DIY Life http://www.diylife.com DIY Life http://www.diylife.com/media/feedlogo.gif DIY Life http://www.diylife.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Holidash Highlight: Thanksgiving Games for All Ageshttp://www.diylife.com/2009/11/06/holidash-highlight-thanksgiving-games-for-all-ages/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/06/holidash-highlight-thanksgiving-games-for-all-ages/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/06/holidash-highlight-thanksgiving-games-for-all-ages/#commentsFiled under:

party, games, people, crowd

Photo: ex.libris, Flickr

Thanksgiving games are a ritual for some families. My family is immensely sedentary, especially when it comes to the annual tryptophan coma that we so love to indulge in. Yet this year, I'm planning to spice things up with a few exciting games for the whole family, courtesy of our friends at Holidash!:

1. Name That Turkey Tune
Make your guests sing for their supper with this family-friendly game. Each player takes turns singing their favorite songs by replacing the lyrics with the word 'GOBBLE.' The first player to correctly identify the tune is the new 'gobbler' and the fun continues.

2. Thanksgiving Bingo
If you can't pull your family away from the tube, why not make them work while they watch? Family Fun has a few printable bingo cards for Thanksgiving Day's TV watching, so hand out a few sheets and pencils and go to town. Loser has dish duty!

3. Apple Paring Game
In case you didn't quite get enough dessert, bring in the family for a fun, reward-driven game. Each player gets an apple and a peeler or knife (for adults) and has sixty seconds to peel the longest apple strip they can muster. Winner gets to take a fresh-baked apple pie home for Black Friday!

4. Toilet Paper Thanks
Pass around a roll of toilet paper to the entire room and ask them to tear as many sheets off as they'd like (but don't tell them why they're doing so!). After every player has chosen their desired number of sheets, announce that they have to share one thing they're thankful for... per sheet they ripped from the roll. Those greedy folk won't know what hit them!

With a few of these easy-to-implement games, your family will be so energized they won't even need their annual turkey nap!

 

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]]>dinnerentertainingfamilyfriendsgamesholidashholidayholidaysthanksgivingErin Loechner2009-11-06T15:00:00+00:00HowNow: How to Make a Pinatahttp://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/hownow-how-to-make-a-pinata/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/hownow-how-to-make-a-pinata/http://www.diylife.com/2009/11/02/hownow-how-to-make-a-pinata/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Halloween has officially come and gone, and it's time to start thinking about more important things -- like Thanksgiving! I'd love to do something fun and festive this year and am highly considering a turkey pinata. After all, we'll need some candy to wash down all of that turkey, right? I spotted this easy DIY pinata video and am ready to get my hands dirty in the name of the holiday!:


How To Make a Pinata on Howcast

As you watch the video, keep a few important tips in mind:
1. Use plain white paper for the last layer so you have a clean base for decorating.
2. Acrylic and fabric paints work best.

And, as usual, a bit of history to complement your project!:
1. The traditional Mexican pinata is an orb with seven cones attached to it, representing the seven deadly sins. The cones are topped with colorful streamers.
2. In Mexico, smashing open a pinata is a Christmas tradition.

That's it, folks --- have fun and be safe!

 

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]]>festivefestivitiespartypinatatraditionErin Loechner2009-11-02T15:00:00+00:00Holidash Highlight: How to Throw a Last-Minute Halloween Partyhttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/holidash-highlight-how-to-throw-a-last-minute-halloween-party/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/holidash-highlight-how-to-throw-a-last-minute-halloween-party/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/28/holidash-highlight-how-to-throw-a-last-minute-halloween-party/#commentsFiled under:

head, platter, table

Photo: cakeasaurus, Flickr

Decided to host a few friends over this weekend? Holidash shows you how to throw together a Halloween party... in 24 hours or less!:

Queen of procrastination here, and as usual, I'm spreading the gospel of how to handle your habit of last-minute planning (not that I'm encouraging you to postpone your responsibilities, but hey -- we all have to embrace our flaws, right?). If you're not a fan of impromptu party-planning, feel free to roll your capable eyes and ignore everything I write. But -- if you're normal and it's slipped your mind that you've invited the neighborhood moms over for dinner and a trick-or-treating send-off (not that I'm speaking from experience or anything...), listen up. This one's for you:

How to Throw a Last-Minute Halloween Party

Decor:
Gather a few items from around your home that could easily double as seasonal decor. I once decorated an entire table setting with items from my garage, so it can be done. Think creatively: a kaleidoscope as a vase, chalkboard as a menu, vintage scarves as placemats. Or, if you have a bit of time on your hands for a quick craft, ShelterPop shows you how to whip up a quick spider web table runner out of some black felt. Don't have felt? Use your husband's sweatpants. Trust me; he won't notice.

