Daily Art Stop

I love lemon piccata chicken and I love Greek style lemon chicken....so I decided to merge the two and create my own version of two dishes in one...and it was so so good!!!!

I took one chicken and butterflied it.....then spiced it up with salt, pepper and Greek Oregano. In my large Al Clad pan I browned my chicken on both sides....then added lemon zest and the juice of one whole lemon to the chicken....I also added the slices of lemon to the dish ....more Greek Oregano and placed the lid on it....and baked it in the oven for an hour and 15 minutes ....I had the oven at 375 for the first 45 minutes and then decreased the temperature to 350 for the remaining time....I also added my potatoes in another dish...these I tossed with some oil, lemon zest , salt, pepper and more Greek Oregano....and baked them in the oven with the chicken....

once the chicken was done...to rest it I placed it over the roasted potatoes...so some of the yummy juices would make the potatoes even happier while I took the juices from the chicken pan and removed the fat from the top and then simmered it down with some white wine and capers....and it was the sauce I used to serve the chicken and potatoes....

I then made two simple sides....a Greek Salad my way greens, onions, tomatoes, cucumbers....oil, vinegar , salt , pepper and Greek Oregano....and some kidney beans with oil, vinegar, salt and some sour cream....

This meal was a huge hit....I love these flavors....!!! I will use this for entertaining ....it was that good.....
Tip.....use a good white wine....one that you would like to serve with this meal....it makes a big difference....

So there you go...some food art from my kitchen today....

wow...ages since my last post here...but I had to share something sweet!

2011-08-06T17:10:00.001-04:00

LOVE it!!! gotta get me one....

How cute is this baking machine!!! I saw this by accident today and have to order one....what a fun way to create some party desserts....

This machine is called the Babycakes Cake Pop Maker...it bakes 12 pops or donut holes in minutes...

you could bake with friends...and have a cake pop party....plus this looks better than those recipes where they bake a whole cake and then mash it up with icing....

Accessories Included:

Fork Tool
Cake Pop Treat Sticks
Cake Pop Cooling and Decorating Stand

Three cute Collections over at Etsy.....

2011-01-26T19:53:00.002-05:00

Spotted three cute Treasuries to share with you.....

The first one above is called....

colours of love and was curated by the Shop Owner over at rasamalai
Artisan Of Whimsy

The one below...is titled People and Creatures of the North and was curated by the Shop Owner over at KitschandLinens

and finally the third one below is titled..."Almost Alice" and was curated by
Cynthia

So much to see and everything looks wonderful!!! I love Etsy....you can always find that special something that is handmade and special....just the kinds of gifts I love to give and receive.....

Happy Creating!!!

Coconut Shrimp anyone?

2010-08-16T22:51:00.000-04:00

I was thinking about Coconut Shrimp!!! and this is what I made!!!!

Ingredients:
1 pound shrimp (peeled and deveined) and butterflied but leave the end on...
1 cup flour
1 egg (lighly beaten)
1 cup panko bread crumbs
1 cup shredded coconut
oil for frying

Directions:
1. Dredge the shrimp in the flour.
2. Dip the shrimp into the egg.
3. Dip the shrimp into the panko and coconut mixture.
4. Fry the shrimp in the oil until golden brown, no more than 2 minutes.
For the dipping sauce...I use Billy Bee Honey Mustard with extra honey and for a kick you can add some fresh grated horse radish....

yummmmmmmm!!!!
I made 2 pounds of it!!! and it was good!

oh what cute cookies....

2010-06-14T19:49:00.003-04:00

I just found the cutest owl cookies ever and all kinds of other wonderful creative and sweet treats........these are so so adorable....you can find them over at the TS Cookie Shop....Imagine a wonderful party themed around these cute wise guests....adorable!!!

Wearable wood art...how cute is the vintage TV pin....

2010-06-09T13:06:00.003-04:00

Oh I just came across this cute shop ....these wooden wearable pieces are so much fun!!! and would make some cool and unique gifts....

Vector Cloud

Serious cooking over at Closet Cooking....

2010-05-05T23:51:00.001-04:00

I met Kevin years ago as he started blogging from a small kitchen in Toronto....and his recipes and photos are stunning...if you need a recipe or some inspiration ...or just love looking at great food ...head over...

Closet Cooking....with Kevin

These blooms are gorgeous...

2010-04-26T23:05:00.003-04:00

I am in love with these really cool accessories....

These are created by a wonderful artist who's shop is called "ixela"...these are handmade in Torino Italy.....

I would love to have them all....

You can pop by her Etsy shop by clicking here or on the photos...

Ciao Bella!!!

Sock Monkeys!!! so cute!!!

2010-04-26T00:28:00.002-04:00

what is it about sock monkeys...they are so so sweet and always make us smile...these are some really cool handmade earings from picnicbybarbfeldman they have some really neat clay creations....

Just click on the photo or the shop name to head over.....

A great way to see Paris....

2010-04-23T23:10:00.002-04:00

I just found the cutest shop with a lot of Paris inspired art...all handmade and so cute...

You have to pop in and take a look....

Starrydeborah is creating all kinds of fun shabby chic art with a nod to Paris...

J'adore!!!

Arevoir!!!

head over and check out this cute shop!

what a cute gift idea....

2010-04-19T17:07:00.003-04:00

Isn't this the cutest little hat for days at the beach...I can see a lot of cute little wee ones wearing this hat...

I found it at Deerpath Designs over at Esty....

This comes in the following colors:
Red
Navy
Light Blue
Pink
White
Light Purple

you can add child's name or initials for no extra charge. and you can even pick the thread color.... how sweet is that!!!

check out the place....

Spring Art Accessories...what a find...

2010-04-17T14:11:00.002-04:00

When I found these cool cool necklaces...I just had to get a few for myself...and I had to share this Artist with all of you....

These are very unique and I can see them as some great conversational pieces....

To check out more of Evalinen's shop head here....or click on the photos...

Spring has Sprung...Crochet Choker

2010-04-14T17:47:00.003-04:00

There is something special about all the wonderful Handmade things you can find....like this Tuscan Vineyard inspired Choker....from Silvia66

it is perfect for Spring....and it also inspires me to get out my crochet hooks...

