Honoring Local First Responders at Red, White & Back the Blue Festival

That's me, dispatch, at the yellow line!

These tshirts were sold at the event.

If you're anywhere around news media, you know that there's a huge discontent for law enforcement and first responders.  Not to say some of it isn't warranted, but not all of us are bad.  Just like not all dentists or doctors or mechanics or religions are bad. 

my daughter, Shelby, and son-in-law George

Last weekend local first responders were honored with a Red, White & Back the Blue event at one of our parks.  It was open to the public.  Honoring all first responders, including police, sheriffs, EMT/paramedics, fire fighters, and dispatchers, it was a day of music, food, demonstrations, and fun for kids and the whole family.

me and Jason

9-1-1 Dispatchers are often the "red-headed step children" among first responders so it was nice to be included.   I went out with my family for a few short hours.  Hy-Vee Grill catered food for the event.  All responders and their immediate family were able to eat brats, burgers, pulled pork, coleslaw, potato salad, chips and cookies for free.

 a K-9 officer with his dog

The event was from 2-10 pm with lots for kids and adults to do.  We came in the evening and stayed for a couple hours to eat and listen to the music.  I'm better than no one by any means, but it was nice to be recognized.  And it was nice for the public to come out and meet with all responders under circumstances that weren't an emergency or criminal matter.

Allyson and Logan

When God Happens: True Stories of Modern Day Miracles - Book Review

Book Overview:

Many people wonder, does God still perform miracles? Is it even possible with all the darkness in the world today? Fewer Americans believe than ever, and that is why in When God Happens: True Stories of Modern Day Miracles (released June 5, 2018), book editors Angela Hunt and Bill Myers set out to find true stories of God stepping in and solve the problems of regular people who had great faith. 

When God Happens will encourage others with the fact that there are no laws of physics or science a loving God must follow to express his love. Each testimony is unique and features both the exciting and every day miracles readers will love:  

* A good Samaritan couple are fighting to save victims in a fiery car crash with the help of two "mysterious strangers"

* A woman encounters angels after a terrorist attack

* A newborn who was diagnosed as medically dead is revived

* A teenage girl is saved from being kidnapped by a sex cult

* A woman is relentlessly pursued by God

* God heals a man on his death and the heart of a pastor

* Two men attempt an exorcism to save a hallucinating psychic

In When God Happens, readers will be astonished and inspired to look to God for the needs in their lives.  For more information on the book, visit WhenGodHappens.com.

About the Editors of When God Happens: True Stories of Modern Day Miracles

Bill Myers is a best-selling author and an award-winning producer whose work has won over eighty national and international awards, including the C.S. Lewis Honor Award. His work includes McGee and Me!, The Incredible Worlds of Wally McDoogle, and Eli. He is the managing partner of Amaris Media International.

Website: www.BillMyers.com

Angela Hunt, ThD, is a bestselling author and Christy Award winner. She lives in Florida with her husband, two mastiffs, and an assortment of wildlife.

Website: AngelaHuntBooks.com

My Review:

Several times throughout the Bible, we are given examples of God's miracles.  I'm a believer that God still performs miracles today.  Sometimes we see them in the present and sometimes we look back in hindsight and realize that a situation we were in was definitely nothing short of a miracle.

I'll give you a rundown of a miracle I witnessed myself:
My mother was very ill and lived with me for two years.  She was in and out of the hospital numerous times.  At one point, the doctors were sure she wasn't going to make it.  They wanted me to call together a family meeting for the next day to go over her demise and plan for hospice.  I called everyone and notified them.  When we went in to her room that next day, mom was fine.  She was a completely different person.  She went from being someone on her deathbed to being well enough to go home a few days later.  Mom did end up passing away but her time wasn't determined by a doctor.  It was determined by God!

When God Happens is a book compilation of eight stories of miracles.  After each person's story is a short bio about them.  Reading these stories gave me a reminder of God's true awesomeness and how He works in the lives of others. 

After reading this book, I was left longing for more.  I love hearing about how God is moving in other people's lives.  If, like me, you want to know about miraculous stories and more then you'll want to check out the When God Happens website.  It's a great complement to this book.

Do you believe in miracles?
Have you experienced or witnessed a miracle?

The Floor is Lava! - #DisasterRelief Game Review and Giveaway

Earlier this month, Endless Games announced the official release of its new The Floor is Lava! game. Most people have played a sudden "shout out" game, where someone yells "lava" and everyone jumps all over the furniture trying to stay off the dangerous floor. I admit that I have!  And, no joke, my cat climbs over the furniture to get to one place to another.  Every time he does, I have the urge to shout out "The floor is lava!"