Food:
Can you say 'take out?' Order some chow mein and label a place card with the words "monster brains." An egg roll doubles as "troll's fingers" and the fortune cookie? Let's just rename that "message from Hell." Serve some store-bought apple cider and put the coffee pot on --- it's gonna be a late night getting those sugar-infused kiddies to bed...

Games:
Does anyone really enjoy games anymore? I suppose you could bob for the proverbial apples, or celebrate old school with a fun game of Old Maid. The most important form of entertainment is conversation, so put on your hostess hat and have fun!

See how easy that was? Forget changing your ways; procrastination isn't such a bad thing after all!

 

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]]>celebrateentertaininghalloweenholidashpartyErin Loechner2009-10-28T15:00:00+00:00A Canine Celebrationhttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/16/a-canine-celebration/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/16/a-canine-celebration/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/16/a-canine-celebration/#commentsFiled under: ,

dog, pet, rooster, bulldog

Don't let the rooster crow before you've celebrated your pups! Photo: Flickr, The Rochester Canine Playgroups

OK, you officially have two weeks to dream up how you'd like to celebrate your Halloween. Chances are, candy and pumpkins are included, but have you remembered the most important part? That's right --- your furry friends! After all, Halloween is one of the few times it's publicly acceptable to dress up your dog (unless you live on the west coast, that is).

This year, I plan to throw a Howl'O'Ween Party for my pups, and in fact, I detailed the planned experience over on Holidash. Whether you want to throw a bash for your beagle or a party for your pug, I've made a handy little list for all included!:

1. Host your party at a park, or a home with a large, fenced-in yard to give the dogs plenty of space to run around. A happy dog makes a happy guest, and a happy guest makes a happy host!
2. Send out invitations (addressed to the dogs, of course!) to no more than six of your closest pet-toting pals. Too many pets in one place is never a good idea, and do your best to choose dogs that are socially-adapted.
3. Keep a lidded garbage can, pooper scooper and trash bags handy for unexpected "treats."
4. Purchase a few Halloween-themed dog treats (I love these adorable carob dog cookies!) and invite a local dog trainer to come teach your old dogs new tricks!
5. Plan a fun, entertaining game such as a pet costume contest or craft. Award the winners with extra treats (or tricks, if you're feeling naughty!).

Of course, you'll have to start planning wardrobe necessities right away, and we've got you covered in that arena, as well. I love this sweet little bumblebee costume and think it would be just perfect for my Yorkipoo, who, aptly enough, causes my head to buzz.

Moral of the story? You've got two weeks to plan a fun and eventful evening with your four-legged friends. At the end of the night, your dogs will go home exhausted, leaving you to enjoy your Hallow's Eve bark-free. Woo-hoo! I'll howl to that!

 

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]]>celebrationcostumedogsentertaininghalloweenholidaypartypetsErin Loechner2009-10-16T15:00:00+00:00Daily DIY: Create a Custom Tea Sethttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/16/daily-diy-create-a-custom-tea-set/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/16/daily-diy-create-a-custom-tea-set/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/16/daily-diy-create-a-custom-tea-set/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

table decor, tea set, saucers, art, crafts

Want a one-of-a-kind tea set? Look no further! Photo: Aya Rosen, Apartment Therapy

Whoa, nelly. This is my kind of DIY project. With the leaves beginning to change color, I'm dreaming of late nights by the fireplace... with my trusty chai tea, of course. I'd love to own a one-of-a-kind tea set, and it looks like Re-Nest has made that possible -- and on a dime, no less!

All you need are a few key materials to get started. Aya found her tea set at a local thrift shop and scored two saucers for $1.99 and two cups for $2.99. Major score! For paint colors, she used Pebeo Porcelaine 150 in Turquoise and a Pebeo Porcelaine 150 pen in black. Of course, you can get as creative as you'd like with colors, but I think these look smashing together!

From there, you'll need a paintbrush, tissue paper and a jar for water. That's it! Aya has some awesome how-to instructions for how she created her pattern, but if you like to doodle, why not try it free-hand? You'll be guaranteed a unique, custom look that your guests will eye with envy.

