Flower Garden Sensory Bin

Flowers are so much fun for little hands! Harper loves to pick them, plant them and even pull the weeds. I made a fun flower garden sensory bin for her and this super simple bin has not disappointed Harp at all!

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Supplies:

Dried black beans

Artificial flowers

Small terracotta pots

Sand toys

A clip case box

Instructions:
Pour the dried black beans into the container.
Add Terracotta Pots and artificial flowers.

Offer a variety of tools to explore the beans with. Plastic serving tongs, sand toys
like shovels and rakes, kitchen spoons and small gardening spades are all fun options for

small hands. I chose items that would fit into the container with the lid for easy clean up and storage.

This is a sensory bin your little ones will want to play with many more times.

With supervision allow your child to explore the beans, the tools and plant the flowers.

This bin was so simple. But, the best things in life usually are.

As I put the bin out, Harp was ready to start gardening right away. Rolf heard the beans being poured into a pot and he exclaimed "I love these bins!"

He naturally wanted to play too. Harper was more than happy to share her flower garden with Rolf.

The kids loved the sound the beans made when poured into the pots. They also like the smoothness of the beans.

To make it even more realistic, I later added a drop of rose to a few flowers and jasmine to a few others to add the fun of fragrance to the bin.

Wen playtime was over it was simple to lay everything in the box and snap the lid on for easy storage. 

We will definitely be playing with this again! 

You might also like this In the Sky Sensory Bin.
Find all of my sensory bin ideas here

Find more flower crafts for kids here.

Cupcake Liner Sun Craft

Preschoolers will love this easy sun craft. It is perfect for spring days! All you need is a few supplies and a little imagination.

Harp is my crafty girl.She loves to make makeup, is a renowned perfume mixer, and is always drawing something! We had made these lovely perfumes to share that smelled like spring days so we thought we needed to make a few pictures to go with them. 

Samples were provided for inclusion in this post.

The perfume kit, you will want to check out independently! This is aimed at older kids, but with close supervision and assistance it was something Harper was well suited for. We got the STMT DIY Signature Scent Kit from the Horizon Group and LOVED it!

I gathered some easy supplies that you will probably already have at home.

Supplies

Yellow cupcake liners

White cupcake liners

Markers

Glue

Blue Construction Paper

Directions

Glue one yellow cupcake liner on a sheet of blue paper.

Using an orange marker give the yellow cupcake liner rays like the sun.

Using a white cupcake liner, cut out several puffy cloud shapes.

Have your preschooler do all of these steps independently. The cutting is good practice!

 Finally give the sun a happy face to welcome spring!

You can find all of our spring crafts here.
3D Paper TulipsBird Activities

Chocolate Cherry Floats

I have a recipe for a Chocolate Cherry Float that is so good that even on the coldest fall day, it will appeal to your taste buds!

I love to serve ice cream floats to friends and family. They are easy to make and while it seems like a pretty simple thing, an ice cream float can be as complex and creative as you desire. The combinations for yum are endless.

In this Chocolate Cherry Ice Cream Float recipe, you will find I went with basic ingredients you might already have in the kitchen. If you have them, get ready to dash in and make one of these!

You will need:

Dr. Pepper

Chocolate Ice Cream

Chocolate Syrup

Maraschino Cherries

Begin by drizzling chocolate syrup around the inner rim of your glass so that it dribbles down the sides.

Next, add 2 scoops of chocolate ice cream into the glass

Top with Dr. Pepper.

Drop a cherry in and drizzle with chocolate syrup.

This is completely delicious. If you like chocolate and cherry, this is one easy yet delicious float recipe you won't want to miss.

You might also enjoy this Lazy Affogato Recipe.

Blackberry Cheesecake Floats are a reader favorite you will love too!

Find all of my favorite ice cream floats here

7 Rainbow Crafts to Make with the Kids

Spring is here and that means we have been seeing our share of showers, and rainbows! Let's embrace the weather and savor the beautiful sights to be seen after the storm and make a few cute crafts while we are at it!

These ideas are so cute yet so simple! They are perfect for kids of a variety of ages and are worth bookmarking for those rainy spring days spent indoors with the kids!

I am going to try making the rainbow necklaces sometime this spring, and I think my kids would love to try the layered felt magnets. I can't wait to hear which of these rainbow crafts you want to make with the kids first!

Easy Streamer Rainbows
Layered Felt Rainbow Magnet
Paper Plate Rainbow Craft
Rainbow Mobile
Rainbow Necklaces
Rainbow Jars
DIY Rainbow Bracelet

Find more rainbow  crafts here

Sock Roses for Teacher Appreciation Week

If you are looking for a cute way to give an inexpensive token of appreciation to a special teacher this year, this sock rose craft is the perfect way to gift something fun and functional in a unique way.

This project is so easy! It comes together in matter of moments and really adds a lot to the presentation of a simple pair of socks! All you need is:

 a pair of socks

 a rubber band

 a 9" section of ribbon 

 and a wooden dowel rod or maybe a pencil for the stem

Begin by stacking your socks together and folding up the toe section.

Next, begin rolling from the top. Roll tightly! 

