Birthday Parties Ideas For A Girl

A girl's birthday party should be fun for all partygoers.

Holding a birthday party for your girl can be a lot of fun for both you and your daughter. There are many ideas that can make the party memorable. Each party idea is best united under a theme chosen by your daughter or suggested by you. Party ideas vary depending on the age of your daughter. Does this Spark an idea?

Princess Party

Many young girls love the idea of princesses and a princess party gives them a chance to act out those fantasies. Invitations should be written with very royal sounding prose. For example, the invitation could read "The Royal Princess Josephine of the Jones Family does hereby invite the royal court of princesses from the Springfield Kingdom to a celebration of her birth." Decorations should include lace, model princess candles and bowls of golden chocolate. Each girl should bring her own princess outfit. Games can include princess modeling contests, tea parties and other royal games. Food should include tea and crumpets and whatever else the birthday girl wants.

Sports Party

Not every girl is interested in princesses or girl fantasies. Many girls really enjoy sports. Send out invitations stating that each guest has been "drafted" to the family "team." Each girl should wear a sports jersey to the party, either her own or a recreation of her favorite athlete's. Make sure each girl brings a piece of sports paraphernalia, such as a soccer ball or a softball bat. Games can include playing the sports outside if it is warm enough or playing video game re-creations if it is too cold to play outside. Girls can also watch any sports game on the television or watch DVDs of great sports games. Food can include hot dogs, hamburgers, Gatorade and other sporting-event favorites.

Pajama Slumber Party

A pajama slumber birthday party is perfect for pre-teen and teen girls with a lot of friends. The party invitations can be worded like hotel reservations, such as "Jane Doe has a reservation at the Smith Family Hotel on May 4th, 2011, at 7 p.m. Pajama attire required. Sleeping bags available." Everyone should be wearing pajamas, including the adults. Rent several movies for entertainment. Buy pizza and chips for the food. The party should including cutting the cake, eating ice cream and board games. Try to go to bed by at least 10:00. This gives the girls plenty of time to have fun by themselves.

Nostalgia Birthday Party

An 18th birthday party may make a girl feel nostalgic, as she is officially becoming an adult. Throw a nostalgia party to remember all the good old times. Invitations should use nostalgic words, such as "remembering" to put all the girls in the proper nostalgic mood. Party games can include nostalgic storytelling games. Decorations can include pictures from the past, including sporting events, school pictures and past birthday-party pictures. The food can be any that makes the birthday girl and her friends nostalgic. If the girls had a memorable trip to Taco Bell at one birthday party, serve them tacos.

Tags: birthday party, your daughter, birthday girl, birthday party, Each girl, Each girl should, games Food

Game Hints For "Nancy Drew Ghost Dogs Of Moon Lake"

Sometimes a few hints help to make a game more enjoyable.

"Nancy Drew: Ghost Dogs of Moon Lake" is a mystery, adventure game for the personal computer. Since it is a mystery game, it is easy to get stuck at times. It is nice to have some hints to help to know what to do next, so that all of the mystery can eventually be solved.

Taking Notes

Take notes of anything that seems important. Drawing maps or diagrams is also important to help to make it through the game. Check Nancy's PDA often. Nancy Drew will be taking notes, also.

Importance of Saving

Save the game before and after each puzzle and chapter. Do not overwrite chapters; coming back to these chapters may be needed if the player gets stuck. It is also a good idea to save the game after any part of the game that seems challenging. One of the game slots could also be saved as a temporary bookmark space. This way, a chapter wouldn't need to be overwritten.

Hints for Each Room

Examine each room carefully and pick up all loose objects. Ask all the questions you can until the person that is being questioned has nothing left to say. If there seems to be nothing left to do, go to bed, let time pass and begin a new day. Make sure that each direction that can be moved is checked out. Also make sure to check all parts of the room for items that may be clues.

Ask Questions

Ask questions of everyone, without giving away clues. Also, do not try to offend the people, or answers may not be forthcoming at all. The phone is also a great place to find out information that may help in solving the mystery. Nancy's friends will be helpful to talk with also. If the player is stuck, try retracing steps and re-interviewing people. Sometimes interview paths will open up at different points.

Tags: Nancy Drew, Dogs Moon, Dogs Moon Lake, Drew Ghost, Drew Ghost Dogs, Ghost Dogs, Ghost Dogs Moon

Birthday Parties For Kids In Los Angeles Ca

A kid's birthday party can be quick and easy with the help of a birthday venue.

Some parents work hard to give their child a birthday party she will never forget. However, throwing a child's birthday party is a lot of work and sometimes, parents miss out on the enjoyment of the party as they work to make it fun for the kids. Several Los Angeles venues offer birthday party options that require little work on the part of the parents. Does this Spark an idea?

Dragonfly DuLou

Dragonfly DuLou is a children's boutique that also offers birthday party packages to families. Geared to children ages one to four, parties are offered Monday through Thursday over lunch, Friday afternoons and anytime on Saturday and Sunday. The party includes use of the outdoor courtyard and the studio, as well as set up and clean up, tables and chairs and the help of staff. For an additional charge, parents can add an art table, jewelry table, magician and face painting.

The Awesome Playground

Offering personalized birthday parties, The Awesome Playground helps parents to coordinate catering, entertainment and the cake. Party times are available on Friday evenings and in several two- to three-hour blocks on Saturdays and Sundays. Several levels of party activities are available. All parties include private use of the facility, a coordinator and party assistant, games and a return play pass for the birthday child. The higher party levels can include the cake, drinks, pizza and paper products. For an additional fee, balloons, goodie bags and face painting can be included.

Magical Celebrations

Professional actors dress as your child's favorite characters, making his birthday party a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Choose from theme parties, such as princess and fairy tale, pirate, puppies and silly knights. Parents can interview their performer ahead of time to create an experience tailored for their child. The party includes the performer, storytelling, games, singing and dancing and face painting for all of the guests. The characters offer photo opportunities that will create memories for life.

Travel Town Museum

Some kids love trains and would love to have their birthday party in their very own train car. Travel Town Museum rents out train cars for birthday parties to satisfy the train enthusiast. Two cars are available: the Pennsylvania dining car built around 1925, and the Southern Pacific chair car built around 1910. Cars seat up to 40 people and are air conditioned for comfort. Each car features banquet tables and chairs, as well as a refrigerator. If parents would prefer to eat outside, the picnic area is also available for rent. Parents can choose to rent one or both of the cars to accommodate their guest list.

Abrakadoodle

Art classes are conducted at Abrakadoodle for kids of all ages. However, they also offer birthday parties. Each party package includes a qualified teacher, art materials and activities. Each child will complete an art project during the course of the party that is his to take home. Party themes can be chosen to meet the child's interests, including pirates, water lillies and castles and dragons. Special projects can also be requested ahead of time.

Peekaboo Playland

Peekaboo Playland is an indoor playground that offers activities for children of all ages to enjoy. Four different party packages are available, including Hootenanny, Eagle Rocker and Theme Shebang. Custom parties are also available. The packages typically include two hours of private time in the playground, party coordinators, set up and clean up and activities. Party activities include parachute games and dress up. More expensive packages include paper products, food, drinks and cake. The Shebang theme allows parents to choose a theme for their child's party. Additional activities and time can be added to any package at an additional cost.

Dan the Man Gym

Offering a wide range of activities for any age, Dan the Man Gym also offers kids' birthday parties. Each party offers age-appropriate games, gymnastics activities and sports. A party consists of two hours in the gym, a t-shirt for the birthday child, set up and clean up and decorations. Experienced staff members will lead the guests through the activities. For an additional charge, parents can increase their package to include invitations, paper products and favors. Some packages require parents to bring in food of their own, while others include pizza and drinks.

Creation Station

For dance lovers, Creation Station dance studio offers birthday party packages. Parties use music and dance to get the kids involved and moving. Parents can choose from one of the many birthday themes available, including rock and roll, hip hop, pirates and princesses and "Let's Put on a Show." These birthday parties will incorporate the theme into the party with music, dancing and acting. Art projects, games and refreshments are included in each two-hour party.

Tags: birthday party, birthday parties, face painting, paper products, party packages, their child

Birthday Games That Can Be Played In A Restaurant

Party games can make any restaurant birthday party fun.

Throwing a birthday party in a restaurant means not having to worry about food or seating arrangements. Birthday parties in restaurants are suitable for adults and older children alike. To make the party even more special, consider organizing some games for the guests to play while waiting for their food. Does this Spark an idea?

Trivia

Plan a trivia game for your guests, choosing questions about different topics. Subjects might include music, film, television, history, popular culture or politics. Plan questions around your guests' interests. Think of at least 20 questions, and hand out sheets of paper and pens and have your guests write down their answers for each question. When you have read all the questions, have guests swap answer sheets with one another and read out the answers. Hand out small prizes for the guests with the most correct answers.

Birthday Bingo

Make bingo cards using words instead of numbers. Choose words that relate to birthdays, or the birthday boy or girl. Take as many pieces of legal-size paper as there are guests, and divide each piece of paper into at least nine squares. Write a birthday-related word in each square, making sure that no piece of paper has the same set of words as another. On smaller pieces of paper, write each word once. Fold the smaller pieces of paper, place them in a hat and mix them up. Pick one piece of paper at a time and read aloud the word written on the paper. Each guest should cross that word off his bingo card. The winner is the guest to cross off all her words first.

The Memory Game

This is a good game for smaller groups at a restaurant. Start by saying, for example, "I went to a party and I brought a basket of muffins." The person next to you should repeat what you said, and add something of his own, for example, "I went to a party and I brought a basket of muffins and a stuffed animal." Go around the table, having each guest add an item and repeating what all the previous guests have said. Keep going until someone forgets an item.

