16 tempting treats and tricks
Whether you want to deal out terrific treats or teasing tricks… here are a few finds for your spooky Halloween visitors.
First, the tricks…
1. Turn these gummy bugs into fireflies when you pick them up with magical lighted tongs $2
2. Record your voice and play it back at high or low speeds for hijinks and hilarities $16.95
3. Whoopee cushions… one of the oldest tricks in the book! $1.95
4. Twist and turn this putty and the colors will morph before your eyes $11.95
5. Who wouldn’t love an extra million in the bank? ;-) $.95
6. Can’t eat all your candy? Use it for science experiments! $14.99
7. Trick your friends into thinking you dyed your hair with this washable hair chalk $14.95
8. Turn almost anything into a creature by adhering these goofy googly eyes $8.95
And now, the treats…
1. I mustache you “what is your mood”? $3.95
2. Boomerang + Helicopter = Fun Times $8.95
3. Turn your fingernails into cute farm animals $5.95
4. Classic candy with a surprise fizz! $2.25 for 3 packs
5. A lip smacking gloss for chocolate lovers $2.95
6. Shoot monster eyeballs to keep zombies away! $11.95
7. How does this magical story end? It’s up to you! $6.99
8. Ward off any visiting aliens with this menacing mini space gun $4.95
Looking for more ideas… Shop ALL HALLOWEEN HERE
Do you like finding goodies that will bring big grins? We’re happy to share some of our sweet gift ideas. Simply sign up to receive these blog posts in your email and you’ll be in the loop & get our latest scoop.
gifts that bring big grins
At catching fireflies we believe in ther-happy. We love hearing giggles throughout the store and always are on the hunt for additional funny finds to offer our firefly fans. Here are a few goodies that are making team cf grin lately…
I have been cracking up at these pushpins since we first got them in. I just think it is so funny how you can put these on random every day objects and it gives them a complete personality. They never fail to put me in a good mood! $5.95
The title itself makes me laugh and the simplicity of the humor mixed with the illustrations are hilarious. The book goes through different death predicaments of various people and things and while the humor is dark, it’s extremely clever. This little book definitely gives me a chuckle when I need it. $9.95
These are hilarious! They make it way more interesting when I’m making hand puppets with my daughters and I love that they come with different designs in the box! They are also a good size for my older daughter to put on her hands so that we can all play together : ) $6.95
This cute little guy is perfect for a dust-free home as well as a good laugh while cleaning. Great for wiping screens, counter tops, and more. He even goes in the washing machine! $8.95
This magnet makes me giggle because who wouldn’t wish that? And of course if I did live in Pairs, I would want my dog to wear a beret. $5
The original Poo-Pourri made me laugh, this version is hysterical. For the manly man? For the especially fragrant bathroom user? The concept is just too funny. One really has to have a sense of humor on these occasions. This spray really is useful and saves a person from embarrassment and those who come after from unpleasantness. $9.95
This book always makes me laugh! We have all been there, not knowing an answer on a test and feel the urge to just write whatever comes to your mind. These people didn’t hold back and it sure brings out a laugh for everyone who reads it. $9.95
I think this is going to mom for Christmas. All of those times as a kid “helping” her bake something and getting my hand slapped for sticking my finger in the batter. Kids these days don’t know how easy they have it with gadgets like these! $9.95
This wood sign makes me smile every time I see it, which is often since I have it sitting next to my computer. Daily chuckles are good for the soul and this cute sign reminds me to not take things so seriously. $9.95
When a friend or family member needs a little cheering up, a thoughtful or funny card may do the trick but for roughly the same price, I love the idea of showing up with an emergency clown nose to brighten their day. This unique prescription will definitely lighten the mood and one can never overdose on laughter. Patch Adams would be proud! $4.95
I just love this beer coaster set. Each of the 4 coasters included are hilarious. It is the perfect gift for any beer lover. $18.95
You can’t help but giggle when you are handed a stapler with 2 googly eyes peering up at you! Turns your mundane task into a moment of humor! And everyone will know that stapler is yours. Really cute! $8.95
Whenever I need a good laugh, I always turn to Awkward Family Photos! I absolutely love seeing these family pictures and the captions that go along with them. I recommend this book to the people who love a good chuckle. $15
Do you like seeing what team catching fireflies is loving? We’re happy to share some of our favorite finds. Simply sign up to receive these blog posts in your email and you’ll be in the loop & get our latest scoop.
m is for monster cookies
I needed to make an easy-to-eat treat for a little Halloween party and was originally inspired by these but I decided to put my own spin on it.
