Industrial Revelations

Featured on Bravo Bride Blog

2012-01-25T21:23:00.002-07:00

Yesterday, I got the news that one of my bouquets was featured on the Bravo Bride Blog :)

This is what they had to say:

The Wire Bouquet
This is probably the most unique bouquet we found. REFINERII uses salvaged metals and industrial objects for their one-of-a kind creations.

See the entire post on Bravo Bride. There are 11 different non-traditional bouquets featured.

Bravo Bride is a cool site where you can buy & sell new & used wedding stuffs; everything from dresses to flowers to cake toppers...check it out if you or someone you know is planning a wedding :)

Amber

Show & Tell: Bookends

2012-01-23T22:48:00.002-07:00

Show & tell: bookends just shipped out today: this is the first set I've made in a loooooong time :)

The bearings all move; they spin around within each other; very fun & cool looking

This is a matching pair; commissioned by a daughter for her dad's birthday: hope he likes them!

The bearings are all salvaged: from a heavy equipment transmission shop: thanks Larry :) I clean the grease off & then weld them together--it's hard to come up with matching sets, but it worked out perfect this time :)

Amber

The Fam: Skwishy Cat :)

2012-01-14T22:25:00.000-07:00

Just for fun, I thought I'd introduce you to a member of the crazy family around here...

Skwishy Cat....

he is big, & white, & has a skwishy belly...he's kinda like a basset hound cat: lays around most of the time, kinda useless, but cute & entertaining...not too smart, but very love-able, lol :)

In the snow...

In the sink...

Cat house with Beasty...

too funny...lol

destroyer of phone books...

addicted to cat-nip...

& Starbucks...

yummy...

caffeine buzz!! lol

The Skwishy Cat: cute, cuddly, & very talkative; he always has a meowrrreow for everyone (and lots of white hair to share, lol)

He's not much help in the shop, but I feed him anyway... ;)

Amber

More Sneak Peekings: Bouquet Photoshoot

2012-01-12T22:14:00.000-07:00

Got a few sneak peek images from EB of Two Bird Studio today:

omg....soooo excited to see more! Loving the dreamy lighting & over the top styling...

This first one is Chanel: model & dancer for the Trey McIntyre Project here in Boise. Chanel is gorgeous & tiny & strong & travels the world as a dancer: I feel so lucky that she wanted to be a part of my little project! Loving this shot!

And this is the lovely Annie: we met a couple years ago & when I was putting together this little project, I knew she would be perfect! Love the eyelashes: purple feathers--I think I might have to get some for myself...lol :) You cant see the copper bouquet she has in her hand, but I love the way the necklace looks---it's one of my all-time-fav-pieces: I am considering listing it on my Etsy, but I'm a bit attached to it since I wore it to last year's Carnevale... We'll see... :)

This is beautiful Kate with Max & Josh; omg, I love the brick wall background! Kate was amazing during the shoot; she knows how to pose & make things look great: I'm so grateful to all the amazing talent that showed up to help out & join in the fun...

And big thanks to Matt at the Powerhouse: you were so welcoming & accommodating for us & all our craziness :) The Powerhouse was the perfect backdrop: I would highly recommend the space for a party, wedding, get together: anything: it's an amazing space!

Looking forward to seeing more of the pics: I have had to restrain myself this week from emailing EB & bugging her about it, lol. I'm trying to be patient, but I'm so excited!!

More to come...

Amber

New in my Etsy Shop

2012-01-09T19:01:00.002-07:00

Just thought I'd share a few new items just listed :)

Copper Bells Necklace & Earrings set: made with little jingly copper bells, an antique glass & rhinestone charm, magnification lens, & accents of bright turquoise crystals & cream pearls.

Oooooh: I love the look of copper & the little bells tinkle softly as you move: too much fun!

This one has a very fancy little silver & brass lipstick tube: that still has lipstick inside! Accented with another lens, vintage rhinestones, chain, & a little silver key...

And another lovely old key necklace: with a vintage rhinestone & pearl charm, glass lens, little fuse, & a tiny silver teapot charm: so cute!

I have worn this lapel pin many times & finally decided to list it: super sparkly vintage rhinestone brooch with a pocket watch movement, old chandelier crystal, & accents of cream pearls.

These can all be found on my Etsy shop:

Amber

A peek into my little world....

2012-01-07T22:03:00.001-07:00

Today, I thought I would share some pics from my little apartment....it's a very fun & funky little space & I love it! It's actually part of my shop...yep: I live in my shop, lol :) The little shop was run down & half finished when I got ahold of if about a year ago...my good friend Marcella & I did the remodel almost all by ourselves-we had a bit of help with overhead sheetrock & a few things, but other than that, it was all us... Pretty much everything we used was salvaged, re-used, scrounged, or built from my stash of junk: even all the paint was mis-mix or from Second Chance.

Starting with my chandelier....this is actually from the old Barbacoa: it used to be bright sparkling clear crystals, but after the fire everything is black & will not come off. There are even some drips of melted glass... When I saw it at Diamond Street Recycling, I had to have it: love the black imperfect-ness. It got new wiring & a new home in my little living room...

Now it hangs above my train-spring table (please ignore the mess: was taking jewelry pics too)

The wood wall behind the little couch hides the fridge: it's made of old cedar fence pickets (Second Chance): I added a wash of white sparkly paint :)

And this is the view into my tiny kitchen...stainless steel sink from Craigslist, lights from the Re-Store, shelves from the Reuseum, & lots of fun & funky storage...

The overhead rack I made from some old trade show display pieces: works great for hanging things...

And my little bathroom...lockers for storage (these actually came from IKEA), a custom pedestal sink built from the same old trade show metal, metal shelving & boxes for storage.

Another view of the sink... The basin & faucet were left-overs from a remodel project on another house, the mirror is one I made years ago: has some scratches so I couldn't use it for the project it was made for--but works great for me :) And the funky shelves are actually pieces that were salvaged from some old machines....

$5 light fixture from the Re-Store...it got a new coat of black paint & glass shades. (the feathers are a hair accessory :)

Little metal boxes that I scored from the Reuseum....I use them to store extra contacts, soap, & other small things...

Added some little magnetic words just for fun...and they can be changed out whenever I want :)

Old first aid boxes--also from the Reuseum--they hold aspirin, cold medicine, etc.

And, one of my fav parts: ceiling fan/heater....there were holes around the outside because the old one was bigger, so I covered them with old rhinestone jewelry & other bits & baubles....Crystal chandelier on a budget, lol :)

And of course, I had to throw in a few gears too... ; )

These are my very steep, narrow stairs...a huge steel turnbuckle serves as the handrail :)

My computer station/jewelry workspace/wedding bouquet studio...

And looking the other way; the little chandelier hangs above the stairway, the shelf is an old wooden storage box; perfect for displaying some of my supplies.

My collection of jewelry stands :)

And back downstairs: an odd assortment of storage & display space :)

Well, thats if for now; thanks for joining me on my little tour....feel free to comment if you have any questions about the stuffs you see; I am happy to share where I got things/ what they are.

Next, we will take a look into the shop side (after I clean up a bit, lol)

Amber

In the Idaho Statesman today.... :)

2012-01-05T08:44:00.000-07:00

Highlights of January's First Thursday gallery stroll in Downtown Boise
BY DANA OLAND - doland@idahostatesman.com
Copyright: © 2012 Idaho Statesman BY DANA OLAND
Idaho Statesman Published: 01/05/12

Amber Conger’s “Secret Laboratory”: Altoids tin, gears, keys, fuses, light bulbs, necklace, clock parts and other miscellaneous stuff.

MINT-SPIRATION

How creative can you get with an Altoids tin? That’s a challenge that will be explored by artists participating in “An Altoid Tinstallation!” You’ll be amazed by what is being done within these little mint tins by artists from Art Source Gallery (1015 W. Main St.), BOSCO (an artist organization that promotes interaction between artists and viewers) and Treasure Valley Institute for Children’s Arts.The sale at Art Source Gallery will go on throughout January. The tins sell for $20 each, with 100 percent of the proceeds going back to the donating group. The opening reception is from 5 to 9 p.m. Thursday with music by Dan Costello and wine from Indian Creek Winery. ArtSourceGallery.com.

Read more here: http://www.idahostatesman.com/2012/01/05/1940229/gallery-stroll-highlights.html#storylink=cpy

Bouquet Photoshoot-sneak peek...

2012-01-04T11:54:00.000-07:00

These are a few quick snaps I took yesterday at the shoot: lots more to come...

EB of Two Bird Studio & I decided to team up to get some cool shots of my bouquets for submissions, portfolio, etc. We spent the day at the Powerhouse in Boise: such a cool building & perfect for the feel we were going for...

ooooh: I cant wait to see the finished pics!

We went with a bit of retro, glam, steam punk, circus, edgy, over-the-top styling...so much fun!

Tiffani did some crazy hair & make-up: there were feathers, crystals, shimmer, & shine...

It was fun to see EB do her thing; she set the models up in all kinds of crazy positions & on different backgrounds; I got a peek at just a few of the shots: omg--amazing!!

It was such a fun day: I'm already looking forward to the next shoot...lol :)

Thanks so much to Tiffani & co, for the rock'n hair & makeup; models Josh, Chanel, Max, Kate & Annie; Matt at the Powerhouse; & of course Elizabeth for your amazing skills & imagination.

Finished photos to come; stay tuned :)

Amber

Altoids Tinstallation

2011-12-28T22:26:00.000-07:00

This January, I will be participating in the the Altoids Tinstallation with BOSCO at the Art Source Gallery....I have made 2 little art-pieces: they are both available for purchase: the proceeds will benefit http://www.boiseopenstudios.com/ :)

this is the 1st: named #J3

The inside: the secret is: it included a wearable lapel pin: attached the the tin with a magnet :)

So, if you choose to take home this little piece of art, you will also have a wearable accessory (or fridge magnet, lol)

My 2nd piece is called Secret Laboratory....

