My Mommy Makes It

No November Toy Post

2011-12-17T20:03:00.000-08:00

Workshop Temporarily Closed!

Well the unfinished toys are piling up everywhere. Hidden away as we finish our adoption homestudy. The last six months have been crazy and stressful as we searched for a little sister from China. We have been matched with an adorable two year old and now brings months of paperwork and waiting to get her home by fall 2012. We are very excited. Of course there are homemade toys for our new addition to make, the winter fairy bower, and holiday presents. So there will be at least one post for December. Stay warm and creative in the meantime, Lesley

Upcyled Fairy Dress for Halloween

2011-10-16T18:13:00.000-07:00

We have a serious fairy obsession going on in our house. I can't keep track of what is the pixie name of the hour, there are so many of them. Every five minutes I am changing costumes and hairstyles so that the Kaz. Princess can get into character. Try explaining to a four year old why you don't possess enough magic dust to create volumes of long, flowing tresses. So the choice of Halloween costumes this year was a no brainer.

I began with wings, a headband, and artificial flower-all purchased from the dollar store.

Simple tulle bows

A cheap dress from the thrift store...

got a complete makeover.

(with brightly colored ribbon)

Wings and Wand all jazzed up

The headband

A ten dollar costume beats $40.00 or more at the Halloween Store. The quality is better and will provide a years worth of imaginary play. Beware of pookas tonight my friends and Happy Haunting, Lesley

Autumn Fairy Bower

2011-09-23T18:30:00.000-07:00

Easily be taken apart and used for the next season

This toy is so simple and cheap to make. Similar fairy dwellings can be quite expensive if purchased new. All you need besides a few common tools and some creativity is….

The metal support recycled from a lampshade
(or similar ring)

A BASE

(upcycled from a wooden toilet seat, just drill a tiny hole through the center. Beats having to manufacture it myself from raw wood)

Central Pole

Drill a 1cm long hole in both ends of a dowel. Thread a wooden bead onto the dowel and glue in place. Measure the length of the BASE hole add 1cm plus 3mm to the number. Cut a wooden bamboo BBQ skewer according to your estimate. Glue it into the dowel at its end. Cut a 2cm length of skewer to fit the dowel hole at the top and glue one end into a pre-drilled wooden cup. This will be your TOPPER. Set it aside. Be sure to carefully measure the length of the dowel, your "pegs" and the placement of your bead. Your measurements will all depend on how high you want the top of the bower to be, and how tall the crown. Don't glue the bottom end of the dowel/peg into the BASE! Instead insert it into another pre-drilled cup and glue it in place. This will serve to hold down your seasonal RUG. The peg should still be long enough to go into the base and be easily removed for storage.

Topper

Just artificial flowers, the top of a dried mullein plant, a wooden cup and glue gun. It is not glued into place at the top of the central pole.You can remove it later and replace it with another one for the next season.

Garland and rug

For the garland you need just a few supplies and a glue gun.

acorns, floral wire, dried flower heads, chestnuts and artificial flowers are layered and glued
You will measure the circumference of the ring to know how large to make your garland.

Crown

Tulle wrapped around the wire lampshade support that rests on the wooden bead

The Canopy

No swewing required! Cut and fold a length of larger mesh tulle into a double layer and tie onto the crown with long ribbons of several colors. It wraps around enough of the circular support to enclose the bower but leaves an opening large enough for easy access to play.

Slip the garland over the crown and it should rest over the ring. You can sew it to the tulle if it is a little loose.

Summer Fairy invites Autumn Fairy to tea and says goodbye for the year

Notice the rug at the base of the dowel and its cup. You can furnish your bower with artificial or real leaves, minature goards and pumpkins, small baskets of nuts, and stools made of branches.

Front view of the autumn fairy

Back view of the autumn fairy

(I will do a tutorial on making fairies in December)

We left the fairies some treats.

The next morning they furnished the bower and left a book.

We have been using the Flower Fairies books by Cicely Mary Barker to learn botany and plant identification. Associating lovely pictures and personalities to particular local plants, makes them easy for a preschooler to remember.

Happy Fall Equinox, Lesley

Wooden Garden Activity and Story Box

2011-09-15T20:51:00.000-07:00

OOH What Is this?

Look at all the things inside!

Let's create!

Let's tell a story!

This was easy to make but it took me over a month to put it all together. I did it in time periods of 15 minutes over numerous days. I was inspired by designs found in the toy store and on a blog. Of course I always upscale the design with my own special creativity.

I started out with a cheap book box bought from the thrift store.

I drew out my design and drilled several holes for the dowels.

I partially filled in the holes on the front side with wood putty.

Sanded everything flat and glued a wooden "mushroom" knob onto the top.

I inserted a short dowel and glued it into place for propping the lid open when in use.

Maybe I will glue on a handle and strap so it can be carried. It is the perfect size and design for resting on a tray in the car to occupy a child on a long road trip. Might work well on a airplane too.

I carefully measured and cut several dowels (the lid has to close).

Painted the leaves and stems with an acrylic wash.

Glued the pegs into place and filled the gaps with wood putty.

Sanded everything flat and nice.

Corrected any mistakes.

Found these precut shapes at the art supply store.

Cut the hearts into halves for leaves.

Drilled very small guide holes into each piece.

Drilled the larger holes (a bit of an art to keep the wood from spintering).

Filled any mistakes in with wood putty.

Sanded the sides, surfaces, and holes smooth.

Painted the shapes and a few wooden beads with an acrylic wash.

Applied a mixture of melted beeswax mixed with oil to each shape with a brush.

Polished smooth with a cloth to make each piece silky smooth and kid friendly.

This fairy is easily made with a unfinished wooden "doll body", Tacky glue, wool roving, small wooden beads, pipe cleaners, tulle and fake flowers.

(she likes to visit all the flowers in the garden and paint them with her magic wand)

Back view of the wings.

I left one hole without a peg so that a fiew items could be inserted into the board. I had to alter the lady bugs and mushroom so that the right sized dowel would fit into the hole. I was reusing various components from past projects ( the ladybugs are knobs removed from wooden butterfly plaques) and the odds and ends from that box used to make the dollhouse furniture. I never thow anything away as it could prove useful for future inspiration.

Cloud with a silver lining made from flet sheets and polyfill.

Needle felted magic wand, bird, and bee.

Let's Play!

Design flaws

I should have used bigger dowels but I did not have a large enough drill bit. I worry the pegs will break. I wish they were closer in size to the holes on the shapes as the leaves swing and rotate. Dowels only come in so many sizes and if much larger, I could see the shapes getting forced and jammed onto the pegs. I would make the pegs removable instead of permanent so that there is more room in the box and it closes flat everytime. As it is not everything fits and I could see some child trying to unsuccessfully force the box closed. I think this is my best and favorite toy project so far. I hope you like it too, Lesley

Eat Your Flowers :Nasturtium Garden Pasta and Easy Lavender Lemon Ice Cream Recipes

2011-08-31T14:42:00.000-07:00

Did You Know That Many Flowers Are Both Yummy and Edible

(hibiscus, rose of sharon, squash blossoms, chive blossoms, nasturtiums, violas, violets, calendulas, pansies, roses, lavender, borage, day lillies, any brassica and all flowering cuilinary herbs just to name a few)

Garden Pasta With Nasturtiums

Boil

1/2 -1 pound of fettuccine or linguine until just done

Steam

1 cup of chopped yellow summer squash (large cubes or slices)

1 cup of chopped green beans ( 2 inch lengths)

Saute in 1 TBSP of butter

2 cloves of garlic

1 medium leek cut into thin rounds

Mix everything in a bowl with

1-2 TBSP of high quality olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Top with

24 Nasturtium flowers

Parmesean cheese

Serve and Enjoy!

Also good with garbonzo beans, roasted nuts, or mushrooms

An Easy Lavender and Lemon Ice Cream for Kids To Make

Pour into a cold stainless steel bowl and whip until soft peaks form

2.5 cups of heavy whipping cream

Set aside

In another bowl mix

14 ounces of sweetened condensed milk

Grated skin of one well washed lemon

Juice of one lemon

1 TBSP of whole lavender flowers powdered (I use a coffee grinder for this)

Combine both bowls together and mix well

Pour into a large container and freeze overnight in the coldest part of your freezer

This is easy and fun for kids to make but full of sugar and calories.

Sensory and Story Glove Toy

2011-08-22T21:15:00.000-07:00

Something That Appeals To All The Senses

I had this idea over the summer while we were working on our China Special Needs adoption.(WHEN I naively thought we could bring home a little sister less than two years old). Even now I still remember those three weeks in Kazakhstan ,three years ago, trying to entertain an active baby with very few resources and 120 degree temperatures outside.This toy travels well and is very versatile. It is great for teaching language and doing some sensory stimulation. A perfect addition to your suitcase.

I found these gloves at the Dollar Store with a perfect garden theme already printed on the fabric.

I sewed on a bell (sound) ,pompom (soft), plastic netting (scratchy), bright ribbons (visual and light brushing), fine sandpaper (rough) and inside the thumb a toy squeaker (sound). The underside of the glove is also coated with lots of small raised rubber dots. Of course you would not allow a young child to put this in his/her mouth or play with it unsupervised. It is rare to see these homemade activities anymore in the US. They are still common in Germany which has playgroups full of naked babies exploring all kinds of things that we Americans would see as a potential lawsuit or choking hazards.

I had several needle felted critters that needed a useful job to do.

Store bought finger puppets, small stuffed animals, or something made from felt sheets would also work if you do not have the time.

I sewed some snaps on the front of the gloves

Then again on the critters

for easy removal and flexibility in story telling.

You can make up any number of tales, here is an example...

Once upon a time there was a small grey mouse. While exploring in the garden she came across a tiny brown seed. "What is this she exclaimed, I will bury it deep in the soil and dig it up later in the winter when I am hungry". (pretend to dig and bury the seed on the child's body). Many years went by and the mouse forgot to about the seed that waited for her in the ground. Afternoons of rain and snow came and went. The seed burst open and a tiny green shoot began the journey upwards in search of the sun. One day a ladybug was looking for the perfect place to lay her eggs. She crawled all over the growing tree looking for highest branch (pretend to creep the lady bug from the toes to the top of the head) "Ah here is the right spot". The following spring a mother bird landed on the tree and started to build a nest (bend child's arm to form a V and pretend to make a nest) "My babies will be safe and warm here". Another season passed and a busy bee came to the tree to sip nectar and spread the pollen from flower to flower (fly the bee around and pretend to find flowers all over the body) "Buzz buzz so many beautiful blossoms to choose from, I must tell the hive about the treasure I have found". The following year a butterfly flew by the tree which was now loaded with fruit. She landed on a branch and laid her eggs. These soon hatched into tiny caterpillars which bored into the apples. "Oh I am so full from eating today. I'll just curl up in this dark safe place and take a very long nap" (crawl the caterpillar up into the child's armpit). One day a little boy picked one of the apples and asked his father "How did this apple come to be". Was it the mouse who planted the seed? Was it the ladybug who ate the aphids that otherwise would have have eaten the leaves and harmed the tree?" Was it the bird who also helped to eat the harmful bugs? Was it the bee who pollinated each and every flower so that they could become tiny apples? Was it the caterpillar soon to become a butterfly that would also help with pollination the following year. Was it the sun and wind and rain and snow? So many helpers needed to create just one apple for us to eat.

