SpaceFest Program Celebrates SpaceX Launch

Science

Update: Shortly before liftoff the 5/27/20 SpaceX Dragon launch was scrubbed due to weather. According to NASA, the next flight launch opportunity is Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 3:22 pm EST. The public will be able to watch lift off (when it actually is happening) on NASA Live. However, the AMNH virtual learning program went on as planned and the public can access all the recorded sessions at the links below. 

American Museum of Natural History SpaceFest Today

It's a exciting day for young and old. I'm fortunate to have lived to remember the historic moment when man first walked on the moon on July 29, 1969 which only adds to the excitement for me on a personal level. Today, history is expected to be made again with the scheduled launch of the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft from NASA's Kennedy Space Center, destined for the International Space Station (ISS). This is a particularly momentus time as it is the first U.S. human mission into space in almost a decade. 

Today's Science of Space Travel: Past, Present & Future Events

To celebrate and appreciate this American accomplishment, the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) is airing a series of free space travel live online events today suitable for kids as well as grownups beginning at 11 am EST on May 27.

IMAGE COURTESY OF NASA

11 am EST - Scientists at Home: Imaging Space Exploration

Join AMNH Museum Curator Ruth for a discussion about human missions to space, a fun and educational space activity for kids to do at home on the museum's children's science site OLogy: The Science Website for Kids, and a live guided virtual flight that simulates the feel of a launch and journey to the ISS. Watch Scientists at Home

1 pm EST - Field Trip: Spaceflight Live Watch Party

Museum Director of Astrovisualization Carter Emmart and astrophysicist Jackie Faherty invite kids to hitch a ride on their mission from Earth to the ISS, to the Moon, and further out in space. Viewers will experience the thrill and sights of space flight, get an insider's view of what goes into planning a successful mission, and learn about all the things (like weather, distance, detours) that might require impromptu fine tuning enroute. Watch Field Trip Spaceflight

4:05 pm EST - The Future of Space Exploration

Live commentary by Hayden Planetarium's Director Neil deGrasse Tyson and Museum Astrophysicist Jackie Faherty as the final launch preparations are made readying the rocket for liftoff. They'll discuss the future of what human missions to space might look like and viewers who have questions are able to send them in advance by sending email to publicprograms@amnh.org for Neil or Jackie to answer live during this program segment. Watch The Future of Space Exploration

4:33 pm EST - Live Spacecraft Lift Off

NASA astronauts Robert Behnken and Douglas Hurley, flying the first crewed Dragon spacecraft, are scheduled to lift off on a Falcon 9 rocket from Launch Complex 39A at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. 

About American Museum of Natural History

Founded in 1869, the American Museum of Natural History in New York City is world-renowned for his position at the forefront of scientific, educational and cultural institutions. Learn more about AMNH by visiting the Museum's official site as well as following them on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram,  and YouTube.

Always Eat After 7 PM Diet Book Week #1

Healthy Living

Part 1 in a 4-part MBE Series

MBE partnered with Always Eat After 7 PM for this post. My opinions are my own. However, the book featured as well as MBE's series about this title is for informational purposes only and it is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. 

Why I'm Reviewing This Book

Over the next month I'll be sharing weekly posts summing up what I'm learning from the new book Always Eat After 7 PM: The Revolutionary Rule-Breaking Diet That Lets You Enjoy Huge Dinners, Desserts and Indulgent Snacks -- While Burning Fat Overnight, (BenBella Books, 2020) by Joel Marion. My hope is that each story I share about my personal journey in this 4-part series inspires MBE's like-minded readers who lead full and busy family lives to find your own happy and healthy place by eating delicious food that's actually good for you without feeling deprived.

Accepting The Challenge

No matter what your age, if you have kids like I do, who doesn't want to look and feel your best all the time, right? For me, that means consistently have the energy and physical stamina to keep up with a busy household where both my husband and I work, as well as to enjoy staying active with my four 20-something children whenever we travel together. 

Being physically fit doesn't happen by itself, though. It involves a simple, but healthy, science-based diet plan like the one that is the cornerstone of Marion's new book, as well as some lifestyle changes on your part. Watch this short clip to hear from the author himself.