This one also has a secret.... ;)

A cute little vial necklace filled with clock-parts & oil.

The exhibit is up through January at the Art Source Gallery in downtown Boise. Stop in & check it out; all the tins are for sale; proceeds benefit the organization from whence the tin came from: BOSCO & other arts collectives. Tins sell for just $20 (what a deal!)

Artist reception on 1st Thursday, Jan 5th: 5-9 pm: stop in for live music, wine & appetizers :)

Amber

Another Trophey

2011-12-26T18:21:00.000-07:00

Just thought I would show & tell...

a custom trophy for the Utah Valley Home Builders Association

made with nails, bolts, screws, nuts, I-beam, & misc steel parts...

This is the 2nd year I have shipped trophies off to Utah :)

The nails are my favorite part :)

Hope they like it!!

Amber

Kleiner Park: a few new pics

2011-12-19T09:12:00.000-07:00

The sculptures have been up for a few months now, & last week we spent a day at the park doing a final inspection: to look things over & see how the sculptures are behaving in the weather...

After a final re-torque on all the connecting bolts, they each got a spot-weld to hold them in place.

We were still at it as the sun was going down (as usual, lol)

It does make for cool pics, though... :)

Construction on the park is coming along: but not finished yet.

The park is scheduled to open to the public in April of next year: stay tuned for details on the grand opening :)

Amber

Show & Tell: Harley Parts

2011-11-30T19:30:00.000-07:00

Little table-top pieces made from Harley parts:

perfect for hanging the keys on... :)

Gears, shafts, & mechanical odds & ends....

The gold toned gears are my fav part...

The top of each is a little polished stainless steel tube; reminds me of the exhaust pipes...I couldn't resist adding a bit of color with the torch :)

I'll deliver them later this week: they were commissioned as a holiday gift--hope they are happy :)

Amber

Idaho Botanical Garden Online Auction

2011-11-28T18:05:00.000-07:00

Just listed: one of my favorite necklaces....

Kelly green glass beads with a vintage lipstick tube, brass key, & vintage rhinestone charm. Accented in silver with matching green Austrian crystal accents.

Up for auction at: the Idaho Botanical Garden

Just in time for the holidays; shop the online auction for all sorts of gifts :)

The proceeds benefit the gardens, & you stay out of the mall: win/win :) And your holiday purchases are tax deductible...

There are all sorts of items: from concert tickets, to movie passes, handmade items, & gift certificates:

and of course: this very special necklace...watch out though: I have it on good authority that Lori from Giraffe Laugh is on a mission to have this one....lol

Last year, I did all of my holiday shopping this way: it was great!: no crowded stores, lots of time to pick out the perfect gift & a great selection: I found something for everyone on my list :)

And the fact that my holiday purchases were supporting a local, non-profit, educational entity; made the holiday shopping experience (omg) enjoyable!

Check out all the great gifts here:

Happy Shopping!

Amber

Show & Tell: another copper wedding bouquet...

2011-11-27T23:01:00.000-07:00

Another new favorite bouquet...

Copper with a heat-patina: adding subtle shades of blue, purple, & gold to the copper. Accented with sparkling crystals in purple & gold, & pearls in gold & bronze.

This one sparkles & shines brilliantly in the sun & the shade: I am loving the purple accents :)

It's listed on my Esty shop & includes the matching boutonniere for the groom & steel stand for the bouquet...

http://www.etsy.com/listing/87287189/copper-wedding-bouquet-with-purple-gold

Amber

Show & Tell: Copper wedding bouquet

2011-11-15T22:32:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to share... New copper wedding bouquet just listed: with aged copper, turquoise crystals, & cream/bronze pearls. Love the look of the metal patina: will be experimenting with more...

Love the contrast of the aged metal with the sparkling crystals & glowing pearls :)

Available in my Etsy shop:

http://www.etsy.com/listing/86271839/copper-wedding-bouquet-and-boutonniere

Too much fun; I can totally see this one for a western-themed wedding :)

For a look at my other custom wedding bouquets, see my Etsy shop at:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/REFINERII

Right now I have some jewelry & the wedding bouquets to offer: soon to be adding custom metal wall hangings, garden accents, & home decor items...

Amber

Lumber-Jack

2011-11-13T22:34:00.000-07:00

Have you ever met a real-life Lumber-Jack??? Honestly: I thought they didn't exist anymore, but was proven very wrong this weekend...

My parents just bought a house in Idaho City, & their neighbor, Pete, just happens to be a Lumber-Jack: for-real! He came over this weekend to fall a couple dead trees: I only got to see 1 come down, but it was very impressive! Pete managed to fall it in just the right spot: the tree was close to the house & garage: and he made it fall in the one spot where there was nothing...

It wasn't a small tree either: probably about 60-70 (or more) feet tall.... He used a big winch, & huge chainsaw, & more than a few wedges... It was quite the process!

In the end; the tree came down in just the right spot; no damage to anything... The tree was dead & rotten from beetles & was a threat of coming down in a storm & going through the house or garage roof.

It was very exiting to watch & fascinating to learn about forestry & gardening (on a huge scale) from a real expert!

In the end; the tree is down; providing a huge amount of firewood for the house, & leaving a perfect base to mount a custom steel sculpture: one of my next projects :)

Thanksgiving in the new house: we might be still moving in furniture, but it will be fun! The fireplace is up & running: kitchen will be functional this week, & there is now plenty of firewood! lol :) Even if the house is not quite complete: it will be a great way to get mom & dad moved in & start living in the new place :)

Amber

The Beginnings of a new Project....

2011-11-12T12:04:00.000-07:00

These miscellaneous parts from a couple Harley's will soon be assembled into 2 tabletop sculptures....

my project for the weekend...

hmmmmmmm...

Check back for progress pics.

Amber

Kleiner Park Video--Wind Turbines at night....

2011-11-03T00:10:00.001-06:00

pretty cool, eh?? Thanks so much to Dan Smede for the great video!!

Amber

Lights! Kleiner Park Sculptures....

2011-11-02T13:30:00.000-06:00

The lights are working, yay! After waiting for parts, the electrical is all hooked up & the lights are on at night!

The above is a shot of the vertical axis wind turbine; it spins in the breeze & generates the power for the spotlights.

The turbines not only look amazing moving with the wind, but they produce clean, green power.

Each of the three 50' tall sculptures has 3 spotlights that are powered by the wind turbines.

I am so very happy with how this project came together; green energy mixed with public art...how cool is that!?

Photos by: Smede Marketing-thanks so much!

It's going to be interesting to monitor the output of the wind turbines over the winter; so far, we have had a very breezy autumn....providing lots of energy for the generators. The vertical axis design of these wind turbines is well suited to urban environments: the wind can be strong & gusty or just a slight breeze in any direction, the the turbines will spin & produce energy. And they look amazing, make no noise & are safe for birds & bats---very cool indeed!

Julius Kleiner Memorial Park is located on the corner of Eagle & Fairview & is still under construction: you can see the sculptures & wind turbines from Eagle Road or Fairview, but the park is not open yet... Grand opening is scheduled for April of 2012: I will be sending out invites & announcements :) In the meantime; the park is still a construction site: please don't try to go around the barricades--the security guards will not be happy, lol.

Thanks so much to Toby at Power Plus for all the help---you made it work! And Blake Trailers in Star: amazing work: could not have made it happen without you! And Susan, John, Steve, Sue, & the whole Parametrix team: so thankful to have been involved with such a talented & fun group. Also Don, Walter, Steve, Eldon, Susan (again): I was so honored to be a part of the design team & absolutely loved every meeting & discussion: I'm a bit sad it's over, lol.

And of course: Gene & the Kleiner family--what an amazing gift you are giving to future generations: I am humbled & so honored to have been a part of such an amazing project...

Also thanks to Anderson Construction, Diamond Street Recycling, Pacific Recycling, Wild Nature Solutions & everyone I met on this project: even the construction meetings discussing schedules, water-lines, & roads were fun!

Amber

AGC Trophies

2011-11-01T22:10:00.000-06:00

Delivered today to the Associated General Contractors of Idaho Headquarters; these are the year-end awards presented every December at the annual Gala & fundraiser event.

This will the be the 4th year I have made custom trophies for the event: each set has been different... They are all made from salvaged steel, found objects, & whatever I have been able to find at the time.

It's fun to come up with something new each year & I think it makes the awards more special for the recipients...

Thanks to Trademark Signs for the custom plaques: they came out perfect!

This year's design are a favorite (I say that every year, lol)

For more information on the Idaho AGC, please visit:

http://www.idahoagc.org/

I hope everyone likes them!

Amber

Raising Jane Journal--Mary Jane's Blog

2011-10-25T23:11:00.001-06:00

I was on Mary Jane's blog :) This is what she had to say:

Zephyrus

Posted on October 10, 2011 by MaryJane

I was on a “pitch slam” panel of four magazine editors at The Creative Connection Event in St. Paul last month. During the month prior, potential “features” signed up and paid money in order to pitch who they are to us. The cross-section of women was fabulous and over time I intend to feature all of them—everyone from a woman who creates tiny victorian embroideries to a librarian who wants to write book reviews to a woman who traveled from Australia who specializes in zen doodling to a …

… welder chick.

Amber Conger, of Refinerii Industrial Revelations, is a full-time artist and sculptor of wood, stone, and other elements from Boise, Idaho with a particular affinity for gears and the industrial chic look.

Amber also has a knack for picking fabulous gleaming words! Her recently completed project, a 28′ tall weather vane, was installed in Boise, Idaho and is dubbed after that windy and rustling word-of-the-week (last week’s word to be exact), zephyr!

Oh how the zephyrs do stir my heart for this weather vane.

Her “Zephyrus” is made from a recycled stand from Idaho Power and the weather vane fashioned from salvaged steel. She also used left-over copper from another project, stainless steel, and the spinner was a gift from a friend.

The installation process needed extra hands.

What a beauty!

I was talking about the weather vane, BUT Amber is tall, statuesque and well, Amber’s compass definitely points …

… true north.