Message Under a Plate

Arrive at the restaurant first and place a note card with a strange phrase written on it under each bread plate. Examples might include "I am a space cowboy" or "Have you tried the ostrich eggs?" Have guests read their card at the beginning of the meal, and instruct them to try to use their phrase as naturally as possible during dinner. The loser is the last guest to use her phrase in conversation.

Tags: piece paper, your guests, basket muffins, birthday party, brought basket

Birthday Decoration Ideas At Work

Choose a theme for your decor.

Birthday celebrations are a common way to improve on workplace morale and show employees their company cares for them. Before commencing decorating, always verify what is and isn't allowed with human resources and management. The goal is to celebrate in a work-appropriate way that doesn't impede productivity but still shows your coworker that you care. Does this Spark an idea?

Cubicle and Office

Private cubicles and offices offer more design opportunities than a shared space or work area. Tying your decoration endeavors to a theme will keep it from being the same old plain corporate celebration. Pick a theme that matches the celebrant's hobbies or likes---if he enjoys jet skiing in his spare time, a nautical or beach theme is a good idea.

Hang streamers and balloons around the top of his cubicle walls. Suspend a birthday banner over the entrance to the cubicle---high enough so heads don't bump it. Place a cluster of weighted helium balloons on either side of the entrance. Hang decorations or place them where they won't interfere with work.

Cover the office door or an outside wall of his cubicle with wrapping paper and a large bow. Attach small party favors or toys that match your theme to yarn. Tie a paper clip to the other end of the string. Slip the paper clip between the ceiling tile and metal dividers and hang throughout the office or cubicle space.

Work Areas

Tone down birthday decorations in shared work spaces to avoid distracting others. If your coworker has her own desk in an open floor plan decorate her chair and computer monitor. Measure the monitor and cut a square out of a piece of poster board. Trim the outside edges of the poster board to make a 3- to 4-inch frame. Decorate it it with markers, glue ribbons and bows to it, and write a special birthday greeting. Attach to the monitor with tape.

Attach balloons and streamers to the back of her chair. Make or purchase a small birthday sign or banner to place in the center back of the chair. Hang metallic fringe skirting around the edge of her desk.

If she has no specific work area or is in front of customers all day, traditional decorations won't be an option. Instead, make her a special birthday name tag and attach a gift bow or a cascade of curling ribbon to it. Place a balloon with her new name tag attached to the string near her locker or where she clocks in.

Break Room

Break room is synonymous with party room at most work places. Place colorful plastic birthday tablecloths on the tables. Use pencil cups and desk organizers to hold arrangements of pen flowers. Make these by holding the stem of an artificial flower against a pen. Wrap green floral tape around the stem and pen to attach them together.

Hang plenty of streamers and balloons around the room. Supply some fun party ware for the food---whether you have a potluck or order in from somewhere. Decorated plastic drink picks and decorated paper plates add to the festivity. Choose a cake design that matches your coworker's personality. If there is more than one birthday that day, get a small cake for each person instead of one large sheet cake.

Tags: your coworker, back chair, balloons around, paper clip, poster board, special birthday

Birthday Cupcake Decorating Ideas With Icing

A swirl of frosting with sprinkles is a classic cupcake design.

Cupcakes are a convenient and versatile dessert, especially for birthday parties. Not only are they easy to make, but they also lend themselves to a variety of decorating options. With just icing alone, the sky's the limit. And because cupcakes come in individual-sized servings, they are perfect for guests to grab when they're ready for a sweet treat. Does this Spark an idea?

Swirl and Sprinkles

This cupcake design is simple yet attractive for birthday parties. Anyone can handle this decorative technique. Tint the frosting to the desired color by adding food coloring and stirring thoroughly. Place the tinted frosting into a pastry bag fitted with a large star decorating tip. Applying even pressure, go around the edge of the cupcake and gradually move toward the center to complete a swirl. Release the pressure and pull up to a point when you reach the center. Top the icing swirl with colored sprinkles.

Stars

Another simple icing technique is to cover the cupcake surface with stars. Start with the tinted frosting and fit the pastry bag with a small star tip. The shape of the decorating tip creates ridges in the frosting to make it resemble a star. Hold the decorating tip right above the top of the cupcake straight up and down. Squeeze the pastry bag until a star forms on the cupcake top. You can control the size of the star depending on how long you squeeze. Release the pressure and pull the decorating tip away. Continue making stars until the entire cupcake top is covered. Do stars in the same color or alternate the colors of the stars for variety.

Animal Faces

Use the round shape of the cupcake tops to create animal faces. Smooth a layer of icing onto the cupcake in a color that matches the animal. For example, use pink frosting for a pig or brown frosting for a bear. Use additional icing colors for the eyes, nose, mouth, ears and other facial features of the animal. Decorate all the cupcakes as the same animal or do a variety of animals to create a cupcake zoo.

Monogram

This birthday cupcake design works well for all ages. Ice the cupcake in a color that matches the party color scheme. Use a round icing tip to write the guest of honor's initials on top of the cake. Create a border of stars or swirly lines around the edge of the cupcake for additional decoration.

Personalized Face Cupcakes

Create a custom cupcake for each of the party guests. This is ideal for kids' birthday parties. Tint the icing to create a skin-tone color and draw a circle on the cupcake for the child's face. Add hair that resembles the child's actual hair. Write the child's name below the face on top of the cupcake. Repeat for all of the party guests.

Tags: birthday parties, cupcake design, around edge, around edge cupcake, color that, color that matches

Baby Shower Themes For Girls

A celestial-themed baby shower can focus on stars, moons and suns.

Throwing a baby shower is much simpler once the sex of the baby is known. It allows the guests to know what types of gifts to bring and it allows the planner to decide on what theme he or she would like to follow. A good baby shower theme lends itself to decorations, games and gifts, and choosing one for a baby girl is a straightforward process.

Sugar-and-Spice Baby Shower

A sugar-and-spice baby shower can be decorated in candy colors, like pink for strawberry, brown for chocolate and white for vanilla. Use the bakery-themed party to serve up an elaborate cake or cupcakes, or make it a potluck and ask everyone to bring along the baked goods of her choice. You can also encourage everyone to bring along baking recipes that the mother-to-be can prepare in the future for her daughter.

Time of Day Baby Shower

The mother of a new baby girl needs to be on call around the clock, and a time-of-day baby shower helps her with this. Each guest is assigned a time of day, and they need to bring a gift that goes along with that time of day. For eample, a guest who receives 8 P.M. as a time might choose to bring along pajamas, while a guest who is assigned 2 A.M. may offer a baby radio monitor.

Musical Baby Shower

The musical baby shower is a crowd pleaser, and it is ideal for mothers who love to dance or listen to music. Decorate with musical notes and sheet music, and ask every guest to bring along a CD for the expected baby girl. Ask them to choose songs that were inspirational or important to them, and start the little girl's first music library. This is a perfect party for dancing and singing, so encourage everyone to get up and cut loose.

Celestial Baby Shower

For a mother who knows that her little girl is going to be a star, consider a celestial-themed party. Put up moon, sun and star decorations and serve the guests star-shaped cookies. If the mother is going to be decorating the baby's room in a celestial theme, invite guests to bring along gifts using that theme, including celestial stickers and stencils, baby blankets with stars and moons on them, and glow-in-the-dark stars for the walls.

Tags: bring along, baby shower, baby girl, Baby Shower, Baby Shower mother, encourage everyone

Birthday Celebration Ideas

Birthday parties can be enjoyable for adults and children.

Birthday parties are a time to celebrate your loved ones in a festive way. For children as well as adults, having a great birthday party can create memories to last a lifetime. Coming up with ideas on celebrate is a major part of birthday party planning. Does this Spark an idea?

Time Warp Parties

For adult parties, reaching back into time is one way to incorporate a theme. For instance, if your birthday boy or girl was born (or grew up) in the 1980s, then an '80s-themed party would be appropriate. Play music from that era, wear '80s-style clothing and decorate with paraphernalia from that decade. For those who were born (or grew up) in 1970s, a disco theme would work well; a 1960s party would be easy to dress for with tie-dyed clothing and long hair wigs. Make sure every detail takes a step back in time--from decorations to invitations to food--for a well-planned party.

Kids' Parties

Kids' parties can be very simple to plan. Kids typically have a few activities or items that they currently love. A theme-based party using one or two of those items is sure to excite your child. A favorite TV show, singer, movie, sport or hobby could be the perfect theme. Revamp old party favorites to include the theme you are using. For instance, pin the tail on the donkey can be revamped as pin the tail on the dinosaur if the child's current obsession is dinosaurs. Having food in theme shapes, as well as decorations, are just some of the ways to incorporate your child's passion into a memorable event.

Activity-Based Party

If your birthday man or woman, or boy or girl, has a passion for a certain activity, celebrate their birthday by incorporating their favorite activity. An ice skating passion from your birthday girl could lead to inviting her closest friends to skate and celebrate at a local ice rink. A man who loves golf can visit a golf course with friends on his birthday and follow the game up with food, drinks and cake. Celebrate a football lover's birthday with a friendly flag football game followed by cake and ice cream. Incorporating the birthday with a loved one's favorite activities is a creative way to show the birthday person a memorable time.

Tags: your birthday, birthday girl, Birthday parties, birthday party, birthday with

Birthday Celebrating Ideas

A traditional birthday is celebrated with cake, candles and balloons.

When celebrating your birthday, you are celebrating the beginning of you and your life. As you get older, you celebrate your accomplishments and how your life has turned out. Whether you want to bring in your new year with a bang, or have a humble celebration, the possibilities are limitless. Does this Spark an idea?