As you get to the folded top section, keep rolling in, this will be your outer petal.

As the socks are tightly rolled, secure them with your rubber band. I knotted it, then knotted it again, on the other side for a really snug hold.

Remove the rubberband.

Gently insert the pencil or wooden dowel into the "bottom" of the sock roses.

Make a single sock rose, or a dozen for a fun way to gift a special teacher something different this year as school comes to a close. 

I added some leftover Easter grass to a mason jar to make the presentation even sweeter!

These easy DIY photo puzzles are also a great homemade gift idea.

The Gift of Time

Stylish and functional, wood watches from JORD are perfect for gifting or making a fashion statement that will draw attention anywhere you wear it.

My husband never leaves home without his watch. He is punctual, and working in a school, he needs to stick to a schedule that is detailed by the minute. His old watch was looking like just that; an old watch. With out tenth wedding anniversary approaching, I knew that I wanted to give him the gift of time. I decided that the most practical version of that could be a gift that could tell time.

I have partnered with JORD watches to bring you this post.

The Frankie in Dark Sandalwood was the perfect option for my hubby. The watch is stunning. I considered keeping it for myself, but I love this guy! And I knew he was going to LOVE this watch!

The emerald face is stunning with the dark sandalwood of the band. The watch is splashproof to keep it functional. It is elegant, yet rugged. Wood watches are unique and perfect for wearing to the office, on a date, or out with the guys for a fun night.

Retailing at under $200, this is a perfect anniversary or father's day gift idea for a special guy in your life. The quality of the watch paired with the smooth movement of the hands, and the visual appeal make the Frankie in Dark Sandalwood a perfect addition to any wardrobe.

If you have a JORD watch, which one caught your eye? If you don't have one yet, what are you waiting for?
Head over to enter a contest worth a $100 gift code good for use at Jord's website.

Wooden Wrist Watch

Top 15 Things To Do In Italy

The boot shaped peninsula in Southern Europe, Italy has a charm of its own. When it comes to travel, Italy never fails to impress you. Italian culture and architecture has had a strong influence across the globe. Whether this is your first visit to Italy or you have been here before, there are some things you must do when you visit this beautiful destination of Europe.

Take a Gondola ride in Venice : A trip to Italy remains incomplete without a ride on the Gondola. You might have heard many people talk about the experience and romance of the Gondola ride. The Gondola will give you an experience of a lifetime. If you are here with your partner, it is an absolute must do. See the beautiful sights of Venice as you sail past on the Gondola.

See “The Last Supper” : A lot of tourists do not visit Milan but if you are headed to Milan, remember it is the only city in the world where you will get to see Leonardo’s masterpiece of The Last Supper. You will have to get the tickets in advance and stick to the 15 minute time limit but it is indeed worth it.

Enjoy Renaissance art in Uffizi Gallery : When in Florence, the famous Uffizi Gallery is on the top of the list of every tourist and there is a reason behind it. You will not be able to see such an excellent collection of Italian Renaissance art in all the gorgeous buildings anywhere else on Earth. It is worth your time and is a memorable sight for everyone.

Take a tour of the Vatican Museums : One can either walk through the Vatican Museums or you could take a guided tour. In a guided tour, all you have to do is follow the guide and he will keep pointing out to the important pieces. This will help ensure you do not spend unnecessary time anywhere and you will also be able to enjoy a visit to St. Peter’s Basilica accompanied by the guide.

Climb the Duomo : When it Italy, you have to climb the Duomo. However, it is not a good idea for those who fear heights. If you want the most stunning view of the historic center of Florence, you need to climb on top of Florence’s Duomo.

Eat Pizza : There is nothing like enjoying an authentic Italian pizza in Naples. There are numerous pizzerias which are exceptional and you will be able to savor the mouth- watering taste of them in Naples.

Head to the Greek ruins : In Sicily, you will not only be able to view Roman ruins but also Greek ruins which are much older than Roman ruins. It is highly recommended to take a walk across the Valley of Temples for a memorable experience.

Drive along the Amalfi Coast : The road which passes by the stretch of Italian coastline is worth your time and effort. It is the best and the views are breathtaking. You can either rent a car or self drive on this route. Simply sit by the window and enjoy the heart stopping ride.
Enjoy an opera in Verona : Whether you are an Opera fan or not, there is nothing like sitting in a Roman amphitheater. You might not get to watch lions fight gladiators but the famous opera will fill the night with music and it is indeed a grand spectacle.

Head to Trastevere neighborhood in Rome : If you want to get away from the crowds or have done all the touristy things, look no further than the Trastevere. This beautiful neighborhood is full of cheap eats, quiet days and cobbled streets. If you are looking for places to stay in Italy, you will be able to find numerous options on https://www.interhome.co.uk/italy/.

Visit Pompeii : Whether you are a hardcore history buff or not, you will go back in time at Pompeii. It will give you a glimpse of Rome that is frozen in time. It is worth a visit and should be a part of your itinerary. However, remember that most of what the archaeologists discovered is in the National Archaeological Museum in Naples.

