Simple Valentine's Day Craft for Toddlers and Preschoolers (with free printable)

I love a simple craft that only requires basic crafting supplies, don't you? This Valentine's Day craft just uses paper and glue, and it couldn't be cuter!

First, download and print one of the heart templates I designed (below). 

Right-click on one of the pictures below, save it to your computer, and print it like a regular 8X10 photo.

Then, have the child rip bits of construction paper and glue them to the heart. This is a fantastic (and simple) Valentine that kids can make for someone special. Cute, right?

♥
Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)

If you are looking for more Valentine's Day inspiration, check out more than 30 Valentine's Day ideas here.

Duct Tape Sled

I recently saw a post at Artzy Creations about making a sled out of a box and duct tape.  I instantly knew that this was an activity that my boys would love! Below, I explain how easy and inexpensive it is to recycle an old cardboard box into a super-fun (and fast) duct tape sled.

To make a duct tape sled, you'll need: a cardboard box, 3-4 rolls of duct tape, and scissors and/or an X-Acto knife. (I got my duct tape at the dollar store for $1.25 per roll.)

Start by cutting one side out of a box. We used a 5 cube moving box.

Then, fold one end of the box over, and cut a handle through the two layers. The extra layer of cardboard will make the handle stronger.

Finish by covering the entire sled with duct tape. Make sure to seal all the edges with duct tape, and overlap the tape to ensure that the cardboard will stay dry. You are also going to want to use the tape vertically as much as possible to increase the speed of the sled.

I think this duct tape sled is a fantastic way to recycle an old box. We had fun crafting, and we made a sled for less than $5! Pretty fun, right?

♥
Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)

Valentine's Day Cupcake Parfaits

A few weeks ago I shared some adorable cupcake parfaits that I made for my boys as an after school treat. They turned out so well that I knew I needed to make a fun version for Valentine's Day. How cute are these simple Valentine's Day cupcake parfaits that I made for my boys?

First, you'll need to start with your favourite cupcake recipe. I enjoy a good shortcut, so I always use my not-so-secret BEST CUPCAKES FROM A MIX recipe (which you can find on my blog here).

Then, add pink food coloring to store-bought icing, and pipe it onto the cupcakes.

Finish by filling dollar store plastic wine glasses with Valentine's Day candy and popping the cupcakes into the glasses. Add extra pieces of candy to the top, if desired.

These Valentine's Day cupcake parfaits are easy enough to make for dessert at home, but they would be impressive at a party too. Who would you make these cupcakes for? My three boys (and my husband) are always my special Valentines!

♥

Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)

Snow Ice Cream with Evaporated Milk

We had a huge snowfall yesterday, and when my boys found out school was cancelled, the first thing they asked was, "Can we make snow ice cream?". If you have never made snow ice cream, you need to try it!

I normally make snow ice cream with condensed milk, but I didn't have any in my cupboard, so I used this modified recipe:

Ingredients:

• Big bowl of fluffy, clean, freshly fallen snow (approx. 8 cups) 
• 3/4 cup powdered sugar (or a little less if you want it a little less sweet)
• 1/2 cup evaporated milk (I used 2%)
• 1 tsp real vanilla extract
• desired toppings (e.g. chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, m&ms, whipped cream, etc...)

Directions:

Collect the snow, sprinkle with powdered sugar, and stir until combined. Add evaporated milk and vanilla, and stir again. Serve immediately, add desired toppings, and enjoy!

This really is the perfect snow day treat. My boys love it made with condensed milk and with the evaporated milk and sugar. If you give both recipes a try, let me know if you have a favourite.

♥ 

Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)

My Best is the Best I Can Do... and that's OK

I am not big on New Year's resolutions, but I do believe that a new year is a perfect opportunity to take stock of your life and reflect on improvements that can be made. Like all moms, I struggle with trying to do everything well (which we all know is unrealistic). I know that I can't be perfect, so this year, my resolution is to cut myself a little slack. I am going to try to accept the fact that my best is the best I can do, and it is good enough. Who's with me?

Moms are notoriously hard on themselves, and on each other. So, this year, let's make a pact... let's do our best to support other moms and to remember that we are all doing our best, and we are all doing a fantastic job. You can even send this post to someone that needs a little reminder.

And, if you need some help staying positive and motivated, Netflix can help. Check out this fantastic list of inspiring titles that you can stream on Netflix now.

9 inspiring tales from Netflix:

1) The Short Game
2) On the Way to School
3) Generation Earth
4) My Lucky Elephant
5) Soul Surfer
6) Planet Earth
7) McFarland
8) Patch Adams
9) Mission Blue

I haven't seen all these movies yet, but I am adding them to my 2016 Netflix viewing list. I can use all the inspiration and positivity I can get.

♥ 

Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)

Disclosure: As part of the Netflix #StreamTeam, I am given special perks and gifts, but all opinions in this blog our 100% my own.

Simple Swiss Cheese Dip

Cheese is always a crowd-pleaser, and this simple swiss cheese dip makes a delicious appetizer. Serve the dip warm with crackers and watch it disappear.

