Bring On the Brie with Fisher Price’s Pretend Play Charcuterie Set

by Erica LoopOctober 29, 2020

Forget about plastic bananas and pieces of white bread. Fisher-Price’s Pretend Charcuterie Snack Set is the bourgie version dramatic play toy you never knew your kiddo needed.

If the typical pretend fare just isn’t enough for your child’s top tastes, this foodie find will fit the bill. For about $20 you can order this stylish set on Amazon.

photo: Amazon

Not only does the set come with pretend salami, brie cheese, crackers and grapes, it also features two faux marble plates (because paper or plastic-ware just won’t do) and fabric napkins that read, “Let it brie” and, “You’re grape.”

Of course, what charcuterie platter would be complete without a cutting board and knife? The upscale set also comes with a mock wood and marble board and kid-friendly knife to serve up soft slices of salami and brie!

—Erica Loop

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JoJo Fletcher Just Dropped a New Etsy Collab and It’s #HolidayGoals

by Karly WoodOctober 16, 2020

Former Bachelorette JoJo Fletcher is here for your holiday shopping! The TV star is teaming up with Etsy to launch her second collection and it’s all about the holidays.

The exclusive holiday collection is packed with all the things that will make your home merry and bright this season. Items range from $27 to $225 and are crafted with gold accents, winter white and natural elements that make this collection perfect all year long.

Fletcher collaborated with 15 Etsy artisans to create the new line which is available now through early January 2021 (while supplies last). Items in the collection include candles, pillows, tableware that includes a snack platter, a mudcloth, napkins and cheeseboard, table runner, ornaments, a stocking, coasters, napkin rings and more.

You can shop this collection now at etsy.com/jojofletcher.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of Etsy

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Our Favorite Sets for Outdoor Dining This Summer

by Karly WoodJune 16, 2020

Summer has arrived and that means lots of time spent outdoors. Whether you rock summer nights on the patio or deck, or prefer to adventure in the great outdoors, you need the perfect dining dinnerware to go with it. From melamine plates and bamboo bowls, we’ve rounded up the most festive options for outfitting your outdoor dining space this summer.

Kate Spade New York Kitchen Rainbow Citrus Collection

This adorable tidbit set is perfect for kids or appetizers. Each set comes with two designs, is BPA-free and dishwasher safe. The six-inch plates are break, chip and scratch resistant––so basically uber kid-friendly!

Find it on Amazon, $29.95

Seaweed Melamine Salad Plates

Perfect for dinner-sized serving, these eight-inch plates come with beautiful watercolor designs. The individually sold plates are made from durable melamine and are the essence of summer dinnerware.

Find it at West Elm, $5.10 each

Melamine Dot Dining Plate

You can't beat this bright and cheery Target find! The sunshine-y pattern is dishwasher safe and coordinates beautifully with other bullseye styles.

Find it it Target, $1.99 each

Sara Miller Flamingo Melamine Dinnerware Collection

If you need an entire set of outdoor dinnerware, look no further than this adorable flamingo collection. You can shop bowls, plates, coasters, platters, and placemats! Plates and bowls come in sets of four and everything is made from chip resistant and microwave safe melamine.

Shop the collection at Macys, pieces start at $11.90

Melamine Strawberry Rectangular Platter

Strawberries are the very essence of summer and that's why we love this fruit-filled platter. Great for apps, the melamine and BPA-free dish is the perfect way to infuse sweetness into your table setting.

Find it on Rice, $12.99

Ollie Collection

This versatile geometric collection is just as useful for that bold cocktail party as it is for your summer BBQ. The line includes plates, platters, bowls and coordinated napkins, all in vibrant colors.

Find it at Crate & Barrel, pieces start at $5.56

Crossville 4-Piece Serving Bowl Set

This four-piece set is just what your campout/tailgate/picnic needs! Each bowl comes with a matching lid, is made from sturdy melamine and boasts a super cute outdoorsy pattern.