Wonderful Art by Helen at the Willows Nest

2010-04-13T19:41:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone...if you haven't popped by Helen's shop yet...you should...her work is gorgeous...I especially love the use of wood canvas with these wonderful birds...

Just click on the photo to head over...

Easter Cupcakes...all kinds!

2010-03-28T00:47:00.002-04:00

Click here to check out this cool collection of Cupcake instructions...just in time for Easter...over at Foodwhirl.

oh so cute!! I would love a bunch of these....

2010-03-23T19:03:00.003-04:00

Isn't this egg cozy the cutest thing ever...

You can pick up a pattern at this shop and make dozens of these all in time for Easter....and Spring....

Too Cute...

I found these at a shop called Little Cotton Rabbits

Play with your food!!!

2010-03-16T13:24:00.003-04:00

Isn't this the cutest half dozen eggs ...now this would make a cool centerpiece for Easter...here is a link to the eye candy food blog...where you can see the step by step instructions...

Cute Cupcake Tutorial...go make something!!!

2010-03-12T21:39:00.002-05:00

I can see a whole cake plate of these...in all kinds of colors....

You can head over to the Cupcake tutorial by heading to Rachel Rabbit's blog....

Now go make something and show us when you're done!

Needle Felting Class - online!

2010-02-23T23:02:00.005-05:00

Hi Everyone....there is a shop on Etsy that sells on-line needle felting classes...and aren't these the cuties little animals ever....if you sign up and take a class let us know how it goes...

Etsy Shop - Morning Glory Workshop

Cute finds on Etsy....

2010-02-19T12:40:00.002-05:00

Holy cuteness....you should check out a shop called

asherjasper -handmade natural wool toys for kids and grown-ups

They create the cutest needle felted art pieces and toys...and they just make me smile...pop by the shop by clicking on the photos and have a look....

Happy Friday!!!

Great how to...on getting your stamped images onto candles...check it out!

2010-02-09T20:48:00.001-05:00

Oh please Mr. Snowman....

2009-12-03T00:22:00.003-05:00

A new cute Holiday inspired piece from Toy a Day...

you have to make a few of these this Season!!!

and ofcourse a few real snowmen...

I hope it snows soon!!!

Happy Creating!!!

Free Pattern - Frosty the Snowman!!!

2009-11-27T14:00:00.003-05:00

oh what a cute site...there are so many free Amigurumi Patterns here that you will be busy for the next several months...

Click on Frosty and head over to the site to get your free pattern!!!

I am nuts about this necklace...

2009-11-25T23:21:00.002-05:00

This is such a cute piece...I had to show it off here....

The title of this piece...Out on A Limb - The Last Acorn Necklace

To head over to the artist's shop just click on the photo....

Happy Shopping!!!

oh my cuteness!!! some needle felted chicks....

2009-11-14T20:35:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone...I spotted these chicks and had to share them with you....cluck cluck!! what a cute bunch!!! Click on the photo to head to the shop!

Have you started your Christmas cards yet?

2009-11-12T20:30:00.003-05:00

I stumbled on these cute cute cards at I-craft.ca....
this is a set and they are embellished with rikrak....very cute and very clever!!! Click on the photo to see all 6 designs....

Fun toys made out of paper...you have to pop by and make some of these!

2009-10-22T16:56:00.006-04:00

Hi Everyone...sorry for the lack of posts here...

In the meantime I found the coolest site where you can download pdf patterns for these cool paper toys...so the next time you have to find something fun to do with the children...head over to this site....

Toy a Day

Let make some French Macaroons....

2009-08-26T13:19:00.006-04:00

Over the next few months I will be trying out some recipes for French Macaroons...so I will post the recipes as I find them and then I will make them and assess the yummy macaroons....

This recipe is for Raspberry Chocolate French Macaroons...and is featured on Epicurious.com

They sound so yummy and I think the colours are so pretty...pink and deep chocolate...
This will be tested this weekend....

Happy Wednesday...and for some French inspired Macaroon art head here....

Fun & Fall....

2009-08-25T13:36:00.008-04:00

Hi Everyone...I was in a fall sort of mood when I noticed the cute monkey tea bag cozy...so I had to add it....hence the fun and fall.....just click on each photo to head to each site....

Have a great Tuesday!

How to make cheeseburger cupcakes ...by KateDW on Flickr

2009-08-15T09:53:00.002-04:00

You have to click on this picture step by step ,....what fun!!!! I think these would be a huge hit at a nice BBQ....what fun!!!

Some French Shopping

2009-08-11T12:47:00.004-04:00

oh art chocolates...these look so neat I would be affraid to share them....These are created by Pierre Hermé...even tasty treats from Paris make me smile....

or look at the cute packaging for these delightful Macaroons....also from Pierre Hermé

Each box comes with 12 yummy cookies...in these flavors.....

- Mogador - Chocolat - Rose - Cassis - Menthe Fraîche - Infiniment Caramel

yumm!!!

what a cool scoop!

2009-07-30T14:06:00.001-04:00

Imagine how much fun this scoop would be for entertaining....you can put out some really artistic plates with this cool ice cream scoop.....available at Sur La Table.

Ice Cream for everyone!

White Roses.....

2009-07-17T12:17:00.006-04:00

There is something wonderful about white...it lets you see all the wonderful textures and the shadows are always amazing...I found some wonderful white roses this week...to pop by the cute shops just click on each photo!!

Happy Friday....

A little taste of Paris...without leaving home....

2009-07-14T00:28:00.012-04:00

I love everything that remind me of Paris...these are some fun items that will be ever so cute to enjoy a special moment....just click on each photo and head to the shops...you can enjoy some french macaroons or get a cool Eiffel tower grater....what fun!!! oui!!!

Do you play with your food?

2009-07-10T14:35:00.011-04:00

Oh how I wish I had these when I used to play with food...I used to make my own special mud pies in our backyard and it was so much fun...I even took soem wild berries and forest finds to decorate them....oh what great memories....and now check out these amazing foods you can play with....amazing! Just click on each photo to head to the special shops....

