DIY Pirate Themed Easter Egg Hunt and DIY Treat Cannon

In today's post, we'll share ideas for a Pirate Themed Easter Egg Hunt! We start with an Easter basket that contains a treasure map, share a few fun ideas to include in the egg hunt, and end with a color-your-own pirate ship that contains a treasure chest full of treasure in the form of golden eggs and gem eggs.  We then share two DIY Cannon Projects - a DIY Large Snack Cannon and DIY Mini Candy Cannon.  

Project The Pirate Themed Easter Egg Hunt Supplies
I listed the item numbers for the Easter egg hunt items that are from Oriental Trading so that it's easy for you to find the exact items if you search on their website. 

• Toys
• Color Your Own Pirate Ship Playhouse 
• Supplies
• Colorful Masking Tape Set  
• 1 piece of paper to draw a treasure map
• Plastic Easter Eggs of Your Choice Here is what we used:
• Sea Creature Plastic Easter Eggs 
• Jumbo Diamond Plastic Easter Eggs 
• Metallic Golden Easter Eggs 
• Noah's Ark Plastic Easter Eggs 
• Snacks
• 2 cases of Pirate's Booty (Individual snack bags)

Directions
Step 1 - Create a Treasure Map and X's to mark the location of treasure

Create a treasure map that gives clues for your child to follow. Personally, our son is still learning the difference between left and right, so we added an educational component to our Easter treasure hunt by using colorful X's to mark spots that he then needed to take 3 steps to the left or 3 steps to the right to find treasure. The dashes indicate the bottom of the X. For instance, there are eggs on the other side of the couch here which required him to take 3 steps to the right below.

Step 2 - Set up a Pirate Ship Playhouse

We used the trendy Color Your Own Pirate Ship Playhouse from Oriental Trading.  It's super easy to set up and is sure to help create a wonderful childhood memory! 

Step 3 - Stuff and hide Pirate Themed Eggs 

We have a few pirate themed eggs in our collection.  

We placed the Sea Creature Plastic Easter Eggs around the Pirate Ship Playhouse so that we could pretend that the pirate ship and sea creatures were swimming.  We also placed some of the Noah's Ark Plastic Easter Eggs around the pirate ship.

We filled a treasure chest basket with the Metallic Golden Easter Eggs and the Jumbo Diamond Plastic Easter Eggs. We also randomly hid some of these golden eggs and gem eggs throughout the house.

Finally, we created a large snack cannon. This is an easy DIY project, but be sure to be very careful when you use them and to wear protective gear. Never leave children unsupervised with the cannon and don't shoot stuff out of it too hard.  Let me share the details.

Project: Large Snack Cannon (Sling shot style)

Supplies

• 1 concrete tube (This is made from cardboard. You will find these in the fencing section of most home improvement stores)
• 1 exercise resistance band
• 1 can of black spray paint
• 1 paper plate
• 1 roll of black masking tape
• 1 roll of white masking tape
• 1 pair of scissors
• 1 or more cases of Pirate's Booty to launch from the cannon

Directions
1. Drill two holes into the side of the cardboard tube. Drill two more holes directly across from the previous two.

2. Lace the resistance band through the holes and tie knots.

3. Paint the cardboard tube with the black spray paint and allow to dry. (We removed the resistance band before spray painting and then reinserted it after the paint dried.)


4. Cut the paper plate from one edge to the center and then form a cone that easily fits into the cardboard tube. Err on the side of it being slightly smaller in diameter so that it will fall out of the cannon easily.

5. Use the black masking tape on the edges of the cannon to make the edges look cleaner.

6. Create cardboard wheels and tape them to the side of the cannon.  

7. Fill the cannon with Pirate's Booty and then use the resistance band like a slingshot to launch the snacks! 

8. Be safe when using this cannon and never let children play with it. Here are some tips. Be sure that no one will be hit by anything that shoots out of the cannon, including the contents or the resistance band.  We have everyone wear protective gear and googles. We launch the snacks in the opposite direction of everyone and then let our children run to grab the snacks after the launch.  Only my husband and I operate the cannon; never children.  We are careful when launching items so that things do not fly too far and hit anything. We never pull too hard on the resistance band, since it could potentially rip or snap back. 

Enjoy your Easter Egg Hunt, Mates!