Find it on Wayfair, $33.99

Market Bamboo Dinner Plate

Classy and festive, these plates are made from bamboo with a melamine resin. The 10-inch size makes it great for a full meal, and it's even dishwasher safe!

Find it at Anthropologie, $7.50 each

Bodil Bamboo Plate

Surprise is on your side when you order these Bodil plates––you'll be shipped a random design in the collection that's made from bamboo! You can also shop the rest of the line's bowls and cups for the complete look.

Find it at Small Table, $9 each

Rustic Outdoor Melamine Dinnerware Collection

This rustic design takes even more worry out of outdoor dining. The vintage pattern recreates an enameled look, comes in more than six color choices and in sets that make outfitting your patio table a breeze.

Find it at Williams Sonoma, prices start at $8.76

Recycled Bamboo Picnic Set

Packing for your picnic just got easier! This bamboo set comes with four cups, four plates (that can double as bowls!), a salad bowl, and an anti-slip tray-top. A silicone band helps it to close and stay closed for easy travel.

Find it on Food52, $70

Timber Plate - Melted Popsicle

This handmade plate is made from Oak timber and is the perfect for summer! The popsicle-shaped piece is food safe and thrives best when hand-washed.

Available on Etsy, $21.18

Beachcomber 5-pc. Melamine Beverage Set

Whip up some sangria (or other kid-friendly cocktails) in this adorable summer-inspired beverage set. It comes with an 80 oz. pitcher, four 18 oz. cups and is made from shatter resistant melamine.

Find it at Kohl's, $69.99

CreativeWare Circus Tumblers

Don't spent time worrying about your glasses breaking in the great outdoors––get this tumbler set instead! The colorful collection comes with eight brightly-hued cups that embody the feel of summer.

Find it at Bed, Bath & Beyond, $31.99

––Karly Wood

Editors note: all products listed are available and at noted price at time of publication.

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DIY Father’s Day Gifts for the Guy Who Has Everything

by Abigail MatsumotoJune 12, 2020

Father’s Day 2020 is on the horizon, and let’s be honest: very few dads need another tie. A custom portrait, a handmade card full of love and extra helpings of his favorite snacks? Now, these are the kind of gifts sure to put a smile on the face of the guy who has everything. We’ve gathered up a bunch of DIY projects that are perfect Father’s Day gifts—including lots that you can whip up at the last minute—guaranteed to show your kids’ dad just how much you adore him. Get your crayons ready.

Pasta Portraits

Break out the macaroni for these creative pasta portraits. This DIY Father's Day gift is perfect for the preschool set. It's a one-of-a-kind gift sure to make dad grin. Find the free printable template at Hello Wonderful and all the noodle-filled instructions.

Picture Perfect

A custom photo keychain gives dad a reminder of your gratitude he can carry in his pocket. These DIY photo keychains are a cinch to make, and you can feature pics of your favorite photo-worthy moments together, like a trip to the beach or the day your puppy came home. He'll never lose his keys again. Find the step-by-step instructions at A Beautiful Mess.

Printable Appreciation

A one-of-a-kind note of appreciation is a Father's Day gift he'll save for years. We love this free printable from Tiny Me, which comes with the perfect prompts to capture your children's gratitude and favorite memories of their dad, whether he's the best pancake maker on the planet or an awesome soccer coach. Head over to the Tiny Me blog to get your own free appreciation printable!

Top Pop

Make special popcorn for the top pop in your life. Depending on whether his tastes run salty or sweet, whip up a batch of kettle corn or caramel corn or stick with classic butter. Then, package up the good stuff with a printable, customized label as shown on Tried and True, to give the snack an extra special Father's Day touch.

Superdad

Turn a standard chocolate bar into a gift fit for a super dad with I Heart Crafty Thing's tips to create superhero chocolate bars. By adding a brightly-colored cardstock cape and a smiling face complete with a mask, this DIY project results in an easy and unique Father's Day gift. Your kids can even customize the capes with a heartfelt message describing what makes their dad super.

