Clickable Party

FREE Glee Printable Coming Soon!

2012-02-10T09:46:00.000-08:00

Check out my new blog site for an up and coming FREEBIE for Fox's TV show, Glee!

http://clickableparty.com/2012/02/10/glee-free-printable-party-coming-soon/ Don't forget to subscribe!

Best,
Krysten

We're Moving!

2012-02-06T07:03:00.000-08:00

Hey followers and friends!

I've Moooooved!

Find me, follow me, friend me...

http://www.clickableparty.com!

Best,

Krysten

Adventure Time! Free Printable Party

2012-01-11T11:20:00.000-08:00

I am getting ready for my son's 10th birthday, and this year we are NOT having it at home. For the first time in a LONG TIME, we are opting for a package birthday party at a local place called TeamWorks. It's a pretty awesome place, and the kids get to jump around in a bouncy house, then play video games, eat pizza and play other team-games like dodge ball. Easier for me - no cleanup to worry about.

One of Luke's favorite shows is Adventure Time on Cartoon Network, which goes awesome with a fun place like TeamWorks! I am passing along this package of printables that I whipped up as a freebie to you, since Cartoon Network has not come out with their own party themed stuff. But if you're a fan, I hope you are thoroughly JAZZED by this freebie!

CLICK HERE!

If you want this theme personalized, the theme is available in my Esty shop and I will add pictures and personalization for a small fee. CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE PERSONALIZATION.

Invitation 8 1/2 x 11 full page

Closeup of invitation

Welcome sign (8x10 Frameable)

Closeup of banner lettering (4 1/4 x 5.5)

Example of 8 1/2 x 11 banner page (4 banner flags per page)

Full happy birthday banner

Banquet/Dessert table tags

Closeup of Jake table tag

Closeup of Princess Bubblegum table tag

Cupcake wrappers

2" Cupcake toppers/party circles

Water bottle wrappers

Drink flags

I also want to share with you some pretty awesome resources I found while compiling stuff for the party.

Here is the Cartoon Network site which has printable and foldable characters of the whole Adventure Time crew! http://www.cartoonnetwork.com/tv_shows/adventuretime/pictures/index.html

The fonts I used you can download for free at Fontsquirrel.com. They are Immortal and Bearpaw (although Brushstroke or Scratch My Back would have also worked).

Here's some free cool tattered banners that I used in the invitation http://www.vectorss.com/symbols/banners-2.html

Here's a great blog with all kinds of Adventure Time stuff http://frederator.com/

Here's a bunch of graphics that I used to make the printables plus a few extra http://tinyurl.com/848fq52

Here's the Cartoon Network YouTube Channel where you can watch clips of the show http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLDEBA1D2BE0E9BB90&feature=plcp

Best,

Krysten

Clickable Party

Holiday Snowflake Printables

2011-11-20T14:02:00.000-08:00

It's nearly that time again! If you're looking for a holiday neutral collection, snowflakes are just the thing! We've just uploaded our Holiday Snowflake Collection on Etsy! Check it out!

Best,

Krysten

Halloween Freebies {Via Catch My Party}

2011-09-06T06:09:00.000-07:00

Our friends at Catch My Party have featured our Halloween Freebies {Spooky Faces} on their blog! They are graciously hosting the download.

Check it out!

We've also got two other spooktacular Halloween designs in our shop.

Trick or Treat Halloween Collection

Vintage Halloween Collection

It's that time again! My favorite time of year!

Best,

Krysten

Clickable Party

What I'm Working On {Latest and Greatest}

2011-09-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

I'm getting ready for some very special parties! My baby sister is on her way to having her first baby...a boy (oh boy!) and my mom will be turning the big 6-0 this year!

My sister wants a woodsy theme for her layette, and prefers green to the traditional blue. I've created this Save the Date for her shower:

For my mom's 60th, we're organizing a party with friends and family THE SAME WEEKEND (crazies we are!) Here's her Save the Date:

Yes, that's my mom - cute as a button! (she still is, of course)

I'm also working on these custom printables that I think are just too cute for another lucky little boy's jeep in the woods theme. They've asked me to match their invitation:

So with the help of my favorite site, Kuler, I was able to match the colors and then did my best guess to create the animals and the patterns.

Thank you tags

Cupcake wrappers

That's what I'm working on!

If you're interested in a custom theme, you can contact me at clickableparty@gmail.com. Custom themes put you in charge of the creative process. A full theme (wrappers, toppers, favor tags, water bottle wrappers, banners, etc.) is only $35, so ping me and we can get started!

Best,
Krysten
Clickable Party

This. Looks. Delicious! {Mini Chocolate Cakes with Chocolate Ganache and Fresh Raspberries}

2011-09-02T00:00:00.000-07:00

Mini Chocolate Cakes with Chocolate Ganache and Raspberries

I stumbled across this simple but delicious looking recipe for Labor Day at SpinDyeKnit. Yum!

Click here for the recipe and directions for the cake, and here for the ganache recipe (and while you're at it, check out all her great knitting ideas!)

If you didn't get to see our free labor day printables, head on over to Catch My Party, and download to dress-up your barbecue table.

Happy Labor Day!