Endless Games created a format where players continue to imagine the floor is molten hot lava, but added play patterns using a spinner for color call-outs and having players jump along foam game pieces in order to reach safety. Challenge cards that enforce activities that can make it difficult not to fall into the lava come into play when landing on certain tiles. Designed for 2 to 6 players, ages 5 to 105, The Floor is Lava! incorporates physical activity, imagination, and pure fun. 

Natalie, a friend's daughter, is a big fan of The Floor is Lava!

Contents of the game include a game spinner card, 25 colored foam "safety stones", 27 challenge cards, and an instruction sheet.  The object of the game is to be the last player "Alive" by not falling into the lava.

First, one person needs to be nominated to be the first person to spin.  This person also manages the Challenge Card deck until a player is out and takes over.  All 25 foam tiles need to be randomly placed around a room.  If you have several people playing at once, I suggest you gather in a rather large room.  

When everyone is ready, the first "spinner" yells out "THE FLOOR IS LAVA!" and all players rush to stand on the closest foam tile they can find, regardless of color.  Then, all players have to rush to jump on the tile of the color that the spinner lands on next.  Whoever is last to reach safety has their original tile removed from the game.  It gets harder the longer the game is played.

Whenever a player cannot successfully reach a tile, or if any part of the player's body touches the floor, he or she is out and has to take over the responsibilities of the original person.

Some of the foam tiles have a "?" on it and that's where the Challenge Cards come in to play.  If a person lands on one of those tiles, they must perform the action on a challenge card.  It must be performed without falling into the lava (aka the floor) or that person will be out.  Some of the challenges include touching your toes, standing on one foot, and moving to the next unoccupied red tile.  When there is only player left, the game is over and that person is deemed the player.

I've had a few younger friends and family over to play The Floor is Lava!  It's simple to play and understand, yet so fun.  The kids really seem to enjoy the game.

 

The timing of  the game's release was coincidence with the "eruption" of recent world events. Because of this Endless Games is taking action.  From now through August 1, 2018, Endless Games will be donating a portion of proceeds from every single sale of it’s the Floor is Lava! game to the American Red Cross Disaster Relief Fund to help the people impacted by the volcanic eruptions. "When you buy this game, you’re going to have a lot of fun and you're going to help the people of Hawaii and Guatemala," Mike Gasser, President of Endless Games, said.

Win It!

One person will win The Floor is Lava! game.

*This is a Rafflecopter giveaway open to residents of the USA.*
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Four More July Winners

Photo by Collin Armstrong on Unsplash

A few of my giveaways have ended and the winners have been randomly drawn.

The winner of the Masterpiece Robot children's book giveaway is #9, bnchile.

The winner of the God's Blessings Day by Day children's book giveaway is #3, tarter95.

The winner of the Once Upon a Farm book giveaway is #26, Mrs Nobody.

The winner of the Natren Probiotics giveaway is #39, Serena Powell.

Congrats to the winners and thanks to all who entered.  Be sure to keep an eye out and enter my currently active giveaways.  They're always listed at the top left hand side of my blog.  There's no limit to how many you can enter or how many you can win.

Makeup Tips From Someone Who Taught Me How To Do Mine

I've always loved experimenting with makeup, trying out different brands and varieties.  For someone who loves makeup so much, I can't believe it took me 41 years to figure out how to apply it even halfway right.  41 years, people!

Reading tips and watching tutorials online did me no good.  My brain couldn't process it all.  It took a girl half my age to show me how to halfway properly apply makeup.  It was a slow night at work so she brought in her supplies and explained it all in laymen's terms.  I'm still no expert by any stretch of the imagination, but it was like a light bulb had went off.  I was as amazed as a fat lady fitting in ski pants!

Again, I'm no beautician (and don't play one on TV!) but here's some pointers that may help you with your makeup routine:

1.  Moisturize your face before putting on any makeup.  This will keep your skin from becoming dry and dehydrated from all the stuff you're putting on your face.

Beauty blender egg - Absolutely recommend!

2.  Use a beauty blender egg for foundation.  Don't use your hands to smear in the stuff.  Take the egg and dab, dob, dab the foundation.  Don't rub it in; Dob it on.