Happy Friday Everyone!!!

Hawaiian Getaway....without leaving home....

2009-07-07T00:39:00.005-04:00

Oh how wonderful...whenever I don't get a chance to travel I find that picking up handmade items from wonderful places is such a treat...like these amazing Hawaiian creations from CHARS BEAD CREATIONS

Pop by and take a look...the work and the details and the wonderful colours are amazing!

Next time you want to BBQ Meatballs....get one of these

2009-06-29T17:12:00.003-04:00

Now this is one pretty cool find...I know that I would love to make some really tasty meatballs on the BBQ....and now you can with this cute gadget....what will they think of next???

You can find this at Williams Sonoma

and once you get the special cooker you can try out some of these recipes....

Grilled Meatball Subs

In case you never witness this for yourselves...the birth of a hummingbird....

2009-06-25T14:32:00.002-04:00

These are pretty amazing photos!
Enjoy.
Keep in mind the egg is smaller than a tic tac and a quarter fits the opening of the nest!

THE HATCHING OF A HUMMINGBIRD This is truly amazing. Be sure to click on NEXT PAGE at the bottom of each page; there are 5 pages in all. A lady found a hummingbird nest and got pictures all the way from the egg to leaving the nest. It took 24 days f rom birth to flight.

Amazing!!! Happy Thursday!

Beer Can Chicken with Grilled Veggies....yumm!

2009-06-24T10:50:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone...today I feature a recipe for an easy dinner during the week that can also be fancy enough for a special dinner with guests.... Beer Can chicken with Grilled vegetables...

Ingredients

1 whole chicken

beer can

spices of your choice or you can just stick to the salt and garlic and beer

injector (like a large needle but it's for meat)

beer

sea salt

garlic powder

Grilled Veggies

2 small zucchinis sliced

1 red pepper cut into long slices

1 orange pepper

1 yellow pepper

2 large portobello mushrooms sliced

1 large vidalia onion sliced thick

sea salt

olive/canola oil

1 teaspoon vegeta seasoning

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

BBQ wok or veg cooker

Salt your whole chicken and add garlic powder to the outside and inside cavity. In a little glass add about 1/2 cup of beer, 1 large heaping tablespoon of sea salt and about 1/2 tablespoon of garlic powder...stir to dissolve the salt....use your injection tool to inject this liquid all inside the chicken meat.....so that it will all be juicy and yummy....now take the can and fill it half full with beer....plop the chicken on top of the can....in the meantime start up the BBQ....the chicken will be on one side with no burners on and the other side will have the heat on....I start at high and then lower it as the cooking proceeds.....cut up all the veggies and place in large bowl with spice and oil...let sit till you're ready to cook them....

Once the chicken is almost done you can start the vegetables and watch them and stir them...they will be on the hot side of the grill....take the chicken off and let it sit for about 10 minutes so all the juices will be inside all the meat.....

Add another side if you like...a mixed green salad, baked potatoes and you have a feast that everyone will remember!!! we do this about 2-3 times a week...it is that good! and that easy....

Happy Wednesday!

Orange you glad you popped by!

2009-06-22T21:36:00.000-04:00

Oh so many wonderful finds...I hope you enjoy these...just pop by the shops by clicking on each photo...

Happy Monday!

Cool Aqua...dive right in...

2009-06-17T00:24:00.000-04:00

1. Blue Ice - Earrings

2. Piccolito Mini Purse

3. Stormy Sky Earings

4. Perennial Moment Art Print

5. Mermaid Rowboat

6. Aqua Blue Cookie Jar

Let's take it outside...

2009-06-16T00:01:00.000-04:00

Oh how I love taking things outside...more and more people are creating wonderful rooms outdoors...increasing their living space and making for a wonderful way to enjoy the weather. here are some fun and cute pieces you can add to your outdoor rooms for fun.....

1. Owl and fish lantern
2. Frog & Umbrella Bird Feeder
3. Pig Watering Can
4. Woven Bird House
5. Red Lantern

Let's make a Ruby doll!

2009-06-15T00:01:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone....

Jhoanna Monte Aranez....from Melbourne, Australia hosts a site called One Red Robin.

She has the cutest pattern for what they call a Ruby Doll....

All the instructions are on their site and you can check it out by clicking on the doll photo or here.

Oh and please send us some links to your own Ruby doll design so we can all check it out!

Have a wonderful Monday!!!

Do you have some brown bananas??? Banana Bread Muffins with Strawberries

2009-06-12T22:33:00.006-04:00

Ingredients:

2 or 3 very ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
1/4 cup honey
1 1/2 tsp vanilla
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup plain yogurt, full fat or sour cream
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
Freshly grated nutmeg, to taste
5-7 strawberries chopped up for the tops of the cupcakes

*I also added a sprinkling of raw course sugar on the tops....this is optional

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
In a large bowl, mash bananas. Add the honey, vanilla, sugar, yogurt and oil. Mix with a spoon or spatula to combine. Sift flour, baking soda, salt and nutmeg onto parchment paper or another bowl. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture until combined.
Pour batter into cupcake papers in a muffin pan. Add chopped strawberries to the tops.Bake 40 to 50 minutes, until golden and tester comes out clean. Let cool in the pan for 30 minutes.

You can even add some chocolate ganache on the tops ...but they are perfect plain too....

Have a wonderful weekend!

Think Pink!

2009-06-11T09:58:00.008-04:00

Hi Everyone....Thinking about some cute pink things today and found some sweet and neat items over at our favorite place to hang out....Etsy....

To fins out more about each item and meet the shop owners...just click on each photo....

Happy Wednesday!!!

Daily art Stop!!! back in action....with no schedules...just food, art, challenges and fun anytime....

2009-06-10T11:12:00.003-04:00

Hey Everyone...

after several sessions to determine the new Daily Art Stop site....we decided to keep all the great content ideas but take away any schedules...so we will feature all the great topics...but not on any specific day...

So everytime you pop by it will be a surprise....and any feedback we can get is always appreciated....

so pull up a chair and enjoy!!!

A short break for Daily Art Stop

2009-04-27T14:36:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone...