Here’s what you need to make the cookies:
white or party rainbow cake mix
1/2 cup oil
2 eggs
food coloring
Simply mix all these ingredients together and bake for 10-12 minutes at 350 degrees.
Now for the decorations:
mini oreos
m&m’s
red food dye
other candy decorations
frosting
We untwisted the mini oreos to create ‘eye balls’, drew red lines to create a bloodshot look and placed an m&m in the middle for a pupil.
Originally I planned on just placing one eye in the center but it looked to lonely and that is when the creativity came into play. We used frosting to adhere the rest of the monster face pieces and even sliced some marshmallows to create an opposing larger eye.
It was lots of fun playing cookie Picasso and our Finnish daughter, Iitu even had a fun time creating a variety monster personalities. These definitely make a silly treat for a spooky party.
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16 Sweet Baby Gifts
Do you have a date to meet a brand new baby this month? Statistics show that September and August are the most popular months for birthdays (must be all that winter snuggling :-)
Here are a few finds that any new mom & dad would love… that and of course a delicious home cooked meal, fresh coffee and offering to babysit so they can take a nap :-)
1. Print one of your favorite instagram pics of the baby and place it in this personalized handmade frame for a BIG WOW from the proud parents. $40.50
2. This clever pacifier also doubles a little cuddle blanket the baby can soothe herself with $14.95
3. Always remember that special day your new baby changed your life forever with this custom birth announcement print. $21.95
4. This sweet pewter spoon made in the usa is a classic keepsake gift that you can also use! $26.95
5. We’ve been carrying these super cute socks for years and they still remain popular… especially since they actually STAY on the baby’s tootsies! $24.95
6. Never wonder how old your little lady is in photos when you apply these removable and reusable sticky bellies which display their age on any tee or onesie. $12.95
7. Recreate the warm, secure and cozy feeling of the womb with these great swaddle blankets $34.95
8. We love this wonderful Winnie the Pooh saying sign for a nice nursery addition $14.95
1. Who wouldn’t look handsome in this handmade personalized photo frame? $40.50
2. Keep your little guy from spraying you in the eye during diaper changes with these hilarous and practical pee-pee teepees $10.95
3. Always remember that special day your new baby changed your life forever with this custom birth announcement print. $21.95
4. Get your dude ready for the court right out of the crib with these great johnny socks $24.95
5. This sweet snuggle puppy could easily become your little boys best friend $8.95
6. Never wonder how old your little guy is in photos when you apply these removable and reusable sticky bellies which display their age on any tee or onesie. $12.95
7. This sweet pewter spoon made in the usa is a classic keepsake gift that you can also use! $26.95
8. Calling all hipster parents: this mustache pacifier if for you! $11.95
Looking for more ideas… Shop ALL BABY GIFTS HERE
Do you like finding goodies that will bring big grins? We’re happy to share some of our sweet gift ideas. Simply sign up to receive these blog posts in your email and you’ll be in the loop & get our latest scoop.
born too late
After I realized I shazamed this catchy tune by Dent May on XMU radio twice in one month it needed to go on my playlist.
A review reads, “The album pieces together a collage of sounds that reflects our contemporary moment, when any song from any genre is one quick click away. “Born Too Late” opens with a piano hook reminiscent of Randy Newman and a backing vocal fit for Blackstreet. By the time a funky synth locks in step with a roller-rink disco beat, any coherent view of pop past, present, and future becomes illusory.” ~ ROBERT REA
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art for everyone
One amazing event that I’m proud takes place in our state is ArtPrize. It’s now in its fifth year and all began with a “social experiment” idea from Rick DeVos. He was going to give away the world’s largest art prize based solely on a public vote. DeVos said the event would take over downtown Grand Rapids, Michigan, that fall. As it turned out, that was just the beginning.
Steve & I have attended this awesome event 4 out of the last 5 years. Here are some bits and pieces of what we enjoyed this time around…
Sleeping Dune National Lakeshore created from fabric took first prize. Silkwaves added fantastic color to the Grand River. This heart has the right message… Actions Speak Louder.
The wood carved Dancing With Mother Nature sculpture was stunning in person. And this Earth Giant looked like he has been kicking back fishing in the Grand River for years.
Glass orchid garden & photo-like painted polar bears.
Plus I love the magical peep holes in All Things Possible.
The origami swans jumped off the painting and filled the ceiling in Wing and a Prayer. Taking Flight was amazing in person too.
Back to Eden was a lovely living wall of prettiness and old tires never looked so cute on Tired Pandas.
