There is no pattern required for this project. Perfection is not necessary, less than perfect lines add true character to this star. Paint the bottom half of the star red and the top half blue, allow to dry completely. Add a second coat and let dry. Using the liner brush, paint on vertical white lines on the bottom half of the star. Start in the middle, work your way left, then come back and do the right. Touch up stripes if needed. Let dry completely. 

Put a small amount of white paint onto a paper plate, about the size of a dime. Add a few drop of water, enough to thin the paint. Using an old toothbrush, pick up some of the thinned white paint. Before applying this method to the star, test it on a piece of newspaper. Flick the bristles of the toothbrush by dragging your finger or thumb across them. This causes the paint to spray off the brush onto your "target", in this case, the newspaper. Once you are happy with the result, flick the paint all over the front of the star. Allow to dry. 

Using a arge scruffy brush, dab on some white paint to the front of the star. This should be in the blue area, just above the stripes, and it should be wide enough to put the word "Welcome" in. Let dry completely. Use a black Sharpie or craft pen to write "Welcome", or if you prefer your family name, in the white area. Spray entire surface with acrylic spray sealer and allow to dry. Hang! 

Note: I found our paper mache star at Michael's craft store. 

Ice Cream In A Baggie

Looking for something new to entertain the kids during the dog days of summer? Here is a great recipe that can be made outdoors to minimize on the muss and fuss and will also let the kids help out in the process.

Ingredients: 1/2 cup milk 1/4 cup half and half 1 tablespoon sugar 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract 2 sandwich size Ziploc bags 1 one gallon size Ziploc bag 2 cups ice 1 tablespoon coarse salt

Directions: 1. Put one small Ziploc bag inside the other and add the milk, half and half, sugar, and vanilla extract to the inside bag.  2. Seal both bags securely, removing excess air.  3. Add ice and salt to larger bag and place smaller bag inside. Seal firmly. 4. Let the kids shake themselves silly -- shaking, tossing, and turning the bag. Ice cream will be soft and ready to eat in 5 to 10 minutes.