Your personal goal might be to lose many pounds or take off some weight that might be causing or aggravating chronic health problems. No judgement here: whatever the situation to priority is doing what's best for you on your terms.

In my case, I don't want to give up eating delicious food, especially chocolate and desserts. But, I do want to shed about 10 pounds to reach and maintain my ideal Body Mass Index (BMI). That's to ensure I have enough body fuel to continue to keep up with my very active family of six when we zipline over the Cancun jungle, venture into the African bush tracking animals on a photo safari, and white water raft through Class 4 Rapids, followed by a leisurely rappel down a 150 foot waterfall in Costa Rica. Talk about a family that lovingly pushes you to your personal physical limits, but I love every minute of our often extreme adventures.

On an African Family Safari

Benefits of a Healthy Diet 

As you read this post, hopefully you're feeling more motivated already to start enjoying quality time with family more. Gaining the necessary energy to keep up with your own kids, achieving your weight loss goals, and boosting your chances of being as healthy as you can be are just the tip of the iceberg of what's possible. 

Always Eat After 7 PM provides you with a step-by-step guide to changing your eating habits for the better, leading to living a more healthful lifestyle.

Some Potential Benefits of this Three-Phase Diet Plan are

• Having More Energy 
• Losing Weight
• Rebalancing Fat Burning Hormones
• Boosting Metabolism
• Balancing Blood Sugar
• Inducing Deep Sleep
• Improving Overall Better Health

Inspiration to Fuel Your Transformation

According to the author of Always Eat After 7 PM, "Research shows that the average person's metabolic rate is no different during sleep than during the day." Marion further explains, "In short, your metabolism doesn't slow down at night. Nor does your body store fat at the end of the day. Whether it's 8 am or 8 pm, you use food for energy the same same way."

In my coming weekly posts here on MommyBlogExpert.com you'll learn so much more about how Marion's diet strategy works to structure when and what you are eating and drinking in new ways so you can achieve your personal goals. In Week #2 I'll be discussing more about why I chose to work on this project as well as share an interview with Joel Marion.

About Always Eat After 7 PM

This is the second health and fitness book written by Joel Marion, a certified sports nutritionist (CISSN, International Society of Sports Nutrition) who is the Co-Founder and Co-CEO of BioTrust Nutrition. The Florida father of two daughters is also author of The Cheat to Lose Diet: Cheat BIG with the Foods You Love, Lose Fat Faster Than Ever Before, and Enjoy Keeping It Off and has been featured in more than 20 national magazines ranging for Woman's Day to Men's Journal and others. Learn more about Always Eat After 7 PM: The Revolutionary Rule-Breaking Diet That Lets You Enjoy Huge Dinners, Desserts and Indulgent Snacks -- While Burning Fat Overnight by Joel Marion, now available purchase at JoelMarion.com. Plus listen to his Born to Impact podcast and connect with Marion on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram  to keep up on all the latest news.

FTC Disclosure: MBE partnered with Always Eat After 7 PM for this post. My opinions are my own. However, the book featured as well as MBE's series about this title is for informational purposes only and it is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. 

Blue's Clues And You DVD Review Giveaway

Kids 

MBE partnered with Nickelodeon for this Review & Giveaway

Blue's Clues And You Giveaway, Entry Details Below

Dog gone it! For the first time ever, Blue's Clues And You, the popular preschool kids series with live action host Josh (Josh Dela Cruz), skidoos onto DVD. Beginning June 2, 2020, the new Blue's Clues & You DVD title -- featuring four of the best episodes from the debut season of the show -- will be available exclusively from Nickelodeon and Paramount Home Entertainment at Walmart.

Image by Josh Rakower

The DVD Includes 4 Episodes of Blue's Clues And You

• Meet Josh
• Happy Birthday, Blue
• Playdate With Magenta
• Big News With Blue 

PLUS...

Fun Special Features

• How to Play Blue's Clues Song
• 6 Different Josh & Blue's VLOGs
• 8 American Sign Language Flashcards & More

This is a dog gone good new option for younger kids and parents to enjoy watching together. With such a fun new home entertainment release, thanks to Nickelodeon, I'm thrilled to share another family friendly giveaway exclusively for MommyBlogExpert's following. Read on for how to enter for your chance to win.