Pre-Shave Oil

Pamper Dad by whipping up this easy pre-shave oil from The Merrythought. The soothing mixture will help keep his skin silky smooth after shaving. To get the scoop on how it’s made, click here.

Werther's Bag

We love this pun-tastic (and super easy) gift idea from Lil’ Luna. Just fill a bag or jar with Werther’s candies, then attach the printable tag. To get all the details (plus the free printable), click here.

Play Ball Mason Jar

If Dad is a baseball fan, you’ve got to make this amazing mason jar from Mad in Crafts. After decorating the jar to look like a baseball, fill it up with tickets or other goodies. Even if he can't get to a game in person anytime soon, he'll be happy you remembered his favorite past time. Get the details by clicking here.

Racetrack T-Shirt

We’re pretty sure this racetrack t-shirt from The Winthrop Chronicles is pure genius. The kids get to play, and Dad gets a racecar massage. Plus, instead of a generic racetrack, you can add landmarks from your neighborhood or places that the kiddos like to go with Dad. Get the DIY details here.

DIY Lego Cufflinks

These LEGO cufflinks from Kate’s Creative Space are a nice touch for the dad that likes to construct masterpieces of architecture with his kiddos. Get the DIY details here.

Edible Tacklebox

Here’s a fun gift for the fisherman dad in your life from Let Your Scribbles Be…Enough: a playful, edible tacklebox filled with special fish-themed treats. Get the kids to help pick out things for the box (and maybe taste a few along the way).
Get the DIY details here.

My Dad Rocks Frame

Gather up some rocks on your next hike (or pick some up at the craft store) to make this cute frame from Mommy Moment. It’ll be an awesome addition to your favorite guy’s nightstand or desk. Get the instructions by clicking here.

Building Memories Jar

Get inspired by The Seasoned Mom to craft a gift that will keep on giving. Write some of Dad’s favorite things to do with the kids on LEGO bricks, then pull the jar out when you’ve got an afternoon free. Click here to learn more about this easy idea.

Handprint Platter

Get your hands dirty crafting this cute platter from Crafty Mama in ME. Just be sure to use food-safe paint if you’re planning to use it for meals! To get all the details, click here.

Rosemary Mint Shaving Cream

With help from Food for My Family, you can whip up some rosemary mint shave cream for your handsome fella. It’s all-natural and a bit decadent, too. The kiddos can handle small jobs like stirring, and the whole process is easy on the cleanup factor.
Get the DIY details here.

— Oz Spies with Abigail Matsumoto & Susie Foreman

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ALDI Is Selling a New Summer Line of Wines for Less Than $5

by Jennifer SwartvagherMay 20, 2020

ALDI has just released a new wine collection that is both delicious and inexpensive. Moiselle Couture Collection White Sangria, Sweet Grapefruit Rosé and Sangria wines are going on sale for a limited time for only $4.49. At that price you can try them all.

Moiselle Couture Collection White Sangria is described as being light and refreshing with hints of pineapple, orange and peach. Add some fresh fruit like orange slices and frozen grapes to create a sangria cocktail. This wine pairs perfectly with guacamole, empanadas or seafood paella.

Moiselle Couture Collection Sweet Grapefruit Rosé is a crisp and light rosé wine infused with hints of grapefruit, tangerine and tropical fruit flavors.

Moiselle Couture Collection Sangria has hints of orange, lemon and lime, This wine pairs perfectly with roasted chipotle salsa, a cheese platter or grilled or fried calamari.

