Get out that gauze and get ready to recreate a few of these mummy craft projects that are just the right amount of creepy.
Pumpkin carving might not be so easy (unless you have these pro templates) but these mummy crafts are actually very simple to pull off. Spend an afternoon with the kids and make a festive decoration that will last for Halloweens to come. If you’re looking for other Halloween crafts for kids, we’ve got those too!
Even if you don’t “do” crafts, you can still do this. Save a few rolls, buy string and googly eyes, and get to work. You can paint them, or not, it’s up to you and your kids.
Masking Tape Mummy
We love this sweet and simple masking tape and construction paper mummy craft by Eighteen25 that's perfect for preschoolers who are still honing their fine motor skills. And if you want to extend the playtime after the mummy's made, just add a popsicle stick to the back, and voila! You've got yourself a puppet!
Your kids will love bending these DIY mummy figures to fit their needs. Who knows? You may just find a chain of them dangling from the chandelier, your rearview mirror, or even the showerhead. Check out Family Chic for inspiration and how-to.
Yes, there is a possible trip to the hardware store for this one, but your reward will be an adorable DIY decoration that you'll pull out every Halloween for years to come. We love this tutorial by Craftaholics Anonymous. Can't stomach the thought of loading up a carload of kids and navigating the lumber yard? Try substituting cereal boxes for a temporary decoration, instead.
Hands On As We Grow has an idea for the friendliest little mummy pumpkin you'll ever meet, and you can get the step-by-step here. Googly eyes and no-mess cuteness? Yes, please!
With the price of flights at an all-time high, it seems like taking a road trip is much better bet—budget-wise (at least slightly right?!). Thankfully SoCal has plenty of epic vacation destinations that are just a drive away and while you might be familiar with these popular destinations, have you heard about the must-see quirky stops to take along the way? From downright wacky to pretty darn cool, these roadside attractions turn a pit-stop into a wild good time.
If you're heading out on the I-15 from SoCal towards the Las Vegas area, then a stop at EddieWorld is well worth it. Touted as California's largest gas station, you can fuel up and recharge with the lowest gas prices and 18 Tesla supercharging stations. There are also three fast-casual restaurants serving up fare ranging from gourmet burgers and unique fries to salads and sushi. Also don't miss, homemade ice cream and Peet's coffee for the parents and bags of candy for purchase.
Insider Tip: There are plenty of fresh, tasty vegan options available—and their bathrooms are notoriously clean!
Have a roaring good time when you stop to see the Cabazon dinosaurs before spending the weekend in Palm Springs or Joshua Tree. View over 50 dinosaurs, stroll through a cool museum and even climb inside the T. Rex. It's dino-tastic! Even more, for a sweet treat check-out the Wafflesaurus Truck open Fri.-Sun. from 11:30 a.m.-5 p.m. You’ll get to stretch your legs and the kids will love this adventure!
Museum Hours: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-7:00 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 9 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Cost: $15/adult; $13/child; free for children under 3
Located just 22 miles north of San Diego, here you can enter a bootlegger's tunnel through the historic Cave Store and follow it down through the sandstone cliffs and into a sea cave. The story goes that the creator of The Wizard of Oz inspired the cave's names when he noticed that the opening looks like the Sunny Jim cartoon character. Tours are self-guided and take about 15 minutes to complete.
Cost: $10/adult; $6/youth (ages 3-17)
Cave Store 1325 Coast Blvd. La Jolla, CA Online: cavestore.com
While Randy's plans worldwide doughnut domination, nothing beats stopping at the orginal. So the next time you're road-tripping through Los Angeles plan a pitstop off the 405 for a box of the now-iconic sweets.
Good to Know: The famed big donut that graces their roof is a California icon featured in plenty of TV shows and movies, like Arrested Development, Californication, and Iron Man 2. Their flagship location in Inglewood has been there for nearly 60 years and is home to the original giant 32-foot donut.