Daily Art Stop will be on a little break ....in the meantime....please pop by my other blog for daily art and fun....

The monthly giveaways will happen over here till Daily Art Stop is back in full swing....

Challenge Wednesday - EARTH

2009-04-22T09:58:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone...this week's theme for Challenge Wednesday is "Earth" ...Wishing you a wonderful Earth day. May it be filled with inspiration to create something special...Create anything you like for this challenge...a card, a painting, an illustration, anything....post a comment here with a link to your piece...

Happy Earth Day!!!

Decor Tuesday - Orange and White Inspiration

2009-04-21T18:55:00.003-04:00

1. WOWOWO Sofa

2. Orange Pillows from Pillow Superstore

3. Venini 'Sidone' 6.25-Inch Opalescent Milk White Penholder

4. White Fur pillow

5. Mini Yellow Orange Red Butterfly Vinyl Decal Sticker

6. Orange Collander

7. Infinity Instruments 10940-ORANGE - Retro Round Metal Wall Clock In Orange

8. Saeco Odea Giro Orange Espresso/Cappuccino Maker

9. Barcelona Chair in White

10. Milani Home Dinner plates in Orange

Foodie Monday - Rainy Day Quick Tomatoe Soup

2009-04-20T11:11:00.004-04:00

Ingredients

I large can of Tomatoe Juice 100% pure

2 tbls Olive/canola oil

1 large onion chopped

2 garlic cloves minced
salt and pepper to taste

Pasta Rings

In a large soup pot over medium heat add your oil and onions....sautee till onions are transluscent not browned. Add the minced garlic, salt and pepper to taste and then pour in the entire can of tomatoe juice. Simmer for about 10 minutes and then add your pasta rings or bow ties or any soup pasta you like. Cook as per instructions on box and serve....

This is so comforting on a rainy day....with a nice grilled cheese sandwich...

Enjoy!

Finds Friday - The Green Green Moss of home....

2009-04-18T00:33:00.008-04:00

Hi Everyone...Here's to a new collection for Finds Friday....I guess green is in...and these mossy finds seem so perfect....just click on each piece to head to each Etsy Shop!

Have a wonderful weekend!!

Instruction Thursday - Sewing an itty bitty bag

2009-04-16T22:46:00.004-04:00

oh "sew" cute....this is wonderful to make if you're starting off on sewing or you have small pieces of material that you don't want to waste....perfect for gifts....

Click here to check out all the instructions....I will be making some and posting them on my blog...

Have fun!

Challenge Wednesday - Cats and / or Dogs

2009-04-15T10:11:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone...this week's theme for the challenge is "Cats and/or Dogs"...Happy Creating....

Each Wednesday we will post a new challenge theme...you can create whatever you are inspired to create and post it on your blog or photo sharing site....then add a link here so we can all enjoy your work.You can create an illustration, a card, a tag, a painting, a special photo you want to share....you name it...surprise everyone....I hope you all find some inspiration to create and share....Have a wonderful day

Foodie Monday - Spring Cupcake nests

2009-04-13T10:36:00.007-04:00

Cupcakes
2 cups cake flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/2 cup granulated sugar
4 x large eggs
1/4 cup milk
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1 tsp vanilla

Pudding injection
1 package of banana pudding prepared as per package

Icing
I package cream cheese
3/4 cup icing sugar
lemon rind
2 tablespoons of prepared banana pudding

Coconut topping
Mix one small back of shredded coconut with this misture.....1 tablespoon of strawberry jello and 2 tablespoons of warm water....the coconut will look light pink and this is much better then using food colouring....

Chocolate candy eggs for garnish

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C).
In a bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, and salt.
In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, and with mixer on low speed beat in milk and vanilla alternately with flour, in three additions, beginning and ending with flour, just until combined. Fold in shredded coconut. Do not over mix.
Divide batter among paper lines cupcake tins and bake in middle of oven until a toothpick tester comes out clean, about 20-27 minutes. Cool cupcakes in pan on a rack 5 minutes and remove from pan.

once the cupcakes are cool...inject them with some pudding and ice them with cream cheese....
Wilton makes a special decorating tip for injecting tasty things into cupcakes....
top with cute candy eggs and press on the shredded coconut to look like a nest. Repeat this for all cupcakes.

Enjoy!

Finds Friday - Fresh Start

2009-04-10T10:37:00.001-04:00

Hi Everyone...Hope you all enjoyed Easter with family and friends...Finds Friday is a bit late...but better late then never....Here are some fresh pieces to inspire you.....just click on each photo to head to these finds.....

Happy Easter

Instruction Thursday - Miniature Carrots anyone?

2009-04-09T10:58:00.002-04:00

Oh wow...with Easter just around the corner...these would make some cool embellishments for cards, table settings etc...so this week we head over to Mel's site for this clever mini-carrot tutorial.....

Challenge Wednesday - "anything goes"

2009-04-08T00:22:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone...this week we thought it would be fun to have an "anything goes" theme....meaning you can create whatever your heart desires!!!!

Decor Tuesday - Green with Envy inspirations....

2009-04-07T19:02:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone...there is something so fresh and clean about Green! I love these shades...This week's Decor inspiration is shades of green....titled "Green with Envy"

1. Bamboo Green Pendant & Hanging Lamps from Creations Lighting
2. Potted Artificial Wheat Grass from Pier1
3. Black and Mint Vases from Pier1
4. Antiqued Green Italian Ceramic Tureen from Sur La Table
5. Green Berry Pillows from Pier1
6. Celadon Party Mask from Madison Avenue Mall
7. Green Artificial Apples from Pier1

Foodie Monday - One Dish Chicken rice and barley....

2009-04-06T23:18:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone...about once a week I am rushed for something to make for dinner and one skillet cooking is always so much fun...so I had some chicken thighs and made this tasty Chicken, rice and barley dish....