Giveaway

BLUE'S CLUES & YOU

Kids DVD

MBE Giveaway

on Instagram

Thanks to Nickelodeon and Paramount Home Entertainment, ONE (1) lucky MBE giveaway participant will win the new Blue's Clues And You DVD. To enter this Movie Giveaway Mommy Blog Expert is hosting, visit this MBE Instagram post. Contest is open to US residents only and qualifying winner will be selected at random. Hurry, this giveaway ends May 28, 2020 at 12 am PST/3 am EST. This contest is not affiliated with Instagram in any way. Nickelodeon and Paramount are providing the prize and are responsible for delivery to winner.

About the Blue's Clues And You Series & New DVD

Created for today's generation of preschoolers, the Blues Clues And You show currently airs daily on weekdays on Nickelodeon. The new series is an updated version of the hit edutainment interactive series Blue's Clues which debuted in fall 1986. Leveraging smartphone technology to bring the beloved Handy Dandy Notebook from the original show into a new millennium, boys and girls are invited to help Josh and Blue solve the clues. With a run time of approximately one hour and 30 minutes, the new DVD is available at Walmart  starting June 2, 2020, listing for $10.99.

Sonic The Hedgehog Twitter Party Bluray Review

Movies

MBE partnered with Paramount for this Review, Giveaway + Twitter Party

Sonic The Hedgehog Movie Digital Code Giveaway, Details Below

Another fun family movie for kids has hit the home entertainment market. This time I'm excited to share that Sonic The Hedgehog (2020, Rated PG) from Paramount Studios, already available on Digital, also is available as of today on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD. Plus: for something really special, a Limited Edition Comic Book is included with the 4K UHD and Blu-ray Combo packs. The movie Sonic The Hedgehog, as many fans know, is inspired by the Sonic video game by SEGA of America.

The Storyline

In this new home entertainment release, a speedy and rambunctious hedgehog named Sonic (AKA The Blue Blur who is voiced by Ben Schwartz) accidentally knocks out the world's power grid. The great comedic actor Jim Carrey embodies the evil genius character of Dr. Robotnik who tries to stop Sonic and Sheriff Tom Wachowski, otherwise known as The Donut Lord (portrayed by James Marsden), from teaming up and racing around the world to save planet Earth. Non-stop action, comedy and adventure will keep viewers eyes glued to the screen as parents and kids watch the story unfold together.

Bonus Features on Digital*, 4K UHD & Blu-ray Combo 

• Commentary with Director Jeff Fowler & Ben Schwartz, voice of Sonic
• Around the World in 80 Seconds
• Deleted Scenes
• Bloopers with Jim Carrey and the cast
• "Speed Me Up" Music Video
• For the Love of Sonic: What Sonic means to the cast
• Building Robotnik: Carrey shares how he infused life into his supervillain character
• The Blue Blur: Origins of Sonic
• Sonic On Set: Behind the scenes with Schwartz

* Bonus Content varies by digital retailer

Giveaway

SONIC THE HEDGEHOG

Digital Movie

MBE Giveaway

on Instagram

Thanks to Paramount Home Entertainment, ONE (1) lucky MBE giveaway participant will win a digital code to see the Sonic The Hedgehog movie at home. To enter this Movie Giveaway Mommy Blog Expert is hosting, visit this MBE Instagram post. Contest is open to US residents only and qualifying winner will be selected at random. Hurry, this giveaway ends May 26, 2020 at 12 am PST/3 am EST. Paramount is providing the prize and is responsible for delivery to winner.

Twitter Party Today

Join us today on Twitter for a fun and entertaining chat about Sonic The Hedgehog as well as have a chance to win some more great prizes including a movie-inspired kids bed set! See party details below.