If you find yourself driving to the California Redwoods for vacation, this is a must-do road trip adventure! There are three opportunities in the area where driving through a tree is actually encouraged! The drive-thru trees are giant redwoods with holes big enough for motorists to drive through. Shrine Tree in Myers Flat, Chandelier Tree in Leggett, and Klamath Tree in Klamath all offer the opportunity to take your car where it’s never been before (just remember to fold in your side-view mirrors).
It's true—this roadside attraction is in fact, an alley, about 70 feet long and 15 feet high, covered in thousands (maybe millions) of wads of chewed gum. The alley's history is debated, but it's been around since at least the early '70s and is usually full of people taking selfies or contributing their own piece of gum. The bubblegum graffiti is located in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo and can be described as one of the city's most popular, unofficial landmarks. So, feel free to extend your stop and pop into one of the many local shops or restaurants. There's even a classic sweet shop, SLO sweets, that sells, you guessed it, gumballs!
733 Higuera St. San Luis Obispo, CA Online: slocity.org/
Pirate House, Newport Beach
When you’re driving down Marcus St. in Newport Beach, you really can’t miss this quirky gem on the corner of 35th and Marcus. Pirates of the Caribbean figures, a giant rooster and the Statue of Liberty are just a few of the things you’ll see. This is someone’s private residence, so you can’t go inside, but the owners are well aware that the home draws a lot of spectators.
35th St. & Marcus Ave. Newport Beach, CA
Roy's Motel and Cafe
Get your kicks on Route 66! Roy’s Motel & Cafe is an institution of The Mother Road and one of the most photographed sites. Yоu mау rесоgnіzе іt from the numеrоuѕ mоvіеѕ, commercials, music videos and рhоtо shoots thаt hаvе featured thе iconic Route 66 lаndmаrk.
87520 National Trails Hwy. Amboy, CA Online: visitamboy.com
Go out on a limb and visit Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch located along Route 66. It's literally a forest of bottle trees in the California desert. Even more, the best part is the musical sound the bottles make on a windy day.
Located in the town of Buellton, you’ll find Ostrichland a unique roadside stop that will engage everyone. Here you can visit with 100+ amazing ostriches and emus. Then, head on to downtown Solvang where this quirky Danish town has bakeries, restaurants and shops with many folks dressed in Danish costumes.
When it comes to gifts, we’ve all heard the expression “it’s the thought that counts.” But sometimes the thought you want to send is ‘I love you so much I broke my wallet for you.’ The good news is that Amazon has you covered. Read on for a list of Amazon’s most ridiculously expensive luxury items.
Gold-Infused Toothpaste
Amazon.com
Up first is an expensive item for people who want to give a ridiculous gift on a budget. This luxury toothpaste will set you back $70 because it has actual gold flecks in the paste. If you don’t feel right sending gold down the drain, you can always put the tube in a frame and call it art.
Swarovski Crystal Ducks
Amazon.com
Give your loved one a set of crystal ducks to convince them that like birds of a feather, you should flock together. These waterfowl can be yours for $1,498. But these ducks won’t fly to you for free: you still need to pay $14.99 for shipping.
This 1924 Mark Saint Gaudens Twenty Dollar is a rare find. Designed by President Theodore Roosevelt, the Double Eagle is one of two designs he was able to complete before his death and is considered to be one of the most beautiful coins ever minted by the U.S. Mint. Get your own for only $2,799.
Luxury Gold Toilet
Amazon.com
They say a man’s house is his castle, and what better gift to give the king in your life than a gold (colored) porcelain throne? Though, at $5,088, this neoclassical toilet better clean itself.
Diamond Tennis Bracelet
Amazon.com
Sometimes you want to buy that special someone an incredible piece of jewelry, but you can’t face another trip to the mall. Not to worry, Amazon is there to help you out. This whopping 7-carat bracelet can be yours and delivered right to your door for only $10,999.
Amazon.com
This one-of-a-kind signed letter from Voltaire and was written just weeks before his death in 1778 from Paris. The letter is written in beautiful script and in French and would make a thoughtful gift! Who doesn't need a famous signed letter hanging in their home?
Achieve epistolary excellence for the sale price of $20,000.