Plan a Getaway

Make a plan, save some money, take some time off of work and get away. Whether you would like to take a lavish trip to a different country or just a weekend getaway to a bed and breakfast, sometimes just being in a new place, around different people is just what you need to rejuvenate your spirit and give you a new perspective on life. If you just want to relax, visit a bed and breakfast or book a cruise. If you're looking for adventure, consider planning a hiking trip or visiting another country.

Volunteer

When birthdays roll around, people can be left feeling depressed, emotional and in some cases even defeated. Counteract these negative feelings by helping those less fortunate. Volunteering has been shown to reduce depression, increase self-confidence and, when done on a regular basis, even help people to stay physically fit.

On your birthday, make someone else's birthday special. There are organizations across the country that provide homeless children with birthday parties. There are several ways to become a part of this effort, including painting faces, making food, coordinating events or donating funds.

Celebrate With Family and Friends

Probably the most traditional way to celebrate your birthday is with friends and family. Whether you're planning a party at home, a night out on the town or a quiet dinner, being with others to celebrate with you is a great way to bring in your new year with some laughs. For a different spin on things, plan a surprise birthday party for your parents, thanking them for bringing you into the world.

Reflect and Plan

Take some time to yourself to look back over the last couple of years. Decide what you would like to change. Write a 'to-do' list and copy it. Seal one of them, to be opened on a future birthday - after having met your goals. Your list can be simple, including things like changing your eating habits, losing weight or just being nicer to people. It can also include more complex, life-changing tasks like going back to school or moving to a new state. When the time comes to open the envelope, it will be a reminder that you have completed all of the things on your list.

Tags: your birthday, bring your, bring your year, celebrate your, just being

Birthday Cake Games For Kids

Include party games that are all about the birthday cake.

Second only to the birthday child, the cake ranks as one of the stars of the party. Celebrate this sweet birthday tradition in more ways than one. Before you serve the cake, build the anticipation with games that highlight this favorite birthday treat. Kids will enjoy playing the birthday cake games almost as much as they enjoy eating the cake itself.

Birthday Cake Scavenger Hunt

Send the kids on a scavenger hunt for the items needed to make a birthday cake. Hide the supplies around the yard or throughout the house. Items to hide include cake mix, a mixing bowl, baking pans, spatulas, frosting, oven mitts and a kitchen apron. Print a checklist of the items they must find. When the kids return all of the supplies to the kitchen, have them help mix the ingredients and bake the cake.

Birthday Cake Word Scramble

Play this game when you are ready to present the birthday cake. Have the children sit in a circle on the floor. Hand them each a pencil and a piece of paper on which you have scrambled words and phrases, such as birthday cake, candles, happy birthday and birthday wish. Instruct them to unscramble the words to earn a seat at the birthday table. When each completes his unscramble challenge, he may get up and go take a seat at the table. When all of the kids arrive at the table, it is time to sing the birthday song and eat the cake.

Birthday Cake Relay

Divide the party guests into two teams and have each team form a single line of players. On a table several feet away from the players, set out one birthday cake and a set of candles that is equal to the number of players on each team. At the word "go," the first player in line must run to the table, retrieve a candle, return to her team and stand in the back of the line. When the first player returns, the second player must run to get his candle and return, also to the back of the line. Once all of the players have retrieved their candles and returned to the line, the entire team must race to the table and place the candles in a cake. When all of the candles are in the cake, an adult will light them and the team will blow them out together. The first team to collect and place their candles in the cake and then blow them out wins the game.

Birthday Cake Decorating Contest

Instead of one large birthday cake, bake or purchase one single-serving size birthday cake for each guest. Set one unfrosted cake in front of each guest's seat at a table. Provide frosting, sprinkles, gel icing, crushed cookies and an assortment of small candies. Instruct the kids to use these items to decorate their cakes. Award prizes for the best decorated cakes. Category suggestions include most creative, most colorful, prettiest, silliest or strangest cake.

Tags: birthday cake, cake Birthday, cake Birthday Cake, candles cake, back line

Birthday Cake Decorating Ideas For Children

Birthdays are an exciting time for children, even if it's someone else's birthday they're celebrating. Letting your child get involved in decorating the birthday cake gives him an added sense of enjoyment and lets him know that his opinions matter. Does this Spark an idea?

Birthday Cake Ideas

Making a Mickey Mouse cake is as easy as baking one large round cake, then two smaller round cakes. Use the larger cake as the head, then position the two smaller cakes as the ears. Frost in the appropriate colors, then use decorating frosting to add a face.

For a heart cake, bake a square cake and a round cake. Cut the round cake in half and, with the square cake turned so that it looks like a diamond, position the two halves of the round cake on either side of the top point. Attach the pieces with a layer of frosting, then frost the entire cake.

A ladybug cake can be made with a round or dome cake pan. Frost the cooled cake with red frosting for the body and black frosting for the head, then draw a line down the middle for the wings and make a few black spots on the back. You can even use some black licorice for antennae.

To make a fun castle cake, bake three square cakes in descending sizes. Stack the cakes from the largest on the bottom to the smallest on top, using frosting to attach them. In the same way, stack and attach three cupcakes to form a turret. Make two turrets and place them in front of the main castle. Place one cupcake at each corner of the top layer of the castle, then frost everything. Make little flags with construction paper and toothpicks and stick them in the tops of the turrets. Then just draw windows and a door with black frosting, and you have a castle fit for your own prince or princess.

Decorating Ideas for Kids

While it's fun to present your child with a beautiful cake you decorated yourself, it's just as fun to let your child help decorate his own birthday cake. Just how much help your child is able to give you will depend on his age and ability level. If he is able to safely use a butter knife, let your child smear the frosting onto the cake. It may not turn out pretty, but your child will feel a great sense of accomplishment when it's done.

Once the base layer of frosting has been applied, you can start adding decorations. Most supermarkets and craft stores sell pre-tinted decorating icing, which you can use to draw pictures or write a message on the cake. Give your child a tube and let her draw to her heart's content all over the cake.

Colored sugar, sprinkles and small candies make great additions to your child's birthday cake. Even nuts and small dried fruits can add a twist to the decorations.

Some of the greatest kid-friendly cake decorating ideas result in the funnest cakes. Have your child frost the cake, then put a pair of clean new children's sunglasses on top and draw a smiley face under the glasses with decorating frosting. A cute underwater cake can be made by frosting a cake with blue frosting, then having your child place candy gummy fish all over the top. Cut a green fruit roll-up into seaweed shapes and add them to the scene.

Make an adorable pizza cake with a round cake, red frosting, coconut chocolate clusters (for sausage), cut red and green fruit roll-ups (for the peppers) and grated white chocolate (for the cheese).

Using a dome cake pan, bake a dome-shaped cake and have your child insert a doll topper (available at most craft stores) so that the cake appears to be the doll's dress. Then let your child apply the frosting and decorations to make a beautiful ball gown.

Another great idea that kids love helping out with is individually decorated cupcakes. Make the cupcakes in individual baking papers before the birthday party. Protect your table with an old cloth or some newspapers, then set out bowls of frosting, food coloring, sprinkles and other decorations. Give guests a cupcake and let them decorate their own. You can even hold a contest to determine the most creative cupcake. Some ideas for these individual cakes are bear or dog faces using a vanilla wafer cookie for the snout and two halves of a vanilla wafer cookie for the ears, a hedgehog using slivered almonds for the spines, or a butterfly using cut up fruit roll-ups for the wings and licorice strings for the antennae.

Tags: your child, round cake, cake bake, cake with, birthday cake

Birthday Beach Games

A simple beach ball makes for a fun game of beach soccer.

Whether you're celebrating your birthday at the beach or bringing a beach-theme to your backyard birthday party, games are an important part of keeping your guests entertained. Selecting amusing games to go with your birthday party venue not only helps reinforce the theme, but also serves to put your guests in a beach frame of mind.

Frisbee Golf

Frisbee golf, also known as "folf," is a beach game for big or small party crowds. Smaller groups can play the game as individuals and larger groups can break into teams. Designate an object players can hit with a Frisbee, such as a large rock, for each "hole" in the course. Players or teams take turns throwing the Frisbee to try and hit the selected object. The number of throws it takes for a hit is the score for that hole. Players can go through eight to 18 holes per game. Just as in regular golf, the individual or team with the lowest score wins.

Beach Ball Soccer

Try a game of beach ball soccer if you're lucky enough to throw your party at the beach. Have your guests break into two teams and designate a goal on each side, such as a large seashell. Give players an inflatable beach ball instead of a soccer ball. The real fun comes with the location: the surf. Guests slip and slide as they try to play soccer right where the sea meets the sand.

Crab Walk Race

Help birthday party guests loosen up and get into a beach frame of mind with an amusing race that makes everyone look silly. Clear an area to serve as the track and place rocks or strings to indicate the start and finish lines. Each player must line up in a crab walk position, raised up on his or her hands and feet with back toward the ground. At the starting signal, players crab walk down the track and the first to cross the finish line wins.

Water Balloon Volleyball

If you cannot reach the beach, help birthday party guests keep cool with a water balloon volleyball game. Fill large latex balloons about three quarters full with water. Hang a sheet or rope -- or a net if you have one -- from two poles to serve as the net. Invite your guests to break into two teams and use the water balloons as volleyballs. The game follows regular volleyball rules, except teams are penalized one point for each balloon they break.

Hula Hoop Contest

Find out which of your party guests is the best hula dancer with a Hula Hoop dance contest. Whether you're on the beach or in your backyard, Hula Hoops work anywhere. Provide your guests with Hula Hoops and as the music starts, have them start twirling the hoop around their waists. The last person still left hooping at the end wins the contest. You can also add extra prize categories to the contest, such as who can keep the most hoops moving at once and who can Hula Hoop the fastest.

Tags: your guests, birthday party, break into, break into teams, Hula Hoop, into teams, party guests

Birthday Barbie Gifts

A doll is set into a birthday cake for a Barbie fan.