Twitter Party Details

When: Tuesday, May 19, 2020
Time: 6-7 pm PST/9-10 pm
Hashtag: #SONICMOVIEPARTY
Follow @belairmommie @mommyblogexpert and others
RSVP

About Sonic The Hedgehog

Directed by Jeff Fowler and starring Jim Carrey, James Marsden, Ben Schwartz, and Tika Sumpter as Maddie. Learn more about Sonic The Hedgehog from Paramount Studios. See the official trailer, visit the movie's site, and follow the film's pages on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay up on all the latest news.

Disney Pixar Onward Twitter Party Bluray Review

Movies

MBE partnered with Disney Pixar for this Onward Twitter Party & review

The big screen debut of Disney and Pixar Animation Studios family movie for  kids Onward (2020) had an impressive Rotten Tomatoes 95% Verified Audience Score before its theatrical release. But sadly, early rave reviews were cut short just a few weeks later after the global COVID-19 health crisis started spiraling out of control.  Fortunately, mass distribution plans were quickly altered, providing home viewers access to buy this animated fantasy adventure film digitally, on Movies Anywhere and on Disney + by early April. As of May 19, I'm pleased to announce even more fans will have the chance to enjoy the home entertainment version with the launch of Onward on Blu-ray, DVD, and 4K UHD.

The Storyline

Modern suburban teenage elf brothers Ian (voice of Tom Holland) and Barley (voice of Chris Pratt) Lightfoot set out on an epic journey into the unknown. Their goal is to team up so they can recapture the chance to spend just one full day with their Dad who passed away when Barley was little but before Ian was born. Along the way, there will be some crazy bends in the journey: adventures driving in Barley's van named Guinevere, casting magic spells, deciphering cryptic maps, and a host of other fast-moving challenges including encountering a giant beast. 

It's a fast-paced adventure with a cast of characters with hearts and good intentions -- and a villain or two to keep things interesting. In the end, the brothers will come to realize that the clear and easy path isn't always the right or the best way to pursue your dreams. But, with a little of inspiration and by working together -- and of course some magic -- these two seemingly polar opposite brothers prove on this quest that if you earnestly seek it, anything you strive to do is possible.

Twitter Party Today

Join us today on Twitter to chat about Onward as well as have a chance to win some great prizes!

When: Monday, May 18, 2020
Time: 6-7 pm PST/9-10 pm
Hashtag: #ONWARDBLURAY
Follow @belairmommie @mommyblogexpert and others
RSVP

About Onward

Directed by Dan Scanlon and starring the voices of Tom Holland, Chris Pratt, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Octavia Spencer and others. Learn more about Disney and Pixar's Onward. Don't miss the Onward movie trailer as well as by visit the official site and follow the film's pages on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

Homeschool Remote Work Survival Tips

Parenting

MBE partnered with National Today & Top Agency PR for this post

Help for Working Parents With Kids 

As a mom of four kids born within a year who once homeschooled all my children for three full years, I definitely feel your pain about the many ways school closures have impacted parents. I'd also like to reassure you that there is light at the end of this seemingly unending tunnel. That having a hands-on experience educating your own sons and daughters -- even one thrust upon you not by choice, but by the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic -- is precious family time together that you will eventually grow to cherish as the new normal way society functions takes hold.

According to this TOP Survey of 400 Americans with school-age children, school closures resulting from the quarantine have presented a new level of challenges, making the usual life balance juggling act that us working parents have experienced for years look like a cake walk. In fact, findings in this study reveal that a full 50% of the millennials surveyed are deeply concerned about job security as they work the second job of teaching kids often at the same time as doing work for their employer.

The good news is with a little patience and ingenuity, working remotely and homeschooling the kids in perfect harmony is doable. 

Pictured below is my own family on a recent safari trip to Africa. Keep reading for the tried and true tips that worked for us while I was their homeschool teacher at the same time I was working remotely from home.

Daily Tips to Balance Work and Homeschool

1. Conduct Meetings When Kids Aren't Around

Try to schedule phone and Zoom meetings when the household is quiet. I've never been a morning person, but when my kids were younger, I was motivated just by getting up a full hour before them in the morning, because it gave me a head start on my day and I was able to hold work conversations without unprofessional interruptions. Aiming to make important calls and do meetings while kids are napping or your spouse (or nanny) has taken them out of the house for some fresh air is also a strategy that will work wonders in your favor.