So honored to be a part of Mary Jane's world: I've been a fan of her farmgirl lifestyle for years!
Check out the website here:

Thanks so much Mary Jane & Megan; really enjoyed meeting you!!

Amber

Open Studio last weekend

2011-10-25T23:00:00.001-06:00

Thanks to everyone who stopped in to visit at the Open Studio tour last weekend :)

I had a great time showing everyone around my little world & chatting about projects...even met a few of my neighbors, lol :)

I'll definitely be on the tour again next year: we'll see if I'm still in the same spot... ; )

Amber

Open Studio This Weekend

2011-10-13T12:03:00.000-06:00

My little shop will be open this weekend--Saturday & Sunday from noon till 6; stop in & say hi :)

Maps of all the artist studios on the tour are in the Boise Weekly or you can download one here:

Map

Look for the BOSCO sign out on the road.

Hope to see ya here :)

Amber

Trucks, Mud, & Sticky Situations....

2011-10-10T23:42:00.000-06:00

Soooo, my grand accomplishment yesterday was getting the Mack-Truck stuck in the mud...granted its been raining like crazy & I knew I was risking it...lol, but it was sunny & forecast for more rain the next day, so I decided to go for it...

I wanted to pick up the chicken-house/shed & move it to clean up with the tractor, & then put the shed back into place on some concrete slabs that I have been saving... Yeah, it didn't quite go that way....

After gathering up the big spreader-bar & all the cables & shackles & rigging everything up, the little crane just wouldn't lift it....so, I thought: hmmm, need to be closer (the closer you are, the more the crane can lift). Soooo, I unhooked everything & moved the crane; as I was creeping into place, I noticed that I was slipping sideways...not a good sign...but, I was closer, so thought I would give it another try.... And....same result...by this time, I had called in my mother (encase I needed to be pulled out of the mud). We looked at the shed, & the crane, & thought---there is no way that shed is too heavy...maybe we need hydraulic fluid... So, I lugged over a 5 gallon bucket (you can buy them at Costco, btw--last time I bought 3 big buckets & 2 bottles of champagne--I got weird looks at the checkout) anyway, the crane was thirsty, & I added probably 2.5 gallons of oil (I think about 1/3 of it ended up on me or in my hair) & we gave it another try.... No luck, grrrrrr....I think there is something wrong with the main cylindar: shall be calling ICS to check it out... And I go to move the truck: stuck in to mud, of course...we try putting stuff under the tires, back & forth, cursing, laughing, & looking. Finally, we gave it up & helped ourselves to grandpa's whiskey stash (they are not home, lol) & toasted to a failed endeavor...lol :)

Today, I did get it unstuck just before the rain started again... but the chicken house is still in the same spot, lol. For now, I have decided to just go with it... maybe next spring it will get moved, lol, maybe not...

btw: this is what I looked like before we started playing in the mud...ah, the life of glamour....lol

Open Studio this weekend; hope to see you here :)

Amber

Boise Open Studios Tour

2011-10-05T00:17:00.000-06:00

For the first time ever, I am very excited to be a part of the Boise Open Studios Tour....

My little metal shop will be open Saturday & Sunday: the 15th & 16th from noon till 6: stop in anytime & say hi : )

I will have snacks & drinks on hand; & will be doing tours of the shop, property, & artwork...

Download maps & artist info here:

BOSCO

Hope to see you here :)

---Amber----

Hobble Creek Park: Install

2011-09-26T23:28:00.001-06:00

We installed "Zephyrus" last week at Hobble Creek Park....

A 28' tall weather vane, we loaded the base & sculptural piece on the Mac-truck & drove it into Boise from Star....Blake Trailers did the heavy fabrication: they made everything look exactly like I had pictured in the beginning (over a year ago)

The base is a recycled stand from Idaho Power, & the weather vane is made from salvaged steel, left-over copper from another project, stainless steel that I managed to convince ISE Cranes to let me have (for a price), & the spinning part on the top came from a very special friend :)

once the base was in place, the weather vane was lifted into place...

Montry & I guided in into place....

when it came to torque-ing down the bolts, I let Jeff take over...lol

Jeff & Montry took care of the mounting bolts...

And in about an hour's time, it was done!

The plaque with the story of the design will go on later, along with the directional signage, but I'm so happy to see the piece in place! It moves with the wind so easily, & the top spinner goes around with the slightest breeze:

thanks Mike-E : ) It's perfect!

Will update when I get the signage up; for now, I'm so happy with this one: it looks so amazing in person; even better than the plans! Definitely a contrast for baseball fields, but I think it works :)

Amber

Hobble Creek Park: update

2011-09-13T23:47:00.000-06:00

The next project to be installed: a 28' tall weather vane...inspired by sailing ships & daydreams....

Steel with copper & stainless accents...

& lots of rivets & bolts :)

This one will be installed next week: maybe Tuesday; I get back from Minneapolis & the Creative Connection on Sunday evening; so maybe Monday, but probably Tuesday, lol : )

for a look at the original proposal, click here: http://www.refinerii.com/2010/06/hobble-creek-park-project-approved.html

amber

Kleiner Park Install; new pics :)

2011-09-12T02:31:00.000-06:00

some new pics from the install....just got them :)

enjoy...

lol; the last one cracks me up...

next week; Hobble Creek Park, & the Creative Connection on Minneapolis...flying out on Wednesday: wish me luck!

Amber

Kleiner Park-Installation Day 2

2011-09-01T22:47:00.000-06:00

Yep; I am way up there in the bucket, lol: not quite as scary the 2nd time...

We started out the morning putting the wind turbine on the lake sculpture, then it was onto #3...

Getting lost whilst trying to find a place to access the spot without destroying curbs should have been the first clue that this one was not going to be easy....

The two base pieces slipped over the bolts on the base just fine, but gave Jeff a bit of a hard time when it came to joining them together at the top: there were hammers involved...

and big wrenches, & impact drivers....

Sometime in the afternoon, it was time to lift the top section into place...

The first few bolts went in ok...

But the rest (like 30 of them) were difficult....

The torch came out to help...

Eventually, it was time to add the wind turbine; of course one of the bolts that holds it down had a major issue too; that only took about and hour & a half to fix...lol

But, in the end, it all went together & looks great... We finished around 4:30 (thought we would be done by noon) I celebrated across the street at Texas Roadhouse with a toast with friends--in my dirty carharts & hardhat hair, lol :)

Today, I drove by the park & all three turbines were spinning in the breeze: they look great--soooo happy :)

Thanks so much to Montry & Jeff at Blake Trailers; it would not have happened without you! Also a big thank you to all the guys (& Tana) at Blake Trailers; you did an amazing fab job: I could not have asked for a better team!

And big thanks to Hugh & Steve & Kenny at ISE Cranes: you guys are the best: there is no one I would I would rather have lift me into the sky while I hold on for dear life, lol :)

I will have video of the install soon; stay tuned...

Amber

Kleiner Park: Install Day 1

2011-08-29T23:33:00.000-06:00

We got off to a late start today, but got 2 sculptures up: will finish up in the morning...

It was a long, hot, dusty day: but I'm happy :) The Labyrinth sculpture is complete with the wind turbine spinning & it looks amazing!

I am about to crash; got to the fab shop this morning at 8, didn't leave the park till about 8:30...so I am just going to share some highlight pics...

Me, mom & Steve from Parks & Rec chatting...lol

The view from about 40' feet up; yep, I went up in the bucket to help attach the wind turbine; scary, but cool...

About 50' feet up...

the Labyrinth sculpture complete with wind turbine...

The base of the lake sculpture; this is Jeff: my MVP of the day; thanks for all your help: could not have got it done without you & Montry!!

Steve (Waz) amazing crane skills this guy has....

Hugh: also amazing with the cranes; he ran the bucket today; I trusted him with my life & he didn't even scare me, lol :)

The top section going on the lake sculpture....

Joining the 2 pieces...

Almost sunset; still working...

We will be back at it tomorrow morning; to put the wind turbine on the lake sculpture & assemble the 3rd piece... I am kinda sad the project is coming to an end, lol :)

More pics to come :)

Amber

Kleiner Park Sculptures: Installation Tomorow--wish me luck!!

2011-08-28T21:38:00.000-06:00

Fabrication is complete; we will be installing all 3 sculptures in the park tomorrow...I will be meeting ISE Cranes at Blake Trailers (and steel artwork fabrication) at 8am to start loading up. 3 big flatbed crane-trucks & a trailer: hopefully we can get everything in 1 trip :)

Each sculpture will stand over 45' tall: they are in pieces right now: tomorrow we will assemble the 2 base pieces, place it on the foundation, then the top section (33 feet tall) will be craned into place & bolted down. Last, the wind turbine will be placed, & the wiring will be hooked up: times 3... it's going to take 2 big cranes, & some big bolts & wrenches & muscle...

After working on this project for over a year, I am both excited & a bit nervous....I believe everything will go together smoothly: it should--after all the pre-planning, templates, engineering, etc. But, I also know that 45' tall steel structures don't always line up perfectly....I have a big sledge hammer, mag-drill, & crew of help on standby if there are any issues...

Thanks so much to the crew at Blake Trailers for all your hard work; everything looks amazing : ) I am so thankful to have had such a skilled & talented group working on my vision: could not have done it without you! Thanks for putting up with my changes, random visits, & general artistic crazy-ness, lol : )

Tomorrow is going to be a big day. Look for the cranes, if you're driving by Eagle & Fairview: I am probably going to be up in the bucket hooking things up: honk if u see me, lol : )

Pics & video to come...wish me luck!

Amber

Kleiner Park: Fabrication Update

2011-08-24T01:06:00.002-06:00

Next week, this wind turbine (the white part) will be spinning in the breeze, producing power. Not to mention looking amazing: gracefully dancing in the breeze 45' up :)

Everything is coming together beautifully & I cant wait to get the pieces all in place....Fabrication is coming along beautifully at Blake Trailers in Star...they are doing an amazing job: & don't even complain when I decide to make last minute changes, lol :)

The final details & finishing touches will be added this week...