3.  Put on concealer after foundation, not before.  Dab a little under the eyes and in the T zone.

4.  Put on chapstick before matte lipstick.  This keeps the lips from getting dry.

5.  Use the eye curler before putting on mascara, not after.

6.  Even if you have dark eyelashes, use brow liner.  I had no idea how much of a transformation my eyebrows would take on just by using a brow liner.  I wear it now all the time, regardless of whether or not I wear other makeup.  I personally use the dark brown colored liner from e.l.f.

7.  Spray your face with setting spray after applying all makeup.  It will make your makeup last longer.

8.  Baby wipes work just as well for removing makeup.  Although wipes specially formulated for makeup are great, they can be expensive and sometimes aren't big enough.  Baby wipes takes it off just the same.

What are your favorite beauty brands?
What makeup do you usually wear all the time?
Do you have any tips for the beauty amateur?

Cutie Fruities - Children's Book Review and Giveaway

Book Overview:

Join Katie Kindness, Jessie Joy, Lily Love, and the rest of the Cutie Fruities in this darling, glittery, scratch ’n’ sniff book all about the Fruits of the Spirit!

Little ones will love this charming introduction to the timeless truths we learn from the Fruits of the Spirit. Each page introduces a virtue through one of the Cutie Fruitie characters, such as:

Lily’s heart is full of love

To share or give away.

She tries her best to show this love

In all she does each day!

Lily Love, Jessie Joy, Pippa Peace, Paisley Patience, Katie Kindness, Gabby Goodness, Frannie Faithfulness, Gracie Gentleness, and Sophie Self-Control show children the Fruits of the Spirit through cute, glittery artwork with scratch ’n’ sniff embellishments. Cutie Fruities is a unique and memorable way to teach children the character found in a life of faith. 

My Review:

A popular Bible verse is Galatians 5:22-23, telling us that the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.  I think we can all agree that we'd like to instill those values in our children.

In the board book Cutie Fruities, children are introduced to seven female characters who are named after the fruit of the Spirit attributes.  For instance, there's Lily Love and Pippa Peace.  Each girl has a page dedicated to them and their "fruit".  I love the whimsical illustrations and the rhyming words.  Some of the pictures even have glitter on them.  Throughout the book, readers will find five fruits they can scratch and sniff.  There's a scented strawberry, orange, watermelon, apple, and grape.  

I think it'd be neat if there was a line of dolls and other merchandise, taken after the girl characters of this book.  They possess cute traits and good values.

Win It!

One person will win a Cutie Fruities board book.

*This is a Rafflecopter giveaway open to residents of the USA.*

I received book for review from Tommy Nelson.  The opinions within this post are of my own and I was not influenced in any way.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.
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Power of Prayer Thursdays - Week 132

Photo by Diana Vargas on Unsplash

I believe in a God that hears prayers and answers them. I've witnessed the miraculous gift of answered prayer. And, I want to pray for you. I've started weekly Power of Prayer post every Thursday. We are now on week 132.  If you are needing prayer in an area of your life, please leave a comment and I'll commit to pray for your need or request. You can be as general or as specific as you like. Whether it be for healing, salvation, finances, emotions, or another area of life, I'd like to lift it up in prayer.

I said to myself, "I will watch what I do and not sin in what I say. I will hold my tongue when the ungodly are around me."
–Psalms 39:1

Wordful Wednesday - Cat In A Box

I bought a family size pizza from the grocery store a couple weeks ago and set the cardboard box on the table.  Trader Jimmy laid claim to it almost immediately.  It became his place of refuge and rest.  This crazy cat lady went so far as to place a towel down so it'd be more comfortable for him.

The box has eventually become a little less for wear and tear so I suppose it's time to purchase another pizza!

#SpoiledMuch

Random Tuesday Thoughts - Hammocks and Camps

Misty says sit back, relax, and unload your randomness.  It's Random Tuesday Thoughts, hosted by Stacy Uncorked. 

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Four of our six kids have gotten into the hobby of hammocking (is that the word for it?!).  I've seen how much fun they're having and expressed an interest in owning one myself.  My hubby surprised me the other day and purchased me a hammock.  And not just any ole' hammock!  This one has built-in LED lights that can flash fast or slow, bright or dim.  Light it up for a party; Turn it off for recovery!  Now I just have to find a place to hang it.  

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wearing the obligatory birthday sombrero

Logan's no longer a teenager.  He turned 20 the other day.  Jason and I purchased him some golf discs (for another hobby he recently took up), and Jason took him out to eat at a Mexican restaurant.  

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I don't talk politics much because I think most all of them are frauds but I had to laugh when I heard that President Trump tweeted a threat to the president of Iran that he better never ever threaten the U.S.  

