I'm so excited about this Halloween project, it turned out even better than I'd envisioned. It's the quintessential MPMK project - easy enough for kids of all ages to get in on the action and the finished product is a decidedly stylish take on traditional Halloween decor. And did I mention how inexpensive it is? … [Read more...]
Spooky Halloween Sandwiches
Maybe it's because of my past life as an elementary teacher, but I love celebrating holidays.I'll take any opportunity to be festive.For Halloween, I have a fun little food activity that will work for little and big kids. You can make this something that you do together on a weekend, or surprise them by packing this spooky sandwich in their lunch. … [Read more...]
Strawberry Cream Cheese Flag Cookie Cups
Whether you're hosting the 4th of July BBQ this year or attending one, this super simple dessert idea is sure to please. Of course I love the festive presentation but my favorite part is that once you bite in you realize that what looks like a mini cup cake is actually a cookie. Plus it would go great with our homemade blueberry lemonade soda.And don't miss the variations at the bottom of the post - I'm digging the breakfast idea.Here's Janssen with the recipe... The Fourth of July is … [Read more...]
Parenting Styles: Should You Send Your Ex A Father’s Day Card?
This will be our tenth Father’s Day since the divorce. Like every other year, I’ll take my two sons to the store and help them pick out gifts for their father.Some years I’m surprised I didn’t get lock jaw from forcing myself to smile as I helped them wrap their presents, and I can’t say I’ve never stooped to passive aggressive gifting. (Please don’t ask me about the garden gnome.)It wasn’t always a joy to spend money on my ex-husband, particularly since I was mothering on a … [Read more...]
Earth Day Activities and Recipes
It's really too bad Earth Day doesn't get the same fanfare as Valentine's Day, Halloween, and the like.The shape our environment's in these days, we could certainly use a day where every family sits down and really talks to their children about the impact (both positive and negative) that they can have on the world they live in.Here are 14 of our favorite ideas to help you hold an Earth Day celebration at your house. Show Above Clockwise from top rightMake a Plantable Paper Earth - … [Read more...]
Easter Potluck Must-Have: Rice Krispies Easter Egg Nests
Rice Krispies treats have always been a kid-favorite around our house. So we decided why not take the recipe and make it into an Easter-themed treat?This recipe is one that kids can help with, there's no oven time, and you'll be done in about 15 minutes. It's that easy!Not to mention these little 'Easter baskets' are as cute as can be.Ingredients7 cups Rice Krispies 1 package mini-marshmallows 3 Tablespoons butter 1 package cream cheese 1 cup powdered sugar … [Read more...]
Free Printable: A Week’s Worth of Valentine Lunchbox Knock-Knock Jokes
I credit my years as a first grade teacher for my love of holidays.Every holiday is thoroughly celebrated in the younger elementary years. We spent weeks putting together themed crafts, sing-alongs and writing projects. I've carried on my love of celebrating holidays as a mom.When the kids were younger, I helped them make personalized valentines and now I make a special trip to the bakery for my teenagers that aren't handing out valentines anymore. It's those special touches that make … [Read more...]
3 Healthy Strawberry Snacks for Valentine’s Day
Valentine's Day is just a few weeks away and the candy that comes with it has already started to find it's way into our home. While I have no objection to a bit of chocolate and a few conversation hearts, I'd prefer to celebrate the holiday with a few healthier treats -- and that's where strawberries come in!With their natural heart shape and pretty red color, strawberries are a perfect choice for Valentine's day snacks. My kids love their sweet flavor and since they're packed … [Read more...]
Free Printable: Family New Year Resolutions
I love the start of a new year.As much as I adore the holidays, there is something so refreshing about taking down all the decorations, getting back into a normal work and school routine, and thinking about what you want to accomplish in the new year.For my entire childhood, setting goals for the new year was a huge part of our family culture.My dad printed out little spreadsheets for us to fill in with different goals about money, school, health, hobbies, and relationships. We'd … [Read more...]