Fortunatley the Kaz. Princess is still young enough to appreciate this homemade creation. She is my sensory seaker and could listen to stories all day long. Hopefully the glove will travel with me to an orphanage far away-some day. Lesley

Eat Your Weeds! Purslane Stuffed Peppers

2011-08-14T11:52:00.000-07:00

A Stuffed Pepper With A Suprising Filling

A few months ago I hosted a gathering at my house to explore the idea of urban foraging with my fellow radical homemakers and city farmgirls. We discussed how to use common weeds and plants growing in our neighborhoods as a food source. The best parts of the afternoon were realizing how much the kids already knew and the discovery of lost wisdom. To think we throw away or kill valuable plants that are high in nutrients while trying to create a garden of vegetables that are much higher in maintenance, require time and money to cultivate, and often involve the use of toxic chemicals for cultivation. Common weeds are easy and free to grow and have many important uses-dyes, medicines, animal feed etc.

Common Purslane

Recognize this plant? It is high is omega oils and iron .Does it make sense to just pull it out and toss it when it has so much value?

Purslane Stuffed Pepper Recipe

Cook in two cups of water

1 cup of rice

Brown in a little olive oil

1 cup of ground meat or meat substitute ( I like Quorn)

Coarsely Chop

2 cups of purslane

Finely Chop

1 medium onion

6 mushrooms

Saute over medium heat for 10 minutes with a little olive oil until tender but not overdone

Add and mix

1 can of diced tomatoes plus the juice
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 tsp of ground fennel seeds
1/2 tsp ground coriander seeds
1/2 tsp of ground star anise
pinch of ground cumin

Stuff

4-6 large green or red bell peppers

Add 1/2 an inch of water to a shallow baking pan plus a dash of olive oil

Bake for twenty minutes at 350 degrees

Broil the stuffed peppers for a few minutes at the end to char the skins

Top each pepper with a little shredded romano or asiago cheese and serve

Where Have You Been My Mommy?

What started out to be a one month vacation from the blog turned out to be over three. I still did not catch up and relax like I had hoped, the summer flew by so fast. We had the outside of the house painted and did some remodeling in the kitchen and bathroom. I must have packed up dozens of boxes and purged a lot of stuff in case we have to sell the house and move. Our Ukrainian adoption dossier was due at the SDA at the end of June but was never sent for lots of reasons. Now I am torn as to whether to continue with China Special Needs as we have had several disappointments regarding files. The process has become way too complicated with a lot of unneccessary, expensive, and time consuming paperwork. I feel my plate is way too full as temporary single parent as it is, but we are running out of options and time if we have nay hope of adding a little sister to our family. But I have missed this blog and have a head full of toy ideas and recipes that need attention. So the plan is to start back to "work" slowly and simply and see if I can manage any more extra tasks and projects. I hope my regular readers will come back for visits in the future as I promise not to disappoint you in return! Lesley

Upcycled Doll House Made From CD Rack

2011-05-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

I have been wanting to make a DIY Waldorf style "treehouse" for years.

What held me back was a lack of woodworking tools and skills plus the desire not to purchase the "raw"materials. Branches are easy to find but not large cross sections of trees.

There is nothing more special than actually making a doll or doll house for you child. I still have the beautiful doll house my mom and dad handcrafted ,much of the furniture too, for me and my sister.

My treehouse was relatively cheap and easy to create with a combination of handmade, found, and store bought features. Compared to a brand new toy it was a deal and the end result is lovelier that anything money can buy or China can make.

I bought a whole box of wooden parts at the thrift store and needed a toy idea that would use them up.

This was sitting in our basement ready to be donated.

I have seen DIY upcycled doll houses made from drawers and CD racks on other blogs.

It took me months to manifest my own version because I did not want to give up the idea of incorporating real tree branches into the design.

Here are my creative solutions for both furniture and architecture.

My inspiration was that of a tree stump with multiple floors below.

This makes sense for forest animals who burrow down below rather than fairies who build up into the treetop. I just love the basket "elevator" with lookout platform. The basket rides to the top when a child pulls up on the dowel threaded at the top.

Building the stump

I cut out a tree silhouette from very thick chipboard off the back of a used drawing pad.

I painted it brown with acrylic paint.

I glued scrapbook paper onto the form to give it texture and dimention.

I applied acrylic gloss varnish to small areas and quick dried it with a hair dryer before moving onto to the next spot. This protects the paper overtime and prevents bubbling of the paper. This often happens if you soak the whole thing at once with paint and let it air dry.

I carved a narrow channel and drilled two holes in a dollar store plaque.

I glued a wooden support onto the back of my stump. I set the "top" into the channel and glued it into place.

I threaded a string through each hole on the platform and tied the ends to the basket. The other ends are threaded into holes and knotted on a small dowel.

I nailed the stump to the rack for a very stable and strong detail.

First floor Workroom and Studio

Doll house tub

Minature wash pitcher and bowl, wooden barrel

Rain barrel for collecting water

Mushroom table and chairs (handmade)

Minature sewing basket

Minature sewing machine

Tubs of "raw clay"

Potter's wheel and chair (handmade)

Finished ceramic pieces

I felt each family member needed hobbies and tasks that contributed to the "homestead".

Second Floor Dining Room

Dollhouse table and chairs

Minature china tea set

Doll house high chair

Doll house hutch

Doll house table with apple branch stools

Wooden bowls and plates bought from a local craft store

Communal Sleeping Area

"Family" beds and homemade duvets (wooden bowls from thrift store)

Vintage linen "rug"

Cradle (raided from my childhood doll house)

Dresser (raided from my childhood doll house)

Minature children's books

Bottom Floor/Kitchen and Larder

Sink (handmade)

Wooden crocks

Doll house bowl, rolling pin, spoon and cake mold (from my childhood)

Wooden table and chairs (handmade)

Wooden storage containers

Wooden butter churn and basket (from my childhood)

Wooden chest with real coal (the gnomes recycle it easily where we live)

Odds and Ends

Maypole (handmade)

Clothesline (handmade) and basket with clothespins

Broom (handmade)

Fireplace (handmade)

Pet ladybug toy from Korea

FIREPLACE -This was the hardest and most time consuming aspect to make. I did not want to buy an expensive doll house version. The "basic materials" and realistic detail took months to come together. It held the whole project back and I almost gave up the idea of having one. I formed it from silver polymer clay. Then I pressed small pebbles into the unbaked clay to give it texture. After I baked it I painted and aged it. I carved and glued two wooden "cards" into the form to create the hearth. The fire is just a few apple branches and a needle felted form.

I just love how sweet and traditional this treehouse turned out to be. A change from what usually greets children at a toystore. I hope this easy idea inspires you to create something similar, Lesley

Russian Easter Bread, Kulich

2011-04-24T20:20:00.000-07:00

A Stunning Dessert and Centerpiece for Easter

This sweet yeast risen bread is very traditional and rich in symbolism.

No Russian Easter is complete without this tall cylindrical bread.

Kulich

In a medium saucepan scald

1/2 cup of milk

Cool to 110 degrees

In a large bowl combine

1 package of active dry yeast, dissolved in

1/4 cup of warm water, then add

1/4 cup of sugar

The cooled milk

1 cup of all purpose flour

Mix well, cover with a damp towel and set aside in a warm place for one hour

In a mixer (Kitchen Aide) add to another bowl

1/2 cup of sugar

8 TBSP of softened butter

Cream together then add

8 large egg yolks

The yeast flour mixture

1 tsp of almond extract

2 tsp of ground cardamon

1/2 tsp of salt

3-3 1/2 cups of flour until you have a nice soft dough

In a small bowl beat

2 egg whites until stiff peaks form

Fold into your dough

Add

1/4 cup slivered or coarsely chopped almonds

2 TBSP of ground orange peel

1/4 cup of dried fruit coarsely chopped (golden raisins, currants, cranberries, apricots etc)

Use a big spoon to mix well

Use your hands or the bread hook on your mixer to knead for five minutes until you have a soft but workable dough that is not sticky or dense.

Place in a greased bowl, rolling to cover all sides with oil , then cover with plastic wrap and let rise at least two hours until it has doubled in size.

Coat the inside of a large coffee or baby formula (remove all paper labels) can with vegetable oil. Line the bottom and sides with parchment paper. This recipe is really meant for two formula sized cans

Knead the risen dough a few times and stuff it into your can. Make a domed lid of tinfoil and let rise until it reaches the top of the can. If dough rises beyond the top of the can, cut that part off evenly and save for later , bake separately in another can or as a small loaf.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees and place the rack in the lowest postion. Set the can on a baking sheet and place in the oven. Bake for ten minutes then lower the temperature to 350 degrees. Bake another 30-60 minutes. If the dough rises above the lip of the can, oozes and falls off that is ok. As you get near the time of taking it out of the oven you can remove any excess dough with a bread knife and bake the new top a few minutes until it is lightly browned. How long you bake the bread depends on the size of your can. Insert a wooden probe, when it comes out clean take the can out of the oven. Bread may appear a little underdone and moist but as it cools it gets a nice texture.

Cool for ten minutes before removing it from the can. You may need to run a knife around the inside of the can to loosen or use a can opener to open up the bottom of the can to push it loose and out.

Juice

1 lemon

Add enough water and powdered sugar to make a glaze.

Drizzle over the top and down the sides of the bread

Garnish with edible flowers and colored sprinkles.

Slice into rounds and serve with black tea.

This is a lovely idea for any spring celebration.

Russian Recipes For An Easter Meal

2011-04-24T17:21:00.000-07:00

A Delicious Light Dinner For Spring.

Boiled Beets with...

chopped hard boiled eggs mixed with capers, dill weed, horse radish, and mayonnaise.

Salmon with Sorrel Sauce

Poach or bake four salmon fillets

For the sauce add to a large saucepan and cook over medium heat

2 cups of chopped fresh sorrel leaves

1 TBSP of ground fennel seeds

1 cup of stock

2 TBSP of butter

1/2 cup of whipping cream

Salt and pepper to taste

Once the sauce has thickened and the leaves are soft and falling apart, remove from heat and spoon a large amount over each fillet. Serve immediately.

