Modern Parents Messy Kids

We're all about finding ways to make family life better while keeping our sense of humor. Check out our famous MPMK Top Toy Awards, already viewed over 7,000,000 times!

You are here: Home / Blog

I Love it When You Try it!

by

Yesterday, in honor of MPMK's birthday, I posted the top 10 posts of our inaugural year. Today, I wanted to take some time to point out what I love most about you guys. You don't just read my posts - you actually try them! And seeing the fruits of your labor is one of my absolute favorite parts of all this. Below are five of my favorite reader attempts/interpretations of an MPMK project.When I made my veggie garden sensory box, it was a surprise for my kids so they didn't get to be involved … [Read more...]

MPMK’s 1st Birthday!

by

It's hard to believe but this little site is officially one year old today.  Since starting this blog a year ago, I've been honored to watch it grow and expand in ways I never thought possible - and it's all thanks to you!  In the past year, MPMK has amassed over 1.8 million page views, over 4,000 subscribers, over 4,000 facebook fans, and a newly burgeoning pinterest following. I also signed on as a regular contributor for momtastic, houzz, and The Organized Parent.  What started as a creative … [Read more...]

A New Year’s Tradition

by

Happy (belated) New Year!  Do you have any traditions for starting off the year?  My mom and I have sort of stumbled into one.  I'm not even sure if she realizes it, but for the past several years she's bought me a new purse for Christmas.  Until recently, I didn't realize that I've come to rely on getting a spiffy new tote to start off each new year.  Cleaning out my old purse and stocking the new with only the necessities is such a nice way to start fresh ever January and this year's pick is … [Read more...]

Parenting Thoughts for 2012

by

Along with making all those other resolutions, the new year always seems like a good time for a little parental reflection.  From big things like learning to cherish the moment and building confidence to the smaller stuff like dealing with all those toys - this weekend is a good time to take stock of how we're doing and to get a little perspective.  To help you out, here are 7 parenting related posts that have caught my eye recently.    If you have a toddler, do yourself a favor and … [Read more...]

20 Pretty Ways to Get it Together for the New Year

by

Christmas is officially over (sigh) and though I'm sad to be giving up all the holiday magic with the littles, I'm also eager for 2012.  The new year always feels like a fresh start and there are lots of ways I'd like to get more organized this year.     I'll be sharing more about all that over the next week.  For now, head over to houzz and check out my ideabook on 20 Pretty Ways to Get it Together for the New Year. … [Read more...]

Christmas Card Look Book for Babies and Toddlers

by

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas!  I'm still spending time with visiting family (as I'm sure many of you are as well) but I wanted to pop in and quickly re-post an idea I had last year.  I get a little sad having to take down all the Christmas stuff and this is one way I've found to extend the magic a little longer...   I'm always torn this time of year about exactly what to do with all the lovely Christmas cards we've accumulated.  I feel bad throwing them out but I'm also … [Read more...]

Making Less-Mess Cookies for Santa

by

I can't believe it's already Christmas Eve tomorrow.  I used to be one of those people that complained about the decorating and music starting too early and dragging out the season.  Now that I have kids I want it to last sooo much longer.  It really is nothing less than magic getting to experience how much they love it all. Today I'm over at momtastic sharing part one of our Christmas Eve tradition, making less-mess cookies for Santa.  Part two is the gourmet grilled cheese bar and tomato … [Read more...]

Last Minute Christmas Roundup

by

I've got more good stuff to check out over at momtastic. (Sorry for all the re-directs this week.  Late Sunday night I suddenly, and rather insanely, thought it would be a good idea to paint the entire downstairs of my house before hosting Christmas.  I've been working like mad to get it done while my kids sleep and my husband's away for work ever since!)  I'll be back next week with some fresh ideas on how to start the new year right.  Until then, head over and check out my last minute roundup … [Read more...]

Roasted Tomato Basil Soup + Gourmet Grilled Cheese Bar = New Christmas Eve Tradition

by

Last year I posted on our newly formed Christmas Eve tradition a few days after the fact.  This year I thought I'd post it before the 24th in case you want to get in on the fun...   This year was the first time we hosted Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinners at our house.  Now that C is old enough to understand the whole Santa Clause thing, it was really important to the hubs and I that we celebrate at our home.  We wanted to experience C coming down the stairs to see his living room … [Read more...]

10 Awesome Things There’s Still Time to Make This Christmas

by

I'm over at momtastic this week with a list of 10 awesome things to make this Christmas.   From kid crafts like sweet smelling pomanders and DIY snow globes...   ...to extra special decor like time capsule ornaments and these modern welcome mats, there's something for everyone.  Check it out and head back here a little later today when I'll be sharing part of our Christmas Eve tradition. … [Read more...]

The Last Day for Standard Amazon Shipping + Finds for You & the Kids

by

It's Monday everyone and I've got good news and bad news.  The good news is Christmas is less than a week away!  The bad news is today is the LAST day to get your Amazon ordering done if you don't want to pay for express shipping (or if you want free shipping for qualifying purchases over $25).  If you're a procrastinator like me, don't panic.  Just for you, I spent last night updating the MPMK Favorites shop. In the Toddler Gear section you'll find 101 of my all time favorite toys for tots.  … [Read more...]

Teacher Christmas Gift Idea – DIY Treat Kits

by

I promised I'd be back today with ideas for teacher Christmas gifts.  For me, a handmade food-centric gift is the way to go.  And this year I'm loving the idea of a "make-it-yourself kit" instead of a typical fruitcake.  These cookie kits featured over at Lil Magoolie are a perfect example of what I'm talking about.  Who wouldn't love a gift like this? (Also check out this huge roundup of Gifts-In-a-Jar Recipes for lots more ideas along the same lines)     Another idea I'm … [Read more...]