Sure you can buy cheap posters anywhere, but when you could bring home a mint condition 1966 Grateful Dead concert poster, why would you get anything else? This poster holds great significance, being the first time the Grateful Dead are associated with a skull symbol and is one of the hardest to find for Dead Head collectors.
It comes at a groovy price of $27,500— plus $4.50 for shipping if you can swing it.
Franck Muller Men’s Watch
Amazon.com
True collectors know a watch is more than just about telling time—it's about making a statement! If you're looking to spoil a certain someone this year, then look no further than this gorgeous Frank Muller Vanguard Seven Days Skeleton Color Dream watch. The automatic self-wind mechanism and water-resistant features make this a timeless—yup, we went there—accessory.
Everyone knows that love is priceless, but sometimes you want to stun your fiance-to-be. With a diamond weighing in at over five carats, you better propose on a cloudy day or this eye candy may blind your future spouse.
You can’t buy love, but if you have $65,900, you can buy this diamond ring.
Mordecai Brown Signed Baseball
Amazon.com
Own a piece of baseball’s “dead-ball era,” signed by Mordecai “Three Finger” Brown.
Run, don't walk—because this Mickey Mantle autographed baseball card is only $363,640. This set is 100% certified-authentic and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity from James Spence Authentication so you won't strike out.
Do your favorite local candy store a solid and stock up on delectable delights from their aisles this Halloween. And if you’ve already bought your give-away stash, we suggest sneaking over to treat yourself from one of these Atlanta sugar shacks. Keep reading for our favorite Atlanta candy stores, below.
Collier Candy Co.
iStock
Inside Ponce City Market, this sweet shop with a vintage feel—right down to the squeaky floorboards—has an impressive collection of old-fashioned confections (remember Boston Baked Beans?) alongside some more interesting options.
Even Sweeter: Feeling adventurous? Try the Seattle Chocolate Company's milk chocolate truffle bar.
Ponce City Market 675 Ponce De Leon Ave. NE Online:colliercandy.com
Chef Brulee’s chocolate store offers 38 of the most beautiful, delicious artisan chocolates you will ever taste. You have to try them all, but if you can only pick one, don't miss out on the leopard-dusted creamsicle chocolate.
Even Sweeter: They make custom cakes, so if you're in the market, make a trip to the store to see what they can do.
1140 Alpharetta Street #500 Roswell 404-953-0369 Online:chefbrulee.com
This whimsical candy store makes homemade gummy bears—everything from pineapple to grapefruit and even champagne for the grown-ups. Decadent truffles, old-fashioned soda and other candies can be purchased to satisfy your sweet tooth. Kids will love peering into the glass display to pick out their favorite pieces. Lolli & Pops carries sweet treats from around the world and some made locally.
Even sweeter: Pick up a gift tin for your friends with a sweet tooth. It makes the perfect hostess gift.
4400 Ashford Dunwoody Rd. NE Perimeter Mall 770-551-7120 Online:lolliandpops.com
Sugar Factory Atlanta
iStock
Sugar Factory’s 800-square-foot Midtown Atlanta retail confectionary features a signature floor-to-ceiling candy wall with more than 500 types of sweet treats, including a selection of novelty and bulk candy like the brand’s world-famous Couture Pops. Completing the confectionary, the café will offer coffees, hot chocolate, frozen hot chocolate, homemade specialty rainbow doughnuts and pastries, in addition to homemade gelato and ice cream.
Even sweeter: Check out the gummy bear chandelier before you go.
1080 Peachtree Street NE Midtown 470-428-4395 Online:sugarfactory.com
We know the 2021 struggle is real and we are here to provide some summer inspiration to get you through. A vacation rental can offer lots of the comforts of home like cribs and game rooms, with that relaxing feeling you only get on vacation. Pick a vacation rental with a pool and you don’t even have to plan a million activities to fill the days because your recreation is included. We picked a few of our favorites, all just a short drive away.
Can't you just picture yourself enjoying a good book while the kids play on the expansive grass and splash in the pool? Be sure you bring your unicorn floatie for this gorgeous home in Sonoma that is surrounded by vineyards. It sleeps 8 people and you won't want to go home, we know it!