2. Set up Your Desk Near Your Child's

When I was homeschooling my kids, I turned our toy room into a classroom by moving each of our four children's desks there, positioning my own desk in front. This made it easy for me to continue working on my computer while I could keep an eye on them at all times and they could not leave the room without passing by my desk.

3. Encourage Your Child to be More Independent

You'd be surprised at what even preschoolers can do by themselves, if you just give them a chance to show you what they're capable of. Depending on the age, abilities and attention span of your own kids, ask your child to sit quietly and give them one assignment to complete at a time. Just like in the classroom, if they need to get up, have a question or need help, ask them to raise their hand. 

4. Team Teach With Your Spouse or Caregiver

If both parents are working from home, take turns giving each other a break from teaching. If your strong suit is writing, take the initiative to help your child by reviewing their work with them. But if you're not great in math, but your partner is a number cruncher, why not share each of your strengths with your child?

5. Take Frequent Breaks

You probably don't sit all day at your desk and so you shouldn't expect your children to so, either. In fact, it's a good idea to take 15-30 minute breaks at least 2-3 times a day (as often as hourly, if necessary) so you and your kids can take some time off for some physical exercise and fresh air, weather permitting. Recess time not only is fun and relieves pent up energy, it bonds you with your child as well as helps both of you sharpen your minds and allows everyone to come back to their desks feeling refreshed, read to work and be more productive.

6. Have a Sit-down Family Dinner

This was my favorite time of day when I homeschooled my kids because it was a chance to enjoy a leisurely meal and lively conversation.  BTW, we've always had a no electronic devices at the table rule so we can all fully engage and participate. From a very young age, I also encouraged my kids to take turns helping plan and cook meals for the family, so they really had the opportunity to take ownership of mealtime. Now with two of my adult children (both in grad school) and our new son-in-law sheltering in place here at home now, dinnertime is something we all enjoy.

More About National Today

Learn more by visiting NationalToday.com and by following them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

Please Comment

This is just the tip of the iceberg of the multitude of things your family can do to make homeschooling kids more rewarding for them, while creating a more productive remote work environment for you. With positive approaches like the ones I've suggested, this can be a win-win situation for everyone (including your employer who will be impressed with how well behaved your kids are when you're in meetings). Us parents are in this together for the long run and we have so much to learn from each other.  Please feel free to share your own strategies for family survival at home during these challenging times by leaving a comment below. 

Thanks to National Today and Top Agency PR for making this post possible

Maple Sugar Candy Recipe Laura Ingalls

Good Food

Inspired by Laura Ingalls Wilder's Life on the Frontier

I grew up loving the Little House on the Prairie book series and so have my own daughters. There's a reason why the stories of Laura Ingalls Wilder still continue to be just as popular with the next generation and the magic endures today. 

We all still yearn for the simple things in life that give us the most joy, experiences like making old-fashioned foods such as Maple Sugar Candy at home. This is a wonderful project for you and your children to mix up together in your kitchen. It only requires a single ingredient: real maple syrup and, best of all, kids will enjoy eating this special sweet treat.

Watch the video to see how easy it is to make this sweet treat without having to go out and tap the maple tree for syrup like Laura used to do. Then get the recipe on the official website of Little House on the Prairie. 

Here's your chance to recreate this fun candy with or for your kids just like Laura or Ma might have made back in pioneer days as their family pushed forward, first settling in Minnesota and then moving on to South Dakota.

Call Of The Wild Bluray Review Twitter Party

Movies

Twitter Party with Prizes May 12th

Just a few months ago The Call Of The Wild (Rated PG, 2020), the live action/animation hybrid feature film starring Harrison Ford  entertained audiences on the big screen. As of May 12 the most modern and technically-sophisticated cinematographic interpretation of Jack London's classic novel to date is coming home. Set against the backdrop of the Canadian Yukon during the historical 1890s Gold Rush era, this epic adventure is now available for home entertainment on Digital and Blu-ray.

Since the book by the same name was first published in 1903, The Call of the Wild has been made into at least five films, including versions starring Hollywood's leading men like Clark Gable (1935) and Charlton Heston (1972).  