This collection will only be available for a limited time, so grab a bottle before they run out.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: ALDI

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Target’s New Sun Squad Line Has You Covered for Summer (& We Want It All!)

by Karly WoodApril 25, 2019

Can you see it? Summer is on the horizon! In honor of the warmest (and most fun) season of the year, Target has released its brand new line, Sun Squad to celebrate all that’s right with summer. Within its six new collections, you’ll find everything you need to take on the season, like charming coolers, fabulous floats and terrific tableware. Keep scrolling to see our top picks!

Day at the Water

Americana Webstrap 2-Person Portable Loveseat Chair

Lighten the load on your trip to the shore by carrying one less chair when you cart this fabulous Americana Webstrap 2-Person Loveseat ($35)! The lightweight steel frame is only six pounds but is able to hold up to 360.

2-In-1 Cooler Tote With Mesh Teal

Carry your chilled snacks and all your other accessories with one hand when it comes to this 2-in-1 Cooler Tote ($12). With a detachable cooler that opens by zipper, and a large tote on top, this two-fer folds flat when you're done for easy storage.

Pop Up Beach Shelter

With no assembly required and a set-up time of just one minute, there's no reason you shouldn't invest in this Pop Up Beach Shelter ($30) this summer. The 5-foot wide tent offers a UPF rating of 50+ and accommodates two adults comfortably.

Backyard Fun

Pineapple Kids' Golf Set

When it comes to summer, you'll be spending tons of time outside so you may want to update your outdoor toys with this adorable Pineapple Kids' Golf Set ($9). Perfect for left or right handers, the cute plastic set comes with three balls and all the clubs for your little Tiger Woods to perfect his or her swing.

Hamburger Grill Caddy

Summer is nearly synonymous with grilling and that's why you need this Hamburger Grill Caddy ($20) in your life. The open and shut case comes with salt and pepper shakers, in addition to ketchup and mustard bottles that fit perfectly in their designated spots. Fire up the grill!

Palm Leaf Picnic Blanket

Laying down the Palm Leaf Picnic Blanket ($20) will keep you safe from itchy grass this summer. This 72x60 blanket is machine washable and folds up into a carrying bag!

Americana

Americana Pool

Celebrate the 4th this year in style with the Americana Pool ($20) from Sun Squad. The festive vinyl pool measures 60 inches around and can hold up to 50 gallons of water––plenty of space to enjoy the hot weather, and maybe enjoy a fireworks show or two.

Citronella Wax Bucket Candles Americana

Keep bugs at bay and from messing with your party with this inexpensive back of Citronella Wax Bucket Candles ($7). The red, white and blue three pack of 4oz. candles have a burn time of roughly 10 hours and are made from paraffin wax.

4th of July Paper Lantern Flag Patterns

Celebrate in style! You can't go wrong with a 3-pack of 4th of July Paper Lantern Flag Patterns ($3) that measure 10x10 inches and come with fun and festive stars, strips and plaid patterns.

Summer Outdoor Fun

Striped Hammock

Sneak away for some alone time and relax in a Striped Hammock ($35) that is just as stylish as it is comfy. The weather-resistant swing holds up to 400 pounds and stores away in it's attached pouch until you can bring it out again next year.

Kids Ice Cream Chair

I scream, you scream, we all scream for this awesome Kids Ice Cream Chair ($15)! The 31-inch tall chair holds up to 125 pounds and even comes with its own carrying case. Perfect for bonfires or just relaxing in the summer sun.

6' Palm Print Beach Umbrella

There's no way to survive summer without some major shade so don't forget to pick up a 6' Palm Print Beach Umbrella ($20) on your next Target run. Your purchase comes with everything you need: a carrying bag, a UV-resistant umbrella that tilts and a corkscrew base.

Margarita Party

Plastic Palm Leaf Chip and Dip Serving Platter

Serve in style with this Plastic Palm Leaf Chip and Dip Serving Platter that's only $7! The BPA-free dishwasher and microwave-safe platter comes with a perfectly coordinated bowl. Chips and salsa, anyone?

