PINNED AND DONE: PUZZLE VALENTINE

My in-laws and my own parents love to do puzzles, crosswords, Sudoku–basically any type of mind challenging exercise. So, when I saw this idea on Pinterest I immediately was inspired to create something similar as a fun Valentine's Day card for them from my girls.

If you have a puzzle your kids have outgrown, like we did, then you don't have to buy anything and makes this a great recycling project. Otherwise you can find blank puzzles at the craft store.

Start by painting all the puzzle pieces.  We used an old 24-piece puzzle. We didn't paint the puzzle as a whole (put together) because I was afraid of the pieces sticking together.

Once they're all done, check to see if you need a second coat.  If everything looks okay wait a while until they are nice and dry. Then put the puzzle together. Make sure it all fits together okay.

Then let your child have fun drawing his/her message.  We used colored Sharpies and regular markers to draw our message "LOVE YOU TO PIECES."  I tried to encourage Renee and Siena to use up the whole puzzle for their message, but I think they found it tricky writing over several pieces.  But they did have fun with it.  They can't wait to see if their grandparents can put it together!

Use this idea for birthdays or as a congratulations wish, too!

STAR WARS ADULT DINNER PARTY

Photographer and event planner, Heather Muto of Rise to the Occasions, was challenged with the task of developing a sophisticated dinner party for a client whose husband is a big Star Wars fan. "I was thrilled with the chance to take something that could otherwise come across kitschy and turn it into something elegant and fun for all the guests," she said.  As her company name suggests, Heather certainly did rise to the occasion with a beautiful party set with gold stars and shades of blue.  She worked with caterer, Nataliya Vakulenko, to give each food item a fun character name. Heather also made an effort to integrate Star Wars references with fun, yet subtle signs, throughout the party. A great takeaway idea from this party is the Mad Libs Heather created. It had a Star Wars theme, of course, and everyone had a great time filling it out. Although it's an adult party, it's always a good idea to have at least one interactive activity. Guests also enjoyed taking photos with the different props.  All in all the party was a blast.  Big thanks to Heather for sharing the photos with us!

FEATURED IN ALL FREE HOLIDAY CRAFTS ST. PATRICK'S DAY EBOOK

I know we all have Valentine's Day on the brain right now, but I am so excited to share that one of my St. Patrick's Day crafts is featured in the FREE 12 St. Patrick's Day Crafts for Kids and Adults eBook from All Free Holidays Crafts!  It's a shamrock necklace that I featured here a while ago.  I was thrilled when they asked me if it could be included.

In addition to my craft, you'll find fun project ideas like a Shamrock Wreath and Cardboard Tube Shamrock Creature.  You can download your FREE copy here.

GORGEOUS & BRIGHT RAINBOW PARTY

I always smile when I see a submission from Renee Marie Photography.  For this party, she not only took on the role of photographer, but mom and party planner, too, because it was done in honor of her adorable 4 year old daughter, Gigi. Renee took full advantage of the bright colors of the rainbow to put this party together. "I love the simple and whimsical theme of rainbows. They were my favorite symbol as a child and the perfect symbol to represent my daughter: colorful, radiant and light inspired!"  I love that sentiment. You can see they had a blast putting this party together.  Classic decor like the paper chains around the house and a bright dessert table greeted guests.  The rainbow theme was carried into the food with a fabulous colorful layered cake.  If you have snow surrounding you, this party will warm you up!

Participating Vendors:
Favors and Gifts: Oriental Trading
Dress Designer: Sewing Dreams & Notions
Jewelry: Emmalees Boutique
Veils and Headpieces: CraftyCayce
Etsy Designer: Rainbows End Supply

TODAY'S TAKEAWAY: MINI STACKED DESSERT

How royally cute is this mini stacked dessert that I spotted in a Sweet Ballerina Party on Kara's Party Ideas?  It brings so many possibilities to mind. You could really simplify this to make your own with Oreo cookies, Nilla Wafers, chocolate wafers or even cake.  You could cut circles out of layers of cake with a small round cookie cutter.  Then add cream or frosting in the layers.  Makes such a cute presentation and children especially will love to break it apart to eat.  Find the full post here.