DIY Mario Birthday Party: Easy Games & Ideas

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If there is one thing I’ve learned about throwing kids' birthday parties, it’s that you can plan out every single aesthetic detail, but at the end of the day, it’s all about the games and the sugar.

For my newly-minted 8-year-old, the request was clear: a Super Mario birthday party. I rolled up my sleeves, fired up the printer, and got to work. If you’re looking for a fun, highly interactive party plan that focuses on activities rather than a Pinterest-perfect backdrop, this one was a massive hit.

Here is exactly how we brought the Mushroom Kingdom to life!

Crafting the Characters: DIY Mario Masks

As kids arrived, they got to choose their character. I made foam masks for every kid using some fantastic templates I found over on Instructables. To round out the cast, I free-handed a few extra favorites for the kids and their friends, including King Boo, Bowser, and a more detailed Spike. 

While I was thinking these would be too time consuming, it ended up not being too bad. I used these foam sheets and modified the design to use a smaller hole (using this punch) and elastic cord, which seem to simplify. 

Level 1: Cookie Decorating Station

We kicked off the activities with a cookie-decorating station. I used my absolute holy-grail sugar cookie and royal icing recipes from Sally's Baking Addiction (if you know, you know—they never spread and taste amazing).  I mixed up red, yellow, green, blue, and black icing then put in piping bags.  I love these ones, they are thick and sturdy.

To keep things manageable for a group of 8-year-olds, I offered three simple, recognizable designs they could follow:

• Yoshi Eggs

• Super Stars

• Mario & Luigi Suspenders

Of course, they also had the option to completely free-style it, which resulted in some very creative (and very heavily frosted) interpretations.

Level 2: The Mario Party Mini-Games

After the sugar rushed in, it was time to burn off the energy. I set up a real-life "Mario Party" style series of mini-games where the kids could earn coins. We kept the math simple: 2 coins for the winner of the round, and 1 coin for everyone else just for playing.

Here is the lineup of mini-games we tackled:

• Balloon Burst: A classic test of nerves. The kids had to use a pump to blow their balloon up as big as possible without popping it.

• Yoshi’s Snack Attack: A crowd-pleaser! We used Fruit by the Foot, and they had to race to eat the whole thing with their hands behind their backs.

• Obstacle Course Relay: We split into two teams for this one. They had to complete a "pancake flip" (using pans from our play kitchen and the pancakes from the Pancake Pile Up game), walk the balance beam, do a balloon waddle, and then sprint back to tag the next person in line.

• Clear the Castle: We divided the yard right down the middle and split into two teams. Each side started with the same amount of plastic play balls. The goal? Throw as many balls onto the opponent's side as possible before the 1-minute timer ran out. The team with the fewest balls on their side won. Pure chaos, in the best way. We used these ball pit balls.

• Capture the Coin: Think flag football, but Mario style. I stapled printed coins to the ends of yellow party streamers, and the kids tucked them into their waistbands. The person who snatched the most flags from the other players was the winner.

• Boulder Run: This was the undisputed favorite of the day. We actually saved this for the very end of the party. The parents stood in a staggered line on either side of the yard. The kids had to run a gauntlet down the` middle while the parents rolled a giant "boulder" (an exercise ball) back and forth trying to hit them. They loved it so much we played for probably an hour. Eventually, we flipped the script and let the kids throw the ball at the parents!

The Food & Decor (Keeping it Real)

Because we hosted the party from 2:00 to 4:00 PM, I didn't need to stress over serving a full meal. We whipped up a big bowl of party punch and set out a bunch of easy, grab-and-go snacks.

And I'm not going to lie to you—after planning the mini-games, making the masks from scratch, and baking and prepping all the cookies and icing, the decorations were entirely an afterthought. I just grabbed some simple balloons in the classic Mario color palette (red, blue, yellow, and green) and called it a day.

Honestly? The kids didn’t notice the lack of an elaborate balloon arch. They were too busy dodging the "boulder" and comparing their hard-earned coins.

