the Holidays are over...What Now?

With all the many things that have to get done for the holiday season a Mom's plate is EXTRA full. But now that we have gotten beyond the hype and excitement of the end of the year holiday season...WHAT NOW?!

Well, here are a few ideas to help you have a little bit of fun getting back into the "swing" of things.

1. Go play at the park-even if it is a little cold you can survive the park for at least 15 min. giving your kids the chance to smell the fresh air, run around like crazy people and let loose some energy. (and you can feel the sun on your skin and get some much needed Vitamin D)

2. Take swimming lessons - I just took my son to his first swimming lesson at the local YWCA (I am sure they have them at other community centers) and he had a blast! It was nice to get out of the house and pretend that it is warm outside, as well as learning a life skill.

3. Local toy stores - my husband took our son out for a father/son activity and they went to a local toy store and played with all the toys. (this store "the Toy Store" actually had a play area for kids-see if you have a local store that offers that too, and NO you DON'T need to buy anything!)

4. Have a picnic at home - set up a tent in your living room or basement and pack a sack lunch. after you pile everyone into the tent you can tell stories and sing songs or even read a few books about the outdoors.

5. Library sweet Library - it is always a good time to start reading....or going to watch other kids (like my son does). There are always activities for kids of all ages at your local Library. Check it out!

6. Cooking Lessons - every kids loves to help out in the kitchen. Find a simple and yummy recipe that you can make together. Have your kid/s help out or sit up close so they can see what you are doing. You can even pretend you are on your own cooking show. (take it up a notch and actually video tape your "show" and post it on your blog or YouTube - kids love to see themselves online!!!)

7. Splurge on a kid place - even if you don't have much cash take the kid/s to a fun kid place like Chuck-E-Cheese or Discovery Zone or even McDonald's with a Play Place. You can just play or even just buy a snack and play. It is a super treat and they will remember it!

8. Marshmallow Fights - for this one you will need to have PVC pipes and mini marshmallows. You can make the "guns" and play around the house, in your friends house (if you don't want to pick up at your house), in your back yard or even at a church gym! click HERE for video instructions.

9. Go to the Movies - you can either find an inexpensive theater and take the kid/s (regardless of age...if you still have a little one just give it a try, for $2 or so who cares of they only last 45min.) or you can set up a SWEET movie at home. Make the movie food, turn out all the lights and have everyone snuggle up.

Well, I hope that gives you a few fresh ideas. I know I will be trying out many of them!



Endry and Caleb playing in the arcade after they lasted 1 hour in the movie theater