This is the base of one of the sculptures: the part with the wind turbine will be attached to the top of these 2 legs...

Welding the legs to the base-plates...

Pretty big, eh?? The final sculptures will be over 45' tall...

This is an areal view of the park from about a week ago; amazing; it looks just like the design renderings...

66 acres of trees, grass, lakes, & walking paths: the park is scheduled to open to the public in April of next year...

This is the Senior Center...the round bump-out in the lake is one of the locations for my sculptures; I think its going to match the architecture of the building perfectly; matching & contrasting at the same time :)

And this is the Labyrinth; another of my sculptures will go in the center....

The park is going to be a truly unbelievable gift to the city of Meridian, & I am so thankful to be involved with such an amazing project, & even more amazing group of people who have worked so hard to make it happen :) I am sooooo excited to see the sculptures being completed, but sad at the same time that the project is coming to a close...I am going to miss it; from design team meetings, to weekly construction updates; its been such a privilege to be involved in a project like this...

Anyway, tears aside (lol) we are still planning on an installation for all three sculptures on Monday: it's going to take 2 big cranes: courtesy of ISE Cranes, & a crew of helpers to get it done, but I am confident that we will make it happen: the turbines will be spinning by Monday night!

More to come....

Amber

Kleiner Park--Fabrication Update

2011-08-21T20:07:00.000-06:00

One week to go, & things are looking good :) Its very exciting to see everything starting to come together--after working on a project for so long---this is the best part!

The base-plates are being attached; 1 inch thick steel plate :)

This is just one leg of the base of one of the sculptures...

lots of welding....

And lots of drilling holes for bolts....each sculpture features over 150 tension-control bolts, plus the big structural bolts on the base :)

This week will be a long one; tentatively the sculptures are to be installed on Monday the 29th. I wonder how many trips it will take with a big truck & trailer to get them there....lol :) It should be quite the production: each sculpture will be put up one leg at a time, then the top 1/2 will go on & be bolted in place, then the wind turbine will go on (45' up), then the electrical will have to be hooked up....it should be interesting.

More updates to come....stay tuned

Amber

Kleiner Park fabrication update

2011-08-12T11:46:00.001-06:00

Starting to add in the details; these curving pipes are probably the most important element of the design; both aesthetically & symbolically... I'm very excited to see it coming together!

The pipes will flow & twist up each sculpture & around the wind turbine at the top....

When its all done, it will look like a continuous curving line from the base to the top...

kinda like this...but not quite, lol; there have been a few design changes along the way :)

The other 2 structures are almost done; as soon as they are, they will be moved inside to start working on the curving pipes; each will have a similar feel, but will be different.

More pics later today :)

Amber

Kleiner Park Fabrication update

2011-08-09T15:57:00.001-06:00

After some delays in the shop, fabrication of the big sculptures is back on track; yay! About 2 weeks time, & they should be ready for installation at the park; so excited :)

Right now, they are welding on some gussets; these were added to the upper portion of the sculptures for structural support. In the original design I had these pipe-like things that would have done the same thing, but I felt they were a distraction from the design of the white curves & wind turbines; instead, we created gussets with the same look/feel as the main structure...

I think keeping the focus on the white design elements is going to look/feel better when they are standing up in the park...

Its so exciting to be moving forward on the project again! Construction on the park is moving along; buildings are going up, roads are in, & my foundations are ready & waiting : )

I will be updating with progress pics every day this week; so stay tuned to see things come together....tomorow we will be experimenting with the curved pipes: it's going to be a process to get the look just right...

More to come tomorrow : )

Amber

Greening the Grove--a work in progress....

2011-08-07T13:00:00.000-06:00

This is an initial concept for the greening the grove project; another public art piece to be installed in downtown Boise.... I have been working on this project for a long time now; there have been lots of changes in location, funding, scope, etc. But, this design is proposed to serve as a (green) gateway into Grove Plaza; just off 8th & Main.

This one will be steel, with a stainless steel overlay; bright & shiny to contrast against the trees & the buildings....it will also have recycled glass leaves, kinetic mini wind turbine lights, and will collect solar energy to power leds that will light the glass leaves & the Grove Plaza lettering. And maybe a wifi tower... lol

I will be updating with more info about the project as it comes together; finalizing the design for the approvals process is the order of the week....wish me luck!

Amber

Alone in the Woods....

2011-08-06T19:57:00.000-06:00

Earlier this week, I decided to go spend the night at the cabin all by myself....was hoping the silence & solitude would help me think.... The decision was made at about 6:30 in the eve & by 7 I had my cooler packed with supplies, a book, & was in the truck on the road...

It was so nice to get out of the heat... I pulled in at about 8; just as it was starting to cool down a bit. (My familiy has a cabin near Idaho City that we built & all share)

As the sun was starting to go down, I had a lovely dinner cooking on the fire outside...a bit of pasta with fresh herbs from the garden...

I raised my ~~glass~~ jar of wine in a toast to the setting sun...

And as I waited for the stars to come out, I enjoyed the smell of pine trees & the sound of nothing but birds & chipmunks--there is a rather spunky little one that hangs out near the cabin; he chattered at me from the tree about 10 feet away :)

As usual, the sunset was lovely...

The moon was so bright...

Almost like you could pluck it out of the sky & make a necklace out of it :)

Although it didn't result in any grand ideas or revelations, the trip was well worth it all the same.... I enjoyed coffee in the morning (with the chattery chipmunk) & then packed up & headed back to Boise--in a much calmer & happier state of mind---I think a bit of solitude is good for us once in a while...

Amber

2011-07-31T18:19:00.000-06:00

You can now find me on Pinterest!

--so much fun--

Its a cool site full of inspiration; everything from home decor to entertaining ideas...

Check it out at pinterest.com

Find me under Refinerii

See ya there :)

Amber

2011 Top Projects Trophies

2011-07-29T23:06:00.000-06:00

Just delivered these trophies yesterday for the Top Projects Awards; I think they turned out pretty cute...

Commissioned by the Idaho Business Review; these trophies were awarded to AGC Contractors who completed the largest building projects of the year. I have made the trophies for the last 4 years; each year they are different; I make them with just the scrap materials I can find at that time...

This year, they are made from concrete saw blades (with diamond cutting edges), little steel I-beams, & shiny gold-colored hardware; custom acrylic plaques finish them off : ) I hope they liked them!!

Amber

Sunset tonight....

2011-07-13T23:06:00.000-06:00

Lovely sunset this evening; I was loading steel to go to the fab. shop tomorrow....

omg; it's been way too long since I've posted anything; I promise to be better, lol : )

The big sculptures for Kleiner Park have been delayed for a few weeks due to another last minute project that came up at the shop, but they should be back in the shop to be finished up asap tomorrow, yay! I am hoping to get them into the park by the 28th: have not told the fab guys yet....will spring that on them tomorrow.... There is an event that day & it would be so great to have at least 1 in the park...more on that later...

Since the party at the garden, I have been busy with working on the family cabin, working on landscaping projects around the shop, design work for some other projects, & a bit of goofing off...I cant believe its almost the middle of July already! More posts to come this week....

Amber

Carnevale: a magical evening in the Garden....

2011-06-09T23:21:00.001-06:00

Thanks so much to everyone to came out to the Garden on Friday night; Carnevale was a huge success & I was so grateful to see so many familiar faces :) We had close to 600 attend! The food & drinks were amazing, thanks to 3 Girls Catering; and the performances were stunning! A big thank you to the Red Light Variety Show, Fire Kittens, & Rose Red Flames---the Botanical Garden staff said they had never seen an event like this; it was definitely unique & fun!

check out the pics....

Photos by:

Christina Birkinbine

Sibb's Custom Rides

3 Girls Catering

Fire Kittens

please do not copy without permission

Thanks again for a magical evening! We might have to do it again next year.....

Amber

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

2011-06-01T23:56:00.002-06:00

Carnevale Menu

2011-06-01T11:46:00.001-06:00

Gretchen has put together an amazing menu for the festivities on Friday night; come join us for

dinner, drinks, entertainment, &

art in the Garden...

Mmmmmmm: can't wait!

Prices will be between $3-$5 per item--no host bar style

6:00 pm at the Botanical Garden

Tickets available online at

http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/178743

or get them at the Boise Co-Op or the Record Exchange

$7 presale $10 at the gate

Hope to see you there :)

Amber

Boise Weekly: win tickets to Carnevale

2011-06-01T00:27:00.000-06:00

Work from industrial metal artist Amber Conger, who works under the name Refinerii, appears all over southern Idaho—including in Meridian City Hall. Conger has become one of the city's most well known artists, particularly for her large-scale pieces.

Idaho Botanical Garden is the most recent recipient of Conger's large-scale work and on Friday, June 3, there's not only an unveiling of the new work but a large-scale party to boot.

Carnevale is a celebration of Conger's art at the garden, with a performance by burlesque troupe Red Light Variety Show, Rose Red Flames and the Fire Kittens. There will also be glass blowing, fortune telling, face painting and fire, belly and arial dancing.

Conger isn't the only local artist whose work will be showing at Carnevale. Also showing will be: Filip Vogelpohl from Boise Art Glass, Bruce Maurey and Wren Van Bockel from Maurey Design, Cody Rutty, Erin Lunstrum Pietsch from Pietsch Pottery, Amber Shing, Reham Aarti Jacobsen of Mosaic Essential and Joe Lopez of mymindsphotographer.com.

Friday, June 3, gates open at 6 p.m., $7 for members and in advance, $10 at the door. Children under 12 are free. Tickets are available at tixxfixx.com, The Record Exchange or at Boise Co-op. Idaho Botanical Garden, 2355 N. Old Penitentiary Road, 208-343-8649

208-343-8649 idahobotanicalgarden.org.

Win Tix through the Boise Weekly

The Costume Shop: masks, glitter, gloves, & more!