Sometimes, the simplest setups with the most interactive play make for the best memories. Game on!

Starting Seeds for a Cutting Garden (Beginner-Friendly + Fun for Kids!)

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There’s something so satisfying about starting a garden from seed—especially when it’s something you’ve been dreaming about for a long time.

This year, I finally decided to go for it and start a cutting garden along the side of our house. We recently added garden beds there, and I knew right away I wanted them filled with flowers I could bring inside all season long.

And honestly? It’s already become one of my favorite projects.

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Why I Started Seeds Instead of Buying Plants

In the past, I’ve always picked up flowers from the garden center. But this year, starting from seed just made sense.

• You can grow more varieties for less money
• It’s budget-friendly, especially if you're filling multiple beds
• You get to enjoy the entire process—from seed to bloom

For a cutting garden, this is especially helpful because you want lots of flowers that keep producing all season long.

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Making It a Family Project

One of the best parts of this has been getting my girls involved.

They each have their own little garden bed, and they loved picking out what they wanted to grow. It made the whole process feel more exciting and meaningful for them.

They’ve been helping with:

• Filling seed trays
• Planting seeds
• Watering (very enthusiastically!)
• Checking on their plants daily

It’s not always neat or perfect, but it’s exactly the kind of memory I want them to have.

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What I’m Growing in My Cutting Garden

Since my goal is to have fresh flowers all season, I focused on easy-to-grow, high-producing flowers.

Some of the seeds I started include:

• Zinnias
• Marigolds
• Poppies
• Other beginner-friendly flowers that are great for cutting

These are perfect because they continue to bloom and are easy to arrange in simple bouquets.

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Beginner Tips for Starting Seeds

If you’re new to seed starting, don’t overcomplicate it. Here are a few things that have helped me:

• Start simple – You don’t need a huge variety to begin
• Make sure they get enough light – A sunny window or grow light helps a lot
• Don’t overwater – This is the hardest part (especially with kids helping!)
• Be patient – Not everything will sprout overnight

And remember—not every seed will grow perfectly, and that’s okay.

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Why I Love Having a Cutting Garden

This little garden is already turning into so much more than just flowers.

It’s:

• A way to slow down
• A chance to teach my kids where things come from
• Something we’re building together
• And eventually, a source of fresh flowers for our home

I’m especially excited for summer, when we can walk outside and come back in with a handful of fresh-cut blooms.

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What I’ll Be Sharing Next

I’ll be sharing updates as everything grows, including:

• What worked (and what didn’t)
• How our garden beds turn out
• Our first flower bouquets

If you’ve been thinking about starting a garden, this is your sign to just start. It doesn’t have to be perfect to be worth it.

🐣 Easy Easter Desserts Kids Will LOVE

Sugar Cookie Cutouts, Dirt Cups & Bird’s Nest Treats

Easter is one of those holidays where the desserts can be just as fun as the egg hunts—and honestly, the cuter the treat, the more excited the kids get. If you’re looking for simple, festive ideas that don’t require hours in the kitchen, these three Easter desserts are always a hit in our house.

They’re colorful, easy to customize, and perfect for getting kids involved (which is half the fun anyway).

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🐰 Sugar Cookie Cutouts

You can’t go wrong with classic sugar cookies—especially when they’re shaped like bunnies, eggs, and chicks. Making sugar cookies is one of my favorite holiday traditions with my kids.

Why we love them:

• Super customizable with icing and sprinkles
• Fun activity for kids (decorate-your-own station = win)
• Can be made ahead of time

Quick tips:

• Use store-bought dough if you’re short on time
• Keep icing simple: powdered sugar + milk + food coloring
• Set up a decorating station with sprinkles, mini candies, and frosting bags for a fun activity

👉 Mom tip: Don’t stress about perfection—kids actually love the messy ones most.

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🪴 Dirt Cups (Easter Style!)

These are always a crowd favorite—and they’re almost too easy. My girls absolutely love these.