What's notable about the latest remake, this time by 20th Century Fox Studios, is that the relationship and bond that form in the Yukon Territory between a lost-in-life man named John Thornton (played by Ford) and a dog named Buck (ironically portrayed by a dog named Buckley, a St. Bernard - Scotch Collie mix rescued from an animal shelter by the movie's animal trainers ) is more realistic than ever. This is largely because this is the first time stop motion technology was used to animate all of the animal action in a full-length feature film of this magnitude.

The scenery, sets, costumes, and music are all spectacular -- which is no surprise considering 20th Century Fox was acquired by The Disney Company just over a year ago. However, what viewers will find particularly fascinating is how Buck's character was brought to life and so convincingly portrayed. You'll be looking at Buck in action scenes throughout this picture thinking how did they train that dog to do that because it sure doesn't look computer generated. 

Just a Few Scenes from The Call Of The Wild 

After watching this movie yourself, do not miss the behind the scenes making of extras that are included with interviews with the cast and crew. There you'll get a peek at -- among other backstage things -- how professional actor, stuntman and movement coach Terry Notary (Avatar, The Hobbit  film trilogy, Avengers: Infinity Wars, Avengers: Endgame), once a Cirque du Soleil performer and UCLA gymnast, channeled his inner focused hyper energy for the many stop motion sequences. In one of the bonus feature you'll be intrigued to see Notary at work as the action was filmed, wearing a tight gray suit and cap, and carbon fiber arm paw-like extensions that made it possible for him to walk, run, jump and move about on all fours like a real dog.

Twitter Party

When: Tuesday, May 12

Time: 6-7p PST/9-10p EST

Hashtag: #CALLOFTHEWILDBLURAY

RSVP Here

About The Call Of The Wild, Free Kids Activities

From 20th Century Studios and directed by Chris Sanders, The Call Of The Wild stars Harrison Ford, Omar Sy, Dan Stevens, Karen Gillan, Bradley Whitford, Cara Gee, Michael Horse, Jean Louisa Kelly, Colin Woodell, Adam Fergus and Abraham Benrubi. Learn more about this movie now on Digital and Blu-ray on the official website as well as follow all the film's related news on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Plus get lots of fun, free The Call Of The Wild movie-related Kids Activity Pages.

Virtual Mothers Day Home Party Ideas

Mothers Day

MBE partnered with Eli's Cheesecake Company for this post

Also a lovely idea for a Summer Backyard Party

Whether you'll be together at home or separated from loved ones by the current pandemic this Sunday, Mother's Day celebrations this year present new challenges we've never seen before. With restaurants still closed in most states (except for takeout), treating Mom to a lavish sit down meal at her favorite eatery won't be happening this year. Due to social distancing, even an extended family informal gathering at home to honor your family's matriarch isn't an option this time around, either. The good news is the party still can go on, with some creative modifications. So keep reading to find out how easily you can put together a truly special and memorable celebration for the first person you ever loved: your mother.

BoHo Mother's Day 

Garden Tea Party How-to

Fortunate enough to be sheltering in place with your mother and/or your own children? Seize this silver lining opportunity now. Start planning a beautiful but intimate boho-chic inspired Mother's Day Garden Tea Party in your backyard or on your balcony that will be a cherished memory for years to come.

1.Choose a Time & Send Out Party Invites
Let everyone know when the party will be so they can mark their calendars. Remember, because of the current social distancing still required in the majority of places here in the U.S., unless permitted otherwise only those who live or work in your household should be included on your in-person invite list. If the Mom you're honoring (or other party guests) aren't there with you, you can still send out email invites to them to join you virtually, patching in family and friends during the party using Zoom, Facebook Live or another free similar virtual meeting internet platform.

2. Order Desserts and Other Party Supplies for Home Delivery
Once you know how many people will be physically present, it's time to order the proper quantity of Mother's Day themed desserts and other items for delivery no later than the day before your celebration. Thanks to Eli's Cheesecake Company, this post features the limited edition Mother's Day Chocolate Enrobed Round Cheesecake;  the Raspberry Strawberry Cheesecake Heart; and bite-size Daisy Cuties mini cheesecakes. All of these (and other sweet desserts) are available at ElisCheesecakes.com for 1- and 2-Day shipping to you, well-packed in dry ice just in time for Mother's Day. 