2011-05-28T19:30:00.001-06:00

OMG: I stopped in at the Costume Shop today for the 1st time ever (I know, huh?) Wow: they have a lot of cool stuff!

Was looking for top-hats & masks for Carnevale, & ended up leaving with 3 hats, some fairy wings, this amazing glitter make-up stuff, some cool striped knee-high socks, & some feathers! And, I think another trip is going to be necessary too, lol :)

Wow: if you are in need of any costume-ish accessory or costume to rent, this is the place to go--I must have spent over an hour wandering about & chatting with the staff; who were soooooo friendly & fun!

If you are in need of a beautiful Venetian style mask for Friday, or makeup, or accessories, definitely stop in next week....

The Costume Shop

3777 Chinden Blvd.

Boise, ID 83714

208.343.9399
208.343.9399
Toll Free: 1.877.992.67881.877.992.6788
Email: fun@thecostumeshopboise.com

Directions: The Costume Shop is located on Chinden Blvd. between Orchard and Curtis Road/Veteran's Parkway.

Amber

Win Free Tickets to Carnevale-

2011-05-27T21:55:00.000-06:00

The Boise Weekly is giving away tickets to Carnevale :)

Enter to win by clicking below to visit BoiseWeekly.com

Thanks so much to the Weekly for sponsoring this event!

Look for the Carnevale add in the next weeks paper...

I'm getting super excited about the event; can't wait to see everyone there...omg, I don't even know what I'm going to wear yet! Yikes, where can I get a cute top-hat next week? Shopping tomorrow after the Sat Market...lol

Amber

Kleiner Park Fabrication-Bolts

2011-05-21T22:26:00.000-06:00

All three sculptures are put together now, & the bolts are going in! So excited; they add so much to the look of the structure; very happy with the choice to use tension control bolts; they really do have the look of old-school rivets (on one side anyway)

Amazing how such a seemingly small detail can make such a difference! Luv how they have the look of an old bridge....

s'more cool welding shots....

Next week will be the details; lighting brackets, wiring, wind turbine mounts, & white curvy things; more updates to come....

Thanks so much to everyone at Blake Trailers for all your hard work; it's coming together even better than I expected! I'm excited for the next phase :)

Looks like we will be installing the sculptures sometime in June; I can't wait to see them in place...

The install should be interesting, lol: big trucks & trailers & big cranes: can't wait!

more to come...

Amber

Carnevale

2011-05-19T23:04:00.000-06:00

Tickets available now at : TixxFixx

Hope to see you there; it's going to be a fun evening!!

Amber

Kleiner Park---Fabrication pics

2011-05-18T21:28:00.000-06:00

Fabrication on the three sculptures for Kleiner Park is coming along; things are progressing quickly now out at Blake Trailers. All the pieces are cut & ready, 2 of the 3 sculptures are almost completely assembled....

They take up a good portion of the shop: & this is just the top half of the sculpture; it will be bolted to the big beam to the right. When completely assembled on site, each piece will stand 45' tall.

Each section of I-beam is held together with gusset-plates that are welded on & then bolted together with tension control bolts: both structural & aesthetic; tension control bolts have the look of rivets on the outside face of the sculpture; I chose them because they match the look of the old rivets on the recycled beams that came off the old farm property.

Each gusset plate must be placed, clamped, welded, & then the beam below is drilled out with the mag-drill for the bolts.

It takes a lot of clamps, measuring, & precision...

Welding the end-mounting plate in place.

cool, huh?

Tomorrow will be another day of welding & assembly, hopefully all three sculptures will be together (sort of). They will remain in 3 pieces for delivery & then will be assembled on-site with the help of a big crane....

Installation is planned for mid-June; foundations will be poured next week : )

Next, we will be working on the white curves; that should be fun : ) Then, the lighting will be added, wiring, wind turbine mounts, & they will be ready to go!

Thanks so much to all the guys out at Blake Trailers in Star for your work; it is looking amazing!

Amber

Kleiner Park---Heavy Fabrication

2011-05-10T00:57:00.001-06:00

Work is moving right along on the Kleiner Park project. Beams are cut, parts have been assembled, heavy fabrication has begun...

punching bolt holes in one of the gusset plates....

Welding up the support beams for the base of the sculptures: the base alone is 18 feet tall & made of 1/2 inch steel plate :)

More bolt holes; each piece will have over 200 structural tension-control bolts....

Moving pieces into place for welding....

measure twice, cut once; making sure everything is going to line up...

welding....

more welding....

cutting the upper beams; these will be attached to the larger support-structure....

Looks like my foundations will be poured ahead of schedule; within the next few weeks; hopefully the installation will take place in about a month; wow! Still lots of work to do, but it's moving fast...

I cant wait to see them out there with the wind turbines spinning; today was soooo windy, & I was wishing they were done already! Each sculpture will be 45 feet tall, and will be very visible above the trees for a long time... Look for them next month!

amber

June 3rd: Mark your Calendar!

2011-05-06T19:46:00.000-06:00

More details to come....

Amber

I'm in the Paper! lol

2011-05-03T11:21:00.000-06:00

Yep; in the Idaho Statesman today :)

Me & Rod, lol: love the look on my face... : )

Amber

Idaho Botanical Garden: Art Install today...

2011-05-02T18:38:00.000-06:00

This morning, we met out at the Botanical Garden for the sculpture install. I had to call in a bigger crane to lift the pieces into their spots; my little crane wouldn't reach.... Thanks so much to Steve at ISE Cranes for the help!

hmmm, my little crane truck looks scrawny next to his, lol

Rigging the first piece for the move; this one is made all from 1/2 inch steel plate; very heavy!

No problem for the big crane, though: it was lifted up & over the water & in between the trees to the left

Me, talking to Steve in the crane: even though I know he can't hear me, I kept talking to him, along with hand signals, lol :)

Almost....

btw; that's Rod from the Botanical Garden helping :)

"hmmmm, what do you think?"

In about 20 minutes we were done & on to the big one...

Me & Dad getting the lifting straps ready to attach to the crane hook

up it goes : )

& down into place

We had to do a bit of adjusting to make it sit level...lots of up, down, up, down, try again, up, down...

In the end, we got it to set right. I think it looks sooo nice in it's new home...

Me & Steve--crane operator extraordinaire : )

The whole install took less than 2 hours, & went really smoothly. I'm so happy with the way the pieces look in their new setting & can't wait to see the garden come to life around them : )

Thanks to everyone who helped out today!

Amber

Botanical Garden: Install #2

2011-05-01T21:14:00.000-06:00

Today, I spent a lovely spring afternoon preparing sculptures for installation at the Idaho Botanical Garden: tomorrow I will be delivering the pieces... I had to do a bit of welding & cleaning to prepare them for their permanent home.

This one; the Machine was out by the road in front of the house, & I had to move it back behind to shop to work on it: I'm sure the neighbors were wondering what was going on with the girl & the crane, lol

It's rather tall; over 15 feet; so I have to climb up on a ladder to hook lifting straps to the crane hook...

The view from the top :)

Looking back down....

The best self-portrait I could get while hanging onto the ladder with the camera, lol

After a couple hours of work, both pieces were ready to go; I just had to lift them onto the back of the truck with the crane.

And here we are: all strapped down for the ride downtown; kinda an odd looking load...

I'll be meeting out at the Gardens at 10; anyone who wants to come along & watch the install is more than welcome : )

ISE Cranes will be lifting the sculptures into place (my little crane doesn't have the reach to place them in the spots we have picked out) It should be quick & easy; will probably take about an hour...

Plans are coming along for the big event on June 3rd, when the 3 sculptures will be officially unveiled. We will be celebrating with food, drinks, music, art, entertainment & more; so mark your calendars: it's going to be an amazing evening! Look for invites soon...

Amber

Kleiner Park--fabrication pics

2011-04-25T22:21:00.000-06:00

Heavy fabrication is under way! Last week the big beams were cut & prepared; soon to be welded into place :)

Each beam is so heavy, it took 2 forklifts together to move it....

Tomorrow I will be picking up the final cut parts, & pieces will start going together! After so much planning & design work, it soooo exciting to see the real work beginning... more updates to come.

Amber

Group Art Show--Saturday, April 30th

2011-04-21T22:18:00.000-06:00

I am taking part in a group art show on Saturday, April 30th: stop in & say hi if you are out & about that evening; should be a fun time. Live music, art, & great friends :) I will have a new creation on display & will be around all eve to chat...

6-11 pm at the Fulton Street Showroom: 517 S 8th Street

Hope to see you there!

Amber

Kleiner Park: Fabrication: cutting parts

2011-04-19T22:24:00.000-06:00

Just a few pics from today's adventures in fabrication.... I spent the afternoon at Idaho Custom Ironworks helping to move & load steel plates onto & off of the plasma table: the plates were so heavy, we had to use the crane.

We got most of the heavy parts cut today; these will be the structural gussets & base plates for the three sculptures; tomorrow, we will finish up, & take a truck-load of cut parts to the fabrication shop.

This is what happens when you don't have your gloves on & try to move heavy pieces of steel....

The fab shop is going to begin cutting the beams tomorrow....look for more updates then :)

Long day today & my fingers are sore, but I'm really excited to be moving forward.

More updates to come :)

Amber

Kleiner Park: Fabricaton Begins!!!

2011-04-16T23:29:00.000-06:00

On Friday, I picked up the new steel for Kleiner Park; for the structural elements, new steel, just from the factory was the best choice.....

Almost overloaded my truck! The biggest plate weighed over 2000 lbs!

By far; the most new steel I have ever purchased: not going to say how much it cost! Only this; steel prices have doubled in the last 6 months, wow...

But, its all good; parts for the project are being cut & we will be in heavy fabrication next week! Looking forward to seeing some real progress on the project!

