Remember when Clara was queen of the jellyfish? Good times. The girl definitely has fun with pretend play, and we like to make things for her, especially on occasions like birthdays and Christmas (like this play kitchen, this dollhouse, this latch board, this figurine cubby, this patterned doll cradle, this colorful quilt, this cuckoo clock and this beanbag pouf) so with yesterday being her fourth birthday (HOW DID THAT HAPPEN?!?!) I thought some pretend pastries would be fun.
I know, it sounds like a cruel joke. “Happy birthday! Here are delicious sugary things you can’t eat because – surprise! – they’re made of wood!” But lately she has been loving tea parties (here she is having one with Nonna the night before her brother was born). She loves pretending to add lemon and honey to her tea, stirring everything up, and then repeating that about five times since she doesn’t have many other tea-related things to do beyond that…. hence the idea for some teatime treats.
I liked the thought of making these for her because it meant I could use her favorite colors and include references to specific treats she likes, so they’d be personalized. I’d seen a few pre-made wooden pastry sets you can buy, like this one and this one – and after staring at a few small scrap pieces of wood on the floor in the garage I thought I might be able to use them to make some of mine.
Here are the materials I started with: a bunch of scrap pieces of wood from the floor of the garage (those are the rectangular shapes) along with some wooden spheres with flat bottoms (those were from JoAnn in the craft wood section for around $5). I grabbed those because they looked like little truffles or bon-bons.
I used craft paint and a small brush to paint them and then brushed on a few thin coats of Safecoat Acrylacq to add a nice glossy finish and more durability (it’s non-toxic in case they touch Clara’s mouth during fake-eating). It only took one Clara-nap to complete all of the painting, and I did it with my man Teddy right next to me. There was one nursing break in there and a little bit of burping and rocking, but he was pretty chill for the most part. Maybe he’ll grow up to be a painter. Or a professional pastry eater.
Here they are all laid out so you can see some of the random patterns and designs I had fun with. They’re definitely not hyper-realistic, but they’re full of bright pink (Clara always calls the pinkest donut or bonbon in the store) and I added in some stripes, swirls, zigzags, crisscrosses, and “sprinkles” (those were just dots I made with the back of my paintbrush).
I also made the stand using two plates (a big one and one smaller one) along with a small bowl and an ice cream cup holder thing (all plastic, and all from Target).
I turned bowl upside down to make the base, glued that to the larger plate, then glued the ice cream cup on top of the plate in the center, and glued the smaller plate on top of that.
In short: it was a fun little while-the-baby-sleeps project and I’m so glad that big girl of mine loves them. She even got to give them a spin with Nonna thanks to her being in town for her birthday. I cried like a baby when she said “You did such a good job painting them mom… BRAVO!” When are these crazy hormones going to level out?!
Clara’s birthday was also full of a bunch of edible treats – like these four pink and purple pancakes that she requested for breakfast. In case you’re wondering, she said the purple one tasted the best.
Now I’m off to feed this baby of mine (he’s ten pounds already!) and to try to squeeze in some party prep for Clara’s bash here this weekend (I have about thirty pounds of laundry to do along with a pretty chaotic house to clean). Oh who am I kidding, I’ll probably just end up cuddling the baby.
Psst- Wanna know where we got something in our house or what paint color we used? Just click on this button:
Tell Nonna she has some buff arms. No flabby granny arms on her. What’s her secrect?
She just told me she’s taking a barre class. So funny! My mom, the fitness nut. She also loves weeding the yard, so maybe that helps with the guns?
xo
s
Adorable! But I must say, all of that paint on the adorable white ottoman gives me major anxiety! I am such a clutz we would have a tie dyed ottoman at the end of that project!
Thankfully it’s water based craft paint, so it would wipe up pretty easily I think!
xo
s
That was such a great idea!! This is completely off topic, but where did you get that storage ottoman? I’ve been looking for one for our family room and that one looks great!
That was from Joss & Main a few years ago. Very handy for frantically throwing things into it when company rings the bell.
xo
s
Suuuuuper cute! And the best part, Clara’s love for it. Such a sweet young lady she is. I was a fake food fanatic as well. Mine wasn’t as pretty, but I had a Mcdonalds drive through set with a grill and I could make a mean plastic cheeseburger.
Hilarious!
xo
s
I can’t wait to do something like this for my daughter! She is only 20-months, and has little concept of tea-time, but I know she will love this someday.
And I am SO HAPPY to see you got Teddy the Rock-n-Play!! I hope it working out for you :)
This is adorable! And I most definitely thought the pancake stack you made for breakfast was supposed to resemble a HAMBURGER – for a birthday ode to the Burgs.
Haha!
xo
s
I love this project, and the smile on her face when she saw her pancakes!
what a great idea! and so quick too, which makes it even better!
Happy Birthday, Clara!
She is gorgeous and is looking more and more like your identical twin every time I see a new picture. This project is adorable too. Fingers crossed for smooth party prep!