This lovely home comes with the vacation rental trifecta: a pool, a hot tub and a fire pit! The outdoor gas BBQ is ready for your burgers as you enjoy a bottle of wine from a nearby winery. You might even get to hear the neighborhood owls hooting at night!
This 4-bedroom home boasts an amazing backyard oasis complete with a shimmering private pool. Whip up delicious dishes in the impressive chef’s kitchen or step out to the fenced backyard for an afternoon cookout. End days with a relaxing soak in the spa-like primary suite, which includes an oversized tub, a chandelier, and a tub-side TV.
You'll have the best of both worlds when you book this gorgeous home that has 4 acres of land with trees and tranquility. There's a plunge pool and hot tub just for your use after a day of hiking and exploring the area. You'll really feel like you are away from it all when you visit!
Located on a cul-de-sac in a quiet residential neighborhood, this home opens up to reveal a breezy Mediterranean vibe. With 4 bedrooms/2 baths, your group can spread out. Enjoy indoor/outdoor living with a sunroom, a sheltered dining area, mega trampoline for the kids, and of course, a tiki hut overlooking the tranquil Novato Creek. Swim in the private salt water pool and then relax in the hot tub.
The spacious mid-century-modern home's open floorpan living area extends seamlessly to the pool deck overlooking the sweeping landscape. The charming Carmel Valley village, with its 21 tasting rooms, is mere 15 minutes away; Pebble Beach, Carmel by the Sea and Monterey can all be reached within 35 minutes. Want to bring the grandparents along? The Pool House, which is available as an add-on for an additional fee, hosts a bedroom with a queen-sized bed, its own separate entrance, a private deck, a direct access to the pool, as well as its own private living room with an additional sofa bed.
If you haven't explored all there is in Paso Robles, you need to bring the family and check it out. This home is just a short drive from downtown where you'll find tasting rooms, restaurants and a lovely plaza with live music in the summer. Cool off after a hot day in the gorgeous pool.
Your whole family will love this vacation rental with epic views. The decor is classic, when things were built to last. The home is very large, in a horseshoe shape, with inner courtyard, large rear deck, patio, pool, and ample parking. Kids will love the pool table, ping pong, kids games, toys, TV, dvd, even a VHS with VHS movies!
After going through IVF three times, Jess and her husband welcomed their precious daughter, Penelope in 2018. Her nursery has all the function and frills this young princess deserved, with the fun modern farmhouse feel of the home. Our favorite feature is this beautiful shiplap wall, painted to match the blush color scheme throughout.
Whether you need to freshen up a somewhat finished space or design out a blank room, Cousins Ash and Jess at City & Shiplap can guide you through your design journey with a fast, fun and simple virtual interior design approach. Their goal is to bring high design to all budgets through the US with an easy and approachable process.
1
Ruffle Bedding
Ruffle Baby Bedding
$129
Light pink ruffle baby bedding. This bedding is so sweet for a little girls nursery. I fell in love with this bedding and had to have it.
I wanted something different for my daughter bedroom that could transition once she got older. I love the look and feel of this chandelier with the light wood tones.
I knew I would want a rug that was soft but still kept my color scheme. This rug has so many options in colors and sizes. We spent a number of afternoons playing on this rug!
The lattice of this lamp brings detail to places details are forgotten. I love this little lamp by my glider to help with late nights and night time story time.
Taking care of our planet is the job of everyone, and that’s why we are totally on board when it comes up upcycling. From reusing old clothing and plastic bottles, to saving money and serving as a role model, there are plenty of upcycle ideas that benefit parents. Keep reading to see our top 12 reasons why everyone benefits from a little repurposing.
Whether you love a swipe of a paintbrush, feel handy with a hacksaw or just enjoy a little blood, sweat and tears, upcycling can bring about a huge sense of accomplishment and joy when you express yourself creatively. When you want to feel full of purpose outside the role of being a parent, upcycling projects can help put your mind to good use, all while saving the planet at the same time.
You're being a great role model.
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Taking care of our planet starts with us, and our little ones will follow suit. Recycling, being mindful of food waste and only buying what's necessary are all ways to show our kiddos how to take care of our resources.