What you need:

• Chocolate pudding
• Crushed Oreos
• Gummy worms or Easter candies
• Optional: Peeps, mini chocolate eggs, sprigs of mint

How to make:

1. Layer pudding and crushed Oreos in clear cups
2. Repeat layers
3. Top with “dirt” (Oreos) and decorate

Make it Easter-themed:

• Add Peeps on top
• Use pastel cups or spoons
• Swap worms for candy eggs

👉 Bonus: No baking required 🙌

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🐣 Bird’s Nest Treats

These might be the cutest Easter dessert—and they look way more complicated than they are.

Ingredients:

• Chocolate (melted)
• Chow mein noodles or shredded coconut
• Peanut butter (optional)
• Mini chocolate eggs

Instructions:

1. Mix melted chocolate with noodles (and peanut butter if using)
2. Scoop into small “nests” on parchment paper
3. Add mini eggs to the center
4. Let set

Why they’re great:

• No baking needed
• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Perfect little individual treats

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💜 Final Thoughts

If you’re anything like me, holidays with kids are less about perfection and more about making memories. These desserts are simple, fun, and give kids a chance to actually be part of it—which makes it all more special.

Whether you go all out or just pick one to try, you really can’t go wrong.

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If you end up making any of these, I’d love to hear which one your kids liked best! 🐰

Budget Kids Bathroom Update: What I’m Planning (Before & After Coming Soon)

Updating a kids bathroom feels a little risky.

They splash.
They drip toothpaste. Everywhere.
They somehow get water on the ceiling.

So while I want the space to feel fresh and intentional, I’m not about to spend thousands on finishes that may not survive real life.

Instead of a full remodel, I’m planning a budget kids bathroom update — small, practical changes that will make a big difference without breaking the bank.

And yes… I’ll be sharing before and after photos once it’s done.

Here’s the plan.

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Why We’re Updating (Without Remodeling)

The bathroom is functional.

Nothing is broken.
Nothing needs replacing.

But it feels very builder-basic — beige walls, plain vanity, flat mirror, zero personality.

It’s part of that “sea of sameness” so many new builds fall into.

Rather than gutting the space, I’m focusing on updates that are:

• Affordable

• Durable

• Easy to redo later

• Low commitment

Because kids.

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The Plan: 5 Budget-Friendly Updates

1. Painting the Walls

This is the first and biggest change.

Fresh paint will:

• Brighten the space

• Cover years of splash marks

• Instantly make the bathroom feel clean and intentional

I’m leaning toward something fresh but still practical — nothing too trendy that we’ll regret in a year.

And definitely satin or semi-gloss for easy wipe downs.

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2. Painting the Vanity Instead of Replacing It

A new vanity? Expensive.

A painted vanity? Smart.

Instead of replacing it, I’m planning to repaint it in a deeper tone that hides scuffs and adds contrast.

If it chips in a few years, I can repaint again — no stress.

This feels like the best move for a kids bathroom makeover on a budget.

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3. Replacing the Builder Mirror

You know the one — the large, flat mirror glued to the wall.

It works. But it doesn’t add anything.

I’m planning to swap it for a framed mirror to give the space more personality and make it feel finished.

It’s one of those simple changes that can elevate the entire room.

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4. Adding a Shelf Above the Toilet

Kids bathrooms need storage.

Extra toilet paper.
Towels.
All the random bath items.

A simple shelf above the toilet will:

• Add vertical storage

• Make the space more functional

• Give me a little styling opportunity

Practical and affordable.

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5. New Shower Curtain

This is where I’ll probably bring in a little personality.

Pattern, texture, or subtle color — something that feels intentional but still kid-friendly.

And if they outgrow it? Easy swap.

Low cost. Big visual change.

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What I’m Not Doing (On Purpose)

No tile replacement.
No new countertops.
No plumbing changes.

Those upgrades can wait.

Right now, the goal is a fresh, functional space that looks updated but doesn’t feel precious.

