A Sound of Music Dinner

Maria knew the score when she sang the praises of this kid-pleasing cutlet dish.

Originally published in the February 2015 issue of FamilyFun magazine.

Happy shortcuts make this baking project an Alpine breeze.

Originally published in the February 2015 issue of FamilyFun magazine.

Turn a cardboard tube into a "Lonely Goatherd"-style marionette. First, fringe pieces of paper and attach the pieces, overlapping as shown, with a glue stick, leaving the tube's underside bare. With the top of a craft knife (adults only), poke four holes in the underside, two holes spaced along the top for the puppet strings, and a pair at one end. For each leg, tie a knot in a length of string, thread it through a bottom hole so that the knot is hidden inside the tube, and knot on a bead foot. Add two 12-inch controlling strings, hiding the knots inside the tube and tying the free ends to a short dowel or pencil. For the neck, fold a pipe cleaner in half, thread the ends through the two top holes at the end, and slide on a card stock face. Twist the pipe cleaner ends into horns.

Originally published in the February 2015 issue of FamilyFun magazine.

Dress up the table with the "blossom of snow" celebrated in song by the Captain and his crew. Cut flower shapes out of a white paper towel, then dot yellow or gold marker in the center.

Originally published in the February 2015 issue of FamilyFun magazine.

Place lengths of silky sky-colored ribbon on the table to stand in for "blue satin sashes," while some small treat boxes (filled with movie candy, perhaps?) covered in kraft paper and twine can evoke those famed "brown-paper packages tied up with strings."

Originally published in the February 2015 issue of FamilyFun magazine.

Play the film's soundtrack, of course, and try these tuneful games.

1. In honor of Captain von Trapp, have a whistle on hand and ask each family member to compose her own "toot."
2. Hold a yodeling contest, with special mentions for highest, lowest, and longest yodels.
3. Have a sing-off to determine who does the best imitation of Mother Abbess singing "Climb Ev'ry Mountain."

Originally published in the February 2015 issue of FamilyFun magazine.