Summer Activities on a Budget...

It's Officially Summer!!!

In our household everything revolves around a budget.  With 5 children and one income, there's no hop in the family van or SUV and go anywhere, anytime you want or buy anything thing when there's a whim.  Nope, not here!  Contentment, Recycling, and Creativity is the key to our Summer.

First, We can not enjoy our summer when we're thinking about what my neighbor and their kids are doing this summer.  We don't have two incomes, we have one.  We chose this narrow path and we're going to stick with it till the Lord moves us to switch paths.  We chose this path for good reasons and good intentions.  So, We are going enjoy what we have and not covet what another has.  We have A LOT to be thankful for to begin with.

Second, We have tons of things that can be reused for crafts, activities, and imaginary play.  Old blankets, fabrics, and clothing just waiting to be turned into something. Sheets of paper, old paper towel or toilette paper tubes, macaroni noodles, wax paper, string and yarn just waiting to be rejuvenated.  Sticks, leaves, flowers, seeds, small rocks, and feathers waiting to be discovered.  On really hot days never under estimate the the fun of spraying the garden hose.

Third, Little ones are busting at the seems to be creative.  Just last night, my oldest daughter asked for some left over construction paper.  I asked her what for.  She wanted to make her own paper doll and clothes for it.  I let her go at it and next I knew, my youngest daughter was right beside her making her own doll.  The night before my oldest son, asked for masking tape.  Quizzically, I asked why.  He wanted to tape designs he made from cut out paper on to his red turtle neck to become a super hero.  He, also, uses our winter masks and decorates them for super hero masks the same way.  And when they are not doing this, they are making tents or playing explorers out in yard.

I think the thing we parents tend to think is that this isn't an activity for the whole family (AKA- us), when really it is.  Join in on the fun and make it a family memory.  Donn the old bed sheet for a cape and be a hero to your kids or better yet, be the helpless person they can save.  Put on a bandanna, place a patch over one eye, and grab a stick and explore the sea with your maties.  Place a table cloth over a large box, set four small boxes around, and get the play dishes and make time for tea.  Play with them...Now that's an activity for the family to remember.

Just in case you need more ideas and need to get away from the house-Here are some ideas I'm batting around and trying to set for the summer (these are usually free):

local village/town museums
local or nearby college town art museum
setting up a visit to a local farm-we have an acquaintance that is an organic farmer
calling up the local police or fire department and asking for a tour
visiting a local Park Reserve

Visiting a Zoo (obviously, this costs money-so, we'll be saving up for it.)

Enjoy the Ride and Enjoy your summer!
Brook