Ingredients
2 tablespoons oil - olive and canola mix
chicken thighs - as many as you need - skinless
1 large onion chopped
3 celery stalks chopped
1 garlic clove chopped
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup rice
3/4 cup barley
water or chicken stock - enough to cover all the contents
1/2 cup ketchup
Italian Parsley chopped

method - brown your chicken in some oil, add onion and celery, saute for a few minutes, add garlic and then add your rice and barley. They add the liquid to cover with the ketchup...simmer for about 20 minutes till rice and barley is cooked and then chop some Italian Parsley and add it to the top.... Serve with a salad and you have an easy one dish meal...even a two year old will eat....

Finds Friday..."Let's do the bunny hop"

2009-04-03T11:06:00.000-04:00

Instruction Thursday - Make your own art Bubble Mailers

2009-04-02T23:02:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone...

As a member of the Etsy Crafting in Color Team...I get all kinds of great info....

This week I am featuring a tutorial on the blog that shows how you can make some fun bubble mailers....

Here is the link

Challenge Wednesday - Bloom

2009-04-01T01:09:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone...I can hardly wait to see the first blooms of Spring...they are so fresh and so special....This week's theme on Daily Art Stop's Challenge Wednesday is "Bloom" ...take some inspiration from this theme and create!!!

Each Wednesday we will post a new challenge theme...you can create whatever you are inspired to create and post it on your blog or photo sharing site....then add a link here so we can all enjoy your work.You can create an illustration, a card, a tag, a painting, a special photo you want to share....you name it...surprise everyone....I hope you all find some inspiration to create and share....Have a wonderful day

Decor Tuesday - Pink and Brown Inspirations

2009-03-31T11:07:00.002-04:00

1. Brown Towels by Honfleur Home
2. Cafe Cups at Jura
3. Kitchen Aid Stand Mixer
4. Pink Double Old Fashion Glasses at JC Penny
5. Onion Goggles at Sur La Table
6. Chocolate Rug at JCPenny
7. Le Creuset® Pink Whistling Tea Kettle at Sur La Table
8. Rocking chair in Pink at Walmart
9. Brown pillows at Oly

Foodie Monday - Turkey Paremesan bites

2009-03-30T20:25:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone...

I love using turkey almost every week...so once and a while I try to create some new ideas for minced turkey. This week I feature this recipe...I call these "Turkey Parmesan Bites"

Ingredients
1.5 pounds ground turkey
garlic clove chopped fine
small onion chopped fine
salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
1/4 cup bread crumbs
1 egg
favorite tomatoe sauce from a jar or your homemade sauce
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated

Directions

mix meat, garlic, salt, pepper, onion, Parmesan cheese (first 1/4 cup) , bread crumbs and egg....make into mini patties that are oval. Bake in the oven at 400 for about 15 minutes....take out and top with tomatoe sauce and a mixture of mozzarella and Parmesan....return these to the oven till they are golden brown....if you make these larger you will have to adjust the cooking time at the beginning....

Serve these with some tasty sides and you will please everyone....

It's Spring Break at Daily Art Stop!

2009-03-24T01:05:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone...this week is Spring Break here at Daily Art Stop!

That means the entire week is a challenge week...you can create whatever you are inspired to create and post it on your blog or photo sharing site....then add a link here so we can all enjoy your work.You can create an illustration, a card, a tag, a painting, a special photo you want to share....you name it...surprise everyone....I hope you all find some inspiration to create and share....Have a wonderful day...

Enjoy this week's theme "Spring Break" and if you feel like creating more then one...please do!

Finds Friday - Spring is in the HARE......

2009-03-20T14:16:00.008-04:00

Hi Everyone...some great Spring inspired pieces to brighten up your day...please click on each piece and head to each shop to see the wonderful work...

Have a great weekend....

Instruction Thursday - Lamb Place Tags

2009-03-19T20:29:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone...

I found this cute place setting when I was searching for things to make for Easter and thought I would add it to this week's Instruction Thursday....The website is called

www.crafts-for-all-seasons.com

so cute....

Challenge Wednesday - "Transformation"

2009-03-17T21:23:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone...with spring right around the corner...it just seems like everything is transforming...the tulips are coming out of the ground, the sound of birds chirping is getting louder and louder...the Robins are back and it just feels like a new chance ....a fresh start ........This week's theme is "Transformation" ...it just seemed to fit and I can't wait to see what you all come up with....

Decor Tuesday - By the sea inspirations....

2009-03-17T14:14:00.001-04:00

1. Sea inspired Bowl by Eastern Breeze
2. Shell Art at Allposters.com

3. Birth Gramm Shell Copper Mold at Sur La Table

4. Iittala Verna Light Blue Wine Glass at ewineracks.com

5. Star Fish Candles at Plum Party

6. By the Sea Bedroom Furniture - Long cove by Lexington home Brands

7. Sassy Sea Urchin - by Artist Jessica Doyle

8. Thymes Azur Bath Collection at Gracious Home

Foodie Monday - BBQ Baby back ribs

2009-03-15T13:57:00.009-04:00

Ingredients

A few racks of baby back ribs
5-10 cloves garlic chopped rough
1 bottle of beer
salt pepper

Method

Marinate your baby back ribs over night....I place them in a shallow dish...add salt , pepper and the chopped garlic all over the ribs...like you're doing a dry rub...place them in the dish and pour over the beer...if you need two bottles then add two....wrap it up and place it in the refridgerator over night.....When it's time to cook these babies....I first light up the BBQ and then wrap them in parchment paper and then foil...(whatever you do ...never ever use foil directly on your food) As these cook and steam all the flavours will come to life....for the last 5-7 minutes of cooking....add them directly to the grill and you can add your favorite homemade or store bought BBQ sauce to them....serve with some baked potatoes and salads....yumm!

And the winner for February is.......

2009-03-14T11:13:00.004-04:00

Hi Everyone....sorry for the delay....With the recent release of my latest book....I wasn't able to get the draw for the February Gievaway out till today.....and the random number was day 7 and comment 1 ....and the name of the commentor is Kristen. Congratulations Kristen!!! Please e-mail me your snail mail address so I can send you the special gifts for February. (info (at) dianaevans (dot) ca

Congrats!

Finds Friday - Lucky Green and Orange....

2009-03-13T18:55:00.012-04:00

Hi Everyone....more wonderful finds this week inspired by the colours green and orange...hope you enjoy them by popping by the cute shops....just click on each photo to head there....