 Does the Iranian president even have Twitter?  Who's to say he got the message?  Was that in lieu of a certified letter?  

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Logan and Shelby are going to a concert in August to see Breaking Benjamin and Five Finger Death Punch.  Because I'm a "cool" mom they invited me to come along.  So, we got online and purchased three tickets through LiveNation.  Holy Banjo Butter!  In addition to the tickets, it cost an additional $51 for processing and ordering fees.  That's highway robbery.  It's suckers like me that keeps them in business.

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packed and ready for church camp

I was able to secure a spot for Rahjae to attend church camp.  She left on Friday and came back yesterday.  It was her first time really away from home so I was kinda worried.  When she came back, I was glad to hear that she had a good time and met some new friends.  

Without putting it all out there, Rahjae leaves later this morning for a 3-week trip to see her mother.  It's been almost six years since they've seen each other.  So, fingers crossed, it all goes well.

Rahjae isn't my granddaughter by blood but by marriage.  It's crazy to look back and see how much she's grown on me in almost a year.  

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What's your randomness for the week?

Zoup!: Summer is for Chillin' - Review

Logan with his Zoup! sandwich and soup

Summer is finally here, and Zoup! is celebrating the season with fun new and returning menu items along with the introduction of Family Meals. The fast casual restaurant is also celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Since opening its very first restaurant in Southfield in 1998, the brand has grown to almost 100 locations and continues to innovate its menu of award-winning soups and made-to-order salads and sandwiches.

Chicken Toscana sandwich

Luckily, there's a Zoup! located in my city.  I frequent the eatery every couple of months with family.  The owners of the local franchise are super friendly, the place is always clean, and the food is delicious.  Logan and I ate at Zoup! earlier in the week and tried some of their new menu items.

Simply Gazpacho chilled soup has made a comeback, along with the newly introduced Avozpacho soup.  Simply Gazpacho features an assortment of fresh vegetables in a spicy tomato broth with cilantro, while the new Avozpacho also includes the best fresh vegetables served in avocado puree with roasted jalapeños. Both are topped off with sour cream and scallions for a zesty finish. 

Zoup! gives consumers the opportunity to try samples of their soups before purchasing, so people can decide what suits their palate.  I tried a sample of the Simply Gazpacho soup, and I liken it to what a liquid salsa would taste like.  Very summery and fresh.  I ordered a bowl of the Avozpacho soup and enjoyed it as well.  There was no sour cream added to the top (which I would have liked) but it was otherwise delicious.  Both chilled soups are perfect for summertime weather.

Avozpacho soup

Also back this year is the fan-favorite MTB sandwich.  I'd never had it before, but now see why it's a favorite after trying it this time around.  The sandwich comes piled with sliced mozzarella, tomatoes and fresh basil topped with a drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette on stone-baked ciabatta bread.  Logan ordered it as part of the Try Two Combo.  He wasn't real interested in sharing his food but I got a hold of his sandwich and had a few bites.  

Although we haven't went this route yet, Zoup! is also introducing the Family Meal, a new regular menu offering that combines delicious gourmet soup with the restaurant’s salads, sandwiches or Power Bowls for a full, filling meal to feed two, four or six hungry friends or family members.

Zoup!’s new Family Meal packages are available in the following sizes (prices may vary by location):

·         Feed 2 ($21.95): One quart of soup with two hunks of bread; one whole salad, sandwich or Power Bowl; four mini cookies.

·         Feed 4 ($43.95): Two quarts of soup with four hunks of bread; two whole salads, sandwiches or Power Bowls; eight mini cookies.

·         Feed 6 ($65.95): Three quarts of soup with six hunks of bread; three whole salads, sandwiches or Power Bowls; 12 mini cookies.

Throughout the summer, guests can enjoy these new offerings and have the opportunity to enter Zoup!’s “20 Years of Ladling Love Sweepstakes” to win a trip for two to Las Vegas. Enter by texting a weekly code word that can be found in the restaurant or in the InsiderZ email, which provides news and other special offers, including a “buy a bowl, get one free” deal just for signing up.

Have you ever eaten at Zoup!?
What's your favorite soup from there?
Which if the two chilled soups would you like best - Avozpacho or Simply Gazpacho?

My Experience at Lost Island Water Park

As I often do, I went to my "home away from home" last weekend and drove up to Iowa to see my bestie.  To celebrate her daughter's birthday, we decided to take a trip with four kids to Lost Island Water Park in Waterloo, IA.  All in all, it was a good time.