Pineapple Shaped Beverage Dispenser

Whether you're whipping up a huge jug of lemonade or settling in for a post-bedtime adult soiree of margaritas, this 2 Gallon Plastic Pineapple Shaped Beverage Dispenser ($13) gets the job done. The 9x3" container is dishwasher safe and looks great on your party table.

10.4" Plastic Pineapple Dinner Plate

Oh, hello child-resistant Plastic Pineapple Dinner Plates ($2)! The adorable sweet 10.4" melamine plates are dishwasher safe and will survive those slippery little hands while you're dining al fresco this summer.

Fave Floats

Shooting Star Kiddo Float

Summer dreams are made with this Shooting Star Kiddo Float ($20). The kids-only inflatable holds up to 45 pounds and is packed with adorable colors.

Sweet Treat Sundae Lil' Canopy Float Pink

Baby never looked so sweet as he does in this Sundae Lil' Canopy Float Pink ($20). Made with a removable canopy, this float holds up to 40 pounds and will make sure junior doesn't miss any splashing action this year.

Giant Llama Pool Float

Don't worry mamas and papas, we didn't forget about you! You get to saddle up this summer on an amazing Giant Llama Pool Float ($20). Made with thick and sturdy plastic, this device holds up to 200 pounds and is our all-time fave pick of the summer.

––Karly Wood

All photos courtesy of Target.

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Pinkies Up: 6 Spots to Book Now for Holiday Tea Parties

by Marianne WaltersOctober 28, 2018

Tea parties may be a regular affair around your house, but this year give the brew a boost by booking a table for the whole family for a holiday tea. Whether it’s a fancy affair or a casual cuppa, Portland offers plenty of options to make this your new seasonal tradition. Read on for our picks.

photo: Mid-Atlantic Center via Flickr

Downtown

Heathman Tea Court
The Heathman Tea Court has a generations-old tradition of being a holiday destination. High tea is offered year-round, but during the holidays, the room is decorated in all its seasonal finery. The tea menu features a wide selection of teas, complemented by tea sandwiches and to-die-for pastries. Little ones are offered the Peter Rabbit Tea, which features “Ants on a Log,” snickerdoodles, German chocolate cupcakes and peanut butter-honey sandwiches. Reservations required; $32 for adults; $14 for children.

Daily from November 27 through January 3
Seatings at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. & 3 p.m.
1001 SW Broadway
Portland, Or
503-790-7752
Online: heathmanrestaurantandbar.com

photo: Melinda via flickr

Oregon City

Dollhouse Tea Room
Dressing up is half the fun at the Dollhouse Tea Room. From princess dresses to a favorite red velvet gown for the girls, and tuxedos or ties for the gents, your tiny tea-sippers can express themselves as they dress to the nines. The Dollhouse Tea Room is not open for walk-in business, so reservations are always required and you must have a party of at least six. $20 per person (dolls and teddy bears welcome at no charge). Weekend times are 11 a.m.–1 p.m., 2–4 p.m. or 5–7 p.m.

Note: the Milwaukie location is no longer open. The Oregon City location opened in July of 2015.

14 Molalla Ave.
Oregon City, Or
503-653-6809
Online: dollhousetearoom.com

photo: Connie Ma via Flickr

West Linn

Lavender Bleu Gift Shop and Tea Room
This charming spot combines fanciful shopping with a spot of tea. The Tea Room can be booked for up to 32 people, or call ahead to make a reservation for smaller parties. Their special holiday menu includes such delicacies as a cranberry pecan chicken salad sandwich on a mini croissant and seasonal scones in cranberry and pumpkin. Reservations highly recommended. They offer a special Little Ones Tea for $7.95, which includes finger sandwiches, sorbet and more.