This is Read; from Idaho Custom Iron Works; he's all happy cuz his new bigger & improved plasma-table is working....mine are the 1st parts to be cut :)

More progress to come: Monday I hope to be picking up all the cut parts to deliver to the fab shop; they have already started cutting beams in prep. to putting parts together. Before you know it, there will be 3 45' tall steel structures waiting to be installed! Very exciting: look for more updates next week :)

Amber

Tully's Coffee

2011-04-14T10:34:00.002-06:00

New work at Tully's: I have one little piece at each location; hopefully soon will be adding more :)

Each one is a bit different, but made of similar parts & pieces: all recycled steel stuff, of course...

Take a look next time you stop in for coffee...

I also have a collection of patio sculpture at the BoDo location: 8th street between Front & Myrtle; check it out next time your downtown :)

And at the Tully's in Columbia Village: you will see my funky industrial jewelry :)

Thanks so much Jill for letting me decorate with my my crazy creations, lol

Amber

Today's Project

2011-04-10T15:55:00.000-06:00

Today, I got to take a few hours & play around in the shop; working on some cute wall pieces for Tully's Coffee.

They still need to be cleaned up, & ya never know--I might add a few more little details....was even thinking of adding some sparkles :)

Each one has a chain that will hold a little sign; too cute : ) Hopefully will have time to finish these up tomorrow!!

Amber

Kleiner Park--materials

2011-04-07T14:29:00.000-06:00

This big stack of beams soon will be transformed into the huge sculptures for Kleiner Park... The larger beams came off the old farm; they were used for a bridge over a canal, & before that they were part of train cars--twice recycled : ) The other smaller beams came from Diamond Street Recycling; not sure what they were in their former life...

The old beams are each around 40' long, & really heavy!

So heavy that it took 2 forklifts to carry each beam....

I love all the plates & rivets & holes; cool details that will remain & become part of the sculptures. Each big beam will become part of the base of each sculpture; and everything will be built around it.

Next week, fabrication will really start to get rolling; will be updating throughout the process : ) Stay tuned...

Amber

Kleiner Park --Update--

2011-04-05T00:23:00.000-06:00

After months of design & re-design & re-design again; we are almost ready to begin fabrication on the 3 huge sculptures for Julius M. Kleiner Park; work should begin this week!

In the end, the sculptures ended up being 45 feet tall, & will use huge bridge beams that were reclaimed from the original property; back when it was a farm. I will also be using reclaimed i-beams & steel plate: thanks to Diamond Street Recycling & Pacific Recycling :)

Kleiner Park will be over 66 acres of trees, lakes, lawn & more: the sculptures will serve as visual landmarks; each will be strategically located to lead people from one end of the park to the other. Not only will we be using reclaimed steel for the structure of the sculptures: in addition, each will have a vertical axis wind turbine to supply power for spotlighting, & perhaps power some other park features too.

Park construction is moving along; soon to get really busy when the weather breaks: in the above photo, you see one of the lakes, with 2 semi-circular bump outs; the one on the right side will be the location of one of the sculptures...

The park is located on the corner of Eagle & Fairview in Meridian: and when completed--this October--it will feature 2 lakes, a splash pad for the kids, Senior Center, an Arboretum & Band shell, & much more---including 3 huge steel sculptures!

I'm so excited to be a part of this project; it's been an amazing & fun experience from the very beginning & I'm so grateful to have included in the design team. Looking forward to really getting into the 'real' work now---looks like the first foundation should be poured this month! Will be updating with fabrication process & installations: next construction meeting is tomorrow morning : )

Amber

Botanical Garden

2011-03-24T19:40:00.000-06:00

This morning we delivered the 1st of 3 sculptures that will have a new home at the Botanical Garden....The install went well; pretty quick & easy & it didn't even rain on us!

I craned the piece off the truck & set it on wheels; then we had to roll it down the sidewalk for quite a distance. Then, with the help of 4 strong guys (& 2 gals) we lifted it into it's spot....

And there it is, with me & my windblown hair, lol :)

The next 2 are going to more difficult; they are bigger/heavier & are going to be placed in spots that are harder to get to....we did a bit of investigating today & will come up with a plan in the next few weeks: it's going to involve a bigger crane....

I am so happy with the placement; the sculpture looks soooooo much better in the garden setting than in front of my little shop--although I'm going to miss it.

Thanks so much to everyone who took the time to help out today: I couldn't have made it happen without you :)

Amber

Changes.....

2011-03-23T22:30:00.000-06:00

Wow, it's been way too long since I've updated...
Just uploaded a new background--for a new start :)

The last few months have been full of changes; BIG ones... Moving, cleaning, sorting, divorce, saying goodbye, building a new studio, re-designing big projects, selling lots of stuff, and really finding my true friends...

But, it's good---I am looking forward to new adventures, new projects, great biz partnerships, & a new creative life :) I have a cute (on the inside) little workshop & apartment on the back of Grammy & Grampy's property in Boise (yay!) and am very excited to get to work creating lots of new things : )

And speaking of new projects: tomorrow I am headed out to the Botanical Garden with the 1st of 3 pieces that I decided to donate...very excited to get them placed.....

Got the truck loaded & ready to go today :) Planning on installing tomorrow morning: with the help of some friends & their friends (with big muscles!)

This is my little Mack truck--yep, it has a dog on the hood (I was thinking of giving him a sparkly rhinestone collar :) Anyway, the important part is that it has a little crane---very handy for moving these huge, heavy sculptures....

This first one is the easiest of the 3; it's only 12 feet tall & not too heavy (for steel): I will use the crane to set it on wheels, & with the crew we have gathered, we will roll it down the sidewalk to it's new home---then we have to lift it into place--that should be interesting : )

The next 2 will go in later; and mark your calendars for June 3rd: ribbon cutting ceremony & I am throwing a big party that evening: to celebrate art in the garden & thank everyone who has been involved in my projects....I've always wanted to do something like this, & it seemed like the perfect opportunity.... There will be music, entertainment, drinks, food, & lots of fun---out at the Garden---I can't wait : ) More details to come....

That's it for now; look for a new post tomorrow---after the install: hopefully it doesn't snow/rain on us, lol : )

Amber

The Shop Project: Office/Apartment

2010-12-28T23:16:00.000-07:00

So, this is the view from the inside of the apartment/office; looking out through my $100 double door/window...I have tried to use all salvaged/re-purposed materials :) The door came from 2nd Chance in downtown Boise: it's solid wood with glazed windows & came with the frame and lock-set; what a deal!

I luv recycling/re-purposing & this is an example of how anyone can use recycled materials: I saved money & supported a worthy cause all at the same time :) Throughout the apartment remodel, I have tried to use this method whenever possible: oops paint, existing light fixtures, or fixtures from the Re-Store or 2nd Chance, materials I already had on hand, and some great finds from the Reuseum :) --more on that later...--

This is the downstairs looking in from the door; a tiny space that will be kitchen, office, jewelry studio, & dining room all in one :) I'm going for a French/Italian/Shabby/Industrial style: concrete floors, plastered walls, stainless steel sink, exposed hardware, & anything galvanized I can get my hands on.... please ignore the cans of paint & mud; it's going to be cute, I promise!

And a chandelier or 2, of course: I'm soooo excited about this: always wanted a crystal chandelier, but never had one & I found this one at Diamond Street Recycling: it's from Barbacoa: burnt & black & sooooo Gothic looking! It even has melted glass from the light bulbs! (Barbacoa burnt down last New Years, & has rebuilt to open again this New Years) It's been re-wired--thanks so much to Marcella--& will be displayed in all it's imperfect glory---I am going to replace the missing/broken crystals with clear ones for contrast & a bit of it's old sparkle :) See pics of the original; before the fire, here: http://www.barbacoa-boise.com/gallery.html

And this is the beginnings of the too cute bathroom: steel pedestal, white sink, steel mirror, & light fixture from the Re-Store... After a quick wash of dark paint, it was a good as new :) $5

I just scored some cool old lockers from Diamond Street that will serve as storage; they will go on the wall next to the sink for towels, paper, make-up, & other essentials. Also got some cute old first-aid kits (empty) to mount on the walls for medicine cabinets; more on that later :) The mirror is an imperfect first try that was made for another project, the sink & faucet were eBay scores, & the pedestal was welded together out of old trade show displays that I picked up at another scrap yard.

This is a little wall made from pickets that came from 2nd chance: they are the same pickets we used to trim out the doors & room; I just white-washed them here: they cover up my discounted floor-model fridge that's on the other side---it's going to hold all the produce I will grow next summer :) BTW; the stainless steel sink in the background; I bought that last year off of Craigslist for a garden sink: it was outside on my patio all year, & then got a new home in the apartment-it's perfect! 3 basins, stainless steel, & lots of surface area---it's going to get a cute curtain soon to cover up the plumbing...soon :)

Up the stairs, there are 2 attic rooms that we are working on: they will get the plaster & paint treatment & 1 will be the bedroom, the other will be storage/closet/computer station. All in all, there is not much room, but I'm really looking forward to downsizing & simplifying---it's been fun to come up with creative solutions that will work in this tiny space : ) & I am definitely looking forward to the cost savings over paying for the big house that we hardly use...letting go of some of the stuff is proving to be a challenge, but it's only stuff, right?? Getting rid of the excess means more freedom for creativity & quality time...

The New Year is definitely going to be full of changes; & I'm looking forward to the possibilities... More to come later...

amber

The Shop Project....

2010-12-28T10:58:00.000-07:00

Things are coming along at the new shop: since this summer we have added doors, replaced windows, hauled in gravel/road mix for the trucks, sheet rocked, painted, plastered, poured concrete, & even planted a few things for the spring :)

We also put a wood stove in the workshop area; omg, I'm luv'ing it! For the past 5 years I've been working with no heat in the winter, so to have a cozy fireplace has been soooo great...

New steel rack ready to be filled up, and a few storage sheds to hold all the extra tools & stuff (it takes a lot of stuff for these projects) It's been a lot of work, but getting down to the fun part now; moving in my work tables & setting up to get busy on some new creations!

This fall I built a little retaining wall out of junk found around the property: old tires, chunks of concrete, rocks, logs, etc: I think it turned out really cute :) I can't wait till spring to add more plants & landscaping...

