Mother's Day Weekend

I hope everyone enjoyed a wonderful Mother's Day weekend!  Ours was jam packed...birthday parties, family time, dinners out and lots of outdoor play.  The weather was perfect, warm and sunny!  My hubby had a long list of things he wanted to get done around the house but needless to say, nothing got done - we were so busy!  Normally we spend our Sundays at least trying to get ready for the week ahead but yesterday was a complete write-off.  Our house is an absolute mess right now and I should probably be cleaning it but instead I'm writing.  I've been having some issues with our Internet - which is why it's been almost 2 weeks since my last blog.  I'm still not really sure what the issue is...but it seems to be working right now which is why I'm typing and not cleaning ha!  

We were lucky enough to celebrate Mother's Day with both our moms (Grandma and Nana).  We had a picnic lunch with one and dinner out with the other.  My own kiddies made me strawberry pancakes and showered me with cards and presents from school.  They actually continued to make me cards all day...and night.  It was really super cute.  

Together we made gifts for Grandma and Nana.  We also had 2 gifts made by a local artist that I happened to come across at the very last minute.  I was on Facebook late Saturday evening and found a woman who makes wood signs using stencils she has created herself.  She posted images of some of her work and one of the signs really stood out to me.  I messaged her and she responded immediately.  I ordered 2 of them and they were ready for pick-up before noon on Mother's Day.  Talk about great service.  I'm excited to order some other things from her in the near future!  Here is the link to her Facebook page: 

https://www.facebook.com/rusticallyyoursreclaimedwoodsigns

As for our homemade gifts, I bought chocolate that we melted down to create our own words and shapes.  The kids were a big help, especially when it came time to clean the bowl.  The nice thing about making these is you can create any theme, add any toppers and the best part is, they are inexpensive and relatively quick and easy to make.  I included some tips down below with the photos.

"Healthy" Dark Chocolate Hearts and (other fun shapes)

Everything you need...I bought the chocolate form a local bulk store.  Don't use chocolate chips (you can if you have to but the chocolate wafers are so creamy and easy to use - I used Wilton but other brands work well too).  You need a piping bag and icing tips if you plan to do anything decorative.  Cookie sheets and parchment paper to make the chocolates on.  A spoon for mixing.  And toppers!  I used a "healthier" option but I think it depends on whose going to be eating them.

 If possible use a double burner and avoid the microwave.  I don't have one so I made my own and it worked perfectly.  Allow 2-3 inches of water to come to a boil down below, then cover with a bowl that fits properly and turn the heat down to a simmer.  Then slowly add the chocolate wafers, while continually mixing.  Once all the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth, remove the bowl from the stove and let it cool a few minutes before adding the chocolate to the piping bag.  If it's too hot, you won't be able to hold the bag.

 The topper!  We used a healthier option this time.

 Probably the best part!  Cleaning (eating) the bowl haha

The finished product!  They dry in less than 30 minutes and they taste so good!  I keep mine refrigerated but they will keep their shape at room temperature, as long as it doesn't get too hot.

Mother's Day

Have a great week!