Best,

Krysten
Clickable Party

Percy Jackson Birthday {Inspiration!}

2011-09-01T11:23:00.000-07:00

I came across this blog post from Make it Do from a couple of years ago for a Percy Jackson Birthday Party, but still...what a fun party idea! Her blog graciously describes all the fabulous details from crafts to activities and even a great scavenger hunt idea!

I feel a printable birthday theme coming on! :D Stop by Make it Do and see all her amazing sewing/cooking/cleaning/making/kids ideas, and don't forget to say hello!

In the comments, tell me what kind of birthday theme you would like to see in my shop!

Best,

Krysten

Clickable Party

Letterboxing {Geeky Fun}

2011-08-31T00:00:00.000-07:00

Looking for a family activity that's interesting, creative and fun? How about a creative birthday party idea for older kiddos?

On a hike in Swansea, MA

Try Letterboxing!

Luke's discovery in Somerset, MA

We started letterboxing a few years ago, and found that it was a great way for our family to enjoy a hike together without hearing complaining from the kids that the unplugged activity was "boring". Letterboxing is considered the predecessor to Geocaching. It mixes orienteering (challenge with navigational skills) with stamp-making and collecting. This is basically a free activity folks!

A local Geocache (we've done this too)!

The basic idea of letterboxing is to follow written directions like a treasure hunt with a compass to find a hidden letterbox (great lesson for kids to learn to use a compass!) Set out on your hike, and watch for the land marks! Inside the box is a rubber stamp (some home-made, some commercial) and a notebook. Sometimes, the letterbox owner will also enclose a pen or pencil and an ink pad, but your best bet is to bring your own.

On the hunt in Fairhaven, MA

Seth found this one!

The letterbox!

Once you find the "treasure," you leave a copy of your stamp in the box's notebook, and take a copy of their stamp in your personal collection. When you get home, you can log on to the letterbox's site and leave a message for the letterbox owner.

Getting ready to stamp in.

Victory!

We have discovered so many new places in our area by going on these little treasure hunts! There are hundreds of letterboxes all over the world! The two best sites to find letterboxes near you are Atlas Quest and Letterboxing.org.

Westport, MA

Dartmouth, MA

Taunton, MA

Bristol, RI

Portland, ME area (Baxter Woods)

I have my kids carry a small backpack with their letterboxing kit and a bottle of water.

My cousin Ani's first letterbox discovery!

Stamping in

Everyone takes a turn

My oldest son had a letterboxing birthday party a couple of years ago. The first thing we did was have the kids make their own letterboxing kits. They made their own "stamps" by sticking foam stickers to sponges with foam rubber hot glued to one side. They worked really well! They got to choose a notebook, a pen and an ink pad to put in their plastic boxes. These doubled as party favors for them to take home!

Letterboxing kit-making station

The kids loved personalizing their boxes with stickers

We hid five boxes in various places around the outside of our house and around the neighborhood. We split the kids into teams, gave each team a map, a compass, a set of gloves, a disposable camera, and written directions and set them free! Everyone had a blast finding the hidden boxes. The kids still talk about this party as one of their favorite parties ever.

Teams setting out on "the hunt"

A letterboxing kit makes a great gift! Make a special notebook, and put it in a nice plastic box (like a pencil box), a special pen, an ink pad and a rubber stamp and maybe a pair of gardening gloves and a compass. Include a homemade book about the history of letterboxing, and maybe a few choice letterbox locations close to you.

Using scrapbooking materials, I covered ordinary notebooks to make special gifts.

Coordinating colored pens, stamps and ink pads

What activities do you enjoy with your family? Leave me some great ideas in the comments below!

Best,
Krysten
Clickable Party

Labor Day Freebies! {Via Catch My Party}

2011-08-30T00:56:00.000-07:00

Our friends over at Catch My Party have been gracious enough to host our labor day freebie! It's printables to dress up your barbecue, and it's retro {Mad Men <3 inspired!}

I hope you enjoy them, and I'd love to see any pix from your festivities! I do mourn the end of summer, but there are so many good times still to come in 2011!

Best,
Krysten

Freebie Roundup Summer/Fall 2011

2011-08-21T06:25:00.000-07:00

I am taking this week off to get my life ready for back to school, holidays and some upcoming special events. When I come back, I'll share more stuff I'm working on, more geeky fun and adventures, and most importantly: more freebies.

Before I go, I want to do a freebie roundup of all the freebies from my blog. We will be combining my blog with my main website, and I will make sure I have a freebie page with links to the Clickable Party freebie universe!

Summer Beach Party

Back to School

Teacher's gift and tutorial

Football party freebies

Halloween bookmarks and lolly-holders

Halloween luminary & frameables

Halloween jack-o-lantern luminary

Polka-dot Halloween Party Circles

Mini-cards Spooky faces

(full printable on its way via Catch My Party)

Stay tuned for free Flintstone birthday printables and Mario Brothers birthday printables!

Best,
Krysten
Clickable Party

This. Looks. Delicious! {Double Chocolate Loaf with Peanutbutter Cream Cheese Spread}

2011-08-19T15:17:00.000-07:00

Double Chocolate Loaf with Peanutbutter Cream Cheese Spread

I mean...really!

The recipe can be found here.