Giftshop is open Wed.–Sat., 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Reservable tea times are at (approximately) 11 a.m., 1 p.m. & 3 p.m. Drop-in teatimes based on availability, during business hours.
1877 Willamette Falls Dr.
West Linn, Or
503-657-2844
Online: lavenderbleuonline.com

Lake Oswego

Lady Di’s British Store & Tea Room
British decor dominates this cute and quaint shop and tea room that’s been a fixture in Lake Oswego for over 20 years. Make a reservation and treat yourselves to afternoon tea, which includes tea sandwiches, scones, Devon clotted cream, fruit, savories and mini desserts for $19.50 per person. The kid-friendly staff can even provide your little one with a basket of books and toys to keep her occupied. Afterwards, load up on unique Brit hostess and holiday gifts, like tea and in the connected shop.

Tea is available Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
430 2nd St.
Lake Oswego, Or
503-635-7298
Online: ladydibritishstore.com

photo: Jenn Durfey via Flickr

East Burnside

Pix Patisserie
The tea menu at this patisserie is as fancy as its name, boasting 15 sweet and savory bite-sized treats. The fancy (and fun) tea time includes a steaming pot of tea for the grown-ups and chocolat chaud (a.k.a. drinking chocolate) for the pint-sized guests. Reservations required by Friday at 4 p.m.; $34 per person

Sat. & Sun., 2 p.m. & 4 p.m.
2225 E. Burnside St.
Portland, Or
971-271-7166
Online: pixpatisserie.com

Multnomah Village

Medley Tea House Cafe
Three afternoon tea platters are available, like the Medley Tea Time Platter, that includes a sampling of tea sandwiches, like cucumber mint, smoked salmon and roasted turkey, as well as berry crepes and a choice of scones. They also have a gluten-free platter, which includes everything in the above platter made without gluten. Or, if you’re in the mood for sweets, you should order the Medley Tea Time Sweet Platter, with an assortment of freshly baked goods. Platters run $25-$28.50 and include enough food for two hungry people. Tea is not included in the platter price.

Daily, 2-5 p.m.
7881 SW Capitol Hwy.
Portland, Or
503-972-3316
Online: medleytea.com

Where does your family go for high tea around the holidays? Let us know in the comments below.

— Marianne Walters

15 Appetizers the Kids Will Gobble Up

by Abigail MatsumotoSeptember 9, 2016

This Thanksgiving, skip the munchies and the “Can we eat yet?” chorus. We’ve rounded up crowd-pleasing appetizers that prep your palate for the big meal and are super easy to pull off. Best of all, the kiddos can help make (and serve!) these super snacks. Bon appétit!

Photo: Also, That’s It

1. Turkey Cheese Plate
This ain’t your average party cheese plate! In fact, we’re loving how getting creative with cold cuts can lead to such a cute turkey spread. To make your own, get inspired over at Also, That’s It.

Photo: Amy Roskelley via Super Healthy Kids

2. Portion Controlled Apps
Want to avoid spoiling little appetites before the Thanksgiving meal? We’re digging this appetizer from Super Healthy Kids, which is all about providing tasty and healthy pre-meal bites in small baking cups. Go for nuts, hummus and dippers, and more.

Photo: Say Yes

3. Pumpkin-Shaped Baked Sweet Potato Chips
Who can resist a chip? This sweet potato version is super easy to make yourself, doesn’t involve any frying, and can be made extra festive with the help of a pumpkin cookie cutter. Learn all about it over at Say Yes.

Photo: Mom Endeavors

4. Turkey Veggie Tray
Re-create the bird of the day with a veggie sculpture that will have everyone smiling. It’s an easy way to get kids to happily eat their veggies, too. Get all the details from Mom Endeavors.

Photo: Erin at Well Plated

5. Apple Cranberry Turkey Meatballs
You can’t have too much turkey, right? These oh-so-tasty meatballs are a little bit sweet, very juicy, and guaranteed to disappear fast! Plus, they’re bursting with fall flavors. Get the recipe at Well Plated.