Kartoflianki (potato balls/patties)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Boil

6 medium, peeled, red potatoes

When just done cool and shred with a cheese grater

Add to a large bowl

2 beaten eggs

Potatoes

Salt and peppe to taste

2 TBSP of all purpose flour

3 slices of toasted bread made into bread crumbs

1 tsp of thyme

Form into several generous balls or patties

Place on a heavily greased cookie sheet

Bake for 10 minutes, flip and bake for 10 minutes more OR lighly fry in oil until brown on all sides

Garnish with warmed sour cream and fried onions

I know this is a bit late for Easter Dinner but you can still use these recipes for inspiration next Sunday or for Mother's Day. Enjoy Lesley

DIY Elegant Montessori Placemats

2011-04-15T22:34:00.000-07:00

Learning Can Be Fun and Stylish.

A dinner party at our house often includes lots of kids because childcare is pricey in our community and often costs more than a meal for two at a nice restaurant. A good hostess should have placemats that are child friendly, do not have cartoon characters on them and coordinate with the other items her table.

A small bonus if they can be used for everyday meals and teach a preschooler they proper way to set a table. Table setting is an easy first chore and the easy to wash surface is great for sloppy husbands too.

If I can't wipe it then I don't want it on the dinner table.

I used paper stensils to draw the shapes and cut them out from some lovely fabric.

I was about to donte these green placemats. I bought them on impulse and shrunk them in the washer.They never quite matched our blue and white porcelain chinoiserie decor.

I used a small brush to paint the edges with glue to keep them from fraying

I painted the back of each shape and pressed it into place on the mat.

I used books and cutting boards to weigh each mat down for an hour or two to dry.

I bought some inexpensive clear vinyl sheets(the really thin stuff) from the fabric store.

I used my fabric shears to cut out rectangles to match the size of the mats (more or less).

I used a sewing machine to sew the vinyl to the placemats.

I am pretty pleased with the end result of this quick and cheap project.

Dinner is now served! Bon Apetit Lesley

Recycling Kid's Art Into Spring Decor

2011-04-15T21:50:00.000-07:00

Plant A Flower Garden Indoors

Easily made from odds and ends we had around the house.

I made a cardboard template.

I used it to trace and cut flowers from several of KP's paintings.

I used a cookie cutter as a template to recyle an old wax paper and melted crayon banner into lovely stained glass flowers. Wax Papper Banner Tutorial

We painted some egg cartons

and cut them into lovely flowers.

After punching holes into all of our flower parts we were able to string them together to make our garden.

I just love using my daughter's creations to make something unique and unexpected.

The flowers can be used to make a banner OR as a single element on a wreath or other project.

So go through that pile of artwork you have yet to file and find some inspiration for the weekend.

Lesley

DIY Upcycled Tutu Top Tutorial

2011-04-01T19:06:00.000-07:00

This Outfit Is A Piece Of Cake To Make !!

This time last year I explored the idea of making custom tutus for Etsy. Then I saw that many other moms had this exact same thought. Tutu tops were very popular, especially for the birthday girl. I have yet to see very many worn here where I live, except on tweeners. It has taken me months but here is what I made for the Kaz. Princess in less than two hours.

This hand me down top has been brought out two summers in a row and never worn. It just did matched anything else.

I found these leggings at Target for less than $10.00.

I do not have time right now to hand knot a tutu.

OR figure out how to use the ruffle attachment on my ancient sewing machine. I found this at Marshall's for $10.00 which is less than the cost of buying the tulle I would need from the fabric store.

Here is the top altered.

The bow can be removed for washing and the sash was done with fusable webbing that I ironed on to attach it. I decided not to sew the top to the tutu, which is how most people do this project. Tutus just don't make it through the washing machine very well.

Here is the tutu with a few cooridinating embellishments that I sewed on by hand.

The new details on the leggings.

Some pretties for the hair.

I could not resist. These are the first things I have made along the lines of headbands and bows.

I sewed some leftover lace flowers etc. from my wedding shoes onto some hairclips.

Here is the complete outfit in action.

So Fancy Nancy!! BUT cheap enough that if this treasure gets trashed at the playground by my tomboy I won't feel too bad. Last week KP discovered hiking and cross country running. We did a 3 mile loop in the mountains and she ran 2.5 miles of it barefoot. Even with sore feet she insisted on walking the last leg herself, in total tears, and would not let daddy carry her. Is this a glimpse of her adventurous future to come?

If you can sew by hand you can fake "handmade". Don't forget to get those peas and kale in the ground,

Lesley

A Traditional Nauryz Feast. Cultural Information and Recipes

2011-03-22T15:54:00.000-07:00

The Dastarkhan

A traditional Kazakh "tablecloth" that symbolizes hospitality, abundance, family and community.

It can be on a Tapshan with friends

at the baby house where tea is waiting to be served for toddlers

or on tables at a Kazakh wedding feast.

The presentation and order of the meal is pretty much the same

1) plates of light cookies, chocolates, chopped apples and fresh fruit

2) bowls of cold and pickled vegetables. Cucumbers, tomatoes, chile peppers, carrots, and green olives

3) a selection of dried fruits and nuts

4)Irimshik- wet curds/large cottage cheese

Kurt/Kazy-dried and salted curd balls

6) drinks of Kumys-fermented mares mlik, shubat-fermented camel milk

or ashygan kozhe/boza-fermented grains

(photos taken by me in Kazakhstan)

6) soups of broth, mutton, noodles, and dumplings

Laghman Recipe Link

7) black and green tea

8) cold salads made of fish, vegetables or meat

Cold Fish Salad Recipe Link

(all links are from previous blog posts)

9)Samsa and other pastries filled with fish, meat, or squash

Pumpkin Samsa Recipe Link

10)Grilled horse, sheep, or goat. As well as sausages, boiled meat, the organs and fat.

11) rice Plov or millet

For women a special Nauryz cereal called Sumalyak-flour, spices, and sprouted wheat

Khatem was served only to men

12)bread/Nan (Liposhka)

13) A selection of cultured dairy products

Airan-yogurt/kefir

Kaimak-sour cream

Sary mai-butter

Suzbe-sour milk

Sut-milk

panir style cheeses

14)Desert is a selection of stuffed pastries and fried dough in various forms

Our 2011 Nauryz Menu

Uzbek Mung Bean Salad

Recipe Link

Carrot and Radish Salad

2-4 cups of large carrots julienned

1-2 bunches of large radishes julienned

1/8 cup of olive oil

1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar

1 TBSP of brown sugar

1/2 tsp of ground black pepper

1/8 tsp of cayenne or 1/2 tsp of red chile flakes

1 tsp of ground star anise

salt to taste

Mix everything together and refrigerate 24 hours before serving at room temperature

Siberian Fish Pelmeni

How To Make and Fold Pelmeni Link

Fish Filling Recipe

Bake and flake

1.5 pounds of white fish

Add

1/4 cup of chopped fresh dill weed

1/2 finely diced medium onion

1/2 tsp of salt

1 tsp ground coriander powder

1/2 tsp of black pepper

Mix well

Use round wonton or gyoza wrappers to make the dumplings

Bring a large pot of water to boil and cook for five minutes before removing with a slotted spoon

Serve in a bowl with a bit of broth , garnished with chopped green herbs and sour cream

Uzbek Peach and Squash Braise

recipe link here

Vegetarian Plov

2 cups of cooked batsmati rice

2 garlic cloves finely diced

1/4 cup of chopped dried apricots

1/4 cup of dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds

1/4 cup of golden raisins

1/2 cup of green peas

1/2 cup of grated carrot

All heated in a large skillet with about 2 TBSP of oil on high heat until hot and crispy

New Family Traditions

Yurt cookies with spring bug chocolates and English crackers filled with goodies

I cut a yurt from chipboard and used it to trace and cut out the shapes on the chilled and rolled dough.

Yurt Sugar Cookies

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Using an electric mixer and a large bowl, cream together for one minute

6 TBSP of butter softened at room temperature

and

1/3 cup of vegetable shortening

then add and continue to mix until fluffy

1 egg

1 TBSP of milk

1/2 tsp of orange extract

3/4 cup of sugar

Set aside

In a small bowl mix together

2 cups of all purpose flour

1 1/2 tsp of baking powder

1/8 tsp of powdered cardamon

1 TBSP powdered orange peel

Mix your dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until smooth

Chill for two hours

Using a lightly floured surface roll your dough to 1/8 inch thickness and cut out your shapes.

Bake on an ungreased cookie sheet for 10 minutes until the outer edges just start to color.

Check at 5 minutes, if you get air bubbles pop them and press them down lightly with a fork

It is better to underbake than overbake these cookies.

Cool one hour before icing

Icing

In a large pan combine

3 cups of white granulated sugar

1 1/2 cups of hot water

1/4 tsp of cream of tartar

Over medium high heat bring mixture to a boil and cook for 7 minutes

Reduce temperature to medium low heat and cook for 18 minutes. Stir only as necessary to keep it from sticking to the sides and bottom of the pan.

Remove pan from heat and cool without stirring for 45 minutes.

Stir in 3-4 cups of powdered sugar to create a spreading consistency.

If too thick add a little hot water and stir until the lumps are gone.

Mixture should be thick/not runny and opaque, spreading easily with a rubber spatula.

It will smooth out as it "dries".

You can use tubes of store bought icing to add decorative details with your kids.

On Nauryz every family, from the Middle East to Central Asia, displays a selection of seven symbolic items.

This year our family chose

1) Candle-light, moon, sun, stars, warmth

2)Millet (or other grain)-food

3)Water (needed for crops,cooking, and drinking)

4)Milk-(a staple of Kazakh cuisine, survival, hospitality, and culture)

5)Flower-spring and NewYear

6)Goat/sheep/camel/horse-(needed for food, wool, transportation, and work)

7)Wool Roving (needed for making clothes,yurts, blankets, rugs and shoes)

A yurt candy tin from Kazakhstan to symbolize shelter, family and community

(filled with small presents and goodies)

This is such a fun secular holiday. I hope this post inspires you to celebrate it with your family too. It does not matter if you read this a bit late as you can still choose any day this month for the tradition.

Happy Nauryz Toi, Lesley

Dont' forget to check the posts from last March for more ideas and the archives under Silk Road Recipes or Russian Recipes too.

Crafts with Kazakh Kid's Idea for Nauryz

2011-03-15T18:42:00.000-07:00

A Child of the 1970's Celebrates Her Kazakh Child's Heritage

It's time to for the best holiday of the whole year!

Nauryz Toi
(also known as ulys kuni or "the first day of the new year")

Say goodbye to a harsh winter on the steppes and hello to signs of spring

Baby animals are born

New clothes are purchased at the bazaar

Contests and hearts are won

(whips from kyz kuu "catch the girl" your reward is a kiss or a lashing)

Families gather in yurtas or the town square. Food, valuable goods, and wishes of prosperity and happiness are shared while greeting eachother "Are Your Livestock and Soul Still Healthy".