Best,
Krysten
Clickable Party

Teacher's Gift Tutorial {and Back to School Freebie}

2011-08-19T10:55:00.000-07:00

Our town doesn't go back to school until Thursday, September 8th - quite a late start, but it has to do with teacher contracts and whatnot. So, I know I'm a little late to the back to school party. :-( We also don't get out of school until almost July 4th some years because of snow days. Hopefully, we will get the names of my boys' teachers soon, and be able to personalize some "welcome back" gifts.

Here's my idea for a Welcome Back gift: I'm calling it "A Recipe for Success." Teachers love supplies, depending on where you live, these supplies are more essential than other locations, but from working in the school district as an aide, I learned that teachers love a few things: supplies, candy, coffee (and booze - although the latter would not be an appropriate gift from your child! :D)

If this is too late for a back to school idea for you, it could still be used for an inexpensive Christmas gift!

1 Pint Mainstays Canning Jar

This is based on the Recipe in a Jar concept. I started by getting a dozen plain sided (Mainstays) 1 pint canning jars from Walmart (about $6) and office supplies from the Dollar Tree, Walmart and Target's "dollar deals" bins. The ones I don't use for back to school will become Christmas gifts.

Supplies

Rubber bands ($1 from Dollar Tree)

Mini Highlighers (6 @ $1.25 at Walmart)

Mini Clips (10 @ $1 from Dollar Tree)

Small Stamps (4 @ $1 from Target)

Pencil Sharpeners ($1 package from Dollar Tree)

Candy (Starburst 75 cents from Target)

Pushpins ($1 package from Dollar Tree)

Erasers ($1 from DollarTree)

Binder Clips (8 @ $1 from Dollar Tree)

You can use any kind of supplies you want, these worked for me and most of the packages I split in half so that I could get two jars out of them. The pretty thing about recipes in a jar is the contrast of colors. A lot of office supplies come in bright colors, so I got the pushpins in clear, binder clips with a design and mini-clips in red to help with the contrast. Really though, the shapes of the materials give it quite a lot of contrast, so you can use pretty much anything.

This is super simple. The only other thing you need is some card stock or poster board cut into 2 1/2 inch circles to put between the layers to keep the smaller items in their place.

For larger items, like full-size erasers and highlighters, I arranged them so that the colors could be seen easily from at least two sides.

I topped mine off with candy!

Total cost - about $5 per jar

Top it off with a pretty ribbon and the free printables below. Here is how the recipe goes (depending on what you use).

Welcome back to school! Here is a recipe for success to get you started off right!
Rubber bands - Always be flexible
Erasers - We all make mistakes
Push pins - Stick to it
Pencil sharpeners - Stay sharp
Highlighters - Focus on what's important
Clips/binders - Keep it together
Stamps - You have our stamp of approval
Candy - Don't forget that life is sweet!

I added a ribbon, a tag and an insert (my printables weren't done in time for the photoshoot, but you can see them below). The printables include a 2 inch insert with room for the recipe, a 3 inch cover circles and a gift tag. There are text boxes so that you can fill in your own recipe on the inserts, and to/from on the gift tags.

Recipe for Success Printables, available on Scribd

Voila! If you like this, will use this etc., please follow me here on my blog, on my Facebook page or on Twitter! Also leave me a comment below, and send me pix of your creations and don't forget to share with your friends!

Don't forget to check out our full Back to School printable collection at Catch My Party!

Best,

Krysten
Clickable Party

The Washington DC Mall Monuments {Wordless Wednesday Summer Travels}

2011-08-17T07:18:00.000-07:00

Best,

Krysten
Clickable Party

Football Freebies {Full Printable Party}

2011-08-16T10:38:00.000-07:00

Hey, remember these?

Football season is upon us, and I thought I should revive these free football printables for your next football (or fantasy football) bash! Click here or go to scribd.com for a preview/download! Pictured above are the party pics, and below are the banquet table labels - one of many free pages in our download that also includes cupcake toppers/wrappers, water bottle wrappers and more!

Enjoy!

Best,
Krysten
Clickable Party

Penny Smashers {Geeky Fun}

2011-08-16T07:16:00.000-07:00

We do a good amount of traveling with the kids, whether it's a day-trip or some short overnights, and my boys always want to take something to remember it by. This can get a bit pricey for two kids over time. Solution? A Smashed Penny collection!

You can find Penny Smashers in just about every tourist attraction (including rest areas). For between 51 cents and a $1.01 you have an instant souvenir.

The Philadelphia Visitor's Center

We have also found these great Penny Passport books to keep all their pennies safe and sound.

I suppose that as the designs retire, they may have a few collectors items on their hands, but really it's just for the fun of having a collection, and an easy and inexpensive souvenir.

And of course, you can find the Penny Smasher Waymarking Group is actively indexing the locations of these machines, if you want to find a penny smasher, log your visit or index one yourself!

Best,

Krysten

Clickable Party

Getting ready for fall {Back to School and Halloween Freebie}

2011-08-15T09:23:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday! I'm a day late and a dollar short today :( but I'm trying to get back in the groooove! Blame it on the rain!