You'll just need four ingredients: 

1 package cream cheese (softened)
1 1/2 cups swiss cheese (grated)
1/3 cup mayonaise (or miracle whip)
1/3 cup sliced almonds (toasted, if desired)

Use a potato masher to mix the cream cheese, swiss cheese, and miracle whip.

Spoon into an oven safe dish (or divide between two dishes). Sprinkle with almonds.

Place in oven for 10 minutes, stir, and continue cooking for 5-10 minutes. (Garnish with additional toasted almonds, if desired.)

My mom has been making this dip for years, and it is always a big hit with guests. If you give it a try, let me know what you think.

♥
Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)

Cupcake Parfaits

Sometimes a special occasion deserves a special treat... and these adorable cupcake parfaits are among the cutest treats I have ever made. They are easy and inexpensive to make, and children and adults will love them!

First, you'll need to start with your favorite cupcake recipe. I enjoy a good shortcut, so I always use my not-so-secret BEST CUPCAKES FROM A MIX recipe (which you can find on my blog here).

Then, add gel food colouring to store bought icing, and pipe it onto the cupcakes.

Finish by filling plastic wine glass with Smarties or M&Ms and popping cupcakes into the glasses. Additional Smarties on top add an extra bit of fun too!

These cupcake parfaits look impressive enough for a party, but they are simple enough to make any time. I just made them for my boys as an after school snack, and they were smiling from ear to ear. I am looking forward to making them again, and I highly recommend giving them a try. If you make them, let me know how they turn out.

♥
Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)

PS (You can actually use any candy for the cup and garnish. My boys have requested Skittles next time... but I think Reese mini peanut butter cups would be my favorite.)

12 GENIUS Dollar Store Organization HACKS

Is getting organized on your list of new year's resolutions this year? If you ask me, spending a little time getting organized pays huge dividends. So, today I am sharing some genius dollar store organization hacks that have really worked in my house.

1) Under the sink plastic cups - My boys are notorious for leaving a sink full of toothpaste and a counter covered with toothbrushes and toothpaste. This solution ensures that every toothbrush and tube of toothpaste has a home. (Click here for the link.) Now I just need to figure out a way to solve the problem of the constant toothpaste splatter.

2) Stuffie storage - Who doesn't have too many stuffed animals? We love this solution -- stick them in a bean bag chair. (Click here for more details.)

3) Quick grab basket - A few dollar store baskets by the door will make mornings a little easier for everyone. Everyone gets their own basket, and every pair of mittens has a home. (Click here for more details.)

4) Cupcake wrappers - Dollar store jars make perfect storage containers for cupcake liners... and they look cute too.

5) Puzzle hack - Adding dollar store casters to the back of an old cork board creates a fantastic service for doing puzzles... and you can easily slide it under the couch when you aren't using it. (Click here for details.)

6) Toy bin labels - Labelling bins with pictures allows kids to easily clean up their toys. Use dollar store double-sided mounting tape, and self laminating sheets to create pretty and practical labels. (Click here for details.)

7) Jars for touch up paint - Small jars with labels are perfect for storing a little leftover paint which can be used for quick paint touch ups. (Click here for more details.)

8) Containers for snacks/school lunch staples - Taking snacks out of their original packaging and putting them in plastic containers from the dollar store is an easy organization HACK. This little trick helps save money, makes lunch items quicker to access, and frees up cupboard space. (Click here for more lunchbox HACKS.)

9) Over the door shoe racks - Clear shoe racks hang on the backs of doors, which is a wonderful way to utilize unused space and see a variety of items at a glance. Over the door shoe racks are great for holding craft supplies, hats and mitts, stuffed animals, and pantry supplies, LEGO kits. (Click here for more details.)   

A shoe organizer also makes a wonderfully organized homework station. 

10) Makeshift mudroom - A few hooks in an unused corner is all you need to create a makeshift mudroom. It's a simple and inexpensive storage solution. (Click here for more details.)

11) Backpack hooks - Hang some hooks on the back of a door, and you won't trip over the kids' backpacks again. It will also make your mornings run a little more smoothly too. (Click here for more details.)

12) Folding secret - This HACK doesn't even require a dollar store purchase. You can save space and get more organized by changing the way you fold your clothes. Kids will be able to find their favorite shirt without digging through (and messing up) their drawer. Clever, right?

These simple dollar store organization HACKS really are genius. They are easy and inexpensive... and they REALLY work. Happy organizing!

♥
Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)

Celebrating New Year's Eve with Kids

After all the chaos of Christmas, I enjoy spending New Year's Eve at home with my kids. I love that I don't need to dress up, there are no crowds, I don't spend a ton of money on a babysitter... and I have the cutest dates in town. Today, I am sharing a few of the special (and fun) ways I celebrate New Year's Eve at home with my boys.

I always put together countdown bags -- one for each hour leading up to midnight. It takes a little time to assemble them, but it isn't difficult, and my boys love them. They really keep the kids entertained, and they add a special touch to the evening's celebrations. You can read more about our countdown bags here.

