It’s snowing. It’s pouring. Being stuck inside is boooooring.

Before you pull out a crafty distraction, protect your kids (and your house) with Luke & Loolu. Made from vinyl-coated fabric, the new collection’s smocks, aprons, and table mats are designed to keep project messes to a minimum.

So go ahead and set the kids loose with glue, paint, and markers; creative offenders easily wipe clean. Pockets on the apron and smock are sized just right for crayons and paintbrushes, and the cheerful prints bring a little sunshine to even the gloomiest of days.

Showing once again that home is where the art is.

Available online at lukeandloolu.com, $11-$24.

	Just in case Punxsutawney Phil wasn’t right — sixteen ways to beat the winter blahs.

TWINKLE
In My Backyard
What: Sing songs and recite poems while learning about the night sky (ages 4-6).
Why: Aspiring astronomers get the lowdown on the Big Dipper and other constellations.
When: Fri. & Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 1:30 & 3 p.m.
Where: David M. Brown Planetarium, 1426 N. Quincy St., Arlington (703-228-6070). Adults and children 13 and up, $3; under 13, $2. Cash only.

JAM
SteveSongs
What: Hear old faves and tunes from his latest album, Music Time Volume II.
Why: Catchy ditties like “Fast Monkey” and “Yee Haw” appeal to adult ears, too.
When: Sat., 10:30 a.m., 12:30 & 2:30 p.m.
Where: Jammin Java, 227 Maple Ave. E., Vienna (703-255-1566). Tickets online at jamminjava.com. Adults and children, $15.

MAKE
Valentines
What: Create heartfelt cards with an artist from Arlington Arts Center.
Why: A handmade missive is better than any box of chocolates.
When: Sat., 1-3 p.m.
Where: Barnes & Noble, Clarendon Market Commons, 2800 Clarendon Blvd., Arlington (703-248-8244). For info, call 703-248-6800. Participation is free.

Photo: Courtesy of Luke & Loolu