Here is a clip of a fantastic touching article about "Back to School" from Mamasource:

When I was working at the children’s museum I had a very wise early childhood mentor that talked about the invisible leash with toddlers. She explained that toddlers have an invisible leash to their mothers and if you just let them go they will suddenly stop when they’ve reached the end of the leash and turn around to look for you. As they grow they let out more and more line and make it further and further before they turn around. It was one of the best pieces of parenting advice anyone ever gave me. It allowed me to let my girls go, to have some freedom and to know that they would still be looking for me. I can’t tell you how many times I watched as they took off with abandon only to suddenly stop turn their heads and and scan for their mama’s face. Our eyes connected they would smile and turn to run some more.

I could think that with the closing of the bus and school door that the invisible leash from child to Mama is broken, but, I know that what’s invisible is also magical. The length of the leash may now be measured in miles instead of feet and she may have to wait until she gets off the bus for our eyes to connect but I know our bond is still as strong as it was when she was taking her first steps.

For the rest of the article click here.

Also, I am working on reviving and expanding a freebie from last fall. We are expanding this design into a full printable party, including write-in invitation, Happy Halloween banner, banquet table tags, cupcake wrappers, cupcake toppers/party circles, favor tags, favor box, water bottle wrappers, bookmarks, Happy Halloween mini cards, full pattern page. Watch for it at the Catch My Party Blog.

Mini Cards

If you missed it, check out our free back to school printable!

Best,
Krysten
Clickable Party

Back to School Teacher's Gift Idea

2011-08-12T00:00:00.001-07:00

Here's a sneak peek for an idea for a back to school gift for your child's teacher. It's based on the idea of Recipe in a Jar. Instead of a food recipe, it's office supplies. I will be putting up a tutorial and a label next week.

(*update: click here for tutorial and free printables!)

Recipe for Success {in a jar}

Have a great weekend!

Best,

Krysten

Clickable Party

This. Looks. Delicious! {Lemon Almond Meringues}

2011-08-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

Joy the Baker always has the most awesome posts! These look like they would be perfect for a special tea or as a gift for someone special {like back to school for the teachers!}. The recipe is here complete with pictures.

Best,
Krysten
Clickable Party

Back to School Freebies! {Thanks Catch My Party!}

2011-08-11T10:17:00.000-07:00

Catch My Party is graciously hosting my back to school freebies!

Banquet Table Printables

Banner

Cupcake wrappers

Party Picks

Table Markers

Banquet Table Tags

Teacher gifts

Book Plate

Hand Santizer Labels

Tissue Box Label

CLICK HERE FOR FREE DOWNLOAD

Find more of the Best of Back to School 2011 at One Pretty Thing.

Here are some of my favs from around the webaverse.

Candy Apple Teacher Gift (with tutorial)

Backpack Makeover (with tutorial)

Morning Routine Subway Art

Free Calendar and Book Plate Printables

Free Printable Teacher's Gift Tag

How Does She? and Chickabug's Photo Signs

Frameable Dr. Suess Quote *Freebie*

Hope you enjoy these freebies and great ideas to put the icing on the cake for your first day back to school!

Best,

Krysten

Philadelphia Visitor Center and Liberty Bell {Summer Travels}

2011-08-11T07:11:00.000-07:00

While we were in DC, we took a couple of days to visit Philadelphia, PA with my mom. We have been to Philly once before, but it was just for the day and directly after a really bad snow storm, so we just did one museum and then left. I was really looking forward to having my kids take in the history. Living so close to Boston, a lot of the American history is right here in our own backyard {Plymouth plantation, the Freedom Trail, etc.} but Pennsylvania and DC have a whole other component that we don't usually get to explore.

We started by taking a trolley to the Independence National Historic Park and went to the visitor center.

waiting...

Hooray!

On the trolley

Once at the visitor center, there was lots of stuff to see and do. This gentleman below told my sons a lovely story about how the Liberty Bell got it's crack. He tied the story of the bell into how if the bell had remained perfect, it would never have become the inspiration that it has become, and how people with their imperfections are useful, valid and necessary. Of course, I loved this!

The sign reads "Questions cheerfully answered"

They had lots of exhibits and a couple of short movies you could watch (we watched both). Below is a snapshot of the Constitution.

My oldest thought it was hilarious that the "s" letters are shown as "f's" in this document. We walked around with "f lisps" for while and had a good laugh.

This exhibit was on the history of American money.

Posing with the Philly Phanatic. (Is he related to Boston's Big Green Monster?)

We crossed the street to the Liberty Bell building. That was another really neat experience. There are exhibits with the history of the Liberty Bell all the way up to where the Liberty Bell sits, and then a video summarizing right before the artifact. My kids had little patience for the static exhibits, so I was glad to see the TV showing the video at the end!

An overall great experience. The Liberty Bell has been taken up as a symbol of freedom for so many causes over the years, it was great to finally see it in person. Something I will never forget!

Best,

Krysten

Clickable Party

Free Back to School Printables Coming Soon

2011-08-10T08:14:00.000-07:00

Here's a peek at our Back to School free printable that will be available soon! We hope you like it, and can use it to dress up a back to school breakfast or lunch for the teachers or kiddos! Many items you will be able to customize with open text boxes. Also in this collection is a book plate, hand sanitizer label and tissue box label.

Back to School freebie - Click to enlarge!

I will also be putting together a back to school teacher's gift!

