Feild Guides For Kids

Inexpensive Field Guides for Tots

March 26, 2009

When I took Emily to the book store the other night, we looked for some field guides to add to her backpack for nature hikes, but they were very expensive. I found a great way to make a more child-friendly version. It is simple and easy to make yourself. To make your own bird field guide, you will need cardstock, a binder ring, and some clear contact paper.

Go to whatbird.com and create your own customizable bird field guide. I tried to pick species that we see regularly in our own backyard, and are easy to recognize (robins, blue jays, cardinals, etc). Print out the sheets and laminate with clear contact paper. Punch a hole in the top corner and attach a binder ring. Presto! Fabulous and frugal field guide!

I plan to make more of these for butterflies, wildflowers, plants, etc. — each on its own binder ring. This one is 3″ x 3″, the perfect size for little hands. She can easily flip to a page, identify a bird, and use a dry-erase marker to record the sighting. The contact paper will protect it from the elements, and helps it to withstand lots of use. More on Emily’s backpack for nature hikes later…

Outdoor Buffet

Stylish Buffet Design

From sleek chic to found vintage, I have a round up of beautiful buffets.  You may not always have a dessert table at your celebration, but you do have snacks and drinks, right?  These inspiring displays show you how to serve with style.   

Grab an aperitif from a modern-rustic display like the one here designed by Viridian Design Studio seen on Elizabeth Anne Designs.

Serve a delicious rustic Italian meal from an old farm table, with simple white dishes, cutting boards, and fresh herbs as the accents.  Don't forget the chalk board menu! (Sunday Suppers)

Sample some cheese with ease - the juxtaposition between the wood table and the delicate gauze covering is true French style.  The monocromatic color tones make the cheese shine, and yet they become part of the design. (Sunday Suppers)

You'll need a cocktail to help wash down the cheese! This modern layout of a make-your-own-martini bar, lets everyone please their own palette. (Sunday Suppers)

You can't deny sweets altogether, so set up a fun S'mores Bar.  This layout onPostcards and Pretties combines modern lines with rustic baskets.

For an all-out rustic look, present your bounty in galvanized containers.  Add a touch of softness with a vintage-inspired floral fabric, or lace runner.(found onElizabeth Ann Designs)

Bring out the paint-chipped furniture and thrift store finds to mimic this vintage-inspired display.  This look is so fun because you can get creative with your use of old items. (by Marry You Me for The Sweetest Occasion)

This final buffet is pure country with it's farm table, linen table cloth, old crate, and wild flowers.  Who wouldn't want to linger here for a while? (Southern Living)

You might also like:

Setting Up A Stylish Buffet

A Cozy Breakfast Bar

Romance On The Ranch

Creative DIY Details {Backyard Wedding}

LinkWithin

Green outdoor party

http://pizzazzerie.com/parties/holidays/green-outdoor-dinner-party/

Homemade Houseboat? :)

http://herbsboats.wordpress.com/boats/