Lifestyle › Family & Parenting
This Dad’s Weeknight Tradition Is the Family Bonding Moment We All Need
What started as a father-son dinner ritual turned into an unexpected heartwarming family tradition—with Mom joining the feast too
In an age where dinner often means takeout containers and hurried bites between work calls and homework, one father decided to bring back something rare: intentional time around the table. And what started as a simple “guys’ night” dinner plan with his two sons has now blossomed into a full-fledged weekly tradition—and yes, Mom has a permanent seat at the table too.
The idea was born from a desire to give his sons, aged 8 and 11, a deeper sense of ownership in the kitchen. Each Tuesday evening, the trio would pick a recipe, prep the ingredients, and dive into the joy (and occasional chaos) of cooking. From chopping onions to flipping burgers, the boys gradually evolved from enthusiastic helpers to confident mini chefs.
What was on the menu? Everything from cheesy quesadillas and homemade dumplings to adventurous attempts at Thai curry. But the best part wasn’t the food—it was the ritual of doing something together, away from screens, distractions, and the pressures of the outside world.
“We called it ‘The Guys’ Kitchen Night,’” the father wrote. “But then, something beautiful happened. My wife started sneaking in during dessert—at first just to grab a spoonful. Then, one day, she sat down with us. And that’s when I realized, this wasn’t just a ‘guys’ thing’ anymore. It was our family thing.”
Now, Tuesday nights have a new energy in the house. The boys still lead the meal prep, but Mom is always invited—and her ideas (hello, strawberry shortcake!) are quickly voted in by popular demand.
The experience has taught more than cooking skills. It’s nurtured patience, communication, and creativity. It’s shown two young boys that family isn’t about set roles—it’s about showing up, helping out, and enjoying one another’s company.
In a world constantly rushing forward, this weekly ritual offers a moment of stillness and connection. It’s proof that the most meaningful family memories are often created not on grand vacations or holidays, but in the warmth of a kitchen, with laughter echoing over the sizzle of the stove.
Business & Lifestyle
Bluey Gnomes Are Back With a Twist Fans Didn’t See Coming – Here’s What’s New at Bunnings in 2025
From ‘husbands’ to homewares, the Hammerbarn-inspired Bluey merch is turning Bunnings into a wonderland again—and yes, Hecuba is bringing friends this time.
It’s official—Hecuba is back. And she’s not alone.
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After last year’s wild frenzy that had Aussies lining up for hours and scalpers listing garden gnomes for thousands online, Bunnings Warehouse is reviving its magical Hammerbarn moment with a fresh wave of Bluey merchandise. Launching on Wednesday, July 29, this collaboration between BBC Studios, Ludo Studio, and Bunnings is returning with more characters, homeware, and yes—those iconic gnomes that fans just can’t get enough of.
If you missed the madness last year, don’t make the same mistake again. Because this time, the gnome family is expanding, and collectors already have their eyes on the prize.
“Bluey and Bunnings couldn’t stay apart – the duo just works!”
Justine Mills, General Manager of Marketing at Bunnings (LinkedIn), couldn’t be more thrilled. “It’s clear how much fans connect with the show given how quickly last year’s Bluey gnomes flew off the shelves,” she said. “We know they will be eager to build on their collections.”

Last year, it was just a few character statues and gnome-inspired memorabilia. This year? It’s a full-blown Hammerbarn experience. Think exclusive homewares, interactive DIY zones for kids, and a new range of decor items turning homes into Bluey’s world.
Who’s Back, and Who’s New?
The original favorites—Hecuba, Tony, Jeremy, and the calm and collected Meditation Gnome—are making their grand return. But this time, they’ve brought friends. Meet Gerald, Bride Gnome, and Groom Gnome, retailing at $22.50 each. These limited-edition collectibles are expected to sell out as quickly as last year’s “husbands” (a nod to a Bluey episode that left fans in splits).
In that now-iconic scene, the Heeler family visits a Bunnings-like store named Hammerbarn and ends up with gnome “husbands” while shopping for a pizza oven. That quirky, chaotic energy is exactly what fans will relive when they visit their local Bunnings this week.
Glow Up Your Bluey Bedroom
Beyond the garden ornaments, Bunnings is also dropping a kids’ homeware collection inspired by the show. If you’ve ever wanted a Bluey and Bingo-themed bedroom, now’s your chance.
The new collection includes:
- Watermelon and Kiwi rugs (RRP $39)
- Decorative paper lanterns (RRP $25)
- Glow-in-the-dark wall stickers (RRP $15)
Justine Mills says this extension into home decor was a natural step. “Following the success of the Hammerbarn experience last year, we’re thrilled to be working with BBC Studios (Wikipedia) and Ludo Studio (Wikipedia) again to bring another slice of Bluey’s world into homes across Australia.”

Merch, Memories, and Madness
The new merch drop doesn’t stop at decor and figurines. Bunnings is leaning fully into Hammerbarn nostalgia with a whole range of novelty items under $10:
- Hammerbarn-branded socks
- Character keyrings
- Tote bags
- Bucket hats (yes, really)
All this adds up to an immersive experience that blurs the lines between reality and animation. From themed aisles to interactive crafts, kids can keep themselves busy while parents stroll the aisles reliving the hilarity of the “Hammerbarn” episode.
Limited Stock, Limitless Hype
If you’ve got your heart set on grabbing one of the gnomes, act fast. These collectibles are strictly while stocks last. And if last year is anything to go by, things will disappear in minutes.
In 2024, people were reselling Bluey gnomes online for outrageous prices. One eBay listing had a set of four gnomes, two plush toys, and a tote bag for a jaw-dropping $2,500. That’s not a typo—it’s what demand looked like.
So whether you’re a Bluey superfan, a gnome enthusiast, or just looking for a quirky home upgrade, Bunnings is where you’ll want to be on July 29.
Why This Collab Works
Bluey has become a cultural force. Since its debut in 2018, the show has resonated with audiences of all ages. Featuring the everyday life of the Heeler family, the series combines humor, emotional depth, and uniquely Australian quirks that hit home with viewers around the globe. With Bluey winning awards and topping streaming charts, its partnership with Bunnings—Australia’s favorite hardware store—is marketing gold.
The brand synergy is uncanny: Bluey represents family, fun, and imagination, while Bunnings stands for DIY, community, and childhood memories. Bringing these worlds together not only stirs nostalgia but creates real-life experiences that extend beyond the screen.
Final Word
Whether you’re hunting down Hecuba, building a gnome village, or revamping your kid’s bedroom into a Bluey-themed paradise, Bunnings’ Bluey merch drop is more than a product launch—it’s a nationwide event.
So mark the date, rally the family, and don’t forget your tote bag. Because if the past is anything to go by, these gnomes won’t be hanging around for long.
for more news visit www.DailyGlobalDiary.com
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