Best,
Krysten

Wordless Wednesday {Patrick Star Donut}

2011-08-10T00:00:00.000-07:00

Georgetown Cupcakes {Accidental Tourist Moment #2}

2011-08-09T00:00:00.000-07:00

Katherine and Sophie of Georgetown Cupcakes are a huge inspiration to me and my sister. They started their cupcake business in 2008, and now run a booming business and have their own hit TV show on TLC {DC Cupcakes}! I love success stories, and theirs is a great one! {Shameless unrelated shout out to Felicia Day, fellow geek, and another of my favorite success stories!}

Anywhoooo, since I was in the neighborhood, my sister decided to bring for an unplanned visit to Georgetown Cupcakes. Our accidental tourist moment came just the right time, since there happened to be no line!!!

No line this way

and no line this way!!! Wow!

3301 M Street, Washington, DC

Of course, we all had to pose in front of the giant party pic!

The boys

Me and the boys

Me and my sister

In we go!

Decisions, decisions!

We placed our order...

and got ready to enjoy!

Can't wait

Cupcake bag

Red Velvet Cupcake

Red Velvet and Chocolate Birthday Party

Lovely table bouquet

We had a ball for our little spur of the moment adventure. If you're ever in DC or Maryland, you should stop by and pay them a visit!

Best,

Krysten

Clickable Party

The Moomins {Geeky Fun}

2011-08-08T10:20:00.000-07:00

I've recently come across this phenomenon known as The Moomins, which was originally a children's book series and comic strip by Swedish/Finnish author, Tove Jansson beginning in 1945. These are hugely popular and beloved by many - much to my surprise, since I am a huge children's book fan and had never even heard of the Moomins until a couple of weeks ago!

The books are adorable, and eventually became a stop-motion TV show (in the spirit of Rankin/Bass, but a bit softer) and a cartoon. The charm factor reminds me a bit of Winnie the Pooh (one of my all-time favorites).

In Finland, there is even a theme park for children called Moominworld.

Remember my Waymarking post? Well, there is even a Waymarking Group dedicated to logging Moomin sightings! So fun!

Have you ever heard of the Moomins? Share your experiences in the comments, or tell me about your favorite children's books!

We have one children's book inspired printable - Pinkalicious! Maybe it's time for a Moomin inspired printable!

Best,
Krysten
Clickable Party

Subway Art Birthday Party Preparations

2011-08-08T07:20:00.000-07:00

Lloyd and Danae

The male component of our very best friend-couple turned 40 a couple of weeks ago, and I did some subway-art themed printables for the party. The theme was 40 Things We Love about Lloyd!

I made some pennant flags for the centerpieces, a banner and a frameable for the banquet table. His wife sent me words, qualities and talents that make Lloyd special. He certainly has a lot of talents and qualities!

Image of the 8x10 frameable - It really has 40 things!

This was my springboard, and from there, I made party pics...

Closeup of party pics

...and these pennant flags with a quality on the front, and a piece of the subway art on the back. I loved these!

Subway art pennant flags for centerpieces

I couldn't make the party because I was out of town, but I heard it was a big hit! I hear Lloyd had {a much deserved} great time, and his family and besties got to celebrate with him all the things that make him spectacular!

The gorgeous family

Happy birthday Lloyd!

If you're interested in this theme, please email me at clickableparty@gmail.com and we can set up a custom order, or visit my shop for other great party printables!

Best,

Krysten

This. Looks. Delicious! {Twix Brownie Bars}

2011-08-05T00:00:00.000-07:00

What a great idea from The Recipe Girl! Twix Brownie Bars! Twix are definitely one of my favorite candy bars (I have a thing for caramel) and this is a great idea for a party or a gift idea for someone special!

Check out The Recipe Girl's post on candy bar treat ideas, and then find her recipe here.

Best,

Krysten

Clickable Party

The Jefferson Monument {Summer Travels}

2011-08-04T00:00:00.000-07:00

We took a day to walk around and see the monuments, starting with the Jefferson Monument in Washington DC. The Jefferson Monument is in direct line with the Washington Monument at the National Mall and the White House.

The view across the tidal basin of the Potomoc River

Under construction

Inside at the Jefferson Memorial. Lots of interesting stuff!

Beautiful view

Washington Monument across the river

I had never visited this monument before, and I'm glad I took the time to do it. It's great to see the spirit and ideals that our country was built upon, and to get to share the experience with my little guys!

Best,
Krysten
Clickable Party

Old Post Office Pavilion {Accidental Tourist Moment}

2011-08-03T00:00:00.000-07:00

After the Air and Space museum, the kids wanted to go get some Ice Cream, so I Yelped a place that looked fun. We set out to Maggie Moos Ice Cream and Treatery. Unfortunately, Maggie was no longer there, but Ben & Jerry's was, and we had our treat and I sat down and let the kids have a dollar to play video games at the arcade.

At which point, I notice these signs:

"Take time to tour the tower"

And I start to realize that I'm somewhere *special*. The Old Post Office Pavillion is the largest commercial building and third tallest structure in Washington DC, behind the Washington Monument, and the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Tours were free, so I gathered the kids and we made our way up to the clock tower!

The view from the glass elevator

Once on the thirteenth floor, you have a pretty spectacular view of the city on all four sides. Unfortunately, our day was pretty hazy, but I got some decent pictures anyway.