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How to Make an Easter Egg Tree

One of our family traditions is to make an Easter Egg Tree. We hang plastic eggs filled with jelly beans on trees in our yard such as the one shown below. In this post, we'll teach you how to make your own Easter Egg Tree.

Craft: Easter Egg Tree

Supplies:

•  Plastic Eggs (We recommend at least two dozen.)
• Thin string (Any type is fine, but keep in mind that it is easier to shut the eggs with thinner string.)
• Scissors 
• Optional: Candy to fill the eggs

Directions:

1. Cut string to desired length between 6 and 12". Tie a knot on the end.

2. Insert the knotted string and optionally fill with your favorite candy.

3. Close the egg. You'll notice that the knot helps to prevent the string from slipping out of the egg.

4. Hang the colorful eggs on your trendy Easter Egg Tree!

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(Reserve Spring Break Tickets ASAP!) The Celebration of the Year Is Here! Join the 65th Anniversary Fun at Six Flags Over Texas!

This year, the excitement is bigger than ever as Six Flags kicks off its 65th anniversary season, and we were lucky enough to be there on opening day to experience all the magic! In my personal experience as a mom, there’s nothing quite like the joy of taking your kids to Six Flags Over Texas. From the rush of world-class roller coasters to little moments of laughter shared over a meal or sweet treat, the park has always been a special place for creating memories that last a lifetime.  This is one of the best times to visit because they recently reopened for their 65th anniversary celebration where they made some major upgrades to the park!

A Fresh Start at the Renovated Star Mall
Our day began at the recently renovated Star Mall, and it immediately set the tone for an incredible day. The updated space is bright, welcoming, and filled with the energy that only Six Flags can deliver. The Star Mall, where the Silver Star Carousel is located, has refreshed theming and restoration to its original signage.

 

Walking through the Star Mall, you can feel the multimillion-dollar reinvestment the park has made to enhance rides, food, entertainment venues, and the overall guest experience. It’s clear that this 65th anniversary isn’t just a celebration—it’s the start of a new era of Texas-sized fun for families.

One feature I especially love as a parent is the digital screens that display estimated wait times for each ride. On opening day, we truly lucked out — the weather was beautiful and breezy, and even better, we had our pick of rides without waiting in line when the park opened. Wait times stayed relatively short throughout the day, and it was so helpful to glance at the screens and plan our next stop accordingly.

We also highly recommend grabbing Fast Passes. Six Flags continues to offer family-friendly pricing on them, and they genuinely make the day even more enjoyable. Fast Passes simplify planning, keep the kids happy, and help you fit in as many rides as possible.

Cool Walkthroughs and Photo-Worthy Stops

One of our first stops was the Mr. Freeze attraction. This newly re-imagined ride is a hotspot at the park! Walking through the immersive, chilled environment was the perfect way to cool off and snap some fun photos. My kids loved exploring the frosty tunnels and taking silly pictures—it’s these little moments that turn a day at the park into lasting memories. I won't spoil any further details, but I will say that it was incredible!

The newly refreshed Pirate Spelunkers ride at Six Flags Over Texas has received impressive animatronic and scenic improvements that make the adventure feel more immersive than ever. I felt so much more depth to the experience. 

I don’t want to spoil too many surprises, but let’s just say it’s absolutely amazing and even more fun for families to experience together!

Southern Palace Theatre: A Showstopper
The Southern Palace Theatre has been fully renovated this year. With new seating, upgraded audio and lighting, and mechanical functions, it’s now a premier indoor performance venue in the park. From high-quality seasonal productions to brand-new shows, it’s a perfect spot to sit back and enjoy a break while still being immersed in park fun.

A Taste of Something New 

Food is a big part of the Six Flags experience, and this year it is better than ever. We sampled some of the new menu items created by Six Flags’ executive chef, and I have to say—it is nothing short of delicious! For instance, I learned that I am obsessed with funnel cake fries! 

My kids also love the NY style pizza!

From the hand-dipped Texas Corndogs to indulgent desserts at Smith Street Ice Cream Parlor, I could easily plan a trip just for the food alone. 