If your kid goes through art supplies like she's on fire, using materials you might otherwise throw out helps keep costs down (think: corks as stamps, toothbrushes as paintbrushes and TP rolls for just about anything).
You’ll be able to explain the “junk” in the garage.
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“Oh that? No, it’s not an old rusty wagon without wheels or a bottom; it’s an upcycling project in progress.” Basically, your hoarding habit just went way up on the coolness scale.
Those tiny concert tees bought pre-kid take on a whole new meaning.
It's not easy being green. Do you ever wonder how much recycling actually gets... recycled? Repurpose stuff headed for the bin and you won't have to hope it ends up in the right place.
It’s a great way to get rid of the plastic bags under the sink.
Maybe, one day you’ll remember to drop all those bags in the recycling container at the store. Or, you could just use them in an awesome upcycling project. Gorgeous mini planters, anyone?
Give kiddos different and new materials; wait and see what happens. In a flash, cereal boxes, paper towel rolls and old jeans might become a miniature city complete with roads and cars. There’s no end to the creativity!
Empty wine bottles look nicer as candle votives.
Or a chandelier, or a vase, or even a bird feeder. There are tons of creative uses for those bottles (besides pouring a second glass), so drink up! Psst! Save the corks for reason #2.
Whether you use old crib bumpers to make a quilt for your first born’s big girl bed, or if the dining room table was made from the scrap wood from your grandfather’s barn—it’s a story you’ll share for years.
Need building blocks on the quick? Skip Target and try juice cartons filled with sand as an alternative. Want to give the play room an update? Make pillow cushions out of old pajamas. Upcycle, and save cash—plain and simple.
You’ve giggled with other parents about your neighbor and his upcycled messenger back (gum wrappers, seriously?) but the movement is going mainstream—so why not lead the eco-friendly, playground pack?
Disney World has just opened the Enchanted Rose, a new bar inspired by Beauty and the Beast at the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.
Just like the Beast’s looming Chateau, this enchanting lounge invites guests to take a break and just enjoy the atmosphere. From chairs covered in a rose print to lounge seats the same yellow hue as Belle’s gown, the decor features several subtle nods to Beauty and the Beast in its accents.
The grand chandelier hanging over the bar will definitely have you dreaming of a tale as old as time. The ceiling-high bar channels the soaring bookshelves of Beast’s library, though these shelves feature bottles and not books.
Guests can dine on small bite plates and enjoy premium cocktails, as well as several non-alcoholic options for patrons of all ages. You don’t need a ticket to a specific park to check out the Enchanted Rose since it’s located inside the Grand Floridian, but it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of fun and exploring.
All aboard for Disney LEGO fun! A brand new LEGO Train and Station Set is pulling in for play time with your Mickey-loving master builders.
This incredible replica of the Disneyland Main Street Train Station features a motorized steam-style locomotive that resembles a mini version of Walt’s famous train. On the inside of the station you’ll find a ticket counter, café corner, a ceiling chandelier and a tower room. Aboard the train, LEGO minifigures can ride in style inside the parlor car complete with armchairs and tea service.
The new LEGO Train and Station Set is part of LEGO’s Hidden Side collection, which means it also has some exciting interactive features. The train and sound effects can be controlled via a smartphone using the LEGO Powered Up app. The set comes with a 20-piece oval track so you can take your passengers for a ride.
Speaking of passengers, the 2,925 piece set also comes packed with five minifigures including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Chip, Dale and Goofy.
The new set will be available in stores and online Sep. 1 (Aug. 21 for LEGO VIP members) and is priced at $329.99.
A tight budget doesn’t have to mean drab nursery decor. With a few inexpensive supplies and some DIY ingenuity, you can turn the most important room in the house into a stylish haven full of fun and functional design twists. If you’re looking for a new nursery idea or a way to save money without sacrificing style, read on for easy nursery ideas on a budget.
Capture your child's teeny handprint and footprint in clay and then add photos for a special keepsake you and your child will love to look at through the years. With WavHello's First Impressions memory frame kit ($19.99), you can easily capture this magical time in your child's life and create a beautiful piece of artwork for the nursery.
