmas holidays and every time my students are just amazed at what they've created in just a few hours.  Now that doesn't include all the prep work I've done for them before hand - but you get my drift.  I usually stick to duck and goose eggs as they seem to be the perfect height for hanging.

I love the look of winter scenes with birds and deer running through them. While I often use red birds that resemble cardinals, I've taken to coordinating my bird and outside designs and have expanded my selection to purple and blue. The birds scene here actually match the color of the poinsettia I've added to the outside of the egg. 

 

 

 And of course, blue birds look best with silver accents. 

I've also played with larger eggs.  This ostridge egg, for example, is one I taught last year at the Ohio Egg Artist show and turned out really well.  This one also has 2 matching goose egg ornaments so it makes a great combination.  

These diorama eggs are probably some of my favorites to make as I love the glittery, icy look to them.  

I've placed some of these egg ornaments in our ATA girl store as well as in the Etsy store. Stop by and take a look. If you have any questions - just give me a shout.  It's never too late to plan for the holidays.

SteamPunk Snowman

I have always looked at things a little differently, so the Steampunk movement (the blend of Victorian and SciFi styles) has always appealed to me.


A few weeks ago I posted about the SteamPunk Egg I made my sister, ATA Girl, Dani and I enjoyed making it so much that when my friends and fellow art therapists came to visit me over the Labor Day weekend I planned an art experience for them involving  Steampunk materials.

They are all so creative, I wasn't sure what they would want to work on, so I provided a few options of plain, unpainted paper mache' and wood ornament and picture frames to do some Steam Punky collage work on.


They all chose the picture frames to work on (which turned out great, sorry I didn't get any pics) and so I did a snowman ornament, which lent itself perfectly to a mechanized punky treatment.

I started by painting the whole snowman black, then adding on some metallic copper accents to look like doors and metal plates.  I then used decoupage glue and ripped up some small copies of classic Leonardo da Vinci illustrations and applied them to the surface of the snowman for more interest. I applied a coating of Modge Podge glue over the whole snowman to seal it and add shine.

Once dry, I build up the surface with vintage watch parts to mimic classic snowman elements like eyes, buttons and I made a scarf out of copper wire and watch parts.

Not artistically inclined but love the little steamy snowman or know someone that would?  No worries!  I will make one for you! Order from the ATA Girl Store Envy site (see large Button at upper right hand side of blog) or email me at dianesteinbach@gmail.com.  Each snowman may be slightly different as they are all handmade. $25.00 a piece. Come in either primarily black (as shown) or copper with black accents.

~ Diane



Spark Your Creativity Now
(http://pinandtack.blogspot.com)

Not Just for Breakfast Anymore... Egg Art

I'd like to take a little bit of your time to introduce you to one of my favorite art forms - Egg Art.  Not just your typical egg dyeing that you normally do around the spring holidays - Egg Art encompasses many different styles.  Egg decorating has been around for centuries, and many of those early techniques and traditions are continued today by artists around the world. Just about anything you can imagine can be done to an egg.

The International Egg Art Guild (IEAG) website (http://www.eggartguild.org/) is a great place to start learning about the different forms of Egg Art.  More than twenty-five years ago Kit Stansbury put the wheels in motion to form a society where artists could discuss, share and exchange ideas, and promote egg decorating as an art form.  Now, with membership in the guild worldwide, they have created a flourishing Masters Program to help anyone wishing to improve their artistry and technique. The artform is flourishing, and nowhere is this better experienced than at an Egg Art Show.

All around the world, egg artists and suppliers gather at a show to hold classes and display their individual art to any who wish to see.  The IEAG website has a list of the shows held each year.  There is no better place to experience all the various types of Egg Art than at one of these shows.  Suppliers are available as well, providing a hands-on opportunity for visitors to purchase kits, miniatures, eggs and tools.  Many Egg Artists also display and sell their work at local art shows and shops.  

With the invention of the internet - Eggs have gone viral.  A search on the words Egg Art on Google recently pulled up over 72,000 hits.  Searching on the words Pysanky (a wax resist method), Carl Fabergè, Ostridge Eggs, Emu Eggs, Rhea Eggs, Carved eggs, etc will bring up lists of suppliers, artists from around the world, and general information.  One such artist is Lorrie Popow, a Master Egg Artist who has recently placed her training sessions on Youtube for everyone to enjoy. 

 Lorrie is definitely one of our finest ATA Girls, and we are proud to be able to place the link to her videos on our sight for everyone to experience.

Craft Gadgets: Feed Your Need

 I love gadgets.  Specially crafty ones.  For example, I was at the WI State Fair recently (a gadget lovers paradise!) and came across a ribbon maker.  WOW - that demonstrator was talented... she made some incredible package decorations.  I had my credit card out and arms outstretched as Leo (in his infinite wisdom remember all the other gadgets I've purchased over the years that are sitting collecting dust) grabbed me by the waist and dragged me away.  I still wipe away a tear when I think of it.  sniff sniff  if only I had been quicker I could have gotten the website to order it!