Photo: Hungry Happenings

6. Veggie Pizza
Colorful, flavorful and easy to put together. These veggie leaf pizzas are everything on your appetizer wish list. Young ones can even get in on the action by helping with the sprinkling of veggie toppings. Just yell “pizza” and they’ll come running. Get the recipe at Hungry Happenings.

Photo: Lexi’s Clean Kitchen

7. Sweet Potato Sliders
These simple sliders have a lot going for them: delicious and guilt-free, they can also be turned into a build-your-own bar for kids who like to get in on the kitchen action. Get all the info at Lexi’s Clean Kitchen.

Photo: Simple and Chic

8. Puffed Pastry Bites
Isn’t Puffed Pastry the best? We love how it automatically ups the wow factor but is still so easy to work with. The beauty of these bites is that you can customize them to suit your tastes. This recipe, from Simple and Chic, has zucchini, dried tomato and ricotta. Yum!

Photo: Boulder Locavore

9. Creamy Hot Artichoke Dip
Let’s face it, cheesy dip is a guaranteed appetizer touchdown–and this recipe is no exception. With plenty of cheese and artichoke, this dish is gluten-free and can be made in about 15 minutes! Learn more at Boulder Locavore.

Photo: The Yummy Life

10. Leafy Cheese Platter
This appetizer is so genius you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of it yourself. Simply snag some leaf-shaped cookie cutters and turn a standard cheese platter into an autumn-y delight. Serve with a cranberry relish for extra T-giving tastes. Get all the info (plus the relish recipe!) at The Yummy Life.

Photo: Bakeaholic Mama

11. Pumpkin and Cranberry Crostinis with Maple and Brie
Imagine a fall flavor checklist and you’ve got this crostini appetizer. Maple? Check. Pumpkin and cranberry? Yep. Brie? You’ve got it. Learn more at Bakeaholic Mama.

Photo credit: Of Winds and Water

12. Pumpkin Cheeseballs
Isn’t it great when an appetizer looks super impressive but is actually easy to pull off? These pumpkin cheeseballs may look like feats of wonder, but the magic is in the paprika. And since kids love food that comes in fun shapes, we’re betting these will be a hit all around. Find out more at Of Winds and Water.

Photo: The Kitchen is My Playground

13. Spinach Balls
This tasty app is part stuffing, part spinach, and just big enough for a couple of bites. We like that it adds some green goodness into the kiddos’ meal. Get the scoop at The Kitchen is My Playground.

Photo: Averie Cooks

14. Six-Layer Taco Cups
Want to add a little Mexican flair to your pre-Thanksgiving menu? Try these bite-size taco cups, which sport vegetarian ingredients you likely already have on hand. Snag the recipe over at Averie Cooks.

Photo: Laughing Spatula

15. Caprese Bites
These lollipop-inspired caprese bites are a great way to tide tummies over until the Big Meal. Food on a stick is usually a crowd pleaser, but if your kids are on the younger side you can skip the sticks for less poking opportunities. Get the scoop at Laughing Spatula.

What’s your fave pre-meal snack for Thanksgiving? Share it with us in the comments section below!

— Abigail Matsumoto

Handmade Holiday: 6 Kid-Friendly Spots for DIY Gifts

by Hanna NeierDecember 8, 2014

Here’s a holiday PSA from us here at Red Tricycle NY: Your mother-in-law does not need another serving platter that you picked up in a panic at Macy’s. However, she’ll love one personally hand-painted by her grandchild! Make holiday dreams come true — and keep your little one engaged on a cold or rainy day — at one of these drop-in spots where kids can unleash their creativity and help you cross a few folks off your gift list!

For Tons of Options: Make Meaning in Manhattan

With its four stories of lofty modern colorful creativity areas, Make Meaning is an Upper East Side hangout with lots of options for you and your crafty kid. Make Meaning goes beyond the ordinary and offers an enormous range of activities and crafts like soap and candle-making to cookie decorating and more. Many projects costs less than $25 to make, including the make-your-own candles and soaps; you can also decorate a pair of four-inch cookies for $19.