 

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]]>decordinnerwarehand-paintedpaintporcelaintablewaretea setTeaSetErin Loechner2009-10-16T09:00:00+00:00Daily DIY: Make a Woven Felt Placemathttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/15/daily-diy-make-a-woven-felt-placemat/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/15/daily-diy-make-a-woven-felt-placemat/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/15/daily-diy-make-a-woven-felt-placemat/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

placemats, woven, felt, craft, dinner, setting, place setting

Weave your way through the fall season! Photo: The Purl Bee

Felt screams cooler weather to me, so I can't wait to get my hands on a pair of brightly-colored felt threads and work some magic this fall. For now, I'll be keeping this project from The Purl Bee close by -- I can't wait to try it and have a feeling that even I can't screw this one up!

The following materials will make a set of six 11-inch x 17-inch place mats:

From there, you'll need to cut, weave and finish! The craft couldn't be easier and would make an excellent art project for your family. Why not let your children pick out their own felt colors to give everyone a personalized place setting? Better yet, with holidays coming up fast, consider gifting felt placemats to your favorite families.

Get to work!

 

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]]>craftdinnerfeltplace settingplacematplacematsweaveErin Loechner2009-10-15T09:00:00+00:00Holidash Highlight: DIY Costume Ideashttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/09/holidash-highlight-diy-costume-ideas/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/09/holidash-highlight-diy-costume-ideas/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/09/holidash-highlight-diy-costume-ideas/#commentsFiled under: , ,

I have a massive procrastination issue. I believe it started somewhere in university, where you could often find me face-down in a pile of unfinished classroom notes and study guides -- cramming for that inevitable 9 a.m. exam.

Not much has changed in recent years, although rather than the aforementioned study guides, you'll often find dinner party recipes, article deadlines, and -- this month in particular -- costume ideas for that dreaded Halloween party.

This year, I've vowed to change my ways and am getting started early. Yet, for those of you with chocked-full schedules that are anticipating a very late Halloween Eve, feel free to check out these last-minute costume ideas that have saved my procrastinating buns in the past. Each costume requires very little craft knowledge on your part, and should be easily compiled with household items. Ready? Let's get started!

static-cling, costume, halloween, diy

Hey -- Who invited the static cling? Credit: Time Out New York

1. Static-Cling
What You'll Need: Dress normally and pin a few pairs of panty hose, a dish towel and dryer sheets to your clothing.
Bonus: You'll get a few laughs, and will be the comfiest (sans pins!) in the room.

2. Paper Shredder
What You'll Need: A stack of paper. When someone asks you what your costume is, tear a piece of paper in half and proclaim "I'm a paper shredder!"
Bonus: You can use your spare paper for all of those phone numbers you'll be sure to get.

3. Nudist On Strike
What You'll Need: Dress normally and create a sign out of posterboard, cardboard, or whatever you have on hand. Poster should say "Nudist On Strike."
Bonus: Trust us -- no one wants any other kind of nudist at their party.

4. Aircraft Carrier
What You'll Need: Steal a toy airplane from your little brother, or make a paper airplane of your own. When someone asks you who you're dressed as, hold the airplane high and announce "I'm an aircraft carrier!"
Bonus: You still have one spare hand to hold your drink!

5. Refrigerator Magnet
What You'll Need: Spray paint a shoe box black and attach it to the back of your shirt. Instant refrigerator magnet!
Bonus: Your sense of humor just might magnetize a new date.

Proof that Halloween can be both fun -- and affordable -- this year, with or without the late night procrastination! For more Holidash highlights, head on over to Holidash right here.

 

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]]>costumediyhalloweenholidayideaslast-minuteErin Loechner2009-10-09T15:00:00+00:00Daily DIY: How to Make Bacon Cupshttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/08/daily-diy-how-to-make-bacon-cups/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/08/daily-diy-how-to-make-bacon-cups/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/08/daily-diy-how-to-make-bacon-cups/#commentsFiled under: , ,

bacon, blt, cup, appetizer, food

A breadless BLT never looked so appetizing. Photo: NotMartha

Everything's better with bacon, whether we're talking bandages, mints or even [eek!] air fresheners. As a massive pork fan myself, I'm amazed to find these yummy looking bacon cups, courtesy of NotMartha. Want the recipe? You got it...

To create the cup shapes, Megan used the back of this Wilton King-Size Muffin Pan, which are the width of jumbo muffins but are almost twice as tall (see this cupcake for a visual). Megan used two layers of bacon on the sides and wove it like a basket. She notes that for as floppy as the bacon is when trying to weave it, it keeps its shape really well once cooked to the point that it is crisp.

Megan then set the oven at 400 degrees and carefully formed foil over the back of the muffin pan. She cooked the bacon, moving the pans around, until it was crisp and waited for it to cool before removing the foil and shaped bacon.

Genius, right? I'm amazed. Go, Megan!

