Popcorn {That Kids Can Make Themselves}

Microwave popcorn... without buying microwave popcorn?
Who knew!?
We recently discovered that you needn't purchase bags of microwave popcorn, but can instead make them yourself!  I guess I'd always assumed there was something special about the microwave popcorn bag, but apparently not - aside from unhealthy preservatives and toppings.

The kids have enjoyed making their own.
It's really quite simple.

Place 1/4 cup of popcorn kernels in a paper lunch bag, without opening up the bottom of the bag.
Fold the top down about an inch toward the bottom flap, and tape with one piece of scotch tape.

Place in microwave, tape side up and use the popcorn setting
(or set for 2-3 minutes and stop when there are several seconds between pops).

When it's finished, add salt and butter or whatever toppings you choose, or just eat it plain!

Not only is this version far more economical, but it's also healthier, assuming you go easy on the toppings!

These little bags are perfect for snacks.

When the bags are folded in thirds with the unpopped kernels inserted and they're neatly tied with twine or ribbon and maybe a gift tag, they look like an inviting treat, perfect perhaps for party favors.

Make several bags, add a new bowl and a DVD and they make a great gift set too!  

*Please be so kind as to join me here at Abundant Fruit & Olive Shoots if you have not already, and be entered to win a beautiful handmade baby hat and shoe set, by LisaCorinne Handmade.  Scroll below to the post titled "Giveaway" for details.  Thank you!

The Babe Turns Two!

A second birthday.  A celebration.  Memories made and shared.  A small gathering at a favorite restaurant, just us, the babe, the boys and Grandma, Grandpa and Uncle Mark.  

A trip to the new sprinkler park.  "It's FUN!" exclaims the babe, over and over with a smiling face.  

A new hat to shield from the sun, a swim diaper just a smidge too small for the growing baby boy.  Dimpled arms, chubby legs, and pruny toes he calls "raisins".  A summer day- hot and hazy- filled with giggles and drops of cool water and shadows in the sun.  Big boys boogie boarding on the beach under Grandpa's watchful eye.  Papa, not a fan of water, chatting with Uncle Mark, the two keeping watch over everyone's belongings.  Grandma playing with Babe in the sprinklers, trying not to get soaked.  

Then to Grandma and Grandpa's house for swimming and cake.  Sitting on the beautiful back deck.  Children playing in the yard.  Running in the grass.  A relaxing place.  

A sweet birthday - filled with sweet memories.  Thoughtful gifts.  Hugs.  No wrapping paper, no toys to break, no unnecessary collections of this and that.  A "party", family-style.  No screaming, sticky fingered toddlers.  The only party hat - the babe's new sun hat.  Little work, no chaos, no babe being over looked by the needs and desires of other children.  Just his little self, being loved on and appreciated by those who love and care for him most.  His day.  

A perfect 2nd birthday celebration.  One to be remembered by all as joyful and sweet.  One to revel in the oh-so-fleeting days of the chubby-legged, dimply toddler.  Carefree and content.

Watermelon Pops

Last week we had a houseful!  A house full of our best friends, 6 of them, and our combined 14 children!  ;)  Posts on preparing for such a time, and for pulling off the logistics of that many house guests will come at a later time.  For now, I just want to share a simple summer time idea!  My kids were playing with popsicle sticks, making the usual creations, while I was slicing watermelon prior to our friends' arrival.  It occurred to me that the two could go together!  The boys helped me put popsicle sticks into the watermelon rinds making a handle for each slice.  The watermelon disappeared faster than candy that day!  There were fewer sticky fingers and I didn't see any dropped on the ground to be enjoyed by the ants.  There sure was no waste either with everyone loving how simple it was to grab a piece and eat it so easily!  This super simple idea was a huge hit!