(our cake from last year's Nauryz potluck)

Nauryz is an ancient celebration of the spring equinox. It originated in Persia long before the arrival of Islam. When the Soviets occupied Kazakhstan this holiday almost disappeared there. Today it is a tradition that unites many ethnic groups, cultures and countries. On this special day festivities happen in much of the Middle East, Europe, and Asia.

Long, hard winters forced families to isolate themselves in yurts while pastures dried out. The arrival of cranes announced the warm weather. The birth of new livestock was essential for work, food, transportaion, clothing, and shelter. Bactrian camels are only born every two years and take a full 12 months to gestate.

As the last snow melts women rise early to repair yurts and prepare for the move to summer pastures. Men gather together to greet the dawn and prepare fields for planting and ditches for irrigation. Precious winter stores are cooked in large Kazans (pots) and donated to a feast for the entire Aul (community).

The holiday starts with a lot of spring cleaning. The yurt is swept and cleaned from top to bottom. Festive clothes, that have been specially purchased for the day, are unpacked and worn for the very first time. All the best linens and material goods of a household are brought out to decorate the yurt and symbolize the joy everyone feels with the departure of winter. It is an opportunity to wish all of your neighbors good luck and put old grievances behind.

Dancer and Akyns (poet bards) of both genders travel from afar to provide entertainment all day and night. Elders, matchmakers, and storytellers sit on magestic carpets around large bonfires and samovars with their Pialas (bowls) sipping black tea, Boza (alcoholic millet drink) or Kumyz (alcoholic fermented mares milk). Warriors (Dzhigits) and wrestlers would compete in contest of strength and skill, often on horseback. Women competed against eachother in horseracing and singing.

In the evening there would be games of gambling and courtship. Similar to Valentine's Day, Nauryz was a time to honor your sweetheart. Girls would prepare a special dish to bring strength to their boyfriends and men would bestow small gifts. Young well dressed couples would all pile onto a large swing called a Altybakan for fun and gossip

In modern times folks gather in the big cities to see performers on large stages who dance, sing, and play traditional music. Bands play both Kazakh and modern pop songs from the US. Children enjoy carnivals full of rides and stands that sell sweets and snacks.

Kazakhs believe that how you behave on Nauryz determines the way the rest of the year goes

for you.

A yurt, dried beans and grains were all essential to spring survival on the steppe.

They are perfect creative elements for making this craft to celebrate and talk about Nauryz with your child.

This activity provides a great opportunity to discuss many aspects of traditional Kazakh life with your child.

If you grew up in the 60's and & 70's then this concept will look very familiar to you. It will remind you of something you did in school or had hanging on the walls of you childhood home. It is a very easy, quick and cheap craft to do with kids of all ages.

You will need

Dried beans and grains of all sizes and colors

1/2 yard of burlap

Cardboard or chipboard

Embellishments to make words and details

Floral wire or ribbon

Wooden beads

Acrylic paint

Draw and cut out a paper template (children can help with this)

Use it to draw and cut out your shape

Poke two holes, for hanging later, in your yurt

If yurts are not your bowl of tea you could also try a simple flower or egg shape

Children can help you paint any letters or embellishments

Apply a thick coat of paint to the yurt (kids love to do this part)

Cut your burlap into a rough yurt shape, leave about an inch of extra fabric all the way around. Wrap the burlap around the yurt, apply a little glue to the back, and clamp it down to hold it in place. Let it dry for a few hours. Of course a glue gun would make the process quicker and easier.

Flip it over, add your embellishments, and draw out your pattern

Paint or squeeze a thin line of glue along your lines and apply the beans or grains. Let dry for at least two hours before proceeding with the next step.

This is a great hand eye coordination activity for young kids (don't expect they are going to have a long attention span for it). You can ask older kids to use tweezers to make it really fun and challenging. We did this project in small steps over a course of several days.

Paint the shapes inside of the lines with a thick layer of glue. Place your project on a cookie sheet and allow your child to sprinkle piles of the smaller grains and beans onto the glue. Let dry two hours and shake off the excess. Use any leftover edible materials to make a nice Central Asian stew or plov.

Lastly you can add a few decorative details and wire.

Your project is now ready to display on your front door to welcome all friends to your home.

I hope you will try this simple craft with a child or two over the next few days. Even heavy paper will work as a base to hold the beans. It does not have to be as elaborate as my yurt. It is really all about the process for kids anyway. Please check back on Sunday for my Nauryz Toi feast menu and recipes. I will also be writing quite a bit about Kazakh food and share with you a few fun traditions we have made up to celebrate the holiday. Enjoy, Lesley

"Crafts and Activities" with Kids To Explore Spring Planting

2011-03-10T16:56:00.000-08:00

It's Time To Plan Your Garden!

Salad Greens Can Be Started in Cold Frames, in Hot Houses and On Window Sills.

Recently I went to a seed planting party to get those vegetable starts going indoors.

Along with my fellow radical homemakers and urban farmgirls we traded seeds and gardening advice.

The kids got involved too!

It is great for them to see the whole process from seed to harvest.

Each child had the opportunity to make a window greenhouse.

Ziplock bags are filled with soil, seeds, glitter, beads, jewels, and other fancy stuff.

You can also stick things on the outside of the bags too.

Punch two holes in the top of the bag.

Just hang in a window, water, and watch your vegetables grow.

Beans, peas, and squash all make good candidates for this activity.

(ours have failed to germinate so far even though the broccoli sprouts came up in just a few days. I must have chosen the wrong moon phase to plant them or the seeds were bad)

Want something a bit more beautiful?

Make a template

Trace it onto clear vinyl

Cut out your shapes (back and front)

Sew them together to make a pocket

Decorate it with colored tissue paper adhered with decoupage glue

Punch your holes and add a lovely ribbon

A stained glass hot house for your window

What a great way to grow those sprouts for my sandwich!!

I love that we can see the roots and stems from the backside.

And Now For the Garden Sensory Box

Because we won't be planting a real one this year

Fill a tub with black beans of various sizes

Add seeds, toy vegetables, plastic critters,small pots, and plant labels

plus garden tools, a watering can, and fake flowers.

If you want the flowers to stand up make a little base of playdough and let it dry.

Now let your child explore and make a big mess.

First signs of spring, record it in your almanac and breathe it all in deeply to celebrate, Lesley

Inspiration For A Simple Russian Brunch

2011-02-27T20:49:00.000-08:00

Beet Salad, Baked Eggs and Kartoshnik

If you have the good fortune to enjoy a Sunday with a lovely Russian hostess the culinary

delights might look something like the following

On the table would be a selection of fresh and dried fruit along with a least one type of pickled vegetable.

Next you would be served a light vegetable soup.

To follow would come several kinds of cold salads created from some combination of beets, carrots, cucumbers and onions mixed with with lots of mayonnaise or sour cream.

The main course would probably be baked fish or chicken accompanied by some form of potatoes.

This time of year dessert would include a fruit compote and pastries.

Beet Salad

Roast at 400 degrees until tender enough to accept a fork to their centers

6 medium beets

Cool, peel, finely chop and set aside

Mix in a bowl

3 TBSP of apple cider vinegar

1 lemon peel finely grated

1 orange peel finely grated

Juice of one orange

4 TBSP of olive oil

1 tsp of caraway seeds

Salt and pepper to taste

Mix the dressing with your chopped beets and chill for several hours

Garnish each individual serving with sour cream and finely chopped parsley or chives

Stuffed and Baked Eggs

Hardboil

8 eggs

Cool, peel and cut in them in half as if to make deviled eggs

Finely chop and saute in lots of butter

1 onion

Remove the cooked egg yolks and mix in the onions

Add dill weed, salt and pepper to taste

Add a little mayonnaise or milk and mash with a fork to make a creamy paste

Fill the egg cavities with the mixture

Oil a casserole dish and bake the eggs at 350 degrees for 20 minutes, until they are hot and lightly browned on top but not drying out.

Kartoshnik (egg and potato souffle)

Peel, chop and boil

3 large potatoes

Cook until tender

Make into mashed potatoes and set aside

Mix in a bowl

4 eggs

1/4 cup of cream, yogurt, or milk

1cup of cheddar cheese

1 finely chopped onion

1 TBSP of freshly chopped dill

3 tsp of baking powder

salt and pepper to taste

Mix in the mashed potatoes and blend until very smoothe

Oil 4-6 baking ramekins and fill with your mixture, leave some space at the top for expansion

Bake at 375 degrees for at least 30 minutes until the souffle fully sets and is lightly browned on top

Cool for 5 minutes and then serve

Garnish with sour cream

Enjoy, Lesley

DIY Wooden Caterpillar and Butterfly Preschool Games

2011-02-20T21:05:00.000-08:00

I often look through toy catalogues for inspiration.

These two games are based on expensive German made toys.

I always get as secret thrill when I can make it myself for a quarter of the "retail" price.

Each game cost me way less than $10.00 to make.

I like knowing that these were not made in China under who knows what working conditions.

I feel I have reduced the toxic load on mother earth and the human manufacturer.

This summer KP discovered caterpillars, frogs, snakes and a whole host of other creepy crawlies.

At first she was absolutely terrified of them.

Now she gets as excited as I do to hold one in her hand in complete wonder.

We found these one morning on our dill plants.

Sure one can study biology and life cycles from books and models.

Nothing beats taking care of a living thing and witnessing a miracle unfold in real time.

I never knew that when a caterpillar becomes a crystalis it sheds the old skin like a small black husk and underneath is an entirely new creature.

Butterfly Game

I found these wall hangers at a craft store for $1.00 each.

I removed the "knobs" and hanging hardware, filling in the unsightly holes with wood putty.

Next I sanded the butterflies, painted the bodies, traced some hearts and painted them with my secret stain formula (oil, water, and acrylic paint).

I removed the unwanted "extras" from some "on sale" dragonflies, sanded and painted the bodies.

I sanded and painted some wooden hearts.

Lastly I painted the backs.

I was not able to get a smooth repair over the holes this time so I used some fabric hearts as a solution.

I covered all the game pieces in acrylic semi-gloss varnish for durability.

In hindsight I should have used tape to mask off areas as I painted them. This would have saved me time a lot of time and "mistakes". Oh well, live and learn. Projects like these games leave me with a greater appreciation for those who manufacture and paint small items. I can't imagine doing it hour after after for days on end without being left with failing vision and good humor.

How to play the game

Each player gets one butterfly, one body , and 4 hearts of each color.

Individuals take turns rolling the die and placing the selected color heart onto their butterfly.

(the die is just a wooden cube with painted circles on it)

The black circle indicates that a body is to be played.

Where as the white circle can require the player to skip a turn or trade hearts with a friend.

The game ends non-competitively when all butterflies are completed.

Feel free to come up with your own creative rules to adjust the challenge level to the age of the players.

This game teaches color recognition, hand/eye coordination, and the concept of turn taking/following rules.

Caterpillar Game

Drill two holes near the top of an unpainted wooden "bead".