Good to know: The activities here are suitable for all ages with the exception of glass-making, which is for kids ages eight and up. Weekday mornings are open studio where you're pretty much on your own and receive little instruction and, depending on the day, limited to plaster and ceramic painting. For more instruction, and more options, come in the afternoons or weekends when staff run drop-in, hour-long workshops every half-hour. Although drop-ins always welcome, Make Meaning offers and recommends making reservations if you want to avoid a table wait during busy hours.

Hours: Sun.-Thurs., 10a.m.-7p.m.; Fri., 10a.m.-8p.m., Sat. 10a.m.-9p.m.

212-744-0011
1501 3rd Ave. Upper East Side

Online: makemeaning.com

photo: Make Meaning/Shirley Serure Photography

Have a favorite DIY spot? Leave a comment below and let us know about it!

—Hanna R. Neier

Present Perfect: Holiday Gifts That Baby Can Make

by Gabby CullenNovember 13, 2014

Let baby have a hand (or foot!) in the holiday gift giving this year. We’ve found seven clever keepsake ideas that can be made or inspired by the newest member of the family. From garden stepping stones to modern silhouettes to classic tree ornaments, here are gifts you can make and cherish together.

Garden Stepping Stone
Treasure those toes forever when you and baby create a garden stepping stone. Gather all the gear needed, including cement, mosaic tiles, water trip trays and a willing little one! Be prepared to strike out a few times before getting it right, says Valerie of onesassyhousewife, the blogger and mastermind behind this DIY design. Grab the rest of the instructions here.

photo: Valerie via onesassyhousewife

Printed Platter
What cuter way to display little fingers and toes than a classic Christmas platter? Mama Erin of inbetweenlaundry went to her local make-n-take pottery studio and managed to get her little guys to slap down a print or two to create some adorable trees and elves. This cool craft is not only an awesome gift but a great way to get baby excited about art.

photo: Erin via inbetweenlaundry

Painted Snowflakes
A first lesson in art can be a lesson in gift giving too. Nana and grandpa would love to get a hand-painted masterpiece. Easy for babies, simply tape up a piece of paper and let your little one finger-paint over the designs. When finished, peel up the tape and there’s a beautiful snowflake design! Jessie K of playcreateexplore has the full tutorial.

photo: Jessie K via playcreateexplore

Baby Keepsake Ornament
When you think baby gifts you think salt ornament. This year, instead of just another lumpy looking ball of dough, have baby plop down a hand and foot print instead. It will be a classic addition any Christmas tree. Arts master Anna at theimaginationtree has the full instructions on how to re-create this craft.

photo: Anna via theimaginationtree

Handprint Calendar
From raindrops to christmas trees, who knew there were so many ways to display a show of hands? Little ones will have a blast making each “month” on a cool DIY calendar but don’t forget to give yourself some serious crafting time, this project will take a few sessions. Head over to eisforexplore for the how-to on this clever gift for anyone in the family.

photo: eisforexplore

DIY Baby Silhouette
This is a gift you may end up wanting to give yourself. Skip the expensive sitting session and check out an amazingly easy but super adorable DIY baby silhouette. They never get old and they always remind you of when your kiddo was a little one. Allie at elevenyellowdandelions offers up some good-to-know tips like getting the lighting set, picking the best cardstock and how to get the eyelashes just right.

photo: Allie via elevenyellowdandelions

Sunshine Art
Brightly colored and full of light this totally simple but oh-so sweet project would be a great gift for an auntie. Yellow paint, canvas and ten little piggies are just about all you need to make a wall shine. Jackie, mama blogger at blessingsoverflowing, whipped up her canvas in just one afternoon.

photo: Jackie via blessingsoverflowing

Got any ideas on how to let baby give gifts this year? Share with us in the Comments!

— Gabby Cullen

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