And a patio out front out of scrounged bricks & stepping stones :)

My neighbors at the property :) There are also lots of quails, a fox or 2, and some cows :)

My view out front :) The shop has the workspace and a little apartment too that we have been working on: tour of progress tomorrow :) Soon I'll be moving my office and jewelry studio into the little apartment: very excited to have everything in one place.

I'm really anxious to get moved in and working: a great way to start off the new year--I'm looking forward to new creations & seeing the big projects come together. And blogging more!!! I'm soooo behind: will be working on catching up on updates for Kleiner Park (soon to start fab.), my projects with the city of Boise: Hobble Creek Park (giant weather vane) and the Greening of the Grove/8th Street Art plan, the Idaho Botanical Garden (it's a surprise), as well as other side projects.... It's going to be another busy year; & I'm looking forward to new adventures.

Amber

Show & Tell: more trophies :)

2010-12-10T11:26:00.000-07:00

Commissioned by Hansen-Rice Construction, these are the yearly Management of Steel Awards.

The company specializes in huge steel buildings, so naturally they asked for awards that had some I-beams...

I also added some bolts & other specialty fasteners: cute huh??

I wonder what they would think of me describing their steel awards as cute? lol :)

Amber

Show & Tell: AGC Trophies

2010-12-04T09:46:00.000-07:00

This is the 3rd year I've done trophies for the AGC year end awards: I think these are my favorites so far...

Each year, I come up with a new design--but use some of the same components: every year I've used bearings of some kind... The bearings on this set all still rotate: kinda fun to fiddle with.

Other components include cable, nuts, bolts, & steel gears for the base :)

This one is the President's Cup; pretty cool, I think. The big self-aligning bearing in the middle rotates & spins :)

Love the brass accents :)

The awards will be presented tonight at the annual Gala & auction: hope everyone likes them!!

Amber

Up for Auction...

2010-11-30T07:34:00.000-07:00

Up for auction: one of my all time fav. jewelry creations....a lovely necklace made from bits & baubles...

Created from vintage costume jewelry tidbits & other odds & ends... Including a tiny brass lipstick tube, a glass umbrella, brass tag, an itty bitty key charm & purple vintage rhinestone accents.

The little lipstick tube is the greatest! It even opens to reveal some very old, very dry (like a crayon), very orangy red lipstick :)

A versatile & fun piece; looks great with jeans or wear it with a ball-gown; either way, you will be sure to get some conversations started :)

Place your bids at http://botanicalgardens.afrogs.org/items/view/index.html?item_id=7953

It is part of the Idaho Botanical Garden annual online auction: all proceeds to benefit the garden :)

The auction closes on December 20th; just in time for holiday gift giving... Check out all the items; everything from garden gifts, dinner certificates, travel packages, and much more. And what a great way to shop for the Holidays; find the perfect present for everyone on your list, without fighting the crowds and all know that your dollars will help support the garden's programs.

Happy Bidding!!

Amber

First Thursday, Dec. 2

2010-11-26T23:52:00.000-07:00

You're Invited!!

Please join me for First Thursday, December 2nd at Tully's Coffee in Bodo....

Stop in for a hot cuppa coffee & browse the latest jewelry & sculpture designs.

I'll have my collection of up-cycled tiny hardware & sparkles on cable as well as my new line of romantic industrial/steampunk designs... Think old pocket watches, lenses, gears, fuses, old pearls, antique rhinestones, & memories....

Special holiday pricing for this night only: this will be my only show of the season; don't miss it!!

You will also be able to browse my latest garden sculpture on the patio. I'll be taking holiday orders for book-ends & wine racks, too!

Hope to see you there :)

Amber

Festival of Trees

2010-11-24T08:15:00.000-07:00

The Boise Festival of Trees opens today! For a complete list of events; visit http://www.saintalphonsus.org/Foundation-FOT-tree-details.html

This year I decided to donate a wreath; made of squiggly copper--upcycled from the scrap yard. It was a bit of a chore to polish it up again, but well work the effort in the end.

Light & airy, accents include snowflake shaped crystals, pearls in white, cream, & burgundy, organza ribbons, & a vintage rhinestone bauble...

I'm not sure how it all works, as this is my first year, but I think you can vote for your fav. wreath (hint hint)And they will all be auctioned off, with the proceeds benefiting St Alphonsus. So, put in a bid & take this crazy copper sparkly-ness home with you for the holidays :)

The Festival opens today at the Boise Center on the Grove & runs through the 28th (Sunday).

Events include live music, a fashion show, magic show, and of course visiting with Santa; you can even bring the kids down for breakfast with Santa :) Check out the link above for all the details.

Grab a hot cup of coffee at Tully's right across the street--and see some of my other sculptures, btw--and join the festivities: sound like lots more fun the Black Friday shopping to me :)

Amber

Show & Tell---Wedding Bouquets

2010-09-28T11:58:00.000-06:00

Just wanted to share the latest bouquets; lots of orders lately for the entire wedding party :)

These are little balls to be carried by the flower girls; cute idea...

The bridal bouquet, with dark purple/grape crystals & black & cream pearls; love the color combo...

I'm also doing matching bouts & bouquets for all 6 bridesmaids & groomsmen :)

And this one was a first: request for turquoise & lime green: I think it turned out pretty awesome: better than I thought it would at first. The bright colors really stand out :)

Love the turquoise dangly crystals: they add lots of movement & sparkle...

For the bride & the groom: this one is shipping out today---hope she likes it :)

Next on the list is a set in emerald green & black--should be stunning, I think. The orders are keeping me pretty busy right now: they are lots of fun to make though--it's nice to play with sparkles & girly girl stuff :) Bouquets are for sale on my Etsy shop.

Amber

Chicken Update

2010-09-18T07:46:00.003-06:00

News from the backyard flock...

The duckies are huge as ever; and the boy duckie finally has all his green feathers, after a few weeks of looking pretty scraggly :)

The chickens have been enjoying digging in any patch of dirt they can find; I haven't seen an earwig all summer, or any other bugs really. A few aphids on the kale out front, but I just feed the leaves that have bugs on them to the chickens :)

The chickens & ducks both like to eat my kale....they look so innocent, but they are doing their best to mow down my plants.

Cats & birds are getting along just fine :)

Little chicken-bird is definitely still the most friendly; she always come running whenever anyone steps outside & will hop up onto your lap if you sit down :)

No complaints yet from the neighbors--they are really pretty quiet; the girl duck is the loudest; she gets to squawking sometimes; especially when she thinks I should come outside & give her a treat :) The chickens only squawk when one of them is hogging the nest box & someone else wants to be in it :)

Now that I have had them around, I can't imagine not having birds in the yard---they do dig things up & make a bit of a mess, but it's a great trade off for organic bug control and a supply of fresh eggs!

Amber

Wind Turbines are Here!

2010-09-17T07:40:00.000-06:00

We have possession! Omg, huge boxes--once again, the neighbors must be wondering...

They look great: I'm so excited to get going on this project! They are even better than I had hoped for :)

We managed to get them unloaded & hauled into the house; they are now filling one of the spare rooms.

Too cool, I still can hardly believe this project is for real--the next Design Team meeting in next week: looking forward to giving everyone the full report :)

Right now, we are working on the final cut files & foundation drawings; I'm hoping to be ready to start cutting parts by the end of the month.

More updates to come; I know I've been a bad blogger the last month--between the shop, husband changing jobs, & other projects it's been hard to find the time...lots of changes all of a sudden & I'm re-adjusting to the new schedule. But, the shop is coming along, although slowly, working on another project for downtown Boise, the chickens are laying eggs, ducks are happy, and the cats are getting into all kinds of mischief as usual :)

The Curb Cup

2010-08-21T11:14:00.000-06:00

This morning I delivered the Curb Cup; been working on it for the last week.... OMG, it looks soooo great :)

I made the cup for the event last year, & decided to do some improving on it for this year's event coming up... It got a really good polish: super bright and shiny--with the power wire brush 1st, then a coat of Harley Davidson metals polish :) I added a few rivets along the top for fun, & some huge gold bolts on the bottom...and cool new graphics: much brighter & more colorful...the finishing touch--sparkles! Yep, I couldn't resist adding some rhinestones for a bit more flash.

The cup is making its way around the Saturday Market this morning, & then will be on display at Urban Outfitters in the window. It's going to be making an appearance at Alive after 5 on Wednesday, and then the big event on Sun. the 29th: don't miss it :)

Check out the event website: www.boisecurbcup.com

Last year was a blast: I've never seen so many people in downtown at once--it was crazy!

Fun facts about the cup: it's made from all recycled stuff (except the graphics). Aluminum that came from Idaho Power, copper pipes, & brass bolts & thingies from my stash. It stands over 3 feet tall, & weighs a lot: takes 2 people to carry the thing around....or a red wagon :) Each year's winner gets a decal on the back of the cup and a smaller, trophy sized version to take home.

The trophy version is a little over a foot tall, and also made from recycled stuff :) Cute!

Anyway, I can't wait to see all the performers on Sunday: hope to see you there : )

Amber

I want....

2010-08-09T08:12:00.000-06:00

Sculptural light fixtures made from recycled plumbing parts & glass....how cool it that!

I would love to have one of these in my house, or new office....hmmmmm...

I could also see the same idea with sparkling crystals too....hmmmmm....

too cool.

I have a bunch of facet type things laying about in the back of the warehouse....hmmmm

More about the designs & artist here: www.liquidlightsite.com

Boise Open Studios (BOSCO)

2010-08-02T19:01:00.000-06:00

Since I am soon going to have a studio space of my very own in Boise, & with a bit of nudging from some friends, I went ahead & sent in my app: & to my surprise, I'm in!! (I guess this means we really have to have the shop finished by October)

Every spring & fall, the members of BOSCO open up their studios for the weekend & invite the public to come visit. It's a pretty big event; with an artist reception to kick off the weekend--and I'm signing up to be on the tour this October...more details to come...