The Capitol Building

Washington Monument

National Archives

The Capitol Building

The kids thought this was pretty cool, and you could spend as long as you wanted looking around. They had diagrams on all the walls pointing out certain areas of interest. Down below was where the bells were kept, and this machine on the top floor also controlled the tower clocks.

On the 10th floor:

Who knew the Congress had official bells?

And a bell-ringing society!

These are the ropes that control the National Bells

There is a nice little museum room telling the history of the building (very interesting).

We went back down in the elevator with a little more knowledge about the history of the area than when we sat down for ice cream. What a serendipitous *free* find!

Best,
Krysten
Clickable Party

A Guide to the architecture of Washington DC

Stikman Sightings {Geeky Fun}

2011-08-02T00:00:00.000-07:00

If you live in a major metropolitan area or just like to visit them, keep your eye out for this guy:

He is "stikman," and he is a sneaky piece of urban Guerilla art that can be found from Boston to DC, from Hollywood to Toronto. He is typically found in crosswalks, although he can also be seen on signs and walls.

My oldest son noticed this one when we were walking in the monument section of DC, and said that he had also seen one back home when we were visiting Boston for a day trip and he wondered what they were. He asked our waiter that night at dinner showing him this image on our camera, but our waiter didn't know what these were either.

Once we noticed him, we seemed to see him everywhere! All over DC and Philadelphia. After doing some research, I discovered this Flickr group dedicated to stikman sightings by other curious passerby's who have been intrigued by his ghostly presence.

Chicago, IL
http://www.flickr.com/photos/yooperann/4954980819/in/pool-42499904@N00/

Philadelphia, PA
http://www.flickr.com/photos/srhbth/4937909749/in/pool-42499904@N00/

He has become a new Easter Egg for my family while traveling. If you want to know more about stikman, and see more fabulous pictures of him, visit his photostream. Also, here are some articles on the elusive stikman:

Chicago Times

Boston University's The Quad

The Washington Post

Who knows, maybe he will get his own printable theme!

Best,

Krysten
Clickable Party

Fabulous Feature and Customer Pix {Thanks Wicked DIY Life!}

2011-08-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

Show some love to this fabulous blog, A Wicked DIY Life! She has some great tips about home decorating, simple smart projects and all things DIY! Her mom was also one of our first customers, and she was kind enough to share a blog post about us on her site.

Thanks Colleen! And happy DIYing! I'm looking forward to getting lots of great ideas from you!

Jungle party printables are available in our Etsy Shop!

Best,

Krysten

Clickable Party

This. Looks. Delicious! {Argentinian Dulce de Leche)

2011-07-29T00:00:00.000-07:00

Have you met the Celebration Girl?

She has wonderful posts about recipes, tablescapes, printables and party inspiration. She did this post a few days ago that literally made my mouth water! Dulce de Leche is easily my favorite ice cream. I didn't even know it was used as a cookie filling, and now that I know, I think I must try that too. Anyway, she gives three different methods on how to make your own along with pictures and instructions. Check it out!

http://thecelebrationgirl.com/?p=421

Please visit her, follow, subscribe and leave wonderful comments, because she is totally RAD!

Best,

Krysten

Clickable Party

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum {Summer Travels}

2011-07-28T00:00:00.000-07:00

The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington DC is close to the US Capitol building and the National Gallery of Art. It's walking distance to all the other Smithsonians and the National Mall. This is one of my kids' favorite museums, and they look forward to visiting, probably because of the total geek factor of the exhibits, and lot's on walk-through exhibits and hands-on stations.

Hands on exhibit "How things fly"

Mars Rover

WWII Airplanes

First private space flight vehicle.

Sputnik!

Mars Viking Lander

Stardust collector

First round-the-world air balloon flight

First private space flight vehicle

Apollo Command Module

Missiles

So much fun, and *free* to visit! (You know I love that!) For more on the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, click here.

Best,

Krysten

Clickable Party

True Blood Party! {Customer Pix}

2011-07-27T00:00:00.000-07:00

I love True Blood and the Sookie Stackhouse book series by Charlaine Harris (yes, I am a book nerd), and I'm loving this new season! In honor of Season 4, I created a True Blood inspired printable, and just got these great pix from Jenn who hosted a Season 4 kickoff party!

Looks like you had a great time! Thanks Jenn!

These printables are still available in our shop for birthday parties and other events!

Best,
Krysten
Clickable Party

Chinatown Express, Washington DC {Summer Travels}

2011-07-26T00:00:00.000-07:00

Typically when we are on road trips, daycations, staycations and museum hops, I pack my kids a backpack with a bottle of water and their lunch. Lunch at a museum can really break the budget (not so fun for me). But in this case, I made an exception because the price was reasonable, and it doubled for entertainment with my kids. My younger boy really likes Kung Fu Panda, and on the DVD, there is this great segment called Mr. Ping's Noodle House where Alton Brown (Geeky Science Cooking Show guy, who we love of course) shows the audience how real Chinese noodles are made.