Little girls that play with Barbie dolls enjoy receiving Barbie birthday gifts. A wide array of exciting items are available for purchase to go with the doll that was first introduced in 1959. Patterns for clothing, dollhouses and furniture allow crafty gift givers the opportunity to personalize a special Barbie gift for the birthday girl. Go beyond the accompanying dolls, videos and games to find that birthday present this year.

Dollhouse and Vehicle

Build or purchase a personalized Barbie dollhouse for the birthday girl. Simple to elaborate dollhouses are available that are built to 1/16 scale for the 11.5-inch doll. Furniture, curtains and wall coverings add to the personal touches that finish the home. Barbie can be driven around the house in one of the vehicles that are available from the Barbie line of toys from Mattel.

Clothing and Accessories

Ruth Handler, the doll creator, assigned Charlotte Johnson the task of creating Barbie's first clothing line, according to a website called Barbie Style. Purchased or handmade doll clothes for Barbie make great birthday gifts, and child-size clothing can be made for the little girl that enjoys wearing an outfit that matches that of her doll. Sewing and crochet patterns to make these outfits are available online for crafty parents or friends.

School Supplies

Wrap up a Barbie backpack or tote bag for the end of summer birthday gift. Young schoolgirls appreciate notebooks, pencils, erasers and containers with Barbie embellishments. A Barbie snack bag, purse, watch and sandals will complete her school ensemble.

Room Decor

Gift the Barbie fan with sheets, pillowcases, comforter, throw blanket or drapes for her dream bedroom. Wall borders with peel-and-stick Barbie figures, logos, flowers and butterflies can accent the walls of the birthday girl's room. A Barbie towel, face cloth and toothbrush can decorate her bathroom.

Tags: birthday girl, birthday gifts, with Barbie

Birds Of Paradise Wedding Invitations Diy

Design your own birds of paradise wedding invitations using your computer and printer at home. Why spend hundreds of dollars on professional services for your invitations when you can make them yourself? Add a decorative touch to your invitations with simple craft supplies and a touch of creativity.

Designing the Invitations

Use a graphics program such as Microsoft Picture It or Adobe Photoshop Elements to create your own birds of paradise wedding invitations. Open a new document and set the invitation size to 5-by-7 inches or 4-by-6 inches. Insert a photograph or clip art of the birds of paradise into the new document and position the image where you want it on the card.

Add a colorful frame to the photo using the tools available in the software. Draw a solid colored box at the bottom of the photo and type your wedding information in to the box using the text tool. Use a decorative font and change the color of the text to match the image. Include any pertinent information such as the event location, time and date as well as RSVP information.

Printing the Invitations

Print your invitations on cardstock, linen or parchment paper to lend a professional look. Be sure the paper you choose is of archival quality so that your invitations do not fade or smear overtime. Use a solid color to ensure the photograph prints properly and set your printer to its highest quality setting for photographs.

Decorating the Invitations

Once you have finished printing the invitations, give them a handmade look by laying a sheet of vellum over them to add elegance and a soft matted look to the photograph. Attach the vellum using ribbon or twine tied in a bow, or use decorative brads or eyelets to fasten the vellum to the invitations.

Instead of using vellum, consider matting the invitations on decorative cardstock. Cut the decorative cardstock so it is one-half to 1 inch larger than the invitations. Place a strip of double-sided tape onto the back of the invitations and position them onto the center of the cardstock.

Tags: your invitations, birds paradise, birds paradise wedding, decorative cardstock, paradise wedding invitations, wedding invitations

Bingo Prize Ideas For Kids

Bingo Prize Ideas for Kids

Kids love amusing group games, especially when there are prizes to be won, and bingo is no exception. The best bingo prize ideas for kids are low-cost toys, such as the kind you could get at a carnival or game arcade. These amusing little prizes are cherished tokens of accomplishment for any kid, until they quickly get lost or broken. Nevertheless, it's a great learning experience and the toy is usually thoroughly enjoyed during its short life. Does this Spark an idea?

Young Kid Prizes

Bingo prize ideas for young kids need to avoid items with small or delicate parts. Whatever the item may be, it just needs parts too big to swallow. Think about using bright, plastic fish necklaces on thick nylon string or plastic monster masks for prizes young boys and girls will enjoy. You could give away inflatable plastic snakes, dinosaurs and hammers. You could also give away plastic cars with moving wheels, toy sunglasses, felt animal finger puppets or a set of glittering dinosaur stickers.

Older Kid Prizes

Bingo prize ideas for older kids need to be a little more sophisticated and somewhat broken up by gender. For older boys, use some simple magic trick kits, such as the rubber band and wire "snake in a bag" trick. Small plastic creatures, such as snakes, bugs or spiders, tend to be popular. Mini foam glider planes, parachuting plastic soldiers, googly-eye glasses and whoopee cushions are also fun.

For older girls, try some plastic flower rings filled with lip gloss, a bracelet-making kit or small gem-adorned crown for your bingo prize ideas. Fancy hair accessories are always great for girls, such as a beaded hair clip, patterned headband or barrettes with a bright bow. Feather-topped pens, lipstick pens, rainbow jump ropes, butterfly key chains and mini-stuffed animals are also popular.

Prizes for Any Kid

For bingo prize ideas that kids of any age will like, try some fun temporary tattoos, such as glittering fairies or race cars. Plastic, water-filled tubes that make slippery snakes are always enjoyed, as are small yo-yos. Small packages of Silly Putty or bright bouncy balls are always popular. Use some inflatable sports equipment, such as a bat or soccer ball. You could also give away mini-games, such as a paddle and ball, cup and ball or mini-puzzle.

Impressive Prizes

If you're looking for some bingo prizes ideas for kids that appear impressive without costing a fortune, look for items that cost around $5. You can use a crystal rock garden kit, where colorful crystal gardens quickly grow in a plastic box, or a bright plastic slinky. Look for a fun card game, such as "Go Fish," or a bouncy ball with a set of jacks. You could also give away bouncing alien eyes on a headband, a set of mini foam shapes that grow in water or a set of sparkling crayons with a coloring book.

Tags: prize ideas, give away, also give, also give away, bingo prize ideas

Bingo Game Rules

Bingo is a popular game around the world. There are many variations, but the most popular way to play is with a card that contains 24 numbers and one free space. Bingo is not a difficult game, but a thorough understanding of the rules and procedures involved will help you get started more easily.

Card Layout

A bingo card is a five-by-five table of squares with a number in each square except for the one in the center. That center square is called the "free space" and can automatically be marked by all players as completed.

Columns

Each column has a letter at the top, which together spell out B-I-N-G-O. The spaces in the B column are marked with numbers between 1 and 15, I numbers are between 16 and 30, N numbers are between 31 and 45, G numbers are between 46 and 60 and O numbers are between 61 and 75. Since there are only five spaces in each column (or four in the middle), there are thousands of unique number combinations for bingo cards.

Calling

A caller is the master of ceremonies for a bingo game and randomly draws and calls out letter columns and numbers. For example, he might call "G54." Players then look at their cards, specifically the G rows, to see if they contain the number 54. If they mark the spot as completed.

Object

The object of a bingo game is to fill up your card according to house rules. This usually means marking all the numbers in a column, row or diagonal, or by filling an entire card.

Prizes

When someone's card is filled accordingly, he must yell out "Bingo" in order to claim a prize. If two or more people call out at the same time and more than one has in fact filled her card, they each win a prize. In the case of cash prizes, the money is split among the winners.

Prizes typically range from small trinkets to large cash payouts--as high as $10,000 in some bingo games in Las Vegas.

Tags: numbers between, between numbers, between numbers between, numbers between numbers, bingo game, free space

Bingo Flash Games

Thanks to the Internet, bingo players no longer have to seek out a parlor or casino to play.

Bingo is a classic game played for fun, cash or prizes. Traditionally, a person calls out the letter and number printed on a ball they have randomly selected. Players mark the same numbers off their cards as they are called out. Once a player has formed a line on their card, they call out "Bingo" and collect their prize. You can now play Bingo online using Adobe Flash.

Battle Bingo

"Battle Bingo" is a free game developed by Rune Studios. It opens in a pop-up window and prompts players to select one of three game options. You can play the traditional rules and form a line on your card, attempt to make an X or fill out your entire card. Once the game starts a number and letter combination will appear at the top of the screen and you must search your card and click on the appropriate spot. Click on "Bingo" once you have successfully filled out your card. You will be competing against the computer, so clicking quickly is necessary. There is no prize for winning, but you can continue to play as much as you want to.

Bingo Bash

Namco has its own free Flash Bingo game available on its website. Numbers appear on balls that roll out of a tumbler. If you can read the ball before it stops rolling to reveal the number fully, and click on the appropriate spot, you will net more points than by waiting. Click on the Bingo button once you have a line on your card in order to win. There is no prize for playing, but you can try to beat your personal best score.

Games.com

Games.com has its own free Bingo game. You can sign in with your AOL account, create your own profile or play as a guest. You can select different themes and select your own bingo card. This game is fully voiced and features and animated bingo reader calling out each ball. You will have to watch three cards at once as you click on the correct number and try to call out "Bingo" first. This game allows you to compete with others online or play alone.

Bongo Bingo

"Bongo Bingo" is another free bingo flash game that allows players to compete against a computer-controlled opponent. Numbers appear on 3D balls that roll out of a tumbler and may be located on one of the player's two bingo cards. You can adjust the game speed and get extra jackpot points for creating a designated pattern on one of your cards. Click on the Bingo button to win each round. You can play this game for fun, or pay a monthly fee to subscribe on your cell phone. Once you have subscribed, you can use the points amassed from this and other games on Gator Arcade to claim gift certificates and other prizes.