 

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]]>appetizerbaconfoodlettuceparty foodrecipeErin Loechner2009-10-08T09:00:00+00:00DIY Table Decor for Your Fall Dinner Partyhttp://www.diylife.com/2009/10/07/diy-table-decor-for-your-fall-dinner-party/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/07/diy-table-decor-for-your-fall-dinner-party/http://www.diylife.com/2009/10/07/diy-table-decor-for-your-fall-dinner-party/#commentsFiled under: , ,

cinnamon, fall, autumn, centerpiece

Try a few easy DIY centerpieces for your dinner party this fall. Photo: Bliss Tree

With fall comes cooler weather, and with cooler weather comes bigger appetites (I'm not alone in this, right?). With the air turning chilly right before our eyes, it's time to start thinking about those dinner parties we can't wait to host. Whether you plan to invite over a few co-workers or are getting a jump-start on holiday plans, saving money is at the forefront of everyone's minds.

Why not create a few simple table settings with items you already own, or better yet -- items you can find at your own local grocery store? Here are a few fun, seasonal centerpiece ideas to send you well on your way to entertaining in style this fall:

1. Crafty Cinnamon:
Fold cream napkins into simple, chic squares, and lay a mini bundle of 3 cinnamon sticks atop each napkin. Tie a scrapbook tag onto the bundle with deep orange rafia, and use the tag as a place card - or embellish it with an autumn-themed scrapbook rub-ons featuring words and phrases such as "give thanks, ""blessings," and "fall."

2. Lovely Leaves:
Why shop for centerpieces when you can gather them from your own backyard? Arrange a few twigs and leaves in a hurricane glass and accent them with white miniature pumpkins. For visual inspiration, Toast and Tables has a few gorgeous tables you can gawk over!

3. Gorgeous Gourds
Take a cue from Williams-Sonoma and carve out a few gourds to create homemade candleholders. Simply place a miniature votive in the center of the gourd and presto -- instant mood lighting. Scatter a few leaves around your gourd candles and include a dark table runner to accent the look.

4. Amazing Apples
Last, but certainly not least? Place a few green apples in a basket from your home for an instant touch of fall. Or, for a more modern and elegant aesthetic, arrange a few green apples in a hurricane vase and pair them with crystal wine glasses and cloth napkins.

Proof that food can be both the entertainment and decor for your evening dinner parties!

 

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]]>autumncenterpiecedinnerdinner partyDinnerPartydiy decoratingDiyDecoratingentertainingfallpartyseasonaltable decorErin Loechner2009-10-07T15:00:00+00:00Daily DIY: Scratch Thishttp://www.diylife.com/2009/09/30/daily-diy-scratch-this/http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/30/daily-diy-scratch-this/http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/30/daily-diy-scratch-this/#commentsFiled under: ,

lottery ticket, scratch-off, lottery

Scratch this! Photo: ArtMind

I'm quite certain this is one of those DIY tutorials that you're not sure when it will come in handy until it's too late. Perhaps you're planning to throw a lottery-inspired party, or maybe you want a fun spin on holiday cards this year. Whatever the purpose, bookmark this fantastic DIY idea for creating a scratch-off lottery ticket using just dish soap and acrylic paint! I'm flabbergasted!

Why not create a lottery-themed birthday party for the gambler in your life? Take a cue from eHow and decorate with orange and white balloons, a lottery ticket cake, lottery centerpieces and then some! The invitations would be so easy to create with our new scratch-off tutorial, and the possibilities are endless!

Of course, don't forget the gift, which could be a sweet, handmade sentiment expressing that you hit the jackpot when you met your certain someone. Sweet, right? I'm such a sucker for romance.

 

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]]>artcraftcraftslotterylottery ticketLotteryTicketscratch-offticketErin Loechner2009-09-30T09:00:00+00:00Daily DIY: I Scream Ice Creamhttp://www.diylife.com/2009/09/29/daily-diy-i-scream-ice-cream/http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/29/daily-diy-i-scream-ice-cream/http://www.diylife.com/2009/09/29/daily-diy-i-scream-ice-cream/#commentsFiled under: ,

ice cream, party, entertaining, decor

Dig in! Photo: Eat Drink Chic

Have a look at this party. You think you know who's designed it, don't you? Could your first guess be Martha, perhaps? WRONG! Looks like Amy of Eat, Drink, Chic is giving Ms. Stewart a run for her money -- buffet style. How lovely is this ice cream party, complete with DIY-inspired tutorials, printables and adorable personal touches? I'd love to throw a similar occasion to welcome in the fall, with a different color scheme but the same chic style! Amazing!

