Creating with Children

In late Spring of 2011 I was invited to help write a book on throwing naturally fun parties for children with Anni Daulter. Anni is the author of such books as The Organic Cookbook, Ice Pop Joy, and Organically Raised: Conscious Cooking for Babies and Toddlers. Having a 3 month old babe in my arms, I jumped into the task of creating recipes, crafts, and decor for distinct parties that would be fun for children of all ages.

This book was an incredible learning experience that taught me so very much, and that I will never forget. Naturally Fun Parties for Kids: Creating Handmade, Earth-Friendly Celebrations for All Seasons and Occasions is available for pre-order now, and is full of ways to use natural, recycled and eco-friendly materials to throw fun and festive parties both outdoors and in.

Naturally Fun Parties for Kids gives parents distinctive ideas and complete plans, decorations, activities, recipes, and more — for celebrating with their families throughout the year. All 12 parties are inspired by nature, are cost effective, utilize recycling and other sustainable practices, and are incredible fun for all! From a fabulous homemade, all-natural spa party filled with floral-scented foot soaks and chocolate facials, to a morning gathering in pajamas for a party with pancakes galore, there’s a party here for every personality. ~ Amazon. com

Anni and I hope that you enjoy a little “taste” of what is inside below, and we are very excited to share the book with you in March. If you are interested in reviewing Naturally Fun Parties for Kids ahead of it’s release, please email me at heather@shivayanaturals.com.

From the Natural Spa Day Party

Chocolate Facial

½ cup cocoa powder

4 Tablespoons oatmeal

½ cup honey

3 teaspoons cottage cheese

½ cup fresh plain yogurt

Mix all together and refrigerate until ready to use.

Apply to face and leave on for 10 minutes or until girls want to eat it off!

Rinse off with water.

::

From the Winter Solstice party

Cheesy Potato Soup with Honeyed Walnuts

2 Tbsp butter

1 ½ yellow onions, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 Tablespoon fresh tarragon, minced

1 Tablespoon fresh rosemary, minced

½ Tablespoon fresh thyme, minced

2 pieces of celery, chopped

½ cup mushrooms, chopped (any variety)

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped

4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth if vegetarian)*

2 cup water

2 cups white cheddar cheese, shredded

2 Pinches of cayenne

Salt and pepper to taste

:: Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

:: On a large baking rimmed baking sheet lined with parchment paper, arrange a single layer of walnuts and coat with honey.

:: When oven is hot, cook the walnuts for about 15 minutes, set aside.

:: Meanwhile, set a large saucepan over medium-high heat and heat the butter for 1-2 minutes.

:: Add the onion, garlic, tarragon, rosemary, thyme, celery and mushrooms celery and sauté for 5-7 minutes.

:: Add potatoes, broth and water and bring to boil.

:: Add in the cayenne and salt + pepper.

:: Cover, turn the heat down to a simmer and cook for 30 minutes or until squash soften.

:: Puree with a hand held mixer or blender and return to a clean pot.

:: Add in cheese and mix until it melts.

:: Add salt and spices to taste, and garnish with honeyed walnuts.

Serves 8

Enjoy!

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