Have a wonderful weekend!!!

Instruction Thursday - Another wonderful post from Melanie....

2009-03-12T20:31:00.000-04:00

What a wonderful little purse...you have to make one of these for yourslelf...to give to someone special...what a clever piece....you can get all the instructions and the template from Melanie at Mel Stamp.....just click on the photo to head there.....

Challenge Wednesday - "Lucky Charms"

2009-03-11T20:45:00.001-04:00

Hi Everyone....We all have something that we think of as a lucky charm....so this week on Challenge Wednesday you can create and share your work as inpsired by your lucky charms....

Each Wednesday we will post a new challenge theme...you can create whatever you are inspired to create and post it on your blog or photo sharing site....then add a link here so we can all enjoy your work.You can create an illustration, a card, a tag, a painting, a special photo you want to share....you name it...surprise everyone....I hope you all find some inspiration to create and share....Have a wonderful day

Decor Tuesday - Do you need some help planning a room?

2009-03-10T14:49:00.003-04:00

Planning out a room can be so much fun. I found a web site that has a great tool available. Here you can plan out anything from your Master Bedroom to your office....it is fun to look at different pieces of furniture and see how the overall scale looks...check it out and have some fun... They have some sample rooms or you can create a custom room....

You can even have fun by using your existing pieces and seeing how they look when you move them around before you start all the heavy lifting....

Here is the link....

Have fun!

Foodie Monday - Strawberry Vanilla Cake

2009-03-09T11:54:00.004-04:00

This cake turned out even better then I thought. The flavours were wonderful together and the icing was very tasty and not too sweet and heavy. It was refreshing and a cake that will be perfect for summer BBQ! I made this over the weekend for my Dad's birthday and it was a huge hit....Even my Grandmother loved it...and she is a hard person to please with desserts....

Ingredients

For Cake
1 cup unsalted butter at room temperature
2 cups sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
4 x large eggs at room temperature
2 3/4 cups pastry flour
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup buttermilk at room temperature

Icing

2 cups milk
2 egg yolks
13 tablespoons icing sugar
1 package vanilla sugar
2 heaping tablespoons flour
2 cups of unsalted butter
Dash of Flavoured Rum
Strawberries for inner layer, garnish on top
Strawberry Jam warmed to coat berries.

Method

For cake, preheat oven to 325 °F and grease and flour 3 9-inch round cake pans.
Beat butter in a mixer fitted with the paddle attachment or with electric beaters until light and fluffy. Add sugar and again beat until fluffy. Beat in vanilla and add eggs, one at a time, blending well after each addition. In a separate bowl, sift flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Add flour, ½ cup at a time, mixing on a lower speed and alternating with buttermilk until all has been added and batter is smooth. Scrape batter evenly between the 2 prepared pans. Give the cake pans a gentle tap on the counter to loosen up any trapped air bubbles. Bake on center rack of the oven for 30 to 40 minutes, rotating pans halfway through cooking, until a center inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean. Cool cakes for 20 minutes, then turn out on a rack to cool completely.

For the icing....

In a saucepan combine milk, sugar, flour, vanilla sugar and egg yolks...(to make the flour lump free add it to about 1/2 cup of the milk going into the pot and stir it till it is smooth. Cook om medium heat whisking constantly so that the bottom doesn't cook quicker then the top....when it comes to a boil...it will thicken and look like a custard....(at this point you can add 3 cubes of semisweet bakers chocolate for a chocolate icing or leave it plain as a vanilla icing) both are wonderful....
Cool this mixture completely and then you can add it to the refrigerator to cool it even more. In the mean time add your room temperature butter to your mixer and start to cream it. Then you add the custard type mixture and voila your icing is ready....

On each cake layer I brushed on the flavoured rum. For the middle layer of icing I added a cup of chopped strawberries to about a cup of icing mixture....then added the top layer and iced the entire cake. Smoothed the icing and added sliced strawberries in a fun pattern. To the top layer of strawberries I warmed up some strawberry jam and brushed the berries so they would remain nice and plump....Kept the cake refrigerated till I served it....

Enjoy!

Finds Friday - Oh so Pretty in pink and green....

2009-03-05T19:52:00.010-05:00

Hi Everyone....what a great set of pretty in pink and green...Sorry we are a bit late with the Finds Friday post...but like I say....better late then never...hope you enjoy these finds and please click on them to head over to the wonderful shops for more exploration....

Have a wonderful weekend!!

Instruction Thursday - Let's make a classic Sock Monkey

2009-03-05T00:18:00.009-05:00

Hi Everyone...

I wasn't able to work on my sock monkey to get it in this post...but I did find some instructions for a classic sock monkey from tipnut.com

here is the downloadable PDF for you to try...

The Nelson Red Heel Sock Monkey and Elephant doll....

they are so cute I can't wait to start designing my very own....

Have a wonderful and creative day....

Challenge Wednesday - "Food"

2009-03-04T01:12:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone...this week's Challenge Wednesday theme is "Food". This is always an inspiration for me...I hope it is for you too....

Each Wednesday we will post a new challenge theme...you can create whatever you are inspired to create and post it on your blog or photo sharing site....then add a link here so we can all enjoy your work.You can create an illustration, a card, a tag, a painting, a special photo you want to share....you name it...surprise everyone....I hope you all find some inspiration to create and share....Have a wonderful day

Decor Tuesday - Buy a Print and make a difference...

2009-03-03T16:48:00.005-05:00

Hi Everyone...this week's Decor Tuesday is to help raise awareness of the Bees for a Cause Project....also called "Help Me - Help People - Help You " the decor is you buy a Print to decorate your home....and you make a difference in the lives of a family and ultimately the world population of bees.....