I won't go into each and every detail of the park.  If you want all that, the park's website has tons of info.

Good impression #1:  The park isn't so huge that you feel overwhelmed.  But there's a lot of water slides and areas for adults and kids.  The water attractions and the park itself were very clean.

Azra, Greely, and Kaylyn

Bad Impression #1:  There are two bathrooms on the grounds.  The one I went into had poor upkeep.  There was no hand dryers or paper towels.  Water was everywhere.  Toilets were clogged, and the overall furnishings were outdated.

Good impression #2:  The lifeguards were super vigilant.  Their eyes were always scanning the water and it was obvious they were alert.  Their routines and behavior showed it.  All lifeguards everywhere should take heed.

You know I've gotten sun when the freckles on my face pop out like mushrooms.

Bad impression #2:  There are five eateries located within the park.  Of these, we went to three.  At the first one, they were out of souvenir cups and one of the smoothie flavors.  At the second one they were out of several foods.  The last eatery is where we did lunch.  

I don't expect to get a gourmet meal at a water park but I felt quite jipped for the price I paid.  I purchased a cheeseburger and fries for $10.25.  The fries were cold and the bun on the burger was super dry.  The meat itself was burnt.  Super not impressed.

Good impression #3:  There was plenty of seating.  Most people were crowded in one area but I'm not quite sure why because there were places to sit all throughout the park.   

Good impression #4:  Free parking!  Free tubes!  Free life jackets!

"Hello.  My name is Timmy.  Do not be alarmed if you notice me swimming in the park.  I am testing the vigilance of our lifeguards."  Love this!

It cost a little over $30 for each admission ticket.  I didn't think that was bad at all, considering the place is accommodating for kids of all ages and it can be an all-day event.

Have you been to a water park this summer?
What's your favorite aspect of a water park?  Mine is the Lazy River where I can take a tube and drift along.

Benji & The Giant Kite - Children's Book Review and Giveaway

Book Overview:

Have you ever wanted one thing – just one thing – more than anything else in the world? A toy? A new bike? A computer game? Did you imagine that this one possession would make you incredibly happy – forever? For Benji that one thing is an enormous orange kite. In BENJI & THE GIANT KITE, Alan C. Fox tells the enchanting story of a young boy who learns that possessing something is not quite as meaningful as letting it go.

BENJI & THE GIANT KITE is Alan C. Fox’s second book for children.  It is illustrated by Eefje Juijl, a graduate of the School of the Arts Utrech, who is based in The Netherlands.

My Review:

I had the opportunity to read author, Alan C. Fox's, first book a few months ago.  Benji & The 24 Pound Banana Squash was an entertaining and fanciful book for children, so I was rather happy to see that Alan authored another book.

The story tells of a boy named Benji who likes kites and uses his allowance to buy them.  He's lost many kites on the beach.  One day he is in need of another kite and works to earn money for it.  He was happy and used the orange kite quite a bit.  Then one day he decides to let the kite go and fix the moment in his memory.

Benji & The Giant Kite is an adorable hardback book for preschool children.  It doesn't take long to read.  I like that Benji decides to preserve the moment in his memory and realizes that possessions aren't everything.  I also like that the story shows Benji working for an allowance to get what he wants.  

Win It!

One person will win a hardback book copy of Benji & The Giant Kite.

*This is a Rafflecopter giveaway open to residents of the USA.*

I received book for review.  The opinions within this post are of my own and I was not influenced in any way.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.
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Precious Moments Promotion: 2 for 1 Ornaments

It’s Christmas in July and Precious Moments is celebrating by giving away a free gift with their newest promotion. From now until July 31st, you will get a FREE 2017 dated holiday ornament with the purchase of the 2018 dated holiday ornament! This is a great opportunity to either start your collection with two new ornaments for the price of one, OR just take advantage of this once-in-a-blue-moon deal from PreciousMoments.com.

Promotion Details:

Buy the 2018 Holiday Ornament & Get the 2017 Holiday Ornament Free
Promo code: 2018DATED
Offer ends: 7/31

This post contains an affiliate link.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

Power of Prayer Thursdays - Week 131

Photo by Ben White on Unsplash

I believe in a God that hears prayers and answers them. I've witnessed the miraculous gift of answered prayer. And, I want to pray for you. I've started weekly Power of Prayer post every Thursday. We are now on week 131.  If you are needing prayer in an area of your life, please leave a comment and I'll commit to pray for your need or request. You can be as general or as specific as you like. Whether it be for healing, salvation, finances, emotions, or another area of life, I'd like to lift it up in prayer.

Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment.
–1 Timothy 6:17

Patio Table Confessionals

I moved into my current home two years ago.  The favorite "room" for me and the kids to gather and talk is the screened-in back porch.  It has a patio table much like the one pictured, and several chairs surrounding it.  That table has been dubbed "The Confessional".  I've spent many, many nights sitting at that table these last two years, talking and listening to my kids.

As many of you know, my kids aren't "kids" anymore.  They range in age from 16 to 24.  It's during those ages that it can be hard to know what's going on in their lives or what their feelings are.  That's where "The Confessional" comes in.

I don't know quite how it started but it became an unwritten rule that meaningful, deep-rooted talks could be done at that table.  I've heard about Allyson's adventure aspirations and Adam's parties with friends.  I've seen Logan's heart break over a breakup and Shelby's anger over mistreatment.  Some things I've found out have darn near caused my jaw to hit the floor.  I've learned more about my six kids' lives, dreams, wishes, and wants more over that table than I have at any other time.  Sometimes, it's just one kid out there.  Other times, it could be three or even all six.  When we're out there, we listen and give advice.  We talk of our experiences regarding the same situations.  We even talk of things that they wouldn't normally feel comfortable talking to me about. 

That space and place has become our sanctuary.  A bonding time.  A way to cry, talk, yell, and heal.  I love bonding over patio table confessionals.

As you can see from the looks on Shelby and George's faces, it's not always all seriousness at the patio table!

Do you have a special place that your kids feel comfortable talking and venting?

How to Host an Ice Cream Social - Go Organically Fruit Snacks Giveaway

National Ice Cream Day was July 15th.  You may have missed out on it but can still enjoy ice cream any other day of the year. (I sure do!)  Go Ogranically has some creative ideas on how to host an amazing ice cream social:

Host an Ice Cream Social

Set the Scene

Once you've picked a date and sent out invites, it's time to assemble everything you need for your party.

The setup: Summertime is the perfect excuse to be carefree, so keep things simple! Do a buffet-style setup with bowls, spoons, napkins, toppings, etc., so kids can make their own sundaes in an assembly line fashion. Add paper tablecloths and balloons in cheery, pastel colors to mimic an old fashioned ice cream parlor. Display a chalk board to welcome guests and announce the day's flavors.

The ice cream: Stick to classic flavors like vanilla, chocolate and strawberry since they'll serve as a great base for all the toppings you'll have on hand. Consider adding one carton of a popular "fun" flavor like chocolate chip cookie dough or cookies 'n cream, but don't feel the need to overdo it with options. If you're hosting the party outside, keep your ice cream cartons in an ice-filled cooler to prevent them from melting.

The toppings: Fill colorful little bowls with kid-approved toppings like chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, rainbow sprinkles, crushed peanut butter cups and, of course, Go Organically Organic Fruit Snacks. Don't forget the chocolate syrup and whipped cream!

Put Together a "Sweet" Playlist

Set the mood by creating a playful music soundtrack themed around sweets and treats, with a mix of nostalgic, kid-friendly songs. Suggestions to get you started:

 "Ice Cream Man" by Tom Waits
"Peppermint Twist" by Joey Dee & The Starliters
"How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)" by Marvin Gaye
"Tutti Fruitti" by Little Richie
"I Can't Help Myself (Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch)" by The Four Tops
"Blueberry Hill' by Fats Domino
"I Love Rocky Road" by Weird Al Yankovic
"Strawberry Fields Forever" by The Beatles
"Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond

Play a "Cool" Game

Delight little ones by adding an ice cream-themed game to the agenda. We love "Pin the Cherry on the Sundae"—a riff on the classic party game "Pin the Tail on the Donkey."

Draw a picture of a large ice cream sundae on a poster board, or simply print out an oversize photo.
Give each kid a construction paper cherry with double-sided tape on the back.  One by one you'll blindfold each guest, spin them around, and instruct them to place the cherry as close to the top of the sundae as they can.  The guest who places the cherry closest is the winner and gets to make their sundae first. YUM!

Be sure to follow Go Organically on Facebook for more family-friendly ideas!  Made with real fruit, Go Organically Organic Fruit Snacks are gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free, and a  great choice for your on-the-go life.

Win It!

One person will win two boxes of Go Organically Organic Fruit Snacks (one box of Mixed Berry and one box of Fruit Medley).

*This is a Rafflecopter giveaway open to residents of the USA.*

I received no compensation for this post.  This post is in partnership with PR firm.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

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