I'd include fall-inspired M&M's with autumn colors like orange, red, brown and yellow, chocolate ice cream, chocolate sprinkles and the like. Wowza. That sounds so good just typing it all out! I doubt it would be as pretty as Amy's party, but at least it would taste luscious!

For more party-inspired ideas, why not check out a few other inspired ideas from DIY Life?:
-How to Host a Progressive Dinner Party
-Daily DIY: Green Your Child's Birthday Party

 

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]]>buffetdecorateentertainingfoodice creamIceCreampartysummerErin Loechner2009-09-29T09:00:00+00:00Daily DIY: Make Your Party Sizzle with a Swizzlehttp://www.diylife.com/2009/08/28/daily-diy-make-your-party-sizzle-with-a-swizzle/http://www.diylife.com/2009/08/28/daily-diy-make-your-party-sizzle-with-a-swizzle/http://www.diylife.com/2009/08/28/daily-diy-make-your-party-sizzle-with-a-swizzle/#commentsFiled under:

swizzle sticks, drink, martha stewart,

Freshen up with these DIY swizzle sticks. Photo: Martha Stewart

I celebrated another birthday this week, so I've got party decor on the brain, and this is one of my favorite tutorials from Ms. Martha herself (do I need a last name here?). Swizzle sticks are a surefire way to add a touch of elegance to your table setting, whether you're hosting a dinner party or entertaining a simple gathering of friends.

The tutorial includes a super easy-to-use template and requires just a few handy materials like tissue paper, floral tape, scissors and stamens. That's it!

And while we're on the subject of drink decor, here's one of my favorite spritzer recipes from Real Simple. Or, you can throw a fun margarita party with these great tips from ShelterPop. Lastly, while we enjoy just a few more days of summer, why not check out The Scentual Life, DIY Life's round-up of summery drinks. After all, you don't need a party to enjoy a refreshing drink -- all swizzle sticks aside.

 

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]]>drinkdrinksmartha stewartpartyswizzle sticksErin Loechner2009-08-28T09:00:00+00:00Daily DIY: Upcycle a Starbucks Frapp Bottle into a Vasehttp://www.diylife.com/2009/08/26/daily-diy-upcycle-a-starbucks-frapp-bottle-into-a-vase/http://www.diylife.com/2009/08/26/daily-diy-upcycle-a-starbucks-frapp-bottle-into-a-vase/http://www.diylife.com/2009/08/26/daily-diy-upcycle-a-starbucks-frapp-bottle-into-a-vase/#commentsFiled under: , ,

bottle, vase, starbucks, bud-vase, flowers

A trio of Starbucks bottles are more buzz-worthy than the coffee itself! Photo: Maize Hutton

I have a horrid coffee addiction. For some reason, I can't quite focus in the morning without my daily cuppa. I usually stop there, but it's not pretty. Needless to say, at one point, I had dozens of these frappuccino bottles rolling around in the backseat of my car (did I tell you I'm a reformed slob?). If only I'd saved them for a tutorial as good as this one...

What You Need:
(1) Starbucks Frappuccino bottle
(1) White and (1) Clear can of spray paint
(1) Set of colored paint for your letters
(1) Fine paint brush
(1) Pencil
(3) Sheets of carbon paper
(3) Print-off sheets of your choice words

That's it! A quick and easy tutorial with a big result. I'd love to use these for as party centerpieces, as they're cheaper than most vases, and come on -- the coffee inside is just icing on the proverbial cake!

And while we're talking spray paint, don't forget to check out Kelly Edward's foolproof spray paint tips right here!

 

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]]>bottlecoffeediypaintpartyvaseErin Loechner2009-08-26T09:00:00+00:00DIY Birthday: Sweet Goodies and Simple Garlandshttp://www.diylife.com/2009/08/25/celebration-worthy-cupcakes/http://www.diylife.com/2009/08/25/celebration-worthy-cupcakes/http://www.diylife.com/2009/08/25/celebration-worthy-cupcakes/#commentsFiled under: , ,

cupcake, lemon, flagMy birthday is a week from yesterday, and although there's not much to celebrate about getting older, I'll take any excuse for a healthy dose of cupcake treats. Luckily, our friends at Holidash are making it quite easy on my friends and family this year -- I'll take one of each, guys!

I love the lemon-flavored cupcake pictured, as it's just the right touch of handmade goodness. A sweet little flag tops a lovely and modern-looking cupcake, perfect for any occasion. You can find a plethora of flags to re-create the look right here, or download your own cuties from How About Orange right here.

For a cupcake-inspired decoration, why not create a garland out of cupcake liners? Or take a cue from Petunia and use your banner year-round for a sweet and feminine personal touch.