This is going to be a stretch for me: typically I'm pretty much reclusive; especially when it comes to having visitors in my work space. My excuse for the last few years has been that I don't have a proper studio---I've only had one group of people over this past spring to tour my workspace & home: & it took a lot of coaxing, I will admit. But it was really a lot of fun & I think it will be a good thing to be a part of the Boise tour :)

Anyway, I'm excited: and this gives me a deadline (that's not very far away!) for the shop construction/move....wish me luck :)

Amber

Eggs!! (well one egg...tiny but cute)

2010-07-26T12:17:00.000-06:00

The 1st egg! Yay for little grey chicken-bird: a perfect, tiny, bit-size cream colored egg: she even used the nesting box :)

It's about 1/2 the size of a regular chicken egg: so cute!

She is looking rather pleased with herself :) I can't wait till the other ones catch up: it will take a lot of these itty bitty eggs to make an omlet!

Too funny; these will make the cutest little pickled eggs...

Wind Turbines!!

2010-07-19T08:55:00.000-06:00

I'm super excited to announce that we are going forward with the wind turbines on the sculptures at Kleiner Park!

The idea was dropped from the plans a few months back -due to budget-, but then re-visited at the Ground-Breaking last week.... I hastily put together a new plan for a smaller version than originally proposed, and everyone agreed that we need to make it happen--yay!

The turbines will spin gracefully in the wind, adding to the sculptural elements, and will power the lighting for the sculptures. These will be the 1st vertical axis turbines in the area (that we know of), and I think will add a whole new dimension to the sculptures and the park...there was even talk about adding light poles that have mini-versions of the turbines to the park plan :)

This is going to be quite the educational project for us; we are ordering in the turbines and equipment that goes with, and then will have to figure out how to make them work :) I'll be doing a bit of re-design on the sculptures to accomodate the turbines and make everything fit together seamlessly. I still can't quite believe that it's going to happen: I was really disappointed when we had to put the idea aside a few months back---adding green power to public art seems like such a win-win to me. And these turbines are so sculptural to begin with, that using them as part of the design just makes sense to me :)

Stay tuned for more updates--the next few months will be full of re-design, tweaking, & hopefully ooohing & ahhhing when the turbines arrive :) --See earlier posts on the project for the full story--

For now, I'm off to Idaho City for quick gettaway with family :)

Amber

NY Wedding--Copper Bouquet Pics

2010-07-10T08:58:00.001-06:00

I just got the nicest email from one of my Etsy clients who purchased a custom copper wedding bouquet & aluminum boutonnieres for her Brooklyn wedding :) Photographs by: http://www.dibezi.net/

"hi amber! i am so excited and want to let you know that the copper bouquet was a HUGE hit at our wedding last month. i did have several people think i was nuts when i described it, but then when they saw it in person they fell in love with it. and everyone else loved it without reservation. most importantly, *i* loved it...it was the perfect weight in my hand and looked beautiful with my gown. our photographer had never seen anything like it and couldn't believe how cool it was."

yep, people think I'm nuts too when I tell them I make wedding bouquets out of metal... lol :)

Looks like it was a lovely wedding; it's so fun to see the pics---usually, I box & ship & never hear anything :)

This was one of my all time fav bouquets; copper with pearls in white & champagne and crystals to match. Love the copper...

I've shipped these bouquets all over the world--funny that a crazy accident has turned into this :) Playing with crystals & pretties is a nice break from the heavy steel work--the bouquets are a lot of fun to make :) They are available on my Etsy shop; in both aluminum & copper: ready made or I can make them custom to match the wedding colors.

Amber

Kleiner Park Ground-Breaking-on the news :)

2010-07-09T14:15:00.000-06:00

A very nice piece on the park; I'm still amazed that I'm a part of such an amazing project!

Amber

Kleiner Park: Officially Under Construction :)

2010-07-09T09:31:00.001-06:00

This week was the official Groundbreaking for Julius Kleiner Park (for all the details, see earlier posts: here & here) Construction has already started; watch the progress at the corner of Eagle & Fairview--the big field across from the shopping center :) The park is going to be over 60 acres, with lakes, walking paths, a Senior Center, & more...

I am creating 3 huge sculptures to be placed in the park...quite the project! As you can see in the photo above, things are just getting started: the park will open in Sept 2011. I will be updating once a month with areal views of the park, it should be interesting to see how things change & progress...

There was a great turn out for the ceremony; the news crew was there & the Mayor; golden shovels officially opened the construction project with the first scoops of dirt :) I'm rather amazed to be part of such a huge project: this is the first time I've been able to watch things progress from the ground up, & be involved in the design of other areas too, besides the sculptures. The core group of professionals (and me) is an amazingly talented team & have all been so nice to work with--it's really been a lot of fun so far....

Speaking of: check out the entrance gateway; I got to have my hand in the design, as you can probably tell; husband had to laugh at the swirly curly q's: I just can't seem to keep them out of things....ah well. Anyway, I think its going to look pretty cool when done; I tried to hint at some of the flowing lines from the sculptures in a subtle way; there will also be some other details that relate to the sculpture too. I'm also going to get to add my touch to some of the buildings & perhaps a few hints in the signage too: I feel really privileged to be able to be involved like this & can't wait to see it all come together :)

I'll be updating as the project moves along; at least once a month; so stay tuned...right now, I'm anxiously awaiting to hear if the wind turbines are a go or not...will post as soon as I know; crossing my fingers!!

Amber

Onions...

2010-07-04T08:30:00.000-06:00

Last fall, we bought a whole bunch of onions; to keep through the winter--they were a super deal: left-overs gleaned from after the harvest...so we got like 50 lbs. By this spring, we had used maybe 1/2 of them: and I noticed they were starting to sprout green shoots out of the middle...hmmmm. I decided to plant a few & see what happened...

Well, after planting just a few & seeing that they took off like weeds, I planted more; everywhere...in roses to help ward off the aphids, with the kale, in the planters, & everywhere else I could find a spot...

They have now all grown; some are like 3 feet tall with puff-ball seed heads--I like 'em! They're funny & add something different to the landscape; the kids that visit the pond out front all the time had to ask what they were: when I told them they're onions, they said "wow! those are like the coolest onions ever!" lol

They don't smell nearly as much as I thought they might; I haven't even noticed any onion-ish odors... As for bug control: not sure; it did seem to help where they were all intertwined with the roses, but it's kind of hard to tell.

Anyway, I will definitely be planting s'more next year; will have to try some purple & gold ones; most of these where white. Thinking about trying to save some of the seeds...we'll see...

Show & Tell--ESGR Trophy

2010-07-02T08:23:00.000-06:00

Trophy made from interesting parts from the military base; for a retiring general.

Helicopter parts, dummy rounds, tank parts, etc.

One of fav. trophies ever--I think it turned out pretty cool :)

Amber

The Chickens are Taking Over....

2010-06-28T09:08:00.001-06:00

Taking over my back yard, my extra time, my lettuce supply...but I love it! They are so much fun, I can't believe I waited so long to get them :)

They have changed things around here; there is no more sleeping in; at about 6:30 am, the ducks start skwacking (combination of squawk & quack) until I stagger outside & let them out. I have learned to make a cup of coffee & take it with me: otherwise, when I go back in to make said cup of joe, the skwacking commences, louder then before, until I come back out...

This is the new chicken/duck house--in the morning, the ducks are at the door & run out as soon as I open it up; the chickens spend the night upstairs in their house with the little door closed. When I open it up, they are all lined up, waiting to get out & hunt bugs :)

I used an old wood tool box, rescued from the burn-pile up in Crouch to make the nest boxes, & old game mallets for perches :)

Anyway, back to the morning routine: once everybody runs out of the house, they trot around & look for bugs, scratch the ground, & look at me like they know I have something good to eat for them... The ducks wander about & vacuum the grass & the cats watch the whole scene, usually from a distance.

At this point, I try to get the ducks through the gate to the front yard, without any chickens. Sometimes, they just follow me, a lot of the time they get distracted & I end up herding them, & sometime I have to catch them & carry them--they don't like being picked up & wiggle with all their might... Once we make it through the gate, I shut it quickly, & then the cats start to climb the fence: notice in the above pic; the cat on the fence on the right, & back towards the house--Skwishy Cat is looking over--he is sitting on top of the chicken house...

The ducks then resume vacuuming the grass--they suck up slugs, worms, & anything else they can get their bills on... After wandering about for a bit, they usually find their way to the pond & climb in. They swim around & eat & splash & dunk; talking the whole time; if they can't see me: more loud skwacking...

When they have had enough playing in the pond, they climb out, flap their wings & groom their feathers; at this point, I try to get them to go back through the gate (without any chickens escaping); usually more herding, skwacking, & wiggling... Once they rejoin the flock, I can make my escape for another cup of coffee. This whole affair takes about an hour, at least: it's alot of fun & I get my containers watered, weeds pulled, & everybody fed during this time too.

So far, everyone is getting along: Bootsy chases the little chickens every once in awhile, but the other cats just watch them & run if the if the birds come their way :) They crack me up & I can spend hours just watching them do their chicken/duck thing. I'm looking forward to eggs; don't have a clue as to when that might start... No names yet, besides chicken-birds & puddle-duckies.

I hear skwacking...gotta go :)

Amber

Father's Day at the Cabin

2010-06-23T08:16:00.000-06:00

Spent Father's Day at the Cabin in Idaho City this year; check out the pics here: http://hortonhideout.blogspot.com/

Amber

Foothills Learning Center; Fire Node Proposal

2010-06-18T08:22:00.001-06:00

Just dropped off my proposal for the Fire Node yesterday: turned it in a 4:00 (it was due at 5 :) The three finalist proposals will be on display at City Hall for 2 weeks; so stop in check them out--they are open to public comment. July 1st we will all make our presentations, and then the project will be awarded: so wish me luck!

Sunset Storm

2010-06-14T23:54:00.000-06:00

The view this evening....

The clouds rolled in just before sunset; with a bit of thunder & lightning & just a sprinkle of rain...

Amber