So when I saw the Yelp! listing with this photo:

and then found out that the plates are around $5, I decided to splurge! It was totally worth it! Plus it was only a mile walk to the Air and Space museum, which was our next stop. *Bonus*

Friendship Gate, Chinatown, H Street NW at 7th Street NW
(the largest single span Chinese arch in the world.)

Here we are! The Chinatown Express sign was covered by a new awning with only Chinese writing on it.

Well, we didn't get to see the long noodles being made, but they were making dumplings and my boys were satisfied with that!

Auntie came too!

Me and Seth!

Ready with the chop sticks!

Beef with Udon Noodles

Orange chicken, shrimp with vegetable, rice noodle with curry and white rice.

Vegetable and Tofu with Udon Noodles

Pork Buns

The star of riches is shining on you.

Now is the time to try something new.

The star of riches is shining on you.

You will have good health, you will be surrounded by luxury.

I would definitely recommend a trip if you're in the DC area and are looking for a reasonable lunch within walking distance to lots of attractions!

Best,
Krysten
Clickable Party

This is brilliant! Dear Photograph {Geeky Fun}

2011-07-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

I love picture blogs like Awkward Family Photos, and Cake Wrecks. They're those faithful blogs that I can visit and have a chuckle. I also love Post Secret and was inspired by this particular Zefrank post, from 52 to 48 with love.

Here's one that my darling husband shared with me recently that is more of the inspiring-tear-jerking sort - Dear Photograph.

The concept is to take an old picture and put it in front of your camera in the same location it was taken years ago. There is something haunting and beautiful about many of these images. Check it out!

Whatayathink? I've got the perfect picture in mind to take and submit. Now...to find that picture! ;D

Best,
Krysten
Clickable Party

These. Look. Delicious! {Brownies, Fresh Berries, Creme Fraiche}

2011-07-22T00:00:00.000-07:00

From Bayaderka: Food Recipes & Photos

Super cute for a patriotic party!

Best,

Krysten

Clickable Party

Summer Party at the FDIC {Customer Pix}

2011-07-21T00:00:00.000-07:00

Our regulars at the FDIC used our Jungle Printables to decorate for their summer safari themed party! Here's some pix they sent.

So fun! Thanks guys! For these jungle party printables, check out our shop!

Best,
Krysten
Clickable Party

Smithsonian Natural History Museum {Summer Travels}

2011-07-20T00:00:00.000-07:00

Such a hot, hazy day in Washington DC, and we made our way to one of my kids' favorite places: The Smithsonian Museum of Natural History in Washington, DC. The kids really like the fossil area, and my youngest still calls the T-Rex "Rexy" (from the movie Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian). Two years ago, when we first visited, we got to see that movie here at the Smithsonian's IMAX!

Ready to have an awesome time!

The fossils exhibit.

Triceratops

More fossils!

Historic ocean creatures

Mammals!

If you give a moose a muffin...

or two!

Porcupine hair!

Two little monkeys...

My kids thought it was great fun to put their hats on the monkey skulls.

Simulated cave drawings.

Early humans (new exhibit *fascinating!*)

Written in bone exhibit. (my favorite)

If you want to learn more about the museum, here is an informative video from About.com.

Had a great time!

Best,

Krysten

Clickable Party

Hershey, PA: Chocolate World {Summer Travels}

2011-07-19T00:00:00.000-07:00

On our way down to Virginia, we stopped at Hershey Chocolate World by request for a quick visit to the factory and some chocolate, of course. We will have to come back some other time for a full visit to the park, but for now, this satisfied our sweet tooth! Especially since the main tour and factory role-play is *FREE* unless you choose to buy tickets to their extra attractions, or buy some souvenirs!

The beautiful Pennsylvania Countryside

Welcome to Hershey!

In line for the tour.

Moo-tiful!

"It's the milk chocolate!"

Never too old...

Factory worker role-play.

A sweet diversion!

Best,
Krysten
Clickable Party

First Roller Coaster Ride! Old Orchard Beach {Summer Travels}

2011-07-18T00:00:00.000-07:00

Ok, although this was the most expensive ticket I have ever purchased ($5 each) for the shortest roller coaster ride in history, my boys were totally jazzed that they got to go on a real-life-roller-coaster!

In line...

and waiting...

tickets please...

ready...

thumbs-up...

here we go!!!

Woo hoo!

We made it!

Whew!

A pic from the main attraction, Old Orchard Beach.

Best,

Krysten

Clickable Party

These. Look. Delicious! {Mocha Popsicles}

2011-07-15T00:00:00.000-07:00

Mocha Popsicles from The Caffeinated Globe looks like just the thing for a summer party! No recipe there, but I found one {that included pictures} at A Cozy Kitchen!

Mocha PopsiclesRecipe adapted from David LebovitzMakes 8 popsicles, depending on the size of your molds.
I made super strong coffee using my French press. I put 6 scoops of coffee with 3 cups of hot water and let it sit for 5 minutes. It came out super strong and perfect. Also, if you don’t have sweetened condensed milk, David says you could substitute using half & half or milk. I would just add a little at a time to taste.
2 cups (500ml) extra-strong coffee or espresso
2/3 cup (160ml) sweetened condensed milk
1 1/2 tablespoon of unsweetened dutch processed cocoa powder
Mix the coffee with the sweetened condensed milk. Add the tablespoon of cocoa powder. Taste, and add a bit more milk or chocolate powder, if desired. (A spoonful or two is fine, but any more and the popsicles won’t freeze as hard.)
Pour into popsicle molds and freeze until sold. Mine took about 8 hrs. To loosen the popsicle out of its mold, hold under warm water until it slides out. Voila! Awesome Mocha Popsicles.