Tags: your card, Click Bingo, appear balls, appear balls that, appropriate spot

Bingo Card Ideas

Pirate-themed bingo card

Bingo is a staple of social clubs and church fundraisers. What begin in the 16th century as an Italian lottery became a phenomenon in America in the 1930s when game promoter Edwin S. Lowe hired a mathematician from Columbia University to devise 6,000 unique cards. Since then, Americans have played for everything from cars to multimillion dollar jackpots. Bingo can also be played just for fun, with cards whose numbers have been replaced with images or themed words.

Know Your Audience

When making cards, remember that players must be able to understand them. While a standard card has five rows across and down, children might prefer a simpler game: three rows each way for very young children, four rows for older ones, for example.

Select non-numeric themes that capture the imagination and interest of your audience. If the game is meant to be educational, make it informative as well as fun. For example, young children will enjoy matching names to pictures, so fill your cards with images of farm animals or pets, or try simple pictures that correspond to letters of the alphabet. Adults will prefer cards that challenge the intellect, so create cards that test players' knowledge of movies, music and popular trivia. On a movie card, each column can correspond to a different film genre, for instance. Or players can respond to questions by identifying the correct answers on their cards.

Creating Cards

Numerous websites offer templates for making bingo cards. DLKT provides a selection of children's themes and card sizes. Super Bingo Card Creator focuses on adult themes. Visitors to the site can also fill in their own cards and print them out. Print-Bingo offers word lists and traditional numeric cards that can be customized.

With a little imagination, you can turn blank cards into miniature works of art. Use stencils to fill spaces with letters and symbols. Try freehand drawings or use computer graphics programs to bring your cards to life. Many royalty-free images are also available on the Internet. Download and resize these images to fit the spaces on your bingo cards. Images can be cut out and pasted in, or transferred directly to an on-screen card and printed out.

For an unusual twist, players can even create their own interpretations of answers to questions. They can fill in the spaces with their own drawings in an interesting variation on Pictionary and similar games. Players can decide together if the drawings "match" the answers.

Tags: cards that, Bingo Card, bingo cards, fill spaces, fill spaces with

Bike Tours Of Kona Hawaii

Bike tours along the Kohala Coast offer incredible views

The Kona Coast, located on the western edge of the Big Island of Hawaii, is famed for its resorts, golf courses and white sand beaches. It is also the home of the Ford Ironman World Championship held each October. Competitors swim for 2.4 miles, bike for 112 miles and run for 26.2 miles. Your biking goals may not be that ambitious, but renting a bike and exploring the Kona Coast is well worth the effort. Bike tours are available for those who would prefer to travel in a group setting or want to take rides that are more challenging.

Do It Yourself Tours

If you want head out on your own, bikes and bike racks are available for rent in Kailua-Kona. One company of note is Hawaiian Pedals, which has two locations in town. The firm offers mountain bikes, racing bikes and touring bikes. The staff offers information on biking routes and the best places to see on the Big Island.

Hawaiian Pedals

Kona Inn Shopping Village

75-5744 Alii Drive

Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

(808) 329-2294

hawaiianpedals.com

Hawaiian Pedals Bike Works

Hale Hana Center

25-5583 Luhia St.

Kaillua-Kona, HI 96740

(808) 326-2453

hawaiianpedals.com

Day Tours

The Orchid Isle Bicycling Company in Kailua-Kona offers day tours for beginning and experienced riders. The 21-mile Kohala Downhill takes riders to the Kohala Mountain Range on the north coast of the Big Island. The two to three hour trip ends up in ocean front Kapaa Park on the northwest coast. The Wiki Wiki ride, also 21 miles, starts in Waimea Village on the northeastern part of the island and ends at the Waipio Valley Lookout, also in the northeast. Both rides are suitable for all riders. The Mauka Makai ride, which is a 40 to 55-mile trip for more experienced riders, starts at the 3500-foot level of the Kohala Mountains and descends to sea level. All three tours include bike and helmet rental, a guide, support vehicle, water, snacks and Gatorade.

Orchid Isle Bicycling

75-5614 Palani Road

Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

(808) 327-0087

orchidislebicycling.com‎

Kona Coast Tour

You may not choose to participate in the Ironman World Championship, but it is possible for you to ride the 112-mile bike route used in the race. Orchid Isle Bicycling Company offers a 6 night, 7-day cycling vacation suitable for the experienced biker that explores the Kohala and Kona Coasts. Over the course of those days, guests ride a total of 256 miles, including the 112 miles covered by the Ironman Word Championship. Bike trails will take you high up on the dormant volcanoes Mauna Kea and Hualalai from which it is possible to see the Haleakala Crater on the eastern coast of Maui. The tour includes accommodations, daily breakfast, bicycle and helmet rental, guide, support vehicle and a ready supply of water, Gatorade and snacks.

Orchid Isle Bicycling

75-5614 Palani Road

Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

(808) 327-0087

orchidislebicycling.com‎

Big Island Tour

It is possible to cycle around the entire island of Hawaii. The 300-plus mile tour circles the island in 4 days and is suitable for those who ride 100 miles or more per week. The tour includes 5 nights of accommodations, daily breakfast, helmet and bike rental, guide and support vehicle. Tours begin and end in Kailua-Kona and are conducted on road bikes.

Orchid Isle Bicycling

75-5614 Palani Road

Kailua-Kona, HI 96740

(808) 327-0087

orchidislebicycling.com

Tags: Isle Bicycling, Orchid Isle, Orchid Isle Bicycling, Kailua-Kona 96740, 327-0087 orchidislebicycling

Big Island Hawaii Adventure Activities

Watching Kilauea's lava flows up close and personal is an adventure of a lifetime.

The Big Island, officially known as the island of Hawaii, gets its nickname for being the largest of all 18 Hawaiian Islands, and it's still growing. Lava flows from Kilauea, the world's most active volcano, adding to the 266 miles of coastline. The Big Island remains very rural in many parts, creating many opportunities for visitors to find adventure both on land and at sea.

Land Adventures

Volcanoes National Park, home to Kilauea and Mauna Kea, Hawaii's tallest volcano, provide excellent foundations for hundreds of miles of hiking and mountain biking adventures. You can enjoy other off-road adventures such as horseback riding in Kamuela, northwest of Kona, or enjoy ATV tours taking you to the depths of the Hawaiian rain forest to see some of the most breathtaking waterfalls and landscapes on earth. If any of your adventures take you to higher elevations, be sure to pack a jacket or sweater. Mauna Kea may be a dormant Hawaiian volcano, but it does snow near the summit. If you plan on stargazing at the observatory, dress warm.

Sea Adventures

Whether you enjoy being above or below the water, the Big Island has a sea adventure just for you. Scuba dive with the manta rays along the Kona Coast. You can even find several night dives that take you out when the manta rays are most active and feeding. Other snorkel and dive adventures show off the colorful reef fish of Hawaii and may even give you a glimpse of the endangered green sea turtle or a dolphin pod. Out of Kona's boat harbor, you can find excellent whale watching tours from November to April. Along the Kohala Coast, enjoy windsurfing and sailing. From Hilo to Kona, you can find some of the best deep sea sport fishing adventures in the world.

Air Adventures

If seeing the sites by land or sea isn't enough to quell your need for adventure, take to the air. Kona offers parasailing adventures for those who just want to gaze at the islands from 50 feet up. For those wanting to see parts of Volcano National Forest that you can't see on foot, a helicopter tour can get you close to the action where you'll witness lava spurting high into the air or flowing into the sea. Other air tours go deep into the rain forest for multi-directional views of waterfalls and high cliff landscapes.

Tags: manta rays, most active, rain forest

Big Fish Games For Kids

Kids can always find a fun game online.

You can always find a game on the Internet. All you have to do is visit one of the numerous websites dedicated to gaming. If you want games for your kids, then you have to find kid-friendly websites. Bigfishgames.com is one example of such a website. Big Fish has a large selection of games, with a special section just for kids. (See reference 4.)

Super Granny 5

Super Granny 5 is the fifth game in the Super Granny series by Sandlot Games. This time around, Dr. Meow shoots Super Granny with his shrink-ray. A shrunken Super Granny must battle new enemies and save her kittens from Dr. Meow’s grip. The game takes places in Super Granny’s backyard, but it’s dangerous because she’s now the same size as her kittens. Your goal is to rescue the kittens, defeat the monsters and return Super Granny to her normal size.

The game has more than 100 levels, so you have a big job ahead. A free hour of playing time is available from bigfishgames.com. (See References 1)

Barnyard Sherlock Hooves

Barnyard Sherlock Hooves features characters from the 2006 children’s movie "Barnyard." Fans of the movie will recognize Otis and Pip, the popular cow and mouse from the movie. Barnyard Sherlock Hooves is a find-the-missing-item game.

Otis and Pip awaken one morning and discover all the barnyard animals are gone. Pip notices farm objects are missing as well. You must help Otis and Pip find the items and put them back where they belong. You will need some of the objects to help you find the missing animals. Play free for one hour at bigfishgames.com. (See reference 2.)

Slingo Quest

Slingo Quest is a combination slots and bingo game. The game’s graphics make it look like a cartoon, which is one reason kids find it appealing. Click the "spin" button to get your bingo numbers, just like with a slot machine. When the numbers appear, check for them on your Slingo card. It’s also possible to find hidden items and earn bonus levels.

Slingo Quest takes place in an island setting. The game has 50 levels that take place across 10 islands. Play "Slingo Quest" for free for one hour on bigfishgames.com. (See reference 3.)