Adorable! So glad Clara likes them.
These are so adorable and I love that you take the time to make her toys and things. All the better that she is so wonderful and appreciative of it! What a great kid! It’s fun watching her grow up a little with you!
One of my kids most favorite toys that their Aunt gave them was a musical teapot set. The kids played with that tea set FOREVER! We cooked, served and later painted with those cups, spoons and saucers. They still have it, and won’t let me get give it away. I think it’s going to keep for the some-day-grandkids. ;D
Sounds so cute!
xo
s
That girl — what a beauty! She looks so grown up and lovely in the pink-purple-pancake shot.
And, nice moves on the “pastries” — I particularly admire the “wafers” with the criss crosses. Solid attention to detail, Sher-Dog (as always).
Posts like these…I’d really like a “like” button!
Thanks Christine! There’s one at the bottom of the post (along with a pin-it button, etc) :)
xo
s
I want the ice cream cone cup!!! I’ve been trying to find the perfect base for a single cupcake stand and this would be just right. Did you get it recent or is it old?
Just got it two days ago from Target! They came in two-packs of blue or pink.
xo
s
Oh Sherry — unfortunately, I don’t know if those hormones EVER go away — Its been over 16 months since my 2nd little guy arrived, and whenever my oldest says something cute – I still cry!! I think its part of being a mom! My hubs always laughs at me!
GREAT JOB – I love all of it so much! Your creativity is so amazing! I never, in a million years, ever would have thought of your cake stand idea! I LOVE it soo much – such a great idea! And the pretend food is pretty awesome too – I think I could make some for my boys — They love cakes and donuts too!!
Sherry, these look amazing! My daughter is really into tea parties lately. We actually had one last night with water and mini marshmellows. Although, I think I might have to head out to the store to make some of these fun treats for her. She would LOVE them! Great job!
Those tea treats are gorgeous! You’ve inspired me to try something similar myself. The stand almost reminds me of the dinosaur Serving Dish: http://www.threelittlemonkeysstudio.com/diy-dinosaur-serving-dish/
Also, what did you use to color the pancakes? Was it regular food coloring or something special?
Love that dinosaur tray! To make the pancakes we just used a drop of red food coloring (or one of blue and red to make the purple one).
xo
s
I cannot believe she’s already four! That is insane. Love the project.
Happy Birthday Clara! Such cute pictures and such a cute project. You did a great job painting them and making the stand for them.
Love the food and especially the “fancy cake stand!”
It sounds like you are quoting the book “Tea for Ruby” with your title?! It is a favorite in our house and goes right along with Clara’s love of tea parties, especially with Grandma! If you are not quoting it, might I suggest it for a fabulous addition to Clara’s book collection! Happy Birthday Clara!
Thanks Maggi! Will have to check it out!
xo
s
Such a cute idea! Can’t believe Clara’s already almost 4!
Liz @ http://www.shoppingmycloset.com
This is a fabulous idea! I just love these posts with your kids-she looks like such a joyful kid!
I love the display stand!! I would put that in my kitchen:) You’re crazy creative.
So super cute! I’m impressed you did all of that during a nap – I am such a craft slowpoke!
p.s. I really like having your family and house stuff all together on this site. Yay!
Seriously, so cute! I think I will be adding these to my DIY list! Thanks for the inspiration!
Super cute project! I also just wanted to say that I’m loving the new/old blog style. As much as maybe some people want to see huge posts with complete projects, I want to see half finished or smaller projects. Projects I feel I can tackle. From my side, you look to be doing an incredible job managing two little ones, your life, and this blog!
Also, just wondering if there can be a full post about paint sprayers and what John thinks his next sprayer will be, as I know he’s growing increasingly unhappy with what he’s got. I decided to buy a spray gun for an air compressor, though I haven’t used it yet. And will need to rent the compressor.
Thanks so much Gina! Here’s a post about the sprayer with sort of an updated not-as-in-love rundown in this post.
xo
s
Too cute! BTW, our birthday girl who turned 3 yesterday (yup, same birthday as Clara!) also wanted pancakes! We went out to dinner at a local diner that serves breakfast all day and went the easy route. Those colored pancakes are adorable though – I’ll have to remember that!
Sweet! Pun intended. :)
What a cute idea! I bet she’s having so much fun with those! I also LOVE the picture you captured of her with the pancakes. Her face just reads pure joy! So glad you guys are taking more time to enjoy little Teddy as well. He’s such a cutie!
Love your creativity!!
Sherry- soooooo jealous!!! How are you getting little Teddy down in the R&P let alone the crib? I had a little boy born 2 days before Teddy and he won’t let me put him down ANYWHERE! Seriously- he’s either sleeping on me or my hubby or he’s throwing a fit. I had to do bed-sharing for us to get any rest while his co sleeper, momaroo, and F&P bassinet go unused!!! What’s your secret? (type this with one hand while holding my peanut in the other! I need help!!)
