My boys are growing so fast I can't even - I can't even! The little one is talking up a storm and I will never stop loving the way he says "no" (in a kind of "I Love Lucy" way). My oldest is just crossing the threenager hurdle and lately he's been saying "you decide" to every question so that's been making my job easier. They are the best.

This DIY wooden Aztec tray is another Anthropologie inspired DIY. I made it with my oldest while the baby napped (yes, I still call him a baby). My oldest kept asking me "mommy, what are you doing?" and then of course I had to let him try out the cool paint marker. Btw, these paint markers are the best for any chalkboard project - when actual chalk just isn't opaque enough.

The things you will need include; a wooden tray from the dollar store, Minwax Wood Finishing cloths and a white paint marker (you can get this at Michaels).


Stain the tray using the Minwax pre-moistened staining clothes (this colour is Maple). Take one out of the package and re-seal the package tight. Use the gloves included. Wipe the stain on and recoat until you reach your desired colour (wait about an hour between coats).



Let it dry for 24hrs then use your white paint marker to create a Aztec style design. Google images helped here.







That's it. A cute, affordable key tray or coin tray (although nobody seems to carry coins anymore), hang it on the wall as a decorative piece or give it to a friend.