Tags: Super Granny, Slingo Quest, Barnyard Sherlock, Barnyard Sherlock Hooves, free hour, Sherlock Hooves, always find

Best Things To Do On The Big Island In Hawaii

Almost everyone dreams of spending a vacation lounging on the beaches in Hawaii -- seeing the topaz waters and enjoying the laid-back vacation atmosphere while watching the dolphins and whales offshore. Whether you are planning a vacation soon, weighing the pros and cons of a potential visit or find yourself a new resident of the Big Island, there are a lot of activities to keep you entertained and make your time there unforgettable.

Surf's Up

Some things are synonymous with the Big Island of Hawaii. Hawaii has some of the best surfing in the world during certain months of the year. More experienced surfers should head to Hapuna on the west side of the Island to shred with the pros, while the less seaworthy surfers can try Banyans, which is also on the west side of the island, to just paddle out and dabble with getting the board in the water.

Snorkeling and Diving

Given the Big Island's tropical latitude, its crystal-clear waters and the abundance of sea life, snorkeling or scuba diving is another must-do in Hawaii. With little equipment involved -- just a face mask and snorkel -- you can soon be in the water, observing colorful sea life in its own habitat. You can also trek to local spots like Kealakekua Bay to see amazing tropical fish, dolphins and turtles. If you are a bit more adventurous, you can head out on a excursion boat with trained professionals, who can show you the best spots, and maybe even dive a wall or shallow reef.

Volcano Hiking

If you are up to a hike and some amazing views of a volcano, head to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It has two of the world's most active volcanoes. You can explore the park and see what the land looks like from past eruptions. If the volcano is cooperating, you can see it from the Jaggar Museum, which has amazing views from its overlook.

Whale Watching

Few things beat the thrill of seeing a giant whale come out of the water and seem to twirl in midair before going below with a giant splash. You can take boat tours to see the whales, dolphins and turtles that swim the waters around the Big Island. Want to get closer? Take a submarine tour and see these awesome creatures in their natural environment, deep underwater.

Tips

Plan your itinerary so you are not spending every day going to a different activity. Take time to experience a lot of the Big Island's charms slowly, so you will not leave your trip more burned-out than when you began it. Also, be safe; do not attempt to do any activity such as surfing or snorkeling without consulting a local professional for training or guidance.

Tags: amazing views, dolphins turtles, Island Hawaii, west side

Best Cake Decorating Accessories

The right cake decorating accessories will help you to make one-of-a-kind creations.

As with all culinary arts, cake decorating has continued to grow from a simple frosting on the top of a cake to confectionery wonders that are the subject of television reality shows. You can make your own beautiful cakes at home if you have the proper tools. Decorating your own cakes can be fun, easy and more budget-friendly than paying for store-made cakes. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Pastry Bags and Tips

A staple in any cake decorator's tool kit is a range of pastry bags and decorative tips in assorted sizes and shapes. Mix up your icing in a bowl before transferring it to your pastry bag. You can use a spatula or spoon to fill your plastic pastry bag with your cake icing. Attach a decorative tip to the opening of your bag, and push your icing through the tip to make assorted shapes. These shapes include stars, waves and flowers. These pastry tips can be used to spell out messages on the top of cake or create scrolling effects. Durable, plastic pastry bags are easy to clean and reuse.

Acetate Strips

Acetate strips allow you to design your cake on a flat surface rather than on the cake itself. You can use these strips as surfaces on which to make intricate designs out of fondant or chocolate. Once the designs have dried and hardened, simply slide the designs off the acetate strips and attach them to the side of the cake with frosting. Some acetate strips even feature embossed designs that can be imprinted onto your cake. Cut your acetate strips to wrap around the circumference of your cake or to fit the cake's surface. You can create a scrolling design that will perfectly fit around the cake without worrying about any drips or imperfections ruining your cake design.

Other Accessories

To create the right surface for your cake decorating, you will need to use smoothing and texturing tools. Fondant and cream frostings can be smoothed using large spatulas. Drag your smoothing tool over the surface of your cake and shape your cake's surface, just as you would use a trowel when tiling a floor. Texturing tools feature designs that can be imprinted onto the cake's surface easily. You will also need sifters for decorating with powdered sugar or glazes.

Tags: your cake, acetate strips, cake surface, cake decorating, create scrolling, designs that, designs that imprinted

Best Beaches In Hawaii

Best Beaches in Hawaii

Hawaii is notorious for its beaches, for good reason. This chain of islands in the Pacific Ocean is home to some of the world's best beaches. There is so much variety among the beaches in Hawaii that there is something for every type of traveler. From sandy resort beaches to secluded private beaches that can only reached by helicopter, Hawaii has a lot to offer. Let's explore some of the more famous beaches of Hawaii along with some secrets that make up the best beaches in the state.

History

The original inhabitants of Hawaii were natives who had adopted a system of royalty. The island chain was run by a queen who had a number of lesser governmental figures underneath her. Europeans landed on the islands in the mid-1700s and occupied it for some time. In 1959, the United States adopted Hawaii as a state in a bill that was voted on by Hawaiian governmental officials 17 to 1. The beaches of Hawaii attracted tourists for some time before this, but after being adopted as a state, Americans found it easier to go there, so tourism skyrocketed and word of the state's amazing beaches quickly spread worldwide.

Types

Hawaii has some of the most diverse beaches in any one geographical location in the world. For the most part, there are sandy beaches with crystal clear waters that are an attraction for tourists around the world. Lanikai Beach is one example of this, and is thought to be the best beach for swimming in Hawaii because of the clear water. Other beaches are rockier, but no less attractive. Black Rock Beach is formed next to a giant lava rock and is the best beach for water sports, such as surfing, kayaking, and snorkeling. Finally, there is Hanauma Bay, which represents the best of Hawaii beaches that have been formed by ancient volcano craters.

Features

There are a few staple features that should be mentioned that, put together, make the best beaches in Hawaii. The first is the sand, which is not the same on every beach. The best Hawaii beaches have one of two different kinds of sand. The first is white, soft sand that it is composed of fine bits of rock, shells, and coral. The other is darker, similarly fine, but mixed with lava rock. Palm trees line these beaches as well, some containing more than others where people can lounge in some kind of shade. Another feature of the best beaches is the wildlife that can be found. Hanauma Bay beach, for example, has an impressive array of marine life.

Considerations

It is important to consider that some of the best beaches in Hawaii are not easy to get to. Sure, there are some that are on the main islands that you can get to from the many hotels and resorts in Hawaii, but other more remote beaches are different. There are many boats that can be rented or chartered to take you to some of these beaches, but other even more remote ones are only accessible by a ride in a helicopter.

Significance

The beaches of Hawaii are significant for a number of reasons. For the state itself, these beaches attract tourists from all over the world. They boost the economy of the state and increase the tourism in the area. Many of the best beaches in Hawaii also have the best surf, making it a mecca for amateur and professional surfers all over. Some of the biggest events in surfing occur in Hawaii, and these increase tourism during the times they occur.

Tags: beaches Hawaii, best beaches, these beaches, beaches Hawaii, beaches that, best beach

Bereavement Potluck Ideas

With life comes death, and gathering with family and friends is an important part of accept death and moving on.

At a potluck dinner, each guest brings in one dish to share with everyone. A potluck dinner is a good way to bring people together around the memory of a deceased loved one. It is important to coordinate what people are bringing so that you do not end up with too much of the same food or too many deserts without enough food.

Memorial Cake

Bring in a large plain unfrosted sheet cake, or multiple cakes, depending on how many guests will be there. Bring different colors of frosting, sprinkles and other cake decorations such as decoration tubes. Have the children at the potluck each frost and decorate a portion of the cake in memory of the deceased person. Cover the table with wax paper for easier clean-up. You might snap a photo of the cakes and send a photo home with each child.

Slow Cooker Comfort Meals

Slow cooker meals are convenient for cooking food for large groups, as you can prepare them early and keep them hot during the potluck. Slow cooker food makes good comfort food, such as turkey with gravy and potatoes. Slow cooker chili and other soups also make good comfort foods for times of bereavement.

Favorite Dish of the Deceased Person

Bring in the favorite dish of the deceased person. Alternatively, if the deceased person had a favorite spice or special ingredient, you could ask all the guests who are making either food or desert to use that specific ingredient in their dishes or deserts. This could be a favorite ingredient or spice like cinnamon, eggs, or a favorite staple like rice or potatoes.

Memory Box

Besides food, bring a "memory box" to the potluck, where guests can write down their good memories of the deceased one and drop it in the box. At some point during the potluck, draw some from the box and everyone can reflect on memory. Toward the end of the potluck when everyone has had a chance to write something for the box, take them out and display them on a table so guests can read and reflect on the different memories if they would like.

Tags: Slow cooker, deceased person, during potluck, good comfort, memory deceased

Beef Eye Of Round Roast In A Slow Cooker

Sliced eye of round roast makes delicious sandwiches.

The beef eye of round is a cut from the rump of a cow. This means it is a section of one of the largest muscles of the cow and therefore a more economical piece of meat to buy. Since it is not nearly as tender as the tenderloin, it lends itself nicely to the low and steady heat of a slow cooker. Stores sell it under different titles like Beef Round, Eye of Round or Beef Eye Round. The eye of round is part of the round, often served at carving stations very thinly sliced. Does this Spark an idea?

Preparation

The eye of round often has a layer of fat encircling the roast. Do not trim this off. The browning process will caramelize the fat with delicious flavor. Use a hot, large, flat cast iron pan with a little olive oil to sear the surface of the roast. By the time the searing is finished, the whole house will smell delicious with the aroma of roasted meat.

Moisture

Since the slow cooker works with moisture to slowly cook the meat at a temperature around 212 degrees Fahrenheit, you need to add ingredients like wine or broth or beer to start the steaming in the cooker. Water is a last resort since you want everything you put in the cooker to add to the flavor of the finished dish. A typical eye of round is 3 to 4 pounds and a couple of cups of liquid should be sufficient.