Dress up white walls with fun and funky outlet covers. This quick and easy makeover turns your plain switch plates into creative pieces of art. All you need is decorative paper and Mod Podge. Visit The 36th Avenue for all the details.
Laverne and Shirley-style monograms never go out of style. That's why this easy DIY is the perfect way to add a splash of color to your baby's nursery. They're completely customizable and can be made with less than five items. Stop by Love Maegan for the simple tutorial.
Newborn Wardrobe Shelf
Tabitha Blue
Put adorable newborn outfits on display when they're not being worn. It's a smart way to make the most out of your space and get use out of those tiny outfits. And, since this stylish decor was made for less than $20, you'll have extra bucks in the bank to spend on...more cute clothes, of course! Head over to the fabulous Fresh Mommy for the tutorial.
Baby Card Nursery Art
Veronica Blushing
The outpouring of love you feel when you're pregnant is something you wish you could bottle up, save and share with your new baby. Thanks to the blogger mom behind Veronika's Blushing, there's a way to turn the cute cards you received at your baby shower into inexpensive wall art for the nursery.
Fabric Storage Bin
Stitched by Crystal
Parenting mystery #2874, how does such a small infant possibly accumulate so much stuff? It's a question that stumps every new parent. Check out this tutorial on Make it & Love it from Stitched by Carol on how to make your own stylish fabric storage basket.
Here's a creative and inexpensive way to share your love of music with your wee babe while jazzing up the nursery. Featured here on Project Nursery is Ella Fitzgerald's rendition of "Lullaby of Birdland" framed with a pink mat. It's such a cool way to add personality to your new favorite room.
DIY Keepsake Shadow Box
Little Umbrella
This project is the perfect way to commemorate your baby's birth or first year and makes for beautiful artwork for the nursery. Rather than keep those special keepsakes and photos packed away, out of sight, this project lets you put them on display. Visit Little Umbrella to get all the sweet details on this easy do-it-yourself project.
DIY Crib Skirt
Make It & Love It
Full disclosure: This one requires a sewing machine. But if you're good with sewing, this basic crib skirt is the perfect way to add color and detail to your baby's nursery. Customize the color and print to meet the rest of the room's decor and see how a simple crib skirt can instantly bring a room together. Head over to Make It & Love it for the full tutorial.
Dollhouse Top Shelf
The DIY Village
Got a bookcase you want to pretty up? This IKEA hack takes crafting to the next level. Start with an IKEA Billy bookcase (or something similar) and end with a beautifully colored and decorated dollhouse. We thought that might get your attention! Visit The DIY Village for the full tutorial on a dollhouse your little one will enjoy for years to come.
It's amazing how much time our sweet babies spend staring up at the ceiling. We think this clay chandelier mobile from the super talented crew at Design Mom is a genius way to add color and whimsy to your nursery without breaking the piggy bank.
Here's an art project that’s easier than A-B-C. All it takes is rearranging letters (handmade or store-bought), a little spray paint for finesse, and a homemade tissue tassel garland. Mount a frame around your creation to add more modern-art flair. Oh So Lovely shows you how.
Give grandma’s old dresser a new look with a fresh coat of paint in fresh, modern colors using Still Being Molly's tutorial. She also re-did her childhood bookshelf with the same stunning green ombré results here.
Protect your tiny chomper’s mouth (and their crib) with this beautiful fabric railing. Even if you're not a sewing expert, August Joy Studios promises an easy tutorial! All it takes is a bit of cloth, a few moments of measuring and a lot of patience. Plus, it’s much easier to match the crib railing to your room when you’re the one making it.
A small apartment is no excuse for limiting your library. Reading nooks can fit anywhere, including corners! Stuff With A Story used plywood to build their space. Make sure to support your shelf with a thin trim or brackets from IKEA.
Turn your child's fuzzy friends into decorations by giving them wire-planter homes along the wall. Vary the size of the wire planters if you like, and secure them with nails or tack putty. For this and more visual aids on using thrifted goods for a European-inspired nursery, visit Bleubird Vintage.