Roller Coasters, Classic Rides, and World Records
This season is packed with new thrills and refreshed classics. Classic attractions received updated theming and improved performance mechanics.  And the big news? Later this year, the park will debut Tormenta Rampaging Run, a giga dive coaster that will break six world records. It’s going to be epic, and I can already picture the pure excitement on my kids’ faces when they ride it. Here’s what makes it so special:
Tormenta Rampaging Run – Breaking Six World Records

1. Tallest Dive Coaster — 309 feet above the ground
2. Highest 95-Degree Beyond Vertical Drop — 285 feet
3. Fastest Dive Coaster — speeds up to 87 mph
4. Highest Immelmann Inversion — 218 feet
5. Tallest Vertical Coaster Loop — 179 feet
6. Longest Dive Coaster Track Length — 4,199 feet

This coaster is truly a game-changer for thrill-seekers and a must-experience attraction for families visiting in 2026.

 

Entertainment for Every Age
Six Flags is about more than just rides. This year, the park is debuting several new shows perfect for kids and families:

• Gazillion Bubbles Show – bubble artistry and upbeat music
• The Perondi’s Stunt Dog Experience – high-energy rescue dog stunts and family comedy
• Western Daze – a marionette show inspired by classic western performances
• Celebrate! – a musical revue honoring six decades of park history
• Miss Cameo Kate’s Western Burle Q Revue – lively western musical fun
• Brad Ross International Star Illusionist – mesmerizing magic for kids and adults

These shows are perfect breaks between rides. My kids were completely captivated, and I loved enjoying a moment to watch them experience pure wonder.
Be Part of Six Flags History

Be Part of History
One of the coolest ways to celebrate the 65th anniversary is by being a part of park history. Guests can purchase name-engraved pavers, which will be placed near the Silver Star Carousel in Star Mall. Pavers start at $125 and serve as a permanent memento of your visit. It’s a wonderful way to commemorate a family trip, celebrate a special occasion, or simply leave your mark on this iconic Texas landmark.
Seasonal Festivals and Special Events

They also have fun 65th anniversary items in their shops. Here are a few of our favorites.

  
The 65th anniversary season is packed with seasonal events and festivals. We recommend buying season passes because (a) they provide family-friendly pricing and (b) there are great reasons to visit throughout the year! From Spring Break Week in March to Star Spangled Nights in July and the Fright Fest and Holiday in the Park celebrations, there’s always something exciting happening. Whether it’s a family day, a date night with your spouse, or a fun outing with friends, Six Flags Over Texas offers endless ways to escape everyday life and enjoy something special. 

 
Create Memories That Last
For me, the magic of Six Flags Over Texas is seeing my kids’ faces light up over a roller coaster, a show, or even a sweet treat. Laughter fills the air, families bond over shared thrills, and childhood memories are created in real time. With the renovated spaces, the new executive chef menu, the classic ride enhancements, and the upcoming Tormenta coaster breaking six world records, this season is shaping up to be one for the books.

Whether it’s a day of pure thrill, a casual stroll with photo ops, or a fun date night, Six Flags Over Texas is a place where fun, laughter, and family memories collide. Don’t miss out—join the 65th anniversary celebration and make your next trip a memory your family will cherish for years to come!

Learn More
Spring break is just around the corner. You'll want to get your passes asap before they sell out! Plan Your Visit and Get Tickets for Six Flags Over Texas!

 

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Don’t Miss THE OPTIMIST — A True Story That Will Stay With You Long After the Credits Roll #TheOptimistMovie #TheOptimistMovieRWM

This is a sponsored post on behalf of Review Wire Media for Trafalgar Releasing.

Some films entertain. Some inform. And every so often, one arrives that quietly transforms the way we see resilience, connection, and hope. THE OPTIMIST is that kind of film.

Releasing nationwide on March 11, 2026 through Trafalgar Releasing, THE OPTIMIST tells a deeply moving true story about survival, silence, friendship, and the extraordinary healing power of being truly seen.

If you follow regularly, you know that I enjoy watching movies that drive discussion with my kids. Stories like the one in THE OPTIMIST feel especially important to experience together. Watching films rooted in real history opens the door to conversations that might not otherwise happen around the dinner table. My teen has always been drawn to history — for better or worse — and when a story like this comes to life on screen, it sparks thoughtful questions about the world around us, about human behavior, about resilience, and about the choices people make in impossible circumstances. Those conversations matter. They help our kids process the past, understand the present, and think more deeply about who they want to be. For me, using a conversation guide really makes this movie even better for families who want to reflect.  I'd love for you to check it out here because it's pretty amazing for a family discussion!

