PLAY-DOUGH!!!

I finally worked up the courage to make some play-dough for Charlie Jo and now I'm wondering why I waited so long. CJ has been playing with it at school, so that's what finally reminded me to try it. I had memories of stained hands and clothing from a childhood full of home-made play-dough (both at home and at friends' houses), so I chickened out when it came to coloring it. CJ doesn't seem bothered by the lack of color so I'm just going to hang tight until she asks for it.

I put her in the high chair with a big glob of it on Thursday afternoon and she sat still playing with it for TWO SOLID HOURS. The only way I got her away from it was by bribing her with a snack. We busted it out again Saturday morning and Skyped with Corey's parents while she played. It was the first time in months that she actually stayed still in front of the computer for more than a few minutes. She made "snakes" to show NanaB and Granddad and used all sorts of my kitchen utensils to wreak havoc with the dough. The garlic press was a big hit -- she loved making "baby worms" with it.

This is the basic recipe I used:

No Fuss Play Dough

1 cup cold water
1 cup salt
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
2 cups flour
2 tablespoons cornstarch
food coloring

In a large bowl, mix together water, salt, oil and a few drops of food coloring. Mix flour and cornstarch and add 1/2 cup at a time, stirring constantly (you may need a little more or a little less than 2 cups flour so make sure you stir in until it is the right consistency). Knead for a few minutes with flour on your hands.

It stores really well in a ziplock bag. Maybe we'll tackle the food coloring another day...