Be a part of an Italian soccer game : Going to a soccer game in Italy will make for an unforgettable trip. In Italy, soccer is considered as the second religion and when you witness it live, you will feel the passion that the locals have for their clubs.

Hike the Cinque Terre trail : If you are an adventure lover, hiking on this trail is a must. Although you will find the hike slightly crowded but as long as there is room on the path, you should keep going. It is a great way to spend a few hours of your day. The hike is between five picturesque villages and if you are visiting in the off season, all the better.

Eat gelato : While Italy is known for Pizzas and wine, you cannot miss out on the most delicious dessert, Gelato. No matter where you are in Italy or when you are in Italy, eat a few scoops of gelato daily. It is made with milk and not with cream, hence, it is less fattening and delicious. It is a well deserved treat while you are on a holiday.

Explore Venice : There are some places which need a map and then there are places which are hard to forget. Venice is in the latter category. The island does not require you to have a map. Simply walk out of the hotel without the map and get lost while you explore Venice by yourself. It is indeed one of the best ways to spend the day in Venice.

While there are many other things to do in Italy, these remain the top 15 for every traveler. No matter the traveler personality or the people you are traveling with, do not miss out on these 15 things to do when you head to Italy.

Rainbow Coaster DIY

Craft sticks are a great addition to any crafters supplies! There are so many fun ways you can use craft sticks to create! I made this easy set of coasters in just a few moments. These are great for tweens and teens to make! They are fun and functional and make a cool DIY you can gift to a friend or relative!

This project is super simple. I got literally everything I needed at Dollar Tree to make these. I love economical crafting! To make this DIY  go a little faster I bought the craft sticks that were pre dyed.

The pack conveniently contained all colors I needed for a rainbow effect. You will need 20 craft sticks to make this project, use 3 of each color!

Line up your craft sticks in the pattern of a rainbow.

Then use hot glue to attach 3 sticks running in the opposite direction for supports, just like a pallet would have.

Repeat and make another one.

Then you are going to place a craft stick on its side to give the coaster height.

Carefully glue the stick on the sides then add a line of glue to the top of both side sticks and place the other section on the top.

This project was featured in a video on facebook. I would love to have you check it out and give it a thumbs up!

You can find more easy DIY ideas here
Easy Pencil Pouches

Find more rainbow craft activities here

You can also find it on youtube. Subscribe for more fun projects for the family!

10 Too Cute Tulip Projects

Tulips are hands down my favorite spring flower. They are lovely and elegant while simple to care for and grow. I love to admire them as they come into bloom and I want to make all of the pretty flower crafts with the kids too! I found 10 too cute tulip projects that I couldn't wait to share with you. You might just want to make them all this spring!

I love the easy tulip earrings as a sweet gift for a friend and the paper tulips are perfect for making with my almost 8 year old.  We might make a handful of these for his teacher towards the end of the year!

Forever Tulips by Little Miss Celebration
Spring Tulip Wreath by Sugar Bee Crafts
How to Fold Paper Tulips by A Happy Home in Holland
DIY Tulip Earrings by 30 Minute Crafts
Tulip Wreath by Designer Trapped
Yellow Tulip Door Decor by Crafts ala Mode
3D Paper Tulips by Practically Functional
5 Minute Door Bouquet by Mad in Crafts
3D Tulips by Crafting Reality
Toilet Roll Tulips by Crafts by Amanda

I can't wait to hear which of these is your favorite tulip craft!
I have two super easy videos on facebook for tulip crafting with the kids! Check them out here:

Check out these easy 3d Paper Tulips

Easy DIY ipad Mini Stand

This easy diy ipad stand was made with only 3 supplies in just a few moments of time. It is a great tween or teen craft for a rainy day and provides a practical place to place your ipad for hands free viewing!

This was such a simple project! I needed someplace to place my ipad while cooking and
referring to a recipe, so I whipped this up in just about 3 minutes! I wasn't quite sure about how
sturdy it would be, but I was surprised by how sturdy it was, and how well it has held up over 2
weeks time.

Supplies

7 Jumbo Craft Sticks ( 5.86” x .72” )

Washi Tape

Hot Glue Gun

Directions



1) Apply washi tape to one side of 3 craft sticks.

2) Form a letter V with 2 of the washi tape covered craft sticks.

3) Secure the point where the sticks meet with hot glue.

4) Flip the craft sticks over so that you are working with the uncovered side of the sticks and your

point is now facing upwards.

5) Use an uncovered craft stick to attach a “leg” to the top, where the sticks meet.  To do this easily

give a generous dot of hot glue about ¼” below the top, immediately place your craft stick at a very

slight angle. Hold the craft stick in place for about 30 seconds, as the glue dries. This acts as your

base. Test it to make sure the base stands freely.

6) You have 3 remaining craft sticks that are not covered by washi tape; stack and glue these together.

7) Glue the final craft stick, with the washi tape on top of the stack you just made.

This will act as your ledge for holding your ipad.

8)You will glue these stacked sticks one inch from the bottom of the base.
Allow to dry for about a minute before using as an ipad or phone stand.

You can check out all of my easy DIY ideas here