(use a very small drill bit to create a guide hole first)

Paint your beads with matt acrylic varnish so you can paint details on them later without causing bleeding.

Paint two pegs, insert them into your holes and glue.

Paint faces onto your drilled "beads".

Insert and glue shoelaces into the ends of your "beads".

Paint legs and decorations onto a few true beads.

I "recycled" some beads from my Bead Stacker/Counter/Patterner Toy to save time and space.

Make sure to find a dowl that will fit through your beads including space for the knot/lace.

Cut your dowl into the desired "needle" lengths and drill a small hole in one end.

Thread your shoelace into the hole, knot, and cut off the excess.

How To Play The Game

The die indicates which color bead to string onto the needle.

You can decide how long to make the caterpillar's body (number of beads) in order for the game to be over.

A white circle can indicate a skipped turn or removed/traded bead.

A black circle requires the player to thread a "foot" bead onto the lace.

This game is great for teaching fine motor skills to young children.

Here is our caterpillar "surprise" a rare black swallowtail.

There is the moment when a butterfly hatches and you can watch the wings fill with green fluid and expand like the lungs of a human newborn taking its first breath. It is the same physiology.

If you disturb the natural process you risk permanently harming or causing the organism to struggle more than necessary to make the transition.

The Kaz. Princess and I really enjoyed the insect theme this summer and I hope this post inspires you to both explore the world of butterflies and make a game for you child, LESLEY

We Have A OWOH Winner!!

2011-02-19T10:05:00.000-08:00

And the prize goes to Janice at Cheeky Rose Boutique

Please check out her unique and folk art style handmade dolls.

Many of you don't know it yet but I have been collecting books on doll making and history. I'm not talking about anything modern made with petroleum based "clays" or something "primitive" or "gothic" in style that would appeal to adults.

No, what I am interested in is the type of dolls one would make for a child or which children make for themselves out of natural or found materials. Think apples, sticks, corn husks, corn cobs, wooden spoons etc. I may even begin to explore rag dolls with with molded heads. I hope in the next few months to be packed, moved and settled in our new home. When the studio is fully functional I will be able to offer my readers a series of lovely and simple doll making tutorials. So please continue to check back after the the toymaking workshop closes for remodeling.

Janice's dolls remind me of what I saw at the Museum Of International Folk Art in Albuquerque, New Mexico in their international toy collection. Be sure to visit Cheeky Rose, leave a comment and be inspired.

I want to thank everyone who participated in the One World One Heart Event. Please know that this event has not truly ended as we all thought but has morphed into a new butterfly of sorts called Our World Our Heart. Please check out Lisa's blog A Whimsical Bohemian for details on how to participate next year. I appreciate everyone who left a comment on my blog and joined as a new follower. I was able to visit every one of the over 800 bloggers and artists who participated in this worldwide creative party.

The reality of our upcoming relocation is setting in. It is an overwhelming undertaking for me. I will do my best to connect with all of you who left comment in hopes of winning my door prize. It will just take some time. Sorry to be so short and sweet but we are in another state and our computer setup is less than ideal. I am also dealing with a bored, non-napping child.

Have an amazing weekend, Lesley

Recycling Romance: Bye Bye Expensive Clothing Stores

2011-02-14T00:00:00.000-08:00

Creating A Vintage Look From the Thirft Store.

I just had to add the plastic cameo and fancy ribbon.

Antique and modern lace can dress up any find!

I found this jacket by the dumpster several years ago and it has been sitting in the closet.

A little hand sewing, vintage style buttons, a shirt also found at Savers and it is transformed.

Cinderella is ready for the ball!

A lace doily from France, a pin from Indonesia, and more fun finds.

It was so much fun to raid my closet and notions box for inspiration.

Dressing up a cheap sweater dress with...

Three identical $1.00 knit flower headbands from Target that become stylish cuffs

for the wrists...

or accessories for matching tights with boots.

Who says you need to know how to knit to create these when you can fabricate with a few odds and ends.

Not even the parts I cut from the headbands were wasted.

Now I just have to decide which outfit is best to wear for that date this week with my husband.

Happy Valentine's Day!

"Trash" to Garden Treasure

2011-02-05T15:17:00.000-08:00

Creating A Garden Fantasy....

The Kaz. Princess got this for Christmas.

I put it aside as there was a bit too much horse themed stuff under the tree. I plan on using many of these as party favors for her Cowgirl 4th Birthday Party this fall. What a shame to toss the "barn" in the landfill. If you have been following my blog for long you know I am very fond of recycling Melissa and Doug toy packaging into new creations. I think it will make a great shadow box to display things we find on our walks.

I found this at the local flea market for under $6.00

It is very similar to another switch plate cover that I have burried in a box in the basement. The one from my childhood is a variation of Peter Pumpkin Eater, only the wife is looking out of the window in an apple.

I removed the paper and gave some spots a light sanding

I painted the box with two coats of white acrylic paint and a final coat in oyster

Then I added a little vintage detailing

Next I aged the box and applied an acrylic varnish sealant

Glued on the switch plate cover and a few vintage toy blocks

I am not quite sure how I feel about this piece. It came out well but it is a bit too "pastel" for my tastes.

It would look nice in a nursery or to house small vintage ceramics and a toy tea set. BUT it does not quite fit the aesthetic or colors of any of the rooms I plan for the new house. I think to tone down the cuteness I would mount it on a garden shed trellis and plant pastel four O'clocks in a flower bed below . We could still display things we find outside-bottle caps, old marbles, metalic beetles, butterflies, an acorn, a bit of wasp nest, a heart shaped rock, etc. The vines would grow around all of our treasures. All I need is a sheltered place.

.....while the flower children and insects sleep until spring.

What projects are you dreaming up? Lesley

Felted Mushroom Pin Cushion One World One Heart GiveAway

2011-01-31T16:43:00.000-08:00

Anticipation!

I have been waiting almost a year to give this beauty away.

This needle felted mushroom is 4 inches tall and makes the perfect pin cushion.

There is a green worm, fancy butterfly and beaded accents.

My creation is not a toy and is suitable only for decoration.

Why have I been holding this treasure aside for my readers?

Because it is finally time for the

Global GiveAway (link)

I loved be a part of this last year!

This yearly event was started five years ago by the talented and passionate Lisa at

A Whimsical Bohemian

When I participated last year I met several creative and wonderful bloggers from all over the world.

Some still visit my blog and send me cool stuff.

Last year there were around 1000 participants.

If you love GiveAways and winning interesting things check out the link above for more details.

Please consider participating and spread the word to every blogger you know.

It is a great way to see what people are creating in other countries.

Some of the art and crafts offered are stunning!

The rules are simple to enter

You must have an active blog and you must leave a comment in such a way that I can visit your blog and or easily notify you that you have won. Please only leave one comment which serves as your entry in the GiveAway. The event closes at 6am mountain time on February 17th 2011.

I will notify the winner via e-mail and plug their blog within that week.

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED AND THE WINNER IS BEING CONTACTED!

For those OWOH visitors let me introduce myself. I am Lesley.

Welcome to my workshop and world

I make toys and other creations for and with my daughter here in the USA.

I believe all children deserve handmade non toxic playthings

I love traveling

getting to know about other cultures

and cooking ethnic food.

My other passions include gardening, "homesteading",

and collecting vintage toys which I turn into unexpected home decor.

I have this fantasy of exchanging small creative gifts with other bloggers throughout the year.

Think of it as your UnBirthday present and let me know if your are interested!

I appreciate your visit and hope you leave inspired.

Good Luck and enjoy the best Blogging party ever!

A Special Valentine's Craft for Kazakh Kids!

2011-01-28T16:09:00.000-08:00

I Love YUrt!

A Valentine's Day pocket full of cards and treats for a very special child.

If you can do both straight and blanket stitches this is a super easy craft to do with or without kids.

With a little creatvity it is simple to connect symbols of Kazakh life with American traditions.

My inspiration was a felt tea cozy and an Uzbek child's hat that I bought in Kazakhstan.

I drew and cut a paper template and used it to cut two identical pieces of felt

I also made 1 red door and 4 red hearts

Use lots of pins to match up the front and back sides of the yurt for hand sewing

Pin the rick rack to the front side of you project

Tuck the "tails" in between the two layers of felt

Place enough basic sitches to hold the trim in place

Blanket stitch around the entire edge of the door

Sew designs with embroidery thread (there are lots of Kazakh traditional ones on the web)

Add sequins and other embellishments if you wish

Tack the pom pom trim to the front side with several stitches and tuck in the "tails"

Using very small blanket stitches and standard sewing thread sew the front and back sides of the yurt together along the bottom edge

Using embroidery thread and needles, blanket stitch the front and back pieces together but stop sewing them together once you round the corners of the yurt and head towards the top. You want to create an envelope large enough to hold several sizes of cards and a few goodies.

Finish the top edge of both the front and back sides with the blanket stitch

Glue the door and windows onto the front

Sew on a ribbon

Stuff with surprises

( I am using recycled cards and scrapbook paper to make valentines from family and KP's lovies. I also plan to make heart shaped cookies of various kinds that will be delivered around the neighborhood.)

Hang on a bedroom door to be discovered in the morning

I have decided that Valentine's Day is a good neutral time to talk about all the people who love and are special to the Kaz. Princess including her birth family. We can light a pink candle in honor of the woman who gave birth to her and the country in which KP was born and make a special drawing or write a letter in case we ever make contact with her. It makes the day a bit more special than what Hallmark and See's had in mind don't you think?

What are some special traditions that you do to honor those you love on V-day?

Enjoy them! Lesley

Silk Road Fava Bean Stew for the Crockpot Recipe

2011-01-24T14:46:00.000-08:00

Make Your Loved One Something HOT for Valentine's Day!

Another easy and yummy culinary inspiration from Central Asia.

Spicy Fava Bean Stew

Soak for 24 hours and peel the skins of

2 cups of dried fava beans (set aside)

Cook

2 cups of batsmati rice as per standard directions (set aside but do not add to crockpot)

Grind in a spice grinder

1/2 TBSP of fennel seeds

1 TBSP of red chile pepper seeds

3 star anise pods

1 tsp of coriander seeds

1 tsp of caraway seeds

1/2 tsp of cumin seeds

Mix with

1 TBSP of paprika

2 TBSP of olive oil

Set aside

Saute in

2 TBSP of olive oil

1 medium onion

2 cloves of garlic finely chopped

until soft (set aside)

Peel and coarsely chop

1 medium butternut squash (2 cups)

2 large carrots

1 red or orange bell pepper or the equivalent of smaller sweet peppers (not peeled)

Add all of the above to your crockpot plus

2-4 cups of stock (depending on what temperature and length of time you use)

2 TBSP of sour plum umboshi paste or tamarind paste

4 TBSP of molasses

1 (14-16 once) can of diced tomatoes

2 TBSP of tomato paste

1 tsp of salt

Stir really well and start your crockpot

Cook for 2-6 hours until the beans and squash are just soft

Serve over the hot rice

Garnish with mild goat cheese or plain yogurt, and chopped fresh mint

Consider a gift of warm healing food on February 14th.

and not

Flowers-grown with pesticides by children and pregnant women in Columbia

Cards-made from forests of beautiful trees in Washington state

Chocolate-grown from cocoa in countries with poor human right's records

Love does not have to carry a hidden cost, Lesley

Easy Mom and Child Valentine's Crafts-Tutorials

2011-01-22T11:46:00.000-08:00

Made from materials you already have at home

Recycling the past

Treating those we love

It is never too late to train Martha Stewart's replacement!