Flavorings

When you cook slowly for a long time, flavors intensify. Be careful about adding lots of pepper or other spices and herbs since you want to be able to use the meat gravy after the meat is finished cooking. Vegetables like garlic, onions, carrots will almost melt in the slow heat, taking on the flavor of the meat. A short burst in the blender will liquefy them into flavorful gravy with the meat juices.

Convenience

The slow cooker allows you to leave the kitchen while your roast cooks safely. You can serve up the finished roast as is, slicing it thinly and serving it with the classic side dish of mashed potatoes. Another idea for the braised eye of round is chilling it down and serving it sliced in sandwiches with horseradish and aioli. The amount of time involved is no more than what it takes you to sear the meat and add the extras, but it will taste like you spent hours preparing it.

Tags: slow cooker, Beef Round, round often, since want

Bear Crafts For Kids

Roars of delight are guaranteed with bear crafts for kids. Bear-themed crafts work well as rainy day activities at home or as part of a themed unit at school. Preschoolers and elementary students will enjoy working on bear crafts. Make adjustments as necessary to meet the needs of your kids and to match the materials you have on hand.

Bear Stamps

Bear stamps let the kids design a bear-themed picture. Use plain kitchen sponges to make your own set of bear stamps. Draw a simple bear head shape on the sponge with a permanent marker as a guideline. Cut on the line to finish the stamps. Another idea for the stamp shape is to make a bear footprint. The kids dip the sponge stamps in tempera paint and press them onto construction paper to make the bear pictures.

Bear Mask

Masks are simple and entertaining for young kids. A paper plate works well as the mask form. Let the kids paint the plates to match the type of bear they want their mask to represent. Add a mouth, nose and other facial features. Cut out small circles to glue to the top for the ears. An adult should handle cutting out the eye holes on the masks. The masks work well for dramatic play. Create a cave by putting a brown blanket over a table so the kids can wear their masks and play in the cave.

Puppets

Puppets are another classic option for kids' crafts. Paper bag bear puppets are one choice, or you can cut out a simple bear shape and glue it to a paint stirring stick or craft stick for the handle. Let the kids decorate their puppet using paint, markers, crayons, fake fur or short lengths of yarn to create a furry appearance. Add wiggly eyes and other facial features to complete the bear puppets. The kids can put on a puppet show from behind a couch or desk using their homemade bear puppets.

Texture Bear

The texture bear craft is a sensory experience for the young kids. Each child needs a bear shape on cardstock or cardboard to create a sturdy base. Help them spread a thin layer of glue over the bear shape. The kids then sprinkle on a textured material to cover the bear. Cinnamon, sawdust, coffee grounds or sand all work well as the textured material. Cinnamon and coffee grounds add scent, which creates more of a sensory experience for the kids. Shake off the excess material and add the other details on the bear to complete this kids' craft.

Tags: bear puppets, bear shape, work well, bear crafts, coffee grounds, facial features, make bear

Beach Wedding Shower Ideas

Host a beach-themed wedding shower to encourage the couple to relax before their big day.

Plan a beach-themed wedding shower for the bride or couple in your life if they are having a beach-themed wedding or are honeymooning on the beach, or to simply create the relaxed ambiance that typically accompanies a day on the beach. Use a simple beach theme or expand on it by adding specific luau or exotic island details. Does this Spark an idea?

Invitations

Send out invitations that reveal the wedding shower theme. Use invitations with an image of a heart drawn in sand, tropical flowers, beach chairs, seashells or a luau scene. Tie a ribbon around the invitation with a seashell sticker or glue a small shell to the ribbon. Another option is to send out real bottles with a rolled-up invitation inside. Tie the invitation with a piece of beige string or raffia and add a bit of sand and small shells.

Use specific wording to advise your guests of any special requests, such as asking them to come in beach attire or to bring a beach-related gift.

Decorations

Set the scene to look like a beach party if you can't use an actual beach for the wedding shower. Fill a kiddie pool with sand, a few larger shells, and shovels and pails if there's room. Place artificial or blow-up palm trees around the room for a tropical beach ambiance. String lights around the trees and across the room if the shower will be held during the evening.

Cover the table with a white tablecloth and simple white dishes. Place a large vase or bowl in the center of the table with some sand, seashells, sand dollars, starfish and water tinted blue with a drop of food coloring. Top it off with floating candles in the shape of seashells or tropical flowers. Sprinkle sand around the center of the table, almost like a runner. Place small seashells or seashell-shaped candles around the sand.

Use a conch shell at each place setting to hold shower favors or place cards. You can also write each guest's name directly onto a seashell to serve as a keepsake and place card.

Activities

Plan beach-related activities to complement the theme of the shower. For a ladies-only shower, ask each guest to write a note to the bride, either sharing a piece of marital advice or well wishes for the couple. Place the notes inside a bottle with sand and shells. Have the shower date and bride's name etched into the bottle to make it more personal.

Another option is to ask each guest to bring a picture of themselves with the bride to create a collective scrapbook. Give your guests stickers, scissors, glitter, seashells and beach-themed scrapbook paper to decorate a scrapbook page with embellishments and a personalized note to the bride.

A simple activity would include filling a clear vase, bottle or jar with seashells and asking guests to guess how many seashells are inside. This could work for a ladies-only or coed shower.

Common beach activities, such as hula hoops and limbo, work for nearly everyone. Set the activities to beach music for the complete effect.

Favors

Give each guest a beach-themed favor to thank them for attending. Seashell-shaped lollipops, cookies, chocolates or mints are all fun treats that keep with the theme. Shell- or flip-flop-shaped candles, soaps or cookie cutters are useful items that will likely remind guests of the wedding shower for many years to come. Picture frames, bottle stoppers, luggage tags, leis or wine glass charms in a beach-themed shape are another option.

Tags: wedding shower, each guest, beach-themed wedding, beach-themed wedding shower, bottle with, center table, invitation with

Beach Wedding Aisle Ideas

Use beach theme decorations for your wedding aisle décor.

A beach wedding allows a couple to say their vows while digging their toes in the sand and listening to the waves crash behind them. While there is plenty of scenery naturally available during a beach wedding, you can personalize your event with aisle decorations. Select beach wedding aisle ideas that will create that little extra splash for your guests to enjoy.

Seashells

Brides often use rose petals to decorate the aisle during traditional church wedding ceremonies. Cover the sandy path with an aisle runner for a more traditional decoration. Sprinkle petals in your wedding colors on the aisle runner. Hang cones filled with matching flowers from the aisle chairs. Skip the aisle runner. Line seashells along the aisle's edges. Use natural seashells for a low-key, elegant look. Select brightly colored seashells that will pop against the sand for a more vibrant decoration. Attach bows in your wedding colors to the aisle chairs.

Ocean Life

Decorate a casual beach wedding aisle with starfish for a simple, rustic touch. Use nautical knots to hang large starfish on the chairs that line the aisle. For a more elegant wedding, decorate the aisle chairs with sand dollars, starfish and tropical flowers. Hang the items with ribbons that match your wedding colors.

Soft Lighting

Line the aisle with bamboo tiki torches for a sunset wedding on the beach. The torches offer a lovely glow during a twilight ceremony. Decorate your beach wedding aisle with large hurricane vases and votive candles for a more romantic look. Hang cones filled with flowers or seashells on the aisle chairs.

Tags: beach wedding, aisle chairs, wedding aisle, your wedding, your wedding colors, aisle runner, aisle with

Beach Theme Party Game Ideas

Play games with beach balls.

Warm up the winter or bring a cool vibe to the summer by throwing a party with a beach theme. Don't rely on just the decor to make guests feel as if they are at the beach--games will have them feeling as if they are having fun in the sun.

Sand Pail Fill

In this game, teams compete to see who can fill pails with sand the quickest. Place two large empty sand pails at the end of the room or yard. Divide partygoers into teams of two and have them stand ten feet away from the sand pails. Provide each team with a bucket filled with sand and a shovel. On your mark, the first player on each team scoops up sand with the shovel, runs to the empty pail and pours the sand in, then runs back to his team. The game continues like this until one team fills their pail to the top with sand--this team is declared the winner of the game.

Buried Treasure

The object of this game is to unearth the most pieces of buried treasure. Fill a kiddie pool with sand and hide seashells, fake gems and pieces of toy jewelry throughout the sand. Provide players with a bucket and a shovel. On your mark, players use their shovels to dig through the sand in search of buried treasure, placing the treasures they find in their buckets. At the end of the game, partygoers empty their buckets and count their loot. The player who finds the most items wins.

Catch the Fish

Players compete to catch the most fish in this game. Print out several images of fish on construction paper and cut them out. Use a hole puncher to punch holes in each fish and place a paper clip in each hole. Scatter the fish on the ground. Tie a piece of yarn to a wooden dowel and at the end of the yarn, tie a magnet. At the sound of a whistle blow, partygoers cast their fishing lines, try to catch a fish, "reel" in their lines when they do and remove the fish they have caught. They continue playing until all of the fish have been caught. Whoever catches the most fish is the winner of the game.

Beach Ball Toss

Players put their throwing skills to the test in this game. Set out three large garbage cans or buckets in a vertical line and have players stand 10 feet away from the garbage cans or buckets. Provide players with three beach balls, which they try to throw in the garbage cans or buckets--three points are awarded for a ball that lands in the first can or buckets, five points for balls the land in the second can or bucket and seven points for the third can or bucket. Each player is given three chances to shoot all three balls. The player to collect the most points wins.

Tags: this game, garbage cans, with sand, away from, beach balls, cans buckets

Beach Theme Parties

Play a game of tug of war at your next beach party.