And while we're talking banners, don't forget to check out Holidash's lovely tutorial for creating a birthday banner that's sure to win over any crowd.

 

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]]>bannerbirthdaycupcakecupcakesexpire-images:2009-9-24garlandErin Loechner2009-08-25T11:00:00+00:00DIY Bridal Shower Invitations and Favorshttp://www.diylife.com/2009/08/24/diy-bridal-shower-invitations-and-favors/http://www.diylife.com/2009/08/24/diy-bridal-shower-invitations-and-favors/http://www.diylife.com/2009/08/24/diy-bridal-shower-invitations-and-favors/#commentsFiled under: ,

holiday, shower, invitation, favor

I'm planning a baby shower for a friend at the moment, and she's not your average mother-to-be. I've been instructed not to include storks, diapers or baby bottles, as the occasion should be feminine, but not exaggerated. As I brainstormed color schemes and DIY favors, my mind instantly thought of these adorable DIY wedding favors and invitations, which are perfect for my friend.

My favorite invitations idea is to send a notebook with the occasion details and RSVP info, including a note asking the guest to fill out their predictions for the happy couple. I'd love to use this as a baby shower idea and ask guests to include their best advice for parenting, fun baby names and predictions for the birth.

Best part? You can turn the notebooks into one heck of a scrapbook and gift it to the bride-to-be or mother-to-be when the shower is completed. A DIY from start to finish, and the guest of honor will be floored at the personal touch.

For more great shower planning ideas, check out our friends at Holidash!

 

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]]>babyfavorinvitationsplanningshowerweddingErin Loechner2009-08-24T11:00:00+00:00Daily DIY: Green Your Child's Birthday Partyhttp://www.diylife.com/2009/08/03/daily-diy-green-your-childs-birthday-party/http://www.diylife.com/2009/08/03/daily-diy-green-your-childs-birthday-party/http://www.diylife.com/2009/08/03/daily-diy-green-your-childs-birthday-party/#commentsFiled under: ,

globe, world, earth, child, kidMy nephew turns 8 next month and I can't wait to attend his birthday party at the local bowling alley. In lieu of gifts, my nephew is asking for charitable donations [I know, such a philanthropist in his young age], which, if you think about it, is a very green thing to do. Here are a few other tips to make your child's bday earth [and kid!]-friendly:

1. Ask guests to wrap any gifts in homemade paper, including newspaper with food coloring, or perhaps grocery sacks.

2. Avoid giving out party favors. Instead, throw your child's party at a local zoo, kid-friendly restaurant or even park. The event will be an experience guests will remember, and a favor will be less necessary. Besides, does any child really need 14 plastic kazoos?

3. Consider an environmental-friendly theme. Use recyclable paper plates, a globe cake and share fun facts about our Earth during the party.

4. Stack a few recycled-paper coloring books and soy crayons on the picnic table for less active guests.

5. Play "hot potato" with a bouncy globe ball or run relay races with burlap sacks. The kids will be entertained for hours!

Most of all, explain to your child why he/she should consider hosting an environment-friendly party. Chances are, your child will start a neighborhood trend and before you know it, your town will be greener than ever.

 

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]]>childrendiyearthgreenkidsErin Loechner2009-08-03T09:00:00+00:00DIY Drinks: 6 Recession Reds for Under $10 http://www.diylife.com/2009/07/27/diy-drinks-6-recession-reds-for-the-wine-lover/http://www.diylife.com/2009/07/27/diy-drinks-6-recession-reds-for-the-wine-lover/http://www.diylife.com/2009/07/27/diy-drinks-6-recession-reds-for-the-wine-lover/#commentsFiled under: ,

red wine glass

A couple of weeks ago, I wrote about inexpensive white wines and the overwhelming feedback was for a similar list of red wines. Personally, I find red wines trickier to navigate. There seem to be more bad cheap red wines than good ones, which can be very disappointing.

I have a soft spot in my heart for red wines. I grew up in a large Italian family where red wine was a nightly drink with dinner. No pasta dinner was complete without red wine. Even for children, and including red wine that my Uncle Anthony made himself. Yes, seriously. I know everyone can't go (or wants to go) this route, but during a recession we're all looking for ways to stretch our budget. And, recession does not mean that we have to give up wine all together.

Red wine is versatile and can be served with a variety of dishes from hot dogs to a fine steak. Here's a list of Recession Reds that are sure to please your palate and your pocketbook -- all for under $10 (or less!) a bottle.

Not surprisingly, I have two Yellowtail recommendations. You can't go wrong with either of these choices.