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Before & After Coming Soon

I’ll be sharing:

• Before photos

• The exact paint colors

• Budget breakdown

• What worked (and what I’d do differently)

• Final after photos

If you’ve been wanting to update your kids bathroom but don’t want to commit to a full renovation, this might be the push to start small.

Sometimes a glow up doesn’t require demolition.

Sometimes it just requires a plan.

Stay tuned for the before & after. 

How I Started a Traditional Sourdough Starter (Without Wasting a Ton of Flour)

For the longest time, I wanted to try making a traditional sourdough starter… but every recipe I found told me to use 100 grams of flour at a time and discard half of it every single day.

Maybe it’s just me, but that felt so wasteful.

All I could think about was perfectly good flour going straight into the trash.

So I kept putting it off.

Finding a No-Discard Method

After going down a sourdough rabbit hole (as one does), I came across the no-discard method from She Bakes Sourdough and decided to give it a try. The biggest lightbulb moment?

You do not need a massive quantity of flour to create a healthy, active starter.

You just need the correct ratios.

That completely changed the game for me.

Instead of feeding 100g at a time, I started very small — and it worked.

Starting Small (Like, Really Small)

I keep a tiny starter. Most days it’s around 9 grams total.

Here’s exactly what I do:

• Keep 3 grams of starter

• Add 3 grams flour

• Add 3 grams water

That’s it.

No giant jar.
No huge discard.
No guilt.

When I’m ready to bake, I simply build it up a few days before. Otherwise, I keep it small and manageable.

If you’ve been avoiding sourdough because it feels overwhelming or wasteful, this is your sign that it doesn’t have to be.

The Winter Struggle (Ohio Edition)

Now… here’s where things got interesting.

I started this in the winter here in Ohio, and my starter wasn’t quite doubling like it was supposed to. It would rise a little… but not enough to feel confident.

Instead of scrapping the whole thing, I did some research.

One tip that kept popping up? Try rye flour.

So I swapped out my regular flour for rye during a feed.

The very next day, there was a noticeable difference.

It was bubbly.
It was rising.
It was alive.

And from that point on, we were off to the races.

What I Learned

Here’s what I wish someone had told me before I started:

• You don’t need large quantities to create a healthy starter.

• Ratios matter more than volume.

• Temperature plays a huge role (especially in winter).

• Rye flour can give your starter the boost it needs.

• You can keep your starter tiny and build it up only when needed.

Sourdough doesn’t have to mean dumping flour in the trash every day. It can be simple. Low waste. Manageable.

And honestly? Kind of addictive once it gets going.

If you’ve been thinking about starting sourdough but feel intimidated, start small. Use the right ratios. Adjust for your environment. And don’t be afraid to experiment.

If you try it, let me know — I’m always up for talking sourdough. 

Updating our Builder Grade Pendants

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There’s nothing technically wrong with builder-grade kitchens.

They’re clean. Neutral. Functional.

But if you’ve ever stood in yours and thought, “It’s nice… but it feels like everyone else’s,” you know exactly what I mean.

That was us.

Our kitchen was perfectly fine — good cabinets, good layout, plenty of light — but it felt like part of the sea of sameness so many new builds fall into. Especially when it came to the lighting.

Those standard glass domes.
The tiny mini-pendants.
The fixtures that look like they were selected from a drop-down menu labeled “Option A.”

It wasn’t bad. It just lacked soul.

And then we upgraded our builder grade pendant lights for our kitchen island.

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The “Why” — The Sea of Sameness in New Builds

New builds are designed for mass appeal. That means neutral finishes, safe choices, and lighting that won’t offend anyone. The problem? It also doesn’t excite anyone.

Builder grade pendant lights are often:

• Too small for the size of the island

• Generic clear glass domes

• Installed too high

• Lacking personality or design presence

They check the “lighting” box — but they don’t elevate the space.

And upgrading builder grade lighting is one of the simplest ways to make a kitchen feel custom without changing countertops or cabinets.