Provide a feeling of relaxation and tropical paradise for your guests with a beach-themed party. From the invitations to the games, you can organize a beach party that brings you and your friends to the beach whether you are there or not. A creative imagination, a variety of ideas and some supplies are all you need to plan a memorable beach party your guests will be talking about for months to come.

Invitations

Cut flip-flop or beach ball shapes out of card stock to make beach invitations. Write the party details on the cutouts, and mail to your party guests. Other shapes to make the cutouts include sunglasses, seashells, palm trees and tropical flowers. Inflate small beach rings, and write the party details on each one. Deflate the rings, and place them in padded envelopes. When guests receive the rings, they must inflate them to read the party details. For added decoration, include small cocktail umbrellas with the invitations.

Activities

Organize a few arrival activities for your guests to do while waiting on all guests to arrive to the party. Make a colored sand jar table with several plastic bottles of colored sand. Give each guest a small glass jar to fill up with layers of colored sand. Another idea is a seashell jewelry table with elastic string and a variety of small seashells with holes. Guests can make bracelets, necklaces and anklets. These gifts work well as party favors and give the guests something to take home as mementos of the party.

Decorations

Decorate the party area with beach pails, inflatable floats, flower leis, fake palm trees, beach chairs and fishnets. Small plastic swimming pools filled with sand and seashells are ideal for decoration at a beach theme party. Place plastic toy crabs, lobsters and sand toys in the sand-filled pools. Beach towels work well as tablecloths and draped on the back of chairs. Grass skirts add color to party tables, and lit tiki torches will add light to the party. Real surfboards also will make a nice addition to the party. If you do not have a surfboard, make a few using large pieces of cardboard and paint.

Games

Guests can play a game of badminton or volleyball. Put a twist on the volleyball game by letting guests use water balloons and beach towels. They must toss and catch the balloons over the net using only the towels. You can organize a game of tropical bowling using pineapples as bowling pins and coconuts as bowling balls. Or using the plastic swimming pools filled with sand, host a sandcastle-building contest . Award prizes to the best and funniest sandcastles. Other games include limbo and tug of war.

Tags: beach party, colored sand, party details, your guests, filled with

About Gum Paste Flowers

About Gum Paste Flowers

Gum paste is the baker's modeling clay, an edible and elastic concoction that can be carefully molded into a variety of shapes. Delicate white wedding cake flowers or bold blue birthday cake roses are common gum paste concoctions. These flowers can be made in a rainbow of colors to mimic fresh arrangements or exotic flora. Attached with wires or frosting to the tops and sides of any cake, gum paste flowers can transform a plain dessert into an artistic creation. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Function

Gum paste is made of powdered sugar combined with soaked gum Arabic or gum tragacanth and a small amount of liquid-like plain water, rose water or lemon oil. Gum paste is moldable like dough, and can be rolled out thinly to make delicate and realistic flowers of every type. Color can be mixed into gum paste before molding, or painted on after drying. Gum paste flowers are commonly used to decorate cakes, but can also be used to dress up petit fours and other desserts. Gum paste flowers can be "glued" together with egg whites or icing and made into decorative floral arrangements for holiday or special occasion events.

Types

Gum paste can be made from scratch, or by adding water to premade gum paste mixes. Gum paste recipes require the same basic ingredients of sugar and gum, but can use different sugar consistencies, liquid activators, flavors and colors. Cake decorating stores and web sites also sell completed gum paste flowers that can be stored in a cool, dry place until needed for decorating.

Gum paste flowers are available in as many styles as there are natural flowers. These easily molded confections can be as simple as tiny white baby's breath blooms around a wedding cake to a table centerpiece of orchids, roses or tiger lilies. Colors range from white to pastel to deeper shades, with the options of pearlized or metallic sheens.

Natural ingredients and FDA-approved colors make for edible gum paste flowers, but painted blooms, rigid arrangements stuck on wires and metallic dusted petals are best left as decoration. The most natural gum paste flowers can be colored by using spices, edible flowers or vegetable juices.

Effects

Delicately made and carefully formed gum paste flowers can mimic fresh flowers and add beauty and elegance to wedding cakes. Group these realistic creations together to make unique floral centerpieces for events that won't wilt or turn brown like fresh flowers would.

Large, brightly colored gum paste flowers make a dramatic statement on the dessert table, dressing up cakes and petit fours. Dye gum paste flowers to match a bridal party or correspond with a holiday. Pastel colors turn a cake into a spring floral arrangement, while rich golds, reds and greens can be beautiful for fall or Christmas desserts.

Use pearlized or metallic dusting powders to add a subtle sheen to gum paste decorations. Add water to powder and paint on with a brush for all over color and shimmer. Pearlized flowers add understated elegance to wedding cakes, while silver and gold tints make perfect anniversary cake flowers.

Spray pieces with acrylic lacquer for a shiny, ceramic look. Keep painted pieces separated from cake surfaces (use a paper doily or plastic floral leaves as a barrier) and be sure these purely decorative flowers are removed before the cake is served.

Considerations

Homemade gum paste flowers can take up to two weeks to dry, and need to be made well in advance of the cake decorating event. Gum paste flowers are best stored in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. Heat, humidity and refrigeration can all soften flowers, even after they've set. Placing flowers on buttercream frosting, which contains fat, can also soften them.

Warning

Gum paste flowers are considered nontoxic and technically edible, but according to Baking 911, the dusting powders are not considered food items in the U.S. The FDA also does not approve the use of metallics in food, though gold leaf and silver dragees have been used on cakes and desserts for many years.

Some gum paste flowers are coated with nonedible paints, and decorations may have been "glued" together with potentially unsafe egg whites. When in doubt, consider gum paste flowers as artistic décor and do not eat them.

Tags: paste flowers, paste flowers, About Paste, About Paste Flowers, cake flowers, dusting powders

Beach Theme Decorating Ideas

Beach Theme Decor

A beach theme can turn your home into a getaway no matter where it's located. Beach themes can liven up a lifeless laundry room or create an elegant master suite. Draw inspiration from famous beaches all around the world to decorate your home in a beach theme while still expressing your personal style. Does this Spark an idea?

Nautical Decorating

Typical colors for beach theme decorating are taupe, navy and white. This color palette works well for both genders. For an updated nautical theme try a palette that consists of sea foam green, gray, or dark teal. Look for casual furniture made out of wicker or roughly worn wood. You might even be able to find a few pieces of high-end outdoor furniture to mix throughout the space. Wood tones should be light in color or white so it doesn't becomes the focal point of the room. Keep your sofa in a neutral cotton fabric so the accessories pop. Striped curtains might be reminiscent of a beach towel to add simple pattern to the room. Accessorize with a fish net, shells and rope. Glue these items around lamp bases, chandelier shades, mirrors or picture frames. Show off the shells you've collected on your travels, or buy your favorite faux shells at a craft store. Place these in a glass jar along with sand for an inexpensive decorative accessory.

Tropical Theme

A tropical theme is reminiscent of Caribbean beaches and is a sophisticated way to decorate with a beach theme. Keep the walls a neutral color such as white, taupe or gold. Gauzy white sheers can work as a canopy or curtains. Accessorize with small palm trees, grass mats and coconut shells. Look for furniture made from natural materials like dark stained wood or woven chairs. Artwork can include photographs of your favorite white sand beaches or modern art that is reminiscent of water.

South Beach Theme

The South Beach style is a more contemporary and elegant way to decorate in a beach theme. This theme takes its cues from luxurious beach resorts. Paint your room in bright colors such as lime green or hot pink. Accent the space with art deco furniture and rich hardwood floors. Bring in beach inspired accessories such as an elegant capiz shell chandelier. Black-and-white photographs of a nautilus shell or the ocean will further get the theme across. South Beach decorating is less literal than other beach themes so just use one or two high-end accessories to keep the room from being overwhelmed with a beach theme.

Tags: beach theme, Beach Theme, South Beach, Accessorize with, beach theme, furniture made, with beach

Beach Theme Carnival Games

Use beach balls as inspiration to create carnival games.

Whether hosting a school fundraising event or a community carnival, a beach theme is a creative option. Incorporate marine life into the games of chance and consider offering prizes that represent the beach such as inexpensive sunglasses, visors or fish stuffed animals. When constructing the games, keep in mind the age of the participants and allow for each to be successful when playing.

Feed the Sharks

Draw the head-on images of five open-mouthed sharks in the ocean on a piece of plywood and cut out each shark's mouth with a jigsaw. Sand and paint the board in various colors representing an ocean scene and attach 2 to 3-foot wooden posts to the underside of the board to keep it off the ground and from bowing in the center. Participants use bean bags in the shape of fish to "feed the sharks."

Sea Animal Ring Toss

On four 3-by-3-foot squares of scrap wood, drill a hole and insert a wooden dowel into the center. Attach a stuff marine-life animal such as a large fish, shark, octopus and a whale to each dowel using craft wire and twisting it to secure. Participants play the game by throwing child-sized hula hoops with the goal of ringing the stuffed animals. Vary the throwing distance from the animals for different aged players.

Beach Balls

Blow up beach balls that are approximately 16 to 20-inches wide. Stage laundry baskets that allow one of the beach balls to fit comfortably inside. Decorate each laundry basket with a grass skirt and Hawaiian flower garlands. Each player gently tosses the beach ball with the attempt of getting it and keeping it in the basket. Beach balls may tend to bounce out so strategy lies in the gentle toss.

Fishing for Prizes

In a plastic infant swimming pool, place small homemade fabric fish pillows with a magnet glued to each fish's nose. Attach a string to a wooden dowel with another magnet at the bottom end of the string. Players go "fishing" in the "pond" with the goal of catching either a special colored fish or one that has a specific number on the reverse side, coinciding with specific prize options. The game is appropriate for children 5 years and under (or while players are blindfolded).

Tags: beach balls, stuffed animals, with goal, wooden dowel