That may look like a quilt… but is actually carved from wood!
Thanks for another inspiring experience ArtPrize. We’ll keep our head in the clouds dreaming of artful ways to look at the world until next year!
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making days brighter for our furry friends
We’re big animal lovers at catching fireflies so in celebration of Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, we’re partnering with Michigan Animal Rescue League to raise money & collect supplies for the many dogs and cats in Metro Detroit that need forever homes.
The Michigan Animal Rescue League believes that every animal deserves the highest quality of life. Each and every animal that comes through their door is given unconditional love and regard in the form of physical care, socialization and the day to day joys that an animal would receive in a home.
MARL rescues animals out of desperate situations & gives them consistent, dedicated care and attention in an effort to help them retain or regain their ability to connect with people and enjoy life. They offer medical care, socialization, training and most of all love and acceptance. As a result, their animals receive personalized placement, whether that be with an adoptive family, in long term foster care or living as part of the MARL family for an extended period of time. MARL does not euthanize their animals except when injury, disease or temperament make other options impossible.
We’re invite you to help us make days brighter for our four legged friends a couple different ways.
First, you can help us spread the word that we’re donating a dollar for every new facebook like we get in the month of October to MARL. Our goal is to get 1,000 likes so we can write a check for $1,000 that will go to helping MARL continue finding dogs and cats forever homes.
Our rescued Basset Hound, Gus is already on the job spreading the word. You can help him out by clicking HERE and sharing this photo on your facebook page.
Second, we’re also collecting supplies at our Berkley, Ann Arbor & Rochester locations all month long. MARL’s wish list includes: dog food, cat food, cat litter, dog treats, paper towels and gift cards from Petco, Petsmart or Pet Supplies Plus.
And when you bring some supplies, we’ll even throw in this sweet & oh-s0-true magnet with any purchase.
Like to see how you can help us make days brighter for those in need? Stay in the loop by signing up to receive these inspiring updates in your email inbox!
dog lover giveaway
In celebration of Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, we’ve put together some delightful finds that any dog lover would enjoy.
Frame your cute canine in our handmade Laugh, Love, Bark frame. Let your guests know that they may get a few sloppy kisses from your furry family member when the come to visit with this fun sign. Does this To-Do List magnet sound familiar? Dog owners know that hair from your perfect pooch only enhances the taste of your coffee. ($67.90 value)
Just enter below & we’ll select the lucky firefly fan’s name on Tuesday, October 8, 2013 and the winner will be listed on this post.
Have fun, good luck and thanks for playing!
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your life your call
I started listening to a few Junip songs earlier this year and was reminded of their haunting sound when amc showcased their final Breaking Bad teaser on Sunday.
It’s rather eery how well the tone and words of Line of Fire reflect the disillusioned world of Walter White. (Steve will be surprised when he reads this considering I’ve teased him about being a BB addict when he devoured the first 5 seasons on netflix last year… and now here I am sitting on the couch next to him on Sunday nights watching the final season with him:-)
I also like chill vibe of Your Life Your Call
A review reads, “As a solo artist, Argentine-born, Sweden-based indie-folk auteur José González can massage your worried mind like Cat Stevens. With his band Junip, there’s a dark, funky undercurrent pulling against the pastoral kindness. Here, he dangles tensile guitar and low-talking tenor over stark, worldly grooves and drone-haunted synths. González’s hippie bromides have a “hey, whatever” mordancy; see the mumblecore dirge-boogie “Your Life Your Call,” or “Line of Fire,” a rip-roaring free-form meltdown that asks you to “look through all your dark corners.” Junip find something creepily beautiful down every one of theirs. – Jon Donlan
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a toast to great neighbors
Once September arrives we like to host a little backyard party for the neighborhood. It’s a great time to reconnect and catch up on summer adventures. Everyone brings a little something to snack on and here’s what we served up.
This festive recipe for ladybug crackers called for black paste food coloring that I couldn’t find so super small diced olives had to work for the spots. Luckily Iitu is the master of splicing and dicing.
Next on the list… super tasty cider sangria that turned out to be a big hit.
Here’s what you need:
1 bottle (standard size) of pinot grigio
2 1/2 cups fresh apple cider
1 cup club soda
1/2 cup ginger brandy
2 honey crisp apples, chopped
2 pears, chopped
I served it over ice for slightly lighter taste and the crunchy apples and pears were also great to munch on after finishing the delicious drink.
It was a most lovely afternoon filled with great conversations, lots of laughter, a few new introductions and many old connections too.
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