My gadget fetish is not only limited to crafty things though.  While at the same State Fair (on the same trip) I spotted this little beauty   - the Miracle Whisk (http://www.themiraclewhisk.com/).  Just think - in only 5 seconds you can whip up milk that's just perfect for at home cappucino, 10 minutes you can make meringue or whipped cream.  Oh MY!  Even better - it's stainless steel so Leo HAD to let me buy it.  LOL  (it's still in the box!)

And my gadget craze is not limited to live demonstrations.  Who would have thought that the internet would allow me to indulge my addiction without even trying.  I received an e-mail about this product just perfect for scrapbooking, paper projects and I'm thinking - even my egging.  It's called the "Stamping Gear" (http://www.eksuccessbrands.com/Inkadinkado/Videos/Stamping_Gear--Join_the_Revolution!.htm) and I LOVE it. It lets you use your stamps and make arched designs with them without trying to figure out placement - what could be better.  I even watched the little on-line demonstration over and over and over again.  

I'm sure I can sneak this one in the house.  Maybe it will come in a plain brown box so no one will know.  

Inspired by Tohoku Totes: Dominque Santiago Designs

Introducing ATA Girl Dominque Santiago of DS Designs

Dominique is an artist with a sewing machine and material.  Everything she has shown me has been wonderful, so I asked if she would be interested in being one of our ATA Girls.  Once she stopped jumping up and down in excitement - I put her to work coming up with the following article and something to put in our ATA Girls store.  I think you will be pleasantly surprised.  In addition -some of her other projects have also included these wonderful items.  (I'm trying to convince her she needs to make some to put in the store.)

To reach Dominique - simply place comment on this article - or contact her directly at dsdesigns21@gmail.com.   For now - read on and get to know our newest ATA Girl!  ~    Dani

 The Tote

I fell in love with the Tohoku tote the first time I saw it.  I have made 5 versions of this tote using different fabrics and have a few more planned.  As a mom, it's a cute alternative for a "diaper bag" since my kids are getting older (only one left in diapers and hopefully not for long!).  I can fit a days worth of "stuff" including a diaper or two, snacks, my wallet, phone, camera (I never go too far without it), and even a water bottle.  Sometimes a toy car or dinosaur make it in there too - can you tell I have two boys?

Anyway, onto my version of the tote... 

There are a couple immediate differences I incorporated into the pattern - the most obvious includes replacing the bow with a flap.  This was strictly a personal preference.  I have nothing against bows.  This one is just a little to big for my taste and I think the flap gives it a little more security and dimension - and it was with the help of Dani that this was used instead.  THANKS Dani!!  I am, however, a HUGE fan of buttons, as you will see on most of my other projects.  I just love love love them!  So, the flap was a perfect spot to add one (or two) as an embellishment.  On some I also added a yo yo fabric flower underneath my button.  On others, I used a ribbon through the holes of a large button.  Therefore, I also put the same magnetic snap as in the tutorial on the flap instead of on the inside as shown in the original directions.

One of the things I discovered upon making totes and purses is that it is helpful to use a more sturdy fabric as the liner.  It is similar to canvas or twill and I found it at Joanne's in the utility section.  It is relatively inexpensive (and I will only buy it when on sale or with a coupon – or both).  The other difference, although pretty minor, is the addition of an extra pocket.  Perhaps the most important one, I made mine to perfectly fit my cell phone.  :)  The double pocket is perfect for the credit card wallet, lipstick or chapstick, keys, etc...

I use accent fabric on some of these totes that is recycled corduroy pants I found at Goodwill.  Lastly I also use interfacing as it is mentioned in the linked tutorial which adds yet another layer of “sturdiness”.  I added interfacing to the straps which is another change from the original. I found it helps stiffen them.

As for the credit card wallet, it is easy and I really didn't diverge from the tutorial linked here.  It is super quick and easy and I almost always include it with my totes or purses that I have given as gifts.  I love to use the button closure version (surprised?).  Personally, this is what I use to keep all my gift cards, that would normally get lost in my "regular" wallet.  I also use it to hold an id, a credit card or two and cash when I don't want to carry my full, bulky wallet on a night out.  It also holds wallet size photos (I may have one or two of these).  Lastly, this is perfect to put gift cards into when giving them as gifts to others since it adds a little personal touch to an impersonal type gift. 

Some of the other things I have made in the past include: pillow covers, valences, curtains, table cloths, a skirt, heating pads with matching storage bag, owls, penguins, whales, kids messenger bags, day purse, evening clutch, e-reader sleeve, fabric square storage bin, comforter covers, and roman shades. (Damn you Pinterest!)

A few projects on the horizon include, make up bags, more totes and purses (always coming up with new designs), lunch and snack bags, table runner, place mats, maybe a quilt and whatever else I can think of  to make!  I'm always open to ideas!!  I am happy that I will be able to feature a number of my new designs and projects in the ATA Girl store.