Enjoy my party pals!

Best,
Krysten
Clickable Party

Postcrossing Anyone? {Geeky Fun}

2011-07-14T00:00:00.000-07:00

Here's a fun family activity that is educational and fun. We started Postcrossing about two years ago. When we go on our travels, we try to pick up interesting postcards that we can send to some lucky person somewhere around the world. We started this so that the kids could learn more about geography, and I was surprised to learn about places I had never heard of before. This is also a great classroom project for kids of almost any age!

Basically, you sign up with Postcrossing, and they will tell you where to send your postcard. You even get to see the person's profile, and find out what kind of postcards they would like. Once your postcard is received, your profile is listed next in the cue to receive a postcard. How exciting! You can start a scrapbook, or just keep the one online.

Here's some we have sent.

And here's some we received!

Here's our personalized map showing where we have sent to and received from.

Hope you try it out, and enjoy it!

Best,

Krysten

Clickable Party

Bocce Love {Party Activity}

2011-07-13T00:00:00.000-07:00

Every year when we go to Maine, my family plays Bocce. It's kind of like bowling, but with small colored balls and a court instead of a lane. Ok, it's not much like bowling at all, but it's loads of fun and almost any age can play! It's a great family tradition that you should try!

Here's some pix from our bocce battles!

2009

2010

2011

As you can see, Bocce is a great backyard game to add to a family reunion or birthday party!

Best,

Krysten

Clickable Party

Fourth of July {Party time!} and special birthday

2011-07-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

We had a fab time on the Fourth with my family up in Maine (knew we would)! We had a very special birthday, and celebrated the 4th in style with Maine Lobster!

Here's the gang!

The t-shirts! That's my aunt and my mom.

Mike and Lucy

The newlyweds.

Play pass the baby! :D

Auntie's turn!

My turn!

Mommy's turn!

Dessert table. Maine to Florida Patriotic color scheme for my Uncle's birthday!

The cake.

I tried to make one of those cute mini-banners, and it was a bit wonky, but still cute.

Setting up.

LOBSTA!

The feast begins.

BFFs

Sisters from another mister.

There's the birthday boy!

Dessert!

Cake

Birthday blueberry muffins.

Lots o'candles.

Flag cake...Yum!

The view of the lake.

Awesome family time! Tomorrow we're off to DC for a couple of weeks. If I see some great party stuff, I will be sure to share it!

Best,

Krysten

Clickable Party

Clickable Party

FREE Glee Printable Coming Soon!

We're Moving!

Adventure Time! Free Printable Party

Holiday Snowflake Printables

Halloween Freebies {Via Catch My Party}

What I'm Working On {Latest and Greatest}

This. Looks. Delicious! {Mini Chocolate Cakes with Chocolate Ganache and Fresh Raspberries}

Percy Jackson Birthday {Inspiration!}

Letterboxing {Geeky Fun}

Labor Day Freebies! {Via Catch My Party}

Freebie Roundup Summer/Fall 2011

This. Looks. Delicious! {Double Chocolate Loaf with Peanutbutter Cream Cheese Spread}

Teacher's Gift Tutorial {and Back to School Freebie}

The Washington DC Mall Monuments {Wordless Wednesday Summer Travels}

Football Freebies {Full Printable Party}

Penny Smashers {Geeky Fun}

Getting ready for fall {Back to School and Halloween Freebie}

Back to School Teacher's Gift Idea

This. Looks. Delicious! {Lemon Almond Meringues}

Back to School Freebies! {Thanks Catch My Party!}

Philadelphia Visitor Center and Liberty Bell {Summer Travels}

Free Back to School Printables *Coming Soon*

Wordless Wednesday {Patrick Star Donut}

Georgetown Cupcakes {Accidental Tourist Moment #2}

The Moomins {Geeky Fun}

Subway Art Birthday Party Preparations

This. Looks. Delicious! {Twix Brownie Bars}

The Jefferson Monument {Summer Travels}

Old Post Office Pavilion {Accidental Tourist Moment}

Stikman Sightings {Geeky Fun}

Fabulous Feature and Customer Pix {Thanks Wicked DIY Life!}

This. Looks. Delicious! {Argentinian Dulce de Leche)

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum {Summer Travels}

True Blood Party! {Customer Pix}

Chinatown Express, Washington DC {Summer Travels}

This is brilliant! Dear Photograph {Geeky Fun}

These. Look. Delicious! {Brownies, Fresh Berries, Creme Fraiche}

Summer Party at the FDIC {Customer Pix}

Smithsonian Natural History Museum {Summer Travels}

Hershey, PA: Chocolate World {Summer Travels}

First Roller Coaster Ride! Old Orchard Beach {Summer Travels}

These. Look. Delicious! {Mocha Popsicles}

Postcrossing Anyone? {Geeky Fun}

Bocce Love {Party Activity}

Fourth of July {Party time!} and special birthday

Free Back to School Printables Coming Soon