Extra Tips: Having several different dessert options will take your table presentation to the next level. Also, if Mom (or any of your guests) are unable to be with you, why not ship them a cheesecake of their own so they can join the delicious virtual party fun even more? 

3. Create the Ambiance
On party day, weather permitting, arrange outdoor furniture in the backyard (or on your balcony) ideally in a pretty and shady spot. I positioned the white picnic table my son built from scrap lumber when he was in high school adjacent to our rose garden which is now in bloom. For those that don't have outdoor seating/table on hand, you can set up a folding table and some chairs outside or even host your celebration in your dining room or kitchen. If you don't have flowers growing in the yard, purchase some pretty potted flowering plants (or some floral bouquets) at a local market or nursery. My personal favorites are old-fashioned flowers like hydrangeas, daisies and of course, roses. To recreate the garden-like feel you see here, simply position the table near blooming plants in your yard and/or use potted or fresh flowers in vases on the table itself. 

Extra Tip: If you'd like, add some fun Mother's Day helium balloons or other decorations you can order online or buy in-store for curbside pickup.

4. Set the Table
Cover the table with a solid color tablecloth, rather than a print, for maximum impact to display your choice of beautiful desserts. Add a bit of elegance and pizazz to your tablescape with a piece of fabric folded lengthwise down the table's center. Gather some tea cups, saucers, a teapot, fancy dessert plates, silverware, and dainty paper or cloth napkins. This isn't a better time to break out your mismatched tea cups and antique silverware and embroidered linens. It's also a great chance to use your varied collection of serving platters, cake cutters and serving utensils. Most important of all: Be sure to show off that star dessert on a cake stand. 

Extra Tips: If you don't own a cake stand, not to worry. You can easily create one like I did using a large dinner plate centered and balanced on top of an upside down antique ice cream sundae dish or perhaps a bowl or short cocktail glass. For maximum eye appeal, set out the desserts on the table in style by using this popular professional caterer's trick: Creatively arrange your sweet spread at various high and low levels.

5. Capture the Memories
Don't forget to take lots of still photos of those gorgeous Instagram-worthy desserts after the table is set before the party begins. Then, take more still pictures (and video) throughout the celebration after everyone has gathered around the table, enjoying themselves. 

Extra Tips: Using one of the popular online DIY photo book suppliers, make a book with your photos as a gift for the Mom Guest of Honor to preserve and cherish the memories of this very unusual Mother's Day celebration. These also make great party favors, especially for those loved ones who weren't there to celebrate IRL. Also, if you have any dessert leftovers wrap them well and return to the original boxes, then pop them in your freezer to defrost and enjoy later. BTW, I know from personal experience that Eli's Cheesecakes freeze well.

WIN this Cheesecake

 for Mother's Day

About Eli's Cheesecakes

Perfect for parties and gift giving, Eli's offers a huge selection of delicious fresh-baked cheesecakes and desserts for special occasions like Mother's Day as well as celebrations throughout the year like Birthdays, Graduations and more. All products they make are certified kosher by Chicago Rabbinical Council (CRC). 

Standard Shipping* (usually $16.95) is currently offered free for a limited time with online orders when you use discount code FREESHIP at checkout at ElisCheesecake.com. Eli's desserts are perishable and shipped frozen, well-packed in dry ice and encased in a heavy-duty styrofoam container to ensure that each cake arrives ready for photographing. Priority Shipping, delivered in one business day, is offered for an extra charge.

Learn more about Eli's Cheesecake Company offerings on their official website. You can also keep up with all the news about Eli's seasonal and year-round delicious desserts by following them on social on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest.

*Standard Shipping for continental U.S. (call 800-ELI-CAKE for delivery/service info to Hawaii and Alaska) includes orders placed Sunday through Wednesday by 11 am CST to be delivered the same week. Orders placed later will be delivered the next week.

**Priority Shipping is also available for delivery to your doorstep within one business day for orders received by 11 am CST.