At its heart of the movie is Herbert Heller, a Holocaust survivor who, at just 15 years old, escaped the Auschwitz-Birkenau death march. After enduring unimaginable horrors, Herbert carried his trauma quietly for six decades. His silence was not uncommon among survivors. For years, he chose to protect others — and perhaps himself — from the weight of his memories.

When Herbert finally breaks that silence, something remarkable happens. He forms an unlikely bond with Abby, a troubled teenager grappling with her own pain. What begins as two lives intersecting becomes a transformative, life-saving friendship. Together, they discover that healing is not about erasing the past, but about sharing it — about connection, honesty, and the courage to speak.

This is not simply a story about history. It is a story about now. It is about trauma, mental health, generational understanding, and the possibility of hope even after profound darkness.

A Story Developed with Care and Integrity

Directed by Finn Taylor and produced by Jeanine Thomas, THE OPTIMIST was more than a decade in the making. Jeanine Thomas first met Herbert before his passing in 2021, and this film represents the fulfillment of a promise to honor his truth and preserve his legacy.

Herbert devoted his later years to education, sharing his testimony with thousands of students nationwide. He believed deeply in the responsibility of bearing witness — not to dwell in darkness, but to prevent history from repeating itself and to encourage compassion across generations.

Bringing that kind of real-life story to the screen requires both sensitivity and strength, and the cast delivers powerfully.

Stephen Lang portrays Herbert with dignity, restraint, and emotional depth. Known for commanding roles, Lang calls this performance a profound privilege — and many are already describing it as career-defining. Opposite him, Elsie Fisher plays Abby with vulnerability and authenticity, capturing the complexity of adolescence and mental health struggles with honesty and compassion.

The ensemble cast includes:

• Luke David Blumm

• Leah Pipes

• Ben Geurens

• Ursula Parker

• Slavko Sobin

• Stella Stocker

• Oskar Hes

• Robin Weigert

The film’s visual storytelling is guided by cinematographers Antonio Riestra and Alexander Surkala, with editing by Kaufmanova Olina and Rick LeCompte. Every element works together to create an intimate, respectful, and emotionally resonant experience.

A Film That Gives Back

What sets THE OPTIMIST apart even further is its commitment to extending impact beyond the screen.

The film is deeply rooted in two meaningful causes:

• KAVOD, which supports Holocaust survivors living in poverty, ensuring they are cared for with dignity in their later years.

• Bring Change to Mind, a national nonprofit empowering youth to end the stigma around mental health and create open, supportive conversations.

These partnerships reflect the very heart of Herbert’s story — honoring survivors while supporting the mental well-being of today’s youth. Contributions connected to the film help expand its mission of education, compassion, and tangible change.

In a time when so many stories fade quickly, this is a film intentionally built to matter.

Why This Story Matters Now

We are living in a moment where conversations about mental health are more important than ever. Teen anxiety, depression, and isolation are real and rising. At the same time, the generation that survived the Holocaust is dwindling. Their firsthand testimonies are becoming fewer with each passing year.

THE OPTIMIST bridges these two realities in a powerful way. It reminds us that trauma does not discriminate by generation — and that healing often begins when we listen.

For families with teens, this is a meaningful opportunity to open dialogue. For educators, it’s a story rooted in historical truth and contemporary relevance. For anyone who believes in the transformative power of human connection, this film delivers something deeply personal and profoundly hopeful.

Director Finn Taylor said, “Herbert’s story shows how one person can change countless lives.” That sentiment echoes throughout the film. Herbert’s choice to speak after decades of silence didn’t just free him — it impacted thousands. And through this movie, his voice continues to reach even more.

Mark Your Calendar

THE OPTIMIST opens nationwide on March 11, 2026. This is the kind of film you do not want to wait to stream months later. It deserves the big screen — the shared silence of a theater, the collective emotion of an audience experiencing something meaningful together.

It is more than a historical drama. It is more than an intergenerational friendship story. It is a reminder that hope can coexist with sorrow. That courage can surface after silence. And that one relationship can truly alter the course of a life.

If you are looking for a film that is thoughtful, timely, and rooted in real human resilience, make plans to see THE OPTIMIST.

Because some stories deserve to be witnessed — and Herbert Heller’s is one of them.

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Hurry! The Epic Waters Spring Break Deal is Selling Out Quickly!