1) Yellowtail Merlot. Once again the Yellowtail brand comes through. It's a highly drinkable red wine that goes with everything. Everyone just seems to love it.

2) Yellowtail Shiraz. This is a sweet and fruity wine. And like its white wine counterparts, it goes down easily.

3) Ravenswood Vintners Blend is a strong oaky merlot. This is a strong dinner wine that is paired well with steaks and other grilled meats. It's not one you're going to pop open and just sit around and drink.

4) Fuzion is an Argentinian wine. It's a blend of shiraz and malbec grapes. It has a light, sweet vanilla taste. Pair this with lighter fare, appetizers, cheese platters.

5) Little Penguin Merlot -- catchy name, cute label and light fruity taste. This wine is comparable to Yellowtail. It goes with everything and is well loved.

6) Fish Eye Merlot. Nice and fruity. Not overly strong. Highly drinkable, a crowd pleaser, very cute label. Does the label matter? No, but it does look nice setting out on the table and I am all about aesthetics.

Tell us -- what inexpensive red wines are you fond of?

 

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]]>Fish EyeFishEyeFuzionLittle PenguinLittlePenguinRavenswoodYellowtailChris Jordan2009-07-27T13:00:00+00:007 Unique Housewarming Gift Ideashttp://www.diylife.com/2009/07/22/7-unique-housewarming-gift-ideas/http://www.diylife.com/2009/07/22/7-unique-housewarming-gift-ideas/http://www.diylife.com/2009/07/22/7-unique-housewarming-gift-ideas/#commentsFiled under: ,

It happens. People buy houses. Sometimes you know them well, sometimes you hardly know them at all. Then they have a housewarming party. What sort of present do you buy for them? How much money should you spend? What if you really want to stay away from an impersonal gift card? These questions have sent me into a panic in the past.

The amount of money you spend is entirely subjective and up to you. Though I believe that the less money you spend, the more thought you need to put into the gift. I know I would rather receive a $20 coffee table book than get a card with a rumpled $20 shoved inside. The former says that you care about the person enough to shop for something that you thought they might like, even if you are working with a limited budget. The latter? Well, that says you didn't spend all your money at the bar last night.

1) Wreath for the front door. When we bought our first house many years ago, it was in the late autumn, right before the holiday season kicks into full gear. One of the nicest housewarming presents I received was a fresh wreath to hang on the front door. It was handmade and beautiful, perfect for our first Christmas in the house when our cash- strapped selves were not going to be buying any extras.

I like this present because you can make it yourself, it is disposable and it can be hung on any door. If the new homeowner does not like the wreath for their front door, they can politely hang it on their back door or an interior door or wall, where ever they desire.

If it is near the holidays you might want to get them an ornament for their Christmas tree commemorating their first Christmas in their new home. it might sound kitchsy now, but I assure you that in years to come they will treasure it.

2) Plants. The potted variety are usually best. Don't forget to also pick out a nice pot. If you know that they are avid gardeners why not get something they will enjoy for years to come like a rosebush or some perennial bulbs.

3) Are they first-time home dwellers? Meaning they have recently moved from apartments? Some yard tools are always appreciated. A weed whacker, rakes, gardening tools like this cute garden gift set, etc. You can chip in with a few friends and buy them an outdoor grill or lawnmower, too.

4) Strapped for cash yourself? Offer your services. Buy an empty paint can, fill with a paint stirrer, some paint brushes and make a coupon offering your painting services. I can tell you from experience that having a friend help paint makes the job so much less tedious.

5) If they are new to the area consider a GPS for their car. Program in all of your favorite places, shopping centers, and emergency rooms. You can go in on one of these with a friend or two to make it much more affordable. Speaking as someone who has recently moved across the country, I can tell you that I have found my GPS indispensable.

A much less expensive version of this idea for people on an extreme budget -- college students I am looking at you -- is a 3-ring binder filled with local attractions, restaurant menus, and maps. Collect these items and store them inside plastic sleeves in a-3 ring binder.

6) Welcome mat. I bought a friend one that said "Happily Ever After." The choices are endless and you are not confined to one that simply says "Welcome." If your friend has their heart set on something else for her front door, no need to fret. A door mat can go at the backdoor, the garage entrance, the mudroom. I'm not sure that you can ever have too many mats on which to wipe off your feet.

7) Basket of kitchen utensils. Think of things that they might not buy for themselves. The Pampered Chef catalog is a great place to start. A pizza stone, along with some other pizza-making goodies and a cookbook on making pizza would be a great themed basket.

So tell me, what are your ideas for a great housewarming present?