Teddy definitely has those “hold me” moments frequently, but one thing that has helped is wearing him. He’s cozy and my arms are free to do things! Usually to get him down for naps or the night I’ll nurse him and he’ll fall asleep and I’ll try to transfer him to the crib or the rocker then.
xo
s
These are adorable. I would totally buy them if they are in a store. I think it is so special they you make so many of the toys and gifts for Clara. That just doesn’t happen anymore. She will have such a great perspective growing up that it is not all about dollars and buying.
I saw some previous comments about sleep and wake ups at night. I will just throw this out there, but my daughter slept better when I did cluster feedings before bed. I would basically feed her every hour starting at 7 or 8 and then when I put her down at 11 we had longer stretches. I didn’t have to do it long, maybe only a month or two, but it helped signal to her that it was time to settle in and sleep.
Thanks Malissa! I did that with Clara and it seemed to help. Have tried it a little with Teddy but he falls asleep during feedings sometimes. Will keep at it!
xo
s
Great project and something even *I* could do. FYI – I had a pop-up survey/question thing. It said it was powered by vizu but no other identifying features that I could see. :)
Thanks Rebe! Sorry about that. Will hunt it down so we can block it.
xo
s
These are so adorable! I love this idea :) and Clara looks so much older in the last picture!
“…so quiet down, cobwebs. Dust, go to sleep. I’m rocking my baby, and babies don’t keep.”
Part of an old poem, can’t remember the rest. I teared up just writing it, I guess the hormone train is a long one (my boy is about to turn a year old).
So sweet! Sniffle.
xo
s
The cleaning and scrubbing can wait till tomorrow
But children grow up as I’ve learned to my sorrow.
So quiet down cobwebs; Dust go to sleep!
I’m rocking my baby and babies don’t keep.
It’s so true…
Oh, those are adorable!
On a totally unrelated note, we have that same Rock n Play that Teddy is in. Is that not the best invention for babies?! It’s our go-to shower gift for everyone now.
This is an old one (from when Clara was born). So handy for little daytime naps – and Teddy hangs out in it awake when we eat dinner too!
xo
s
What a cute set to make for my daughter! I will be trying this!
https://www.etsy.com/listing/189053256/personalized-wreath-monogram-wreath?ref=shop_home_active_3
Do it, just cuddle the baby. All of zero people will comment on the cleanliness of your house during Clara’s party.
Oh, and Professional Pastry Eater will totally be a job of the future. Start grooming him early.
Beautiful children! Great project! Quick question: what type of glue did you use to make your stand? Thanks!
I used crazy glue (I think it’s called Loctite).
xo
s
awesome paint job! move over melissa and doug- here comes sherry and john- or maybe sherry and teddy?? can I just say i was just looking at that dress Clara is wearing at Old Navy.com contemplating buying it- and it looks as adorable as I pictured- oh what a cute bday girl! (my girl is 3 1/2) Congrats on new little man- oh and PS I have same rock and play- well used! both my littles used it-
Happy Birthday Clara- cannot wait to see pics- love love your blog and your family- have a great weekend! party on
Awesome idea – beautiful execution as always :)
I’m always impressed when you guys see in separate objects something that will work as a whole (the plates and the ice cream cups…) and that the colors match! :)
Now she needs a more realistic sized tea set to go along with her big girl hands.
Those hormones don’t end, I believe. My baby is almost 10 and I got teary eyed reading Clara’s appreciation of your painting skills. Such an adorable idea! Happy day late Birthday to Clara!
Life is short….cuddle with the baby :)!
John & Sherry,
I happened upon your blog at midnight last night, the funny thing is I saw a picture of your book sitting on a table in another bloggers’ home less than a week ago. I just want to tell you both what awesome inspirations you are to me as I am new to the blog world myself (www.DearMarleigh.blogspot.com) and I aspire to grow to what your blog has become. I also want to tell you what loving, heartwarming parents you both are (like you don’t already know!). I love to read about the fun things you do for Clara and getting to see both her and Teddy grow up (your picture a week idea is amazing). Your family and decor/diy skills are everything I hope to be one day, thank you for the wonderful blog. (:
Best,
Shane
Darn autocorrect…It’s Shaina, not Shane! ^.^
Thanks so much Shaina, you’re so sweet!
xo
s
Ok, i LOVE the fact that you guys don’t do anything mainstream for birthdays and those homemade gifts are seriously great!!! I love the blog but am so happy you all have decided to do that delicate work/life balance and post less! So worth it!!! I have a little munckin dude myself who has happiy decided that he no longer wishes to hang on to his Doodle Pants. Immediately I thought of you guys and Teddy. I would love to send the few pairs we have left your way. They are so awesome (www.doodlepants.com)! I would love to send them your way so they can get some more love. Is that possible?
You’re so sweet Rebekah! Feel free to shoot us an email (there’s a contact us link at the bottom of the blog :)
xo
s
I think Clara looks like her Nona! Sherry, your mom has awesome Michelle Obama/Angela Bassett arms! :)