Wax Paper Heart Garland

Montessori style have your child grate up several colors of wax crayons

Together cut up hearts and make confetti from tissue paper

Sprinkle crayon and tissue on large sheets of wax paper

Cover with a plain sheet and carefully move to your next work surface

In a safe spot mom irons the two sheets together to melt all the wax and cause a nice seal

A cookie cutter can be used to make a cardboard template to trace and cut out lots of wax hearts

Try to plan out how this will be done to waste as little material as possible

Leftovers can be used in lots of other projects like windows for cards.

Use a punch to create two small holes in the middle of each heart

String the hearts on a long thin ribbon

Glue pompoms on the center of each heart

Hang and enjoy the stained glass effect

You can make all kinds of holiday banners this way.

Imagine red, white and blue crayons with tissue paper stars.

Victorian Shell Heart

Trace and cut a heart from a very thick piece of cardboard

The backs of pads of paper work really well for this.

Make a small hole in the heart for hanging later

Have your child paint the heart with some pink tempera or non-toxic acrylic paint

When dry, your child can paint the heart with a layer of Elmer's glue.

Children can place shells all over the surface of the heart

(be sure not to cover up the hole)

Other suggestions for materials are pasta in different shapes, small pinecones or seed pods, dried beans.

Together paint the edges and raised areas with a little non-toxic gold acrylic paint using a tiny brush or Q-tip

When dry glaze the heart with a tiny amount of burnt umber paint and acrylic gloss varnish

Use a nice gold ribbon to hang your heart

In the 1800's it was very common to collect shells, fossils and other natural objects for curio cabinets.

These were also glued onto frames, mirrors, and furniture then gilded to look like the heart we just made.

Using much of the same process you could also just glue onto a heart any group of small objects you have sitting around the house.

These flowers were set aside for donation until KP and I decided to recyle them into door decor.

For this craft try pompoms, candy hearts. crumpled tissue paper etc.

Simple Treat Bags

I downloaded some vintage Valentine's Day cards from the internet.

I used a cookie cutter to trace and cut out lots of hearts

I wanted to buy genuine vintage cards from the antique store the other day but they were $6.00 each.

Why are all classroom Valentine's Day cards now based on mass media cartoon characters? It would be so nice to have other choices at the store. I miss the ones we punched out from sheets in kindergarden.

I glued two hearts back to back over a small craft clothespin.

Now I can fill inexpensive paper bags with cookies and close them up in a really sweet way.

Little Red Riding Hood will be making her rounds in the neighborhood very soon.

I hope this post provides you with lots of great inspiration for making crafts with your kids. There is no reason you can't make something beautiful, "green", and saved to pull out for next year-together with your child. Enjoy! Lesley

Vintage Doll Crib Makeover- Surprising Storage for the New Studio

2011-01-13T21:29:00.000-08:00

Almost Identical To One From My Childhood

Except mine was bigger with decorative beads, had a drop down side and a pink puppy decal.

(this one has lost all the parts for the drop down feature)

It arrived by mail in several pieces

and continued to come apart.

Some new hardware, glue and clamps along with a few waves of my magic wand.......

These cribs are easy to find but not with decals still in place.

The goat and elephant on this one are a rare theme and just needed a little touch up paint.

Storage for my Art Studio

If you have been following my blog for the past year you might recall that I swore I would buy no more vintage doll cradles. We have three in the house already plus two "beds". Given the Kaz. Princess' fondness for dolls why would I keep collecting doll furniture? Well because I enjoy the challenge of fabrication and giving something a surprising new purpose. I also can't resist a well crafted and lovely wooden toy, especially when it is cheap and in excellent condition.

I loaded this doll crib up with my sewing basket, a gorgeous vintage picture book, and some toymaking books wrapped in paper bags that I collaged with last year's calendar. Hidden away under the crib are plastic boxes full of craft supplies. After we move I will have to show you the victrola that stores my scrapbook paper and the steamer strunk ( I'm refinishing that now) that holds all my fabric. It took this move to inspire me to keep these family heirlooms and find a good use for them rather than get rid of them. They never did fit the look of our 70's ranch.

I have several more vintage toys as home decor projects in the works. I am converting the German Haba cradle into a shelf and I am making a "sculpture" of sorts from several smaller pieces. My house is beginning to resemble a MOIFA museum exhibit. Next time you see a vintage toy-think of all the ways you can alter it. "Cute" can become playful, magical, colorful, whimsical, nostalgic, joyful and unique. You won't find that look at Pottery Barn! Happy creating-Lesley

Russian Winter Squash Cutlets Recipe

2011-01-08T18:04:00.000-08:00

Another unexpectedly easy and yummy recipe!

(especially when you have 20 squash sitting in your basement needing to be eaten)

Winter Squash Cutlets

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees

Toast

2-3 slices of bread

Make into bread crumbs

Peel and cut

one raw winter squash or pumpkin, then

Grate/shread (using a Cuisinart if you have one)

2-3 cups

Place in a saucepan with

1 cup of stock

Simmer on medium until just soft, adding a little more water if it starts to stick to the pan

Add

1 tsp of salt

1 cup of milk

Pour

1/2 cup of semolina flour into a bowl

Sprinkle

1 TBSP of it into the pan at a time

stir until well mixed and repeat, this will prevent lumps

Keep stirring until all the liquid is absorbed and the mixture thickens to the consistency of something between polenta and cookie dough

Take off heat and add

2 beaten eggs

Mix thoroughly

Coat a cookie sheet with

1-2 TBSP of olive oil

Form into patties and dip both sides into the bread crumbs

Bake for 15 minutes and then flip and bake for 10 minutes, patties should be a nice golden brown color.

Garnish with battered fried onions

Serve with jam, mayonaise, or sour cream

Perfect for a light lunch with pickled beets and black currant tea

Enjoy!

2011 Creative Resolutions

2011-01-08T15:24:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year

I may not have managed to exercise, re-learn my Russian, finish the adoption LifeBook, or read a single non-fiction book to its end last year but I did a great job checking off most of my

Creative Resolutions 2010 (link)

Here are my creative resolutions for 2011

1) I got the fancy new digital camera for Christmas, now I just have to learn how to focus the new lens and master all the bells and whistles that did not exist in photography when I studied it 20 years ago. I resolve to learn digital photography as a professional.

2) I did take a sewing class and try a few simple projects but I doubt I could make doll clothes using a pattern. My old Singer is dying and I really need a new machine. I resolve to learn to sew from a pattern and use three new stitch options.

3) I never found a woodworker to apprentice with but I did get a scroll saw for Christmas. We will see if that encourages me to expand into wood as a creative medium. I resolve to use the scroll saw and other tools that intimidate me.

4) This time last year I expanded the theme of the blog to "green" toymaking and I have set a poor example.

I resolve to buy less and recycle more for my creative projects. It is not enough to just make things by hand. Once we move I also resolve to use my bike for transportation more than the car.

5) I did way more networking last year for the blog than I anticipated and as a tradeoff I did less homeschooling. I resolve to find more balance and harmony between my creative work and being a mother.TRUE CONFESSION: The Kaz. Princess plays with very few toys and activities. The Soviet style orphanage did a really good job of killing off any natural urge to be curious, inventive, play, and like dolls. That's right I make all of these toys to inspire you dear readers!

6) I resolve to donate more of the toys I make to charity (even though that is against the new toy safety law unless I test them using a third party lab and go through a laborious labeling process). We have way too many of them unloved and gathering dust at home.

8)I resolve to make some toy prototypes and get my Etsy store up and running this year!

9)I resolve to design and create a beautiful, well organized, and fully functioning studio in our new house.

The dark basement, stackable bins and my husbands office suck for inspiration.

10)I resolve to keep this blog going for one more year given the challenges of "single motherhood" and a cross country move. Dear readers your comments keep me going and when you join as followers I know you value the difference I am trying to make in the world for children everywhere.

11) (because it is my lucky number for the year) I resolve to clean up all the mess on my blog pages and sidebar. This is a low priority and I am sorry that my blog resembles a peek into my brain more than a magazine.

What is one of your creative resolutions for the year? Leave me a comment on this post and you get entered to win a suprise. GiveAway ends January 15th at midnight mountain time.

Upcycled Toy Horse with Traditional Kazakh Saddle and Blankets

2010-12-31T21:45:00.000-08:00

In Kazakhstan the horse is as essential to traditional daily life as the yurt, camel and felt.

A Kazakh meal usually involves some form of horse meat. Their wide array of dairy products were also originally made with horse milk.

Horses were essential for the nomad on the steppe both as transportation and in sheep herding.

Complex games of racing and competition,

Eagle Hunting (link and photos)

Courtship Rituals (link and photos)

were done all on horseback.

Here is the "look" I was going for. All the "elements were found in a grave site on several mummified horses.I can't believe the deer horns on the headpiece most of which is carved and gilded wood.

This page is from a museum exibition catalogue of ancient Kazakh archaelogical sites.

We've been horsing around this holiday season.

The Kaz. Princess got several horse themed presents. This lovely book has the sweetest pictures and no words which makes the story told different everytime. We have a new stable and its occupants that arrived with the snow and Father Frost this Christmas.

This gift came from Slovenia via a blogger friend who makes sweet and simple crafts using all kinds of materials, mostly vintage and recycled. She makes softies, and everything imaginable for the home.

Here is a link to Vesna's blog My Cherry Tree/Objemi Drevo Check out her Flicker account as her best

stuff is pictured there. I just love her aesthetic, reminds me of Anthropologie.

Now for the Makeover

I found this 18 inch doll horse at a thrift store for an excellent price!

He was covered in scrapes and scuffs.

A bath, a good scrub with bon ami, a trip to the spa.....

(plus a new hairstyle and touch up paint)

Looks almost brand new!

I searched on-line for a replacement saddle but they all looked so cheap and poorly made.

I decided to try and make one to match a traditional Kazakh costume.

(because KP has a 18 inch doll that looks just like her and I plan to make clothes for it someday)

You only need a few easy to find and inexpensive supplies to make this project.

I just used felt, wooden plaques, paint, some trim and ethnic beads bought from a craft store.

If you can use a hand saw, needle felt and sew using a blanket stitch you can make this too!

Plaques cut, glued, filled, and sanded to make the basic form.