Spring Break is just around the corner, and if you have not made plans yet, this is your friendly reminder to book now before tickets sell out. If you are in North Texas and want something that feels like a vacation without ever leaving town, you need to experience Epic Waters Indoor Waterpark in Grand Prairie, TX. Spoiler alert — our day was epic, and we are also going to point you to an incredible deal to book your Spring Break tickets at Epic Waters and score free access to the Epic Circus Spectacular, too.

One of the biggest reasons Epic Waters is such a Spring Break win is simple: the weather is always perfect. While March in North Texas can be unpredictable, inside the park it is a sunny, comfortable 82 degrees every single day. No wind. No cold fronts. No last-minute cancellations. Just guaranteed waterpark fun under their incredible 40-panel retractable roof that fills the space with natural light. It feels bright, cheerful, and vacation-ready the second you walk in.

Epic Waters has earned national recognition from USA Today, Newsweek, and most recently Travel + Leisure, and after spending the day there, I completely understand why. It genuinely feels like a cruise ship on land. There is always something happening, something new to try, and something for every personality in your family.

I have to start with the FlowRider because it was hands-down my favorite part of the day. Yes, mine. I loved it. I will be inserting photos because it deserves the spotlight.

The trainers were phenomenal with both the kids and me. They were patient, encouraging, and incredibly skilled at breaking down the basics so we could actually improve with each try. 

There is something so energizing about attempting to surf — even in an indoor waterpark — and the support from the staff made it even more fun. Watching the kids gain confidence and then taking my own turn made it feel interactive and empowering, not intimidating. It was one of those experiences where you laugh, cheer each other on, and instantly want to go back for another round.

We also floated the Lazy River — the longest in North Texas — more times than I can count. It is the kind of attraction where you say, “One more lap,” over and over again. If you want to make the day extra special, you can reserve a cabana overlooking the Lazy River and have your own little home base while the kids rotate between attractions. 

The kids splash area deserves its own moment because it is generously packed with fun. There are three slides built right in, countless fixtures spraying water from every direction, and the iconic giant bucket that slowly fills and then dramatically dumps water onto the crowd below. The anticipation builds as kids gather underneath, squealing and waiting for the splash. That bucket drop moment is pure fun!

Now let’s talk about what makes this Spring Break visit truly unbeatable: the Epic Circus Spectacular is included with admission. You are not just getting a waterpark day. You are getting a full entertainment experience.

The circus performances were absolutely incredible. The acts were show-stopping. I don't want to spoil too many surprises, so I'll share just a few. The photo below is a woman spinning 25 hula hoops at once — it was mesmerizing to watch. 

There was a father-and-son duo riding dirt bikes inside a metal sphere, circling and crossing paths in a way that had the entire audience holding their breath. 

And honestly? It is the perfect excuse to grab popcorn or cotton candy and lean into the fun. Watching my son with cotton candy in hand, completely captivated by the performers, was one of those sweet Spring Break memories you wish you could freeze in time. The circus elevated the entire experience and made it feel like two big outings wrapped into one epic day.

The arcade was another highlight. My youngest hit a 500-ticket jackpot and was absolutely thrilled. An employee even playfully challenged him to a game and offered a prize if he won. The staff throughout the park were upbeat, attentive, and genuinely fun. That kind of energy makes a difference. It makes the day feel welcoming and personal.

From a parent perspective, the logistics are easy. Epic Waters offers free parking and a courtesy trolley. They have convenient digital lockers.  I love the free Wi-Fi. 

There is also an onsite store, plenty of food options, plus a full-service bar with beer, wine, and signature cocktails for adults. It feels thoughtfully designed for families who want a full day of entertainment without stress.

And of course, Wobbles the lovable duck mascot made surprise appearances throughout the day, adding even more personality to an already lively atmosphere.

If you are planning Spring Break, do not wait to get tickets because they may sell out. The combination of perfect indoor weather, nationally recognized water attractions, and the included circus performance makes this one of the most exciting family options in North Texas. Peak days can sell out, and this is absolutely the kind of experience families will be booking quickly.

Spring Break should feel exciting, effortless, and memorable. Epic Waters delivers all of that under one bright, retractable roof. It is waterpark thrills, circus wonder, arcade victories, and family laughter all rolled into one incredibly epic day.

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