"Wizard of Oz" Party Menu

Keep the menu light and serve the usual baby shower recipes, but with a "Wizard of Oz" twist. Cupcakes and a Cookie Bar: Along with your "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" cupcakes, treat guests to a one-of-a-kind cookie bar. It's one of the easiest ways to stay with a themed dessert menu. Cookies come in all kinds of shapes, sizes and styles so all you have to do is shop around a bit. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• "Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!" Find cookie cutters in these shapes and bake a few batches of sugar cookies, then decorate.
• Rainbow cookies are perfect for this party.
• Cookie sandwiches with red jelly filling.

If you do decide to serve guests with a meal, opt for a Southern style menu. Dorothy may travel to Oz, but she comes from Kansas. Barbeque is the easiest option. Not only does food cook quickly, its packed with tons of tasty flavors and just about anything can be grilled.

Heart shaped foods are a great way to honor Tin Man.

• Cookie cutters aren't just for your cookie bar. Use heart-shaped ones in several different sizes to cut sandwiches.
• Take it to the next level by making heart-shaped ice cubes and place them in ruby red punch (the non-alcoholic version, of course!).

Colors play an important part in the Wizard of Oz, especially the movie version. Use ruby red, emerald green and yellow to inspire the dishes you serve. You can keep it simple or get super creative, just use the personality of the mom-to-be as your guide!