I posted this for the first time last summer, along with the printables. I've received several e-mails telling me that the place I updated those printables to is now requiring payment in order to download them.  I decided to go ahead and re-post it, and change the link for the printables to one that is free!  This was one of our very favorite summer activities, and can't wait to do it again! Since we're moving this summer, and will be in between libraries, I think it's going to be even more important.  Enjoy!..... When I was growing up, summers were for reading.  I read all year long, but in the summer I could curl up with a book for as long as I wanted … [Read more...]

Here is a fun indoor summer activity, perfect to throw together when the kids are getting a bit stir-crazy! GATHER THESE MATERIALS:Gift wrap tubesCereal boxesPacking tapePinto beans, rice, split peas etc.EmbellishmentsScissorsDIRECTIONS: 1. Using your packing tape, tape one end of your tube. I just laid the tape in several different directions over the opening and then wrapped the base of the tube a few times around to secure the ends of each strip of tape.  2. Cut your cereal boxes into strips. Make sure they are thinner than your tube (about 1 inch wide should work). Then, fold the strips back and forth like a fan or accordion. 3. Add your accordion-like cardboard to the … [Read more...]

 ***GIVEAWAY CLOSED***Wahoo!!  I LOVE when I can do this!!!! I have the best readers ever, and I get so excited when I get to do a giveaway like this!  A very lucky Brown Paper Packages reader is going to win a Silhouette Cameo!   You all know how much I love my Cameo, and I use it ALL the time. My recent treasure box post is just one example of the many projects I've used it for.  I created the text and cut out the vinyl in about 5 minutes!  It can cut paper, cardstock, vinyl, heat transfer, fabric and you can make things with rhinestones and sketch pens up to 12 inches wide and 10 feet long. It can help you decorate your home, make … [Read more...]

Father's Day is right around the corner, so I've collected some fun and easy ideas for the special dad in your life!{Father's Day Pop!} free printableWhipperberry{"Tie-riffic Father's Day} free printablesAmanda's Parties to Go{Bin Bag}A Spoonful of Sugar{Superhero Kit} free printablesAlphaMom{I Love Daddy 2x4 Photo Board}Simply Home & Family{Mini Tie Keychain}Creative Itch{Fun Moustache Ideas} easily adapted for Father's Day!Oopsey Daisy{Dad Photo}Brassy Apple{King of the Grill Apron}Martha Stewartkierste … [Read more...]

I was introduced to Jameson Monroe a few months ago, when their shabby flower skinny headbands were featured on a boutique site.  I thought they were so cute, and decided to give them a try.  Once we had them home, they quickly became our go-to headbands!  The bands are comfortable--I've never had a complaint from either one of my girls.  The shabby flowers are adorable, and made really well.  They feature a variety of darling products, including boutique headbands, bracelets, burp cloths, aprons, baby legs, blankets, swarovski crystal bracelets, earrings, and wipes cases.  They also have homemade designer caramels for weddings, showers, events, and just … [Read more...]

Hi there! Kristyn from Lil' Luna here!! I'm SO excited to be here on Kierste's awesome blog today - I just LOVE the girl!! With it being Summer here in AZ, things are getting pretty HOT, and the kids aren't as excited to play outside, so I thought it would be fun to make Homemade Gak (It's something I made all the time with my cousin growing up!) The recipe that was most similar to the one I used growing up if one I found HERE. It is so EASY and literally takes 2 minutes to make, but has provided HOURS (and I'm not even joking!), HOURS of entertainment!! Every day, for a week now, the kids have played with this gak for at least an hour each day. I've pulled out plastic cookie cutters … [Read more...]

Lemon is to spring and summer as pumpkin is to fall, and I am passionate about all things lemon.  That means I am super excited about sharing one of my most favorite lemon-y recipes--White Chocolate Chip Lemon Bread!  Okay, it tastes more like a cake, but hey--it's made in a loaf pan, so I get to call it a bread.  When I call it bread, it makes me feel better about eating more than one piece.  Or more than two pieces.  :)  The white chocolate chips are optional, but I sure do like them in there! {White Chocolate Chip Lemon Bread}3 sticks butter (1 1/2 c.)3 c. sugar5 large eggs3 c. flour1 tsp. vanilla1/2 tsp. lemon extract1/2 tsp. almond extract7/8 c. ginger ale … [Read more...]