Hi, it’s Mandy the other half of Macaroni Kid Carlsbad. You may have met me and my rambunctious kids at our “Free Craft Wednesday” at Choice Juicery. The owner and manager have been so generous to have shared their lovely open space with us. We are so fortunate to use one of Carlsbad’s favorite photo opp succulent wall’s as the backdrop to our weekly meetup.
What started simply as a free craft for kids and an opportunity to tell folks about our website- has turned into something so much more. It became a gathering spot for local kiddos, parents, tourists and my favorite weekly lil’ regulars.
Toddler’s toddle over, kids grin ear to ear, and exhausted parents have a chance to take a load off while their little one’s keep their attention and hands busy for a few moments with our craft. It’s become a social gathering for kids to meet one another, show off their hula hooping skills and have a solid game of hide and seek. (Shhh.. they’re always hiding under the Macaroni Kid Table Cloth)
I can’t help but smile to myself when I think of all the kind people I have met at our Free Craft Wednesday events as well as all of our friends that stop by. I’ve met countless doting grandparents, families that are brand new to the area (like I was just a few years ago) and a TON of beautiful precious kiddos proudly flaunting their finished works of art.
I know many of the kids by name now, what schools they attend and on the rare occasions their actions of defiance when their parents announce it’s time to leave the Macaroni Kid Craft table and head home for dinner as the sun goes down. (You are all still cute!)
I’m grateful that everyone has enjoyed the crafts, stopped by for a nice chat, and became our faithful Macaroni Kid readers. I know some of you have won our tickets or goodie giveaways which is a special treat for us to give back to our loyal MK families.
Sure we produce a website, newsletter and calendar for families. It’s definitely a job. But the passion of the work comes full circle on “Free Craft Wednesday” because it captures the essence of the purpose of Macaroni Kid, for families to come together and for kids to just be happy and play. So I hope to see you all soon!
Mandy S. Chuey & Daughter
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Macaroni Kid Carlsbad is a free weekly e-newsletter, online calendar, and website proudly serving families in Carlsbad, Encinitas & Solana Beach
Article photo credit: Megan Ballard