Finished saddle and pillow

It was not skill that made this difficult to create. It just took months to figure out what was needed to make the saddle. I considered several materials and ways to fabricate it. I feel very pleased that I found a way to use wood, similar to the ancient manner.

A closeup of the saddle

Traditional Kazakh Horse Saddle-made mostly of wood and often embellished with ornate silver and gold plating with semi-precious stone insets and elaborate etched designs. (link and photo)

Kazakh Woman On Horse-in traditional wedding clothes. (photo)

Kazakh Horse Breeds -included the ancient adaev, mongolian, karabir, arabian, Akal-teke, which have been seen on the steppe since the 5th century. These breeds come in several colors (not white LOL) and tend to be shorter, stockier, wider, and more rugged than the thoroughbred. (link and photos)

Saddle Blanket

All the needle felted designs are inspired by Kazakh/Cenral Asian textiles.

Saddle bags and headdress

The headress snaps in several places to hold the twisted hair in place ( I did not want to cut it).

Sorry for the washed out photos. It is glare from the snow outside and we have too much of it (finally!) to take my studio outdoors.

This project is more for decoration and education than real play. Already KP has put a large crack in the horse's ear when she dropped him on our hard tile floors. The "beads" probably have lead in them but its not like she will play with this unspervised or suck on them. I am undecided about whether to make the bridle.

I think this is one of my favorite projects of the year because I had to do some research for it. Ultimately I was able to make something pretty close to the original concept. I love a good creative challenge!

Photos from our adoption trip

Mechanical toy horse in Southern Kazakhstan (notice the traditional saddle blanket)

Beautiful horse carousel in Gorky Park, Almaty

Carriage and horse in Panfilov park, Almaty

Well it is already 2011 in Kazakhstan. This is their biggest holiday of the year thanks to the Soviet's suppression of traditional celebrations and rituals decades ago. Happy New Year Everybody!

May it bring you health, joy, abundance, creativity, and fun-Lesley

Crafts For Kazakh Kids-Celebrating "Tengri/The Heavens"

2010-12-20T15:28:00.000-08:00

Recognize This?

It is the sun from Kazakhstan's Flag.

You will find this symbol adorning lots of things if one has the luck of visiting this country.

Tomorrow is the Winter Solstice at 6:38 pm EST.

A very special full lunar eclipse starts tonight at 11:41 pm PST.

The next time these two events will occur on the same day will be year 2094.

Well worth staying up late to see a red moon.

The Kaz. Princess loves the stars and learning about the heavens. Not a surprise since she and her birth mother were named after celestial phenomenon, like many Kazakh children. KP is ethnically Uzbek, decended from a very famous astronomer, and carries his middle name.The stars hold a very special place in the hearts of our family and we take the chance to honor her ancestors by celebrating the solstice.

I used my template from Nauryz Toi to draw the sun.

We painted in the shapes with glue and sprinkled on fine glitter.

As a child I spent hours in school this time of year filling in printouts of stars, bells, etc. with lots of glue and glitter. This project was a last minute inspiration and opportunity to get out the sparkley stuff.

I find a cookie sheet helps to contain the mess when using glitter with young children.

WARNING: once a container of glitter is opened and released into the environment you will find it never truly goes away.

A simple cranberry orange quick bread with powder sugar.

Luminarias to honor the traditions of where I was born.

I just drew the shapes on paper bags with a pencil and cut them out with small paper cutting scissors.

Tomorrow night we will fill the bags with sand and tea lights for outdoor lanterns.

Tengri means the sky and all its contents and Umaj is the earth in the Kazakh language.

Ways to celebrate the importance of the solar system with your Kazakh child

Visit your local planetarium

Learn a few easy constellations and the planets

Take star walks

View the lunar eclipse

Create a lunar eclipse indoors with a wall, cut out circles, and a flashlight

Discuss the meaning of the words "eclipse" and "solstice"

Discuss the importance of stars and planets for ancient Kazakh life (agriculture, navigation, spirituality, etc)

Discuss the importance of early Astronomy and the first observatories in ancient Central Asia.

Hope to see many of you out tonight after midnight.

( yes I really did wake up KP to see the eclipse which was not as dramatic as I had hoped and really made very little sense to a three year old but I can tell her the story one day)

For 2011 my readers can look forward to monthly craft projects designed especailly for Kazakh Kids!

Happy star gazing, Lesley

Russian Christmas Eve Vegetarian Feast

2010-12-17T21:32:00.000-08:00

Pelmeni Soup, Beet Patties and Sochivo

Meat is never eaten on Christmas Eve in Russia. It is common to fast all day until the first star appears in the evening sky. In the Russian Orthodox church this holiday falls on January 6th.

Some cooks also avoid using eggs, cheese and butter. Common dishes this evening are beet soup, dumplings, braided bread, salmon, stuffed cabbage leaves, dried fruit compote, wheat porridge, tea, and doughnuts with rose jelly. Please check my previous posts under "Russian Recipes" for tutorials on how to make many of these dishes.

Pelmeni are easy to make, if you don't mind cheating a bit!

Both Babouschka and Father Frost bring toys to Russian children.

Babouschka was so busy cleaning her house that she missed seeing the new star that signaled Jesus' birth. Then she fell asleep when the Three Kings came to visit her. Now she roams the world at Christmas time with a bag of toys looking for the baby because she was too distracted and missed her chance to deliver the gifts hundreds of years ago.

Father Frost appears at children's parties with his grand daughter the Snow Maiden. They try to distribute gifts while fighting off Baba Yaga, the witch, who prefers to steal them. In some families it is tradition to go out late at night and clap loudly to call Father Frost to come and visit.

Ground Quorn, Mushroom and Cabbage filling

Saute in olive oil

1 medium onion finely chopped

10 large mushrooms finely chopped

1/4 tsp of allspice powder

Add

1 bag of ground Quorn or equivalent vegetarian substitute

1/4 cup of stock

Salt and pepper to taste

Set aside

Saute in olive oil

2 cups of coarsely chopped cabbage

6 ground juniper berries

Other options-currants, chopped walnuts, freshly chopped mint

Using premade and circle cut gyoza skins or wonton wrappers, make your super easy pelmeni

Link For Stuffing and Folding Pelmeni (from previous blog entry)

Boil a generous amount of stock and drop your pelmeni in one by one

Stir gently and flip once to cook through

Spoon generous amounts of soup into individual bowls

Garnish with some chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately as the longer they sit or cook the more likley they will start to separate and fall apart.

Makes more pelmeni than you can really use.

Beet Patties

Roast

1 pound of whole, washed good sized beets (4)

(I like to put them in the oven at 400 degrees in a shallow baking dish with an inch of water, replacing as it evaporates, until they are just soft and tender)

Peel with a knife and shread with a cheese grater when cooked and cool enough to handle

Set aside

(warning this process will stain your hands, counter, cutting board etc. beet red)

Cook according to directions

1/2 cup of cooked grains or hot cereal of your choice

Set aside to cool

Beat

One large egg

Make

1/4 cup bread crumbs

Mix all of your ingredients together and add salt and pepper to taste

Generously coat a cookie sheet with olive oil

Form your mixture into patties

Place on the cookie sheet and bake at 400 for 15 minutes, flip over and cook for 10 minutes more

Serve with sour cream

This is one of the yummiest things I have ever eaten!

Makes 6 good sized patties

Sochivo (porridge with honey and dried fruit)

Cook until very soft

14oz of whole wheat or grains (soak overnight if necessary). I used oat groats

Wash, scald, and grind

4 TBSP of poppy seeds ( I have no idea how to "wash and scald "poppy seeds so I just pan roasted the dry ones and then put them through my spice grinder )

Add the above items with

1/4 cup of toasted and chopped walnuts

1/4 cup of dried fruit

2 TBSP of honey

1/4 cup of cream

Mix well

Bake in a deep baking dish at 300 degrees for 20 minutes

Serve immediately

This is also truly divine even as leftovers. No Chistmas Eve meal is complete without this in Russia! Sometimes it is the only thing eaten that day before midnight mass.

I hope this post inspires you to add some new traditions to your holiday season. Lesley

Russian "Nesting" Waldorf Doll

2010-12-13T13:47:00.000-08:00

A Matryoshka you can cuddle!

These dolls are made to last a lifetime. So much love and care goes into making a toy like this. The natural materials absorb the energy that created them and the child makes the plaything "real". I see my own handmade dolls from childhood now sitting on a shelf in the Kaz. Princess' bedroom and know it was definately worth staying up until midnight for several night in a row to create her. I have three generations of dolls in boxes waiting to be cherished and passed on. We all know the landfill eventually awaits anything bought at Target or made in China.

I was inspired by the Kaz. Princess' large collection of vintage nesting dolls.

These are easy and inexpensive to find on line.

Each region has its own distinct style.

Look for a stamp or sticker "Made In the Soviet Union/Russia" on the base for a authenic doll.

Avoid the newer or novelty ones made in China with lead in the paint.

Did you know the first nesting dolls were made in Asia and traveled West and North into Europe?

Unfortunately this folk art is quickly disappearing so get them while you can.

Nesting dolls are the ideal toy for any preschooler allowing them to work on several developmental skills and concepts of sequencing. KP prefers her wooden Matryoshka over any doll she has so far.

It must possess some subtle aesthetic qualities that hundreds of years have perfected.

Waldorf dolls are easy to make, especially if you take a class and have an expert teacher.

(really this was my first doll and all the dolls made in class looked this good)

The hardest part is the head which feels like sculpting in wool batting.

I made the body and hair of this doll in nine hours.

A simple face allows the child to imagine the whole spectrum of emotions.

You can buy inexpensive kits that come with most of what you will need at these two links

Magic Cabin Doll Kit

Weir Dolls Kit

Since I can't sew I have to fabricate. I recycled a dres for the apron.

I can machine sew a straight line and use fusable webbing.

The authenic Russian peasant shirt was created from ribbon and a store bought doll nightgown.

The headscarf has the traditional Matryoshka thumbprint/spiral hand embroidered on it.

The dress is just a simple "tube" skirt with the apron sewed on and more embroidered spirals.

Like any true Russian maiden she has to have needle felted wool Valenki boots.

Happy holidays and may Father Frost and the Snow Maiden be extra good to you!

Russian Honey Christmas Cookies/Medianyky

2010-12-01T14:06:00.000-08:00

A Fun Recipe to Try with Your Kazakh Kid!

When I noticed there was no butter in this recipe I had some concerns about how they would turn out.

Anyone who has tried sweets in Kazakhstan knows they are often disappointing.

This is an easy recipe to do with preschoolers but it has way too much sweeetner in it. It also has the texture of soft homemade crackers or dog biscuits. If you want to celebrate Christmas Russian style then try it. If you only have a limited time to make treats this holiday season there are dozens of better cookie recipes to make.

If I were to try these again I would add orange extract and less powdered sugar. They do have a nice spicy taste and are a fine partner to tea or ice cream.