Here is the link to the blog with the pattern and detailed tutorial for the tote:  http://www.iammommahearmeroar.net/2011/09/tohoku-tote.html.

Here is the link to the wallet:  http://mysocalledgreenlife.com/2011/08/how-to-sew-credit-card-wallet-business.html

Garden Fresh: Kale and Potato Au Gratin Recipe

So -- much to my surprise our garden is doing well this year.  Considering that much of Wisconsin is in a  state of extreme drought, our little spot of paradise in the upper northern section seems to be getting all the rain that everyone else wants.  Which means that all the rain barrels Leo and I created this spring to hoard the rain water (we now have about 1000 gallons saved!) has not been needed .... yet.  I anticipate that August will empty our containers without any trouble at all.   Anyway - back to my point.

I have an overabundance of certain veggies (Kale and Zucchini specifically), so I decided to take a look at my stash of recipes to find something tasty.  I made a Kale and Potato Au gratin that turned out so great I thought I'd share.  After all - artsy people do have to eat now don't they.

1 large bunch of kale (about 1 pound) washed, remove leaves from stalks and tear or cut into pieces.

1 small onion - diced

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon butter

3 large potatoes, peeled and sliced into ¼ inch thick slices

2 tablespoons butter (sliced into pats)

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp salt

½ tsp pepper

1/2 cup shredded cheese (Colby-jack or cheddar)

2 tablespoons flour

2 tablespoons of butter

3/4 cup milk

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Oil or grease a 2-quart baking dish.

In a saute pan, heat olive oil and butter.  Saute onion until soft.  Add Kale to pan and cook until wilted, stirring occasionally.   Let cool.

In same pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.  Stir in flour until smooth.  Slowly add milk, stirring constantly.  Once milk starts to thicken, add salt, garlic powder and pepper, stirring constantly.  Add shredded cheese and stir until cheese has melted.   Set aside.

 

Layer potatoes and kale mixture in baking dish, making sure you start and end with the potatoes. 

 Place pats of butter on each kale layer.  Once layers are complete. 

Pour sauce mixture over entire dish.

Cover and bake at least 45 minutes or until potatoes are done.

I think you will love this change from a traditional dish.  Enjoy!

~ Dani

Steampunk Egg: Get it in Gear

Today's story starts a few years ago, when I asked my sister (Diane) to travel to an "egg show" with me.  I was teaching classes and needed someone to "man" my booth in the convention hall.  She graciously agreed and was instantly immersed in a whole new world of art.

The first year was kind of rocky - but at the end she said she had a good time.  The second year, after I pleaded and begged for her to go with me again, she agreed.  We also did some inspirational thinking and came up with a new kind of egg for her to create.  Something never before seen.  I cut an ostridge egg for her and she took off.  She covered it with a 2 part paint that made it look like it rusted, and put different sizes and dimensions of spikes through it (also rusted). Finally she wrapped the some bright gold wire around some spikes and added gold wire springs to the whole creation.  What a stir it created - everyone stopped at the table to talk to her.  She definitely made an impression with her first ever egg creation.

On the ride home, we started talking about other designs she could do.  She tossed an idea out that I loved.  Unfortunately - I've been a VERY bad sister and haven't sent her the eggs I promised, all cut and ready for her to decorate.  Imagine my surprise when last week a surprise turned up in the mail (it was my b-day).  She took the idea and ran with it anyway - creating something so absolutely COOL that I took it to work and it sits on my desk.   Read on for more on this incredible design.  Guess I'll really have to send her those egg boxes I cut for her now!

BTW - Diane - you are the best sister EVER --- I LOVE my egg.  ~ Dani

The SteamPunk Egg  ~ by Diane

My sisters birthday was coming up and since she is an "Egger" ( A person that decorates real bird eggs with beads and dioramas etc) I thought I would put my somewhat less traditional touch on a somewhat less traditional egg and send it to her as a gift.

"Steampunk" refers to a blend of Victorian/Science Fiction kind of Time Machine-esque fashion, accessories and costumes that feature the victorian colors and styles along with a science fictiony gears, gadgets and doodads. Easier to understand once you see examples of it, than to describe it, lovers of the movement enjoy the complex nature of "invention."

With this in mind, I began to create an egg that was to look like a copper metal machine, straight out of some kind of science fiction movie.

First I painted a wooden egg with a copper metallic paint and then went over it with black acrylic paint highlights to create hatch-doorways with rivets and a look of riveted plates of metal over the egg shape.  A quick coat of Modge Podge adds shine.

Then, using gel superglue, a tweezers and watch-part gears, faces and other miscellaneous "steampunk" bits, I began building my "machine." This was not easy for a person who wears bifocals. I dropped numerous tiny bits on the floor, or they'd shoot out of my tweezers and across the room to places unknown, but eventually, after a few days of building up a layers of gears, I was satisfied with the look.


Want one for yourself? Email me at dianesteinbach@yahoo.com and place your custom order. (each egg may vary slightly as they are handmade)$35 plus shipping.