Lighting has power. It defines mood. It creates scale. It frames the heart of your home.

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The Impact — How New Pendant Lighting Changed the Room

Here’s what surprised me:

Swapping our builder grade pendant lights didn’t just change the brightness.
It changed the entire feel of the kitchen.

Once we replaced the original fixtures with pendants that had more intention — still with a translucent shade for function — the island finally felt designed instead of default.

Because we use our island constantly (homework, dinner prep, coffee refills), we needed something that was still bright. That’s why choosing pendant lights with fabric shades was important.

A translucent shade or glass allows light to spread evenly across the counter. It keeps the kitchen bright and functional while still looking elevated.

The right kitchen pendant lighting ideas don’t just improve visibility — they improve the atmosphere.

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What to Look for When Upgrading Builder Grade Pendant Lights

If your kitchen feels “fine” but unfinished, here’s what I recommend when choosing a replacement:

• ✔ Translucent shade or frosted glass for everyday task lighting

• ✔ A diameter that fits the length of your island

• ✔ A style that complements cabinet hardware

• ✔ Enough visual weight to anchor the space

You don’t need a full renovation to create impact. Sometimes a lighting swap is all it takes.

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Budget-Friendly Glass Pendant Lights to Consider

If you’re ready to upgrade your builder grade pendant lights but want to stay budget-conscious, here are a few beautiful, practical options that work well for high-use kitchens:

(Note: These are affiliate links. I only share pieces I genuinely think offer style and function at a good price point.)

1. We Went With This — Fabric Shade Pendant

Shop the Designer's Fountain on Amazon

This is the one we chose — and we absolutely love how it brightens the space. The translucent shade spreads light beautifully, and the simple silhouette complements almost any kitchen style.

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2. Distressed Black & Wood Tone Seeded Glass Pendant

Shop the Kichler Barrington Pendant at Lowe’s

If you love a little rustic warmth, this one has character without feeling heavy. The combo of metal + wood tones with seeded glass adds visual interest while still keeping the glass translucent for task lighting.

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3. Industrial Vintage Combo Pendant

Shop the Home Decorators Collection Knollwood Pendant at Home Depot

This design mixes industrial style with softer glass elements. It’s a great way to dress up builder grade lighting while keeping the illumination functional.

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4. Modern LED Cube Pendant

Shop the Artika Crystal Cube LED Pendant at Home Depot

If minimalist, modern design is your vibe, this cube pendant puts a subtle contemporary spin on clear lighting. The integrated LED makes it energy efficient and crisp.

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Each of these styles typically comes in under $150, making them an easy way to upgrade builder grade lighting without overspending.

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Final Thoughts: A Small Change with Big Design Impact

We didn’t repaint.
We didn’t replace cabinets.
We didn’t redo countertops.

We just upgraded our builder grade pendant lights.

And suddenly, the kitchen felt:

• More balanced

• More personal

• More intentional

If your kitchen feels like it blends in with every other new build, look up. Your glow up might already be hanging there — just waiting to be swapped.

Easter Decorations

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Still waiting first day of Spring, but in the meantime dreaming of warmer weather and all the bright colors of spring! There is so much adorable Spring and Easter decor out there right now and I want it all! My kids love anything holiday themed too, so it's hard not to buy all the Easter decorations. 

Below are some of my favorites with links below in blue.  You can find even more decor and DIY ideas on my Easter Pinterest board (link in sidebar).

1. Anthropologie Icon Juice Glass 2. MacKenzie-Childs Bunny Figure   3. Celebrate Together Easter Towels 4. Pottery Barn Kids Felted Tabletop Tree  5. Mudpie Egg Platter  6. Kohl's Easter Banner 7. Mud Pie Bunny Carrot Candy Pedestal 8. Threshold Spring Bunny Coir Mat 

This post contains affiliate links, which I may receive a commission from when you click or make a purchase.

Have you decorated for Easter / Spring?  Would love to see if you have!

Happy almost Spring!  Hope you are having a great week!