Traditionally these are topped with egg glaze, a single blanched almond, and coarse sugar.

I added chopped almonds and admitted the sugar on top

Medianyky

Preheat your oven to 300 degrees

Sift together

4 cups of unbleached white flour

1 tsp of cinnamon

1 tsp of ground ginger

1/2 tsp of ground clove

1/2 tsp of ground nutmeg

2 tsp of baking powder

2 TBSP of powdered dried orange peel

1 cup of powdered sugar ( I would reduce to 1/2 a cup)

Add

2 extra large eggs

1 cup of honey

Mix well until you have a soft dough that you can easily handle

Roll out onto a floured surface until your dough is 3/4 inch thick.

Cut with cookie cutters into shapes

Brush each one with a little beaten egg glaze

Insert a single blanched almond

Sprinkle with coarse sugar

Place on lightly greased cookie sheets

Bake at 300 for 15 minutes

Cool for a few minutes and remove to wire racks

Who Lives Here? Could it be one of the Three Little Pigs?

This morning the Kaz. Princess asked to take a" basket of goodies" to the park.

So I dressed her in my red poncho and through the woods we went.

We don't have to worry about the Big Bad Wolf in our neighborhood, only packs of unleashed dogs.

One thing I will not miss about this community is the attitude that dogs have more rights than everyone else.

Today I was sad to see that they are fencing off the creek along our favorite trail to keep out all the roaming dogs . It will ruin the whole natural feel of a beautiful walk. It will do nothing to keep the dogs from molesting kids at the park or on the trail. The new sight and voice control leash law sucks!

It would be cheaper and solve so many probelms involving the dogs to just require them to be on a leash again at all times. The wetland would be protected and children would be safe. The Kaz. Princess loves to go explore in the creek. Now she will have to view it from behind a fence as if she were at the zoo.

Our friends the Totoros were not in today. They must be out gathering acorns. We left them some cookies anyway and did some more remodeling on their stick house.

Be sure to make some cookies with your kids this week.

Lesley

Upcycled Mushroom Chairs with Table

2010-11-28T10:37:00.000-08:00

A Late Fall Unbirthday Party!

Two years ago a friend told me about an idea she saw in Family Fun Magazine. She knew it was in line with my creative, environmental, and thrifty ideals.

It was a simple project, the challenging part was aquiring the raw materials which took some time. I needed some large logs, wooden salad bowls of a certain shape and two warm November days to take my workshop outdoors.

MAKING THE STEMS

Last fall I was gifted several nice cottonwood logs from our local FreeCycle.

I 've had all kinds of ideas on how to use them including outdoor play equiptment and large Waldorf blocks.

Logs are so versatile for imaginary play in both the home and the backyard.

First I cut them to the desired size and then I sanded them smooth and level.

I will use the bark for other projects in the workshop.

I used some basic acrylic paint and varnish to paint them.

MAKING THE MUSHROOM CAPS

Salad bowl number one was easy to find at a price of $5.00.

This well loved beauty took all summer and numerous trips to several thrift stores to find.

I knocked the base off with a hammer.

I had to sand and prep the bowls for painting, then drilled a small hole in the bottom.

I used spray paint for a glossy smooth finish.

(I really hate spray paint, for so many reasons, but sometimes it is the only option if you need a certain look)

You need a sunny calm day to have the paint set.

I cut circles from contact paper for the white spots.

At first I thought this was a brilliant time and sanity saving alternative to hand painting them.

It is really hard to prevent "air bubbles" on a curved surface though.

Just screw or nail your cap to the stem.

(I will do this for real later as I have to pack these for our move)

I will adhere the doily to make the tops less slippery.

I am debating whether to sink the stems into the dirt as now they are pretty top heavy.

THE TABLE

I made the table and stools to go with my dumpster dive patio set.

I have had this iron table base for years. I found it next to a dumpster.

It took a long time to find the right top for it. I paid way too much money for this resin decorative piece at a thrift store. It just needed some banner red spray paint.

The cost of the stools was $15.00 and two hours of time.

The cost of the table was just under $30.00.

This project is meant to pair up with these chairs which I found discarded by the curb.

They will have new "seats" and pillows by this coming summer for our new house.

You can see the rest of my patio decor on this post Thrift Store Tea Party.

Please leave a comment and visit often in December for our "Russian Christmas". A celebration of ethnic holiday sweets and homemade gifts from the steppe!

Please check out this LINK PARTY PAGE for great blogs I often visit.

Lesley

Needle Felted Acorn GiveAway Winner!

2010-11-24T13:37:00.000-08:00

And The Winner Is........

Sarah of Sometimes Life is All Ducks and Bunnies blog (don't you just love that title).
She has a new blog featuring GiveAways and links, from everywhere, of interest to moms who are into green living and natural toys on a budget. Just like Sarah we are about to move out of a 70's ranch and into an older home with some charm and grace. I can't wait to purge and decorate as well!

Thanks to all of you left comments and joined as new followers.

I look forward to including all of you in the 2011 Magic Carpet Giveaway sometime in the next few months.
Stay tuned for more details and a chance to win another lovely needle felted treat!

Traveling Button Busy Mat for Preschoolers and Bonus Activities

2010-11-12T13:16:00.000-08:00

A cute and easy to make variation of a Montessori classic!

A few weeks ago our pediatrician asked me if the Kaz. Princess could work a button yet.

He then laughed saying "oh don't worry if she can't because so few clothes have buttons on them anymore".

I knew it was time to finally make this activity which has been on my "Mommy Do List" for months.

We are going on a road trip next week so I willl have the perfect chance to try it out as a traveling game.

Supplies needed: paper, embroidery thread, scissors, felt and colored buttons.

Draw and cut out your paper templates.

Anything can be your inspiration. This time of year turkeys are popular in Montessori classrooms.

Then pin them to some colored felt and cut out your shapes in pairs.

Blanket stitch your paired shapes together with colored thread.

Cut a small slit in the center of each shape

Sew a ribbon onto one edge of the felt.

Mark and sew on your buttons.

Add whatever creative embellishments suit your mood and fancy.

I had a needle felted ladybug sitting around the house that needed a job.

My cloud has a gold lining as I feel torn about whether to continue with what is turning out to be a very risky second international adoption.

Let your child button on the shapes.

You can color code the thread and buttons to make it easier for your child to know where to place the shapes. OR You can take pictures of each step needed to create the image and make laminated cards for your child to follow in true Montessori fashion.

I now often wonder if children learn much from all those repetitive preschool Montessori activites other than the logic behind their design and execution.

The other day the Kaz. Princess discovered our change jar and spent a good half an hour putting the coins into her piggy bank. I have no idea if she put them in using any kind of order or sorted them by color or shape. I do know she was happy doing the actvity and she learned something from it that will remain a mystery to me. I really like knowing she initiated her own educational experience and decided what she wanted to get from doing it.

Montessori does provide some excellent inspiration for those of us at home with little ones all day

I used our shape sorter to trace and then cut out some shapes from colored paper.

I glued them onto some cardstock.

Some cards have one shape and others have two very similar shapes.

I was very surprised that the Kaz. Princess had the whole exercise totally figured out within minutes.

It was way too easy for her to match the three dimensional shapes with their shadows.

I am glad I did not spend much time or money making this activity.

I thought it would be more of a challenge for her.

For this activity you will need a paper punch, card stock, colored paper, and toy numbers and objects. Kids love helping you punch out the circles.

You need ten cards made from heavy duty cardstock.

Trace one number (1-10) on each card.

Punch out the required number of dots for each card from the same color of paper.

Glue them in place on the cards.

Stick with only five colors of paper and do numbers 1-5. Then use five dots of the same color for number card 5-10 plus whatever you need to add to make up the difference in another color. In this way the lesson will make more sense to the child.

Help your child find the matching number for each card.

Place colored objects (we used a set of counting bears) over the dots on each card.

Learn 1-5 first then move onto 5-10.

With older children you can use the 3D numbers with the cards to learn about addition and subtraction.

(those magents from the dollar store sure came in handy for this activity)

Enjoy your Thanksgiving and keep these activities in mind if you have to travel and need to keep young kids happy and occupied. They all travel well for planes and cars.

Easy Homemade Birdseed Cakes and Feeders Tutorial

2010-11-10T20:43:00.000-08:00

Another Great Craft with Kids for the Fall.

The Kaz. Princess recently turned three and is finally old enough to do a 10 minute craft project. We have have been doing "crafts for preschoolers playdates" with her friends. They have been a lot of fun!

When doing crafts with preschoolers you have to be willing to clean up a big mess and finish the project yourself, as this age has a really short attention span. Its all about the exploration and not the end result, right moms?. Prepping the activity as much a you can before starting and reducing the number of steps you expect the child to do on his own will make it more enjoyable and productive for all. I like to precut/prepare most of the"elements", lay them out in trays and let the child focus on assembling or trying different things out. This prevents frustation for the average preschooler. Young children need to experiment with materials and processes first, before they have the maturity to be creative and make "beautiful things".

Bird Seed Cakes

An opportunity to learn about measuring amounts and fractions.

Messy Play is the Best!

Recipe

1 package of unflavored gelatin dissolved in

1/2 cup of hot water

3/4 cup of flour

3 TBSP of corn syrup

4 cups of birdseed

A small amount of nuts, dried fruit, or popped popcorn if desired

It is really important to get the proportions right with this or the edible glue will not work. Instead everything will crumble easily or be too sticky and moist.

Press into molds and insert a dowel or pencil into the cake.

Use a layer of saran wrap to make the cakes easier to remove from the molds. The closer your hole is the the center and the thinner your cake, then the better success you will have if you want to hang them. Too much weight or a softer cake and the string will pull right through and your creation will end up on the ground.

You can use soap molds, jello and aspic molds, muffin tins, plastic containers etc. Some people even mold this recipe into wreathes or holiday ornaments for gifts.

Let the molds sit in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours before removing the cakes.

Some mommy made details.

Acorn Bird Feeder

I drilled a small hole in a wooden bowl from the thrift store.

I did the same thing from a branch cut from our apple tree

I used a plastic bag to mold the stuff into the shape I wanted.

Let it set overnight in the refrigerator.

I nailed my "stem" to the "cap".

You can rest this in a tall jar or glass for support while you complete the next steps.

I cut ,and glued, a piece of felt to fit the bottom of the bowl.

I put lots of glue onto this and added my cake.

I poured more non-toxic glue in around the sides and let it dry for two days.

I 'll give the squirrels 24 hours to destroy my work.

This was our favorite birthday gift!

You assemble the cardboard bird house in less than 5 minutes. It comes precut and scored.

Then add some sticker details and a dowel.

The perfect activity designed for the preschooler's attention span and skill level.

Fall is about to end here and winter is knocking at the back door. I have been super busy with a very big project and hope to have some very special news to share with my readers next week.