Each year I try to do a few projects to help the world in one small little way and this year I was inspired by bees. I located a charity called Heifer.....and what caught my eye was something that has been near and dear to me for many years....Bees....This group helps struggling families earn income through the sale of honey, beeswax and pollen. Beehives require almost no space and, once established, are inexpensive to maintain. As bees search for nectar, they pollinate plants. Placed strategically, beehives can as much as double some fruit and vegetable yields. In this way, a beehive can be a boost to a whole village.Although most Heifer partners keep bees as a supplement to family income, beekeeping can be a family's livelihood. Your gift can help Heifer provide a family with a package of bees, the box and hive, plus training in beekeeping - and this unique gift will be passed on to another family in need. This is a perfect way to help people that will also help the world....
I created a new blog to document this project and hope that you will help me spread the word and help make a difference. I created a special art piece and 10.00 dollars from each sale goes to a fund that will help purchase bees for special families. Every $30 Raised purchases a package of bees, the box and hive, plus training in beekeeping....this not only helps make a family more self reliant it helps the overall population of bees throughout the world. With the collapse of many colonies all over the world this makes even more sense. My slogan for this campaign is "HELP ME - HELP PEOPLE - HELP YOU" as in the end I think we all win in a special way....

Buy a print

Please check out my blog - http://beesforacause.blogspot.com/

Thank you from the heart!!!
hugs
Diana

Foodie Monday - Italian Sausage and mushroom pasta

2009-03-02T10:11:00.003-05:00

Pasta can be made with numerous things...I look to see what I have on hand and then create recipes just for fun...sometimes having no recipe can make for an interesting dish...

I was craving Italian Sausage and mushrooms so I put these together to make a special dish I call ...Pasta with Italian Sausage and Mushrooms....

Ingredients...
6 Italian Sausages
1 package of sliced mushrooms
1 onion
1 clove garlic
2-3 fresh vine ripened tomatoes chopped
salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons sour cream to finish the dish
Parmesan if desired
chopped fresh basil

Flat thick pasta or any pasta you like...

Boil water for pasta and cook your pasta as per the directions for al dente.
Take the sausage meat out of the casings and saute till it becomes golden and caramelized. Add the mushrooms and cook for about 5 minutes stirring. Add onion, garlic and cook till translucent. Add salt and pepper to taste. Finish with chopped tomatoes and cook for about 3-4 minutes till tomatoes are softened. Add the sour cream and some Parmesan and your done. Drain your pasta and place it back in the pot. Add the sausage mixture and stir well...so all your pasta is covered and then serve it up and chop up some fresh basil on top.

Finds Friday - "Singing in the Rain"

2009-02-27T12:20:00.009-05:00

Hi Everyone....even on a rainy day we should find some beauty ....

Wishing you a wonderful Weekend....may it be filled with inspiration....

This week's Finds Friday feature rainy day pieces....just click on each piece to head over to some great shops!

Instruction Thursday - Tree of life Pendant

2009-02-26T10:12:00.002-05:00

Hi Everyone...I found a site called BeadMecca.com and they have all kinds of fun instructions like making this Tree of Life Pendant. It looks wonderful and you can customize the colours to suit your fancy.

Materials:
1 6mm Soldered Ring
4" 16g Soft Sterling Wire
3ft 24g Soft Sterling Wire (cut into 4 pieces)
Assorted Gemstone Chips

Click here to see the step by step instructions with photos

Challenge Wednesday - "BIRDS"

2009-02-25T00:04:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone...

This week's theme should be lots of fun as we get to take flight.........the theme is "BIRDS"
I hope you all have fun and join in this week's challenge.... Each Wednesday we will post a new challenge theme...you can create whatever you are inspired to create and post it on your blog or photo sharing site....then add a link here so we can all enjoy your work.You can create an illustration, a card, a tag, a painting....you name it...surprise everyone....
I hope you all find some inspiration to create and share....Have a wonderful day

Decor Tuesday - Sunshine and shades of grey....

2009-02-24T15:39:00.007-05:00

There is something ultra modern about mixing shades and tones that you would never think to put together...like the sunny and bright yellows...from bright and golden to pastel....with a mix of shades of grey....this looks so fresh and inviting yet very sophisticated. Spring is the perfect time to start thinking about sunshine and some redesigns...It seems like everywhere you look people are less and less affraid of using some bright and cheery yellows...they are everywhere you look ...from paper goods, note cards, clothing, paint....keep an eye out for this wonderful combination that seems to be all the rage....I have a collection to inspire you with yellow and grey and most of these items are very reasonably priced...so enjoy!

1. Fieldcrest® Classic Bedding Collection - Gold http://www.target.com/

2. Mimosa Wallpaper - Fabrics and Papers.com

3. Rustic Hemstictch Napkin, Set of 4, Grey -www.williams-sonoma.com

4. Yellow Cup can Saucer Sur La Table.com

5. Le Creuset 2.75qt. Round French Oven

6. Blossom Rug Collection - Target

7. Gathering Island - Williams Sonoma

8. Gardenia Yellow and Grey floral Pillow - imaginefabric.com

9. Mayfair& Jackson 4-pc. Stoneware Casserole Set- Yellow - Target.com

10. Vienna Chair - Target.com

Foodie Monday - Turkey Burgers with Mixed Greens, Goat Cheese and Raspberry Vinaigrette

2009-02-23T09:31:00.007-05:00

Turkey Burgers Ingredients

1.5 - 2 pounds ground turkey
1 medium white onion chopped finely
1-2 garlic cloves chopped fine or grated with a rasp
3 slices multi-grain white bread - like Dempsters Smart - chopped into cubes
1 egg
salt and pepper to taste
hand full of sugar snap peas chopped up

Method
In a bowl combine all ingredients till it becomes a uniform consistency and you can't see any bread chunks. Form them into patties. I make 4 large ones or 7 mini burgers. I then cook these in a cast iron skillet with a tiny bit of olive oil. I start these with a medium heat pan and then once they get a nice caramelized on one side...about 5 minutes I turn them and lower the heat to low and add a lid to the pan to keep in all the heat...I turn them once more and serve them with a salad of mixed baby greens, red peppers, onions, goat cheese and raspberry vinaigrette...you can make your own raspberry vinaigrette or use Kraft's olive oil version of Raspberry Vinaigrette....delish!!!

Raspberry Vinaigrette
2 tbsp raspberry vinegar
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp honey
1/2 cup peanut or grapeseed oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Finds Friday - Give me some wings.....so I can fly....