 

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]]>giftshomehouse-warminghousewarming-giftpresentsuniqueChris Jordan2009-07-22T15:00:00+00:00DIY Drinks: Our Guide to Budget-Friendly Summer Whiteshttp://www.diylife.com/2009/07/15/diy-drinks-our-guide-to-budget-friendly-summer-whites/http://www.diylife.com/2009/07/15/diy-drinks-our-guide-to-budget-friendly-summer-whites/http://www.diylife.com/2009/07/15/diy-drinks-our-guide-to-budget-friendly-summer-whites/#commentsFiled under:

white wineDo you go to your local liquor store for a bottle of wine and cluelessly wander up and down the aisles? I certainly have done that in the past. So many bottles of wine, so much of it so very expensive.

And, asking for advice on inexpensive white wine is difficult. I have received advice about which countries to stay away from, which countries I should definitely buy -- and often the advice is conflicting. People want to know what I am going to eat with my wine. Eat? Do I have to eat with it? Okay, in that case, chips and hummus. Do you have a wine to go with that? Oh, and it has to cost less than the hummus and chips.

I know I am not alone out here. So I'm donning my DIY mixology cap and have compiled my own white wine list.

This is a wine list for those of us who enjoy drinking white wine, but know nothing about it -- other than knowing whether or not we like it. There are no terms like "oaky" or "full bodied." We prefer terms like "good" or "not good," or better yet, "after a few glasses it isn't too bad."

This is a wine list for people who do not swirl their wine glass and stick their noses inside said glass. It's for people who DO NOT spit, at least intentionally. As a matter of fact, we view the spitting out of good wine as a sacrilege. This is the wine list for people who fill the wine glass to the top and take hearty sips. A list for people who like to impress their friends with how little they spent on that delicious white wine they are drinking.

These are wines I can personally vouch for as a cheap white wine aficionado. I have had all of them in the past, oh let's say, month. Even better, they all retail for well under $10 a bottle.

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So tell me, what is your favorite cheap white wine?


 

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]]>barefoot-chardonnaycharles-shawcheap-summer-white-winefat-bastard-chardonnaysutter-homeyellowtail-chardonnayChris Jordan2009-07-15T13:00:00+00:00How to Host a Progressive Dinner Partyhttp://www.diylife.com/2009/07/14/how-to-host-a-progressive-dinner-party/http://www.diylife.com/2009/07/14/how-to-host-a-progressive-dinner-party/http://www.diylife.com/2009/07/14/how-to-host-a-progressive-dinner-party/#commentsFiled under: ,

"What is a progressive dinner party?", you might be asking. It is a party where each successive course is eaten at a different host's house -- the guests progress from house to house. Hence, the name progressive dinner party.

I'll admit here that the first time I heard of a progressive dinner party I thought of the word in terms of being new, innovative, and hip! Which maybe it was in 1950, when these types of parties first made an appearance. Progressive parties declined in popularity during the 80's and 90's, replaced by catered affairs. Oh, those glorious days of disposable income! In recent years casual entertaining has enjoyed a resurgence and the progressive dinner party is making a comeback.

Essentially it is like a potluck dinner, but instead of the food traveling to one location, the guests travel to the location of the food. Everyone begins at the first house with appetizers, they the guests move en masse to the next house for the next course of the meal.

The pressure is off of any one person to be the sole host of the party, both in the entertaining and cost. And in this current economy, this struck us as a great DIY topic.

So, just how do you have a progressive dinner party of your own?

Select the hosts -- 3 or 4 is usually enough.

Form a guest list, keeping in mind the size of everyone's homes. While 24 people might easily fit in the house of the person who is handling the appetizers, they might not comfortably fit into the home of the person serving the main course, where the guests are more likely to be seated.

Keep the homes close together. Even better if you can plan a party with your neighbors so there is no driving involved, and therefore no need for designated drivers.

When planning the menu, consider foods that can be prepared in advance so that the hosts can also relax and enjoy the party.

What about the kids? You can include them in the dinner party if you want. Another (better!) idea is to have the kids at the last house with a babysitter or two. They can watch movies and eat kid-friendly food while you are enjoying adult conversation. Then you join the children for your last stop -- dessert -- which is probably the only one that the children are interested in anyway.

What about you? If you've thrown a progressive dinner party, any tips to share? Do you have other clever time- and money-saving tips for entertaining?

 

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]]>casual-entertainingdinnerdinner partyDINNER-PARTYDinnerPartyentertaininghow-to-hostpotluckprogressive-dinnerChris Jordan2009-07-14T13:00:00+00:00