I have the kids fill out a Year in Review questionnaire. It's always fun to read their answers, and I enjoy looking back at how their answers change through the years. To download this year's "Year in Review" questionnaire: right click on the picture below, save it to your computer, and print it like a regular 8X10 photo. 

Update: find a 2021 version here.

Every party needs party favours, and two of my favourites are easy DIY party favours. You can check out our midnight kisses here and our breakfast for tomorrow here.

The highlight of any New Year's Eve celebration is, of course, the countdown to midnight. This can be a challenge for little ones that need an early bedtime, but there is no rule that says a midnight countdown needs to happen at 12 o'clock. Our solution... search "New Year's Eve Countdown" on Netflix for a fun countdown that you can do at 10, 9, or 8. (The King Julien one is our favorite... but they are all cute.) You can get a little preview here. 

After the countdown, my boys always enjoy a milk and cookies toast. It is a fun (and yummy) way to end the night. We rim some fancy glasses with sprinkles for a festive touch to our toast.

I hope you enjoy these fun, easy and inexpensive ways to celebrate New Year's Eve with your kids. Happy New Year!

♥
Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)

Disclosure: As part of the Netflix #StreamTeam, I am given special perks and gifts, but all opinions on this blog our 100% my own.

The Polar Express (Mini Van Edition)

For several years, we have been taking the boys on surprise Polar Express adventures. We pretend it is a normal night and get them all ready for bed, but when they get to their rooms they find Polar Express tickets on their pillows. I play a loud train whistle (that I found on YouTube), and the kids come running downstairs. We grab some hot chocolate and treats, and we head out to look at Christmas lights.

To print one of the Polar Express tickets I designed, right-click on the picture below, save it to your computer, and print it like a regular 4X6 photo.

Then, when our trip is over and we have chosen the winner of the "best lights in town", the boys find bells from Santa's sleigh on their pillows. Pretty fun, right?

Have you ever taken your little ones on a Polar Express adventure? It's one of our favorite holiday traditions, and I highly recommend giving it a try.

♥
Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)

Find more ideas for easy and inexpensive Christmas family fun here.

Netflix Gift Card Giveaway - CLOSED

WINNERS - Betty S. and David H.

Looking for a last minute gift idea for that "hard to buy for" person on your list. Why not put together a movie night basket? You could include: cozy PJs, a blanket, movie treats, and a Netflix Gift Card.

And because it is the Christmas season, and I love all of my wonderful readers, I have 2 "six month Netflix subscriptions" to give away to my lovely Canadian readers. Fun, right?

It's EASY to win too! Just leave a comment below letting me know your favorite holiday show or movie playing on Netflix this month. If you need some ideas, you can check out some of my family's favorites here.

Don't forget... if you aren't logged in (with an email address linked to your account) when you leave your comment, please leave your email address so that I can contact you if you win.

Good luck, and Merry Christmas!

♥
Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)

Disclosure: I receive compensation as part of my affiliation with Netflix.... however (as always) the opinions on this blog are my own.

Contest Rules {I am a mom... I can't help it}:
1) The winner of the contest will be chosen by the Random Number Generator.
2) To enter the contest, you must leave a comment on this post. Contest is open to Canadians ONLY.
3) This contest is not being hosted or sanctioned in any way by Facebook.
4)  Contest closes on December 22, 2015 at 11:59pm.
5)  Prize will be accepted as awarded. 

6)  Winner will be contacted via email and will have 48 hours to respond. After 48 hours the prize will be forfeited, and another winner will be selected. 

Simple Christmas Crafts

Christmas crafting is a great way to spend time with kids. My boys love creating and looking back at all the their past holiday creations. Today I am sharing a few simple Christmas crafts that don't require a lot of craftiness or special materials. (You likely already have everything you need in your craft cupboard.)

To make the Paper Santa:

1) Start with a red triangular piece of construction paper.
2) Cut the top from a white cupcake liner, and glue it to the triangle with white glue.
3) Cut a circle from card-stock for the face, and use glue to attach it.
4) Cut a belt and gloves from black paper, and attach with glue.
5) Finish by adding googly eyes, a paper moustache, buttons, and cotton.

To make the Paper Strip Tree:

1) Start with a sturdy piece of paper. (I used yellow cardstock.)
2) Cut strips of paper in various colors and lengths.
3) Glue the strips to the card-stock.
4) Add a glittery star sticker to the top of the tree.

To make the Sock Snowman: 

You'll need: a single white sock, some peas or rice, felt, a pom pom, googly eyes, elastics, cotton, buttons, and the step-by-step tutorial that you can find here.

And if you are still feeling crafty, you can check out more simple Christmas crafts here.

Making Christmas crafts with kids is a fabulous tradition. You can use them for gifts, use them to decorate, or simply take them out each year as treasured keepsakes. I remember creating holiday crafts as a child, and now I love making them with my boys each year. Happy Crafting!

♥
Gina (aka East Coast Mommy)