2009-02-20T14:23:00.012-05:00

I am always amazed at all the beauty in nature...especially anything we find with wings to fly....This week's Friday Finds is all about wings....

click on each photo to learn more about these winged finds...

Have a wonderful weekend!

Instruction Thursday - Felt Cherry Pie

2009-02-19T00:01:00.005-05:00

Hi Everyone...

I had to post a link to this cute pie this week for Instruction Thursday...I was watching Martha Stewart and she had Hilary as a guest creating felt food fun...

what a cute piece to add to any child's play food...then again I think I would love this too...

I have been playing around with food this week...well art food that is....

I will show you what I mean .....just click on the link below....

Here is my transformation art.......

Have a wonderful day and happy pie making!

Challenge Wednesday - "Springtime in Paris"

2009-02-18T00:01:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone...

I hope no one can pass up a theme like this one...Winter seems to be longer then ever this year and we all long for some warmer and brighter days...so this week's theme should be lots of fun....."Springtime in Paris"

I hope you all have fun and join in this week's challenge.... Each Wednesday we will post a new challenge theme...you can create whatever you are inspired to create and post it on your blog or photo sharing site....then add a link here so we can all enjoy your work.You can create an illustration, a card, a tag, a painting....you name it...surprise everyone....

I hope you all find some inspiration to create and share....Have a wonderful day

Decor Tuesday - Are you RED(y)???

2009-02-17T00:22:00.000-05:00

Some of you may be affraid of many colours...but what about bright cheery red...bold and full of fun ...red is a colour you have to be ready for...but adding bits to your home decor can be easy and fun and you may even learn to think that it really isn't all that strange to use this colour in any room....If you're not ready to paint your walls in red...you can find easy decorating alternatives that will make decorating easy and fun....

There is a special lusciousness when you add some red accents to any room...and here is a sampling of items for all kinds of areas of your home...hopefully they inspire you to start using the colour known to warm hearts everywhere.....

1. Soho Dining Chairs -Walmart

2. Butterfly box - Pier1

3. French rooster towels - Williams Sonoma

4. Royal Suede Throw pillow - Pillow Decor

5. Red Embroidered Pillow - Pier1

6. Le Creuset Heart Casserole Dish

7. Gerrit T. Rietveld Chair - Eurostilo

8. Silicone Spatulas & Spoonula - Williams Sonoma

Tomatoe Salad with Garlic Basil Dressing

2009-02-16T00:03:00.000-05:00

I am so longing for spring and summer to arrive so I can start gardening and growing my own vegetables...in the mean time thanks to wonderful growers we can enjoy yummy vine ripened tomatoes all year long....

This is such an easy recipe with deliciouss rewards...

Ingredients

tomatoes - vine ripened

Olive oil

Basil

Red onion

Garlic

Salt and Pepper to taste

Method

Slice up all your tomatoes and arrange them on a plate or serving tray

in a mini food processor, add 1 garlic clove, some chopped red onion, basil, salt and pepper to taste and about 1/2 cup olive oil....blend all ingredients and then pour over your tomatoes...

and that's it....yummy tasty tomatoes with lots of bold flavor

Enjoy!

Happy Valentine's Day Everyone...

2009-02-14T15:55:00.004-05:00

Hi Everyone...

We wish all of our visitors a wonderful Valentine's Day...

We thank you for all your visits...

have a wonderful weekend...

Finds Friday - February 13th 2009 - Bee Mine!

2009-02-13T14:40:00.008-05:00

Hi Everyone...

I have always had a love for bees...they have a special way to inspire...My Father loves bees and was one of the most amazing bee keepers.....they sure work hard and I just had to do a little Friday Finds on all things bee related....hope you enjoy these and pop by the shops to check out more of their work....just click on each photo to head to each shop!

have a wonderful Friday....

Instruction Thursday - Let's make some Valentine's Day bookmarks...

2009-02-12T00:05:00.007-05:00

Hi Everyone...

This week I thought it would be fun to take about 5 to 10 minutes to make something to add to your Valentine's Day card.....so here goes...some fun creating a bookmark....

just click on the picture below....then right click to save picture....

print it on a nice matte heavy weight paper and then have some fun cutting out some embellishments and why stop there...if you have some fun glitter glue you can further embellish your book mark like mine in the top photo....

Wishing you a wonderful Valentine's Day!

Challenge Wednesday - "Hearts and Chocolate"

2009-02-11T20:01:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone...

This week's theme came easy when I started seeing all the hearts and chocolates at all the neighborhood boutiques....all ready for the holiday of Love....

There are so many ways to interpret this week's theme....I see wonderful browns and pinks and reds....what fun!

This week's theme is "hearts and chocolate" I hope you all find some inspiration to create and share....Have a wonderful day

Decor Tuesday - A touch of Romance - Let's get a little French Country

2009-02-10T23:17:00.001-05:00

Whenever I think about Romance and design I think about France and the idea that collecting lovely objects over time can really create a warm and loving feeling in any space....When you collect objects of art and special finds you feel a sense of warmth....

The idea of French Romance in design is not anything new...but recreating it to fit our more modern day lifestyles can be a fun challenge.

I think the collected pieces and a well lived in look evoke a warm feel. French country falls into the category of French Romance interior design....you can feel the love in the room and the collection of finds makes you linger and think about what all these pieces have seen in their lifetime...

French Romance is definitely a mix of accessories and antique pieces that have special meaning. I will always have a place in my heart for romance...whether it is some small pieces I can add to my studio for inspiration or larger pieces that can be added to any room....

I have been looking for the perfect dress form but a new one wouldn't inspire me like an antique one would from Paris now would it......that's the warmth I am talking about...a warmth you feel in your heart when you see something you love.....

This look and feel may not be for everyone...but I do think we all have a little longing for all things Romantic once and a while....after all everyone ends up in a fantastic suite in Paris once or twice in a lifetime....

oh and the great thing about decor is ...if you love it and it brings you joy...it is the perfect design for you.....

have a wonderful day....

*to learn more about the products featured today...just click on each photo and head to the sites....