When the kids are home for the summer, we all need a little family project to bond and be creative. The kitchen is the perfect place to do both. Cookie projects are fulfilling but mini tarts are arts to bind hearts. The easiest to prepare begins with phyllo mini pie crust shells. Be sure to butter the cupcake tins well before forming the phyllo crusts. After baking, make the filling with cooked (not instant) pudding. When the pudding has cooled, dollop it into the individual mini pie crusts. The individual mini cream pies can be topped with coconut, sliced glazed fruit, or fruit preserves such as apricot or whipped cream. Life is good in the kitchen and many “Picasso” moments begin there, too. © Kelly McBride Loft