Apple Store

If you have a local retail Apple Store, this is a fun way for families with older kids to spend some time together. You may even learn a few things! At the Apple store, they will let you "play" with computers and programs to get an idea of the things they offer and how they work. This is in hopes you will eventually buy their products. They do even offer free workshops including changing over to Mac products. Again, this is a great way for families to share and learn together.

fund raiser

My son found out about a fund raiser for a friend of ours in need. It was at a local pizza place so we spread the word and headed there after church. My son was thrilled to see several friends and even their families stop by for pizza and sodas in an effort to raise funds for the boy in need. One girl was even raffling a date with her at the pizza parlor! There were shirts for sale too. The kids bought them up as well. Donating together as a family is a perfect way to spend family time together. Enjoy the food, the fun, and the idea of giving to help those in need!

puzzle

Putting a puzzle together has long been a favorite past time for our family. Even though the kids are older now, putting together a challenging puzzle is fun. Finding one that provides a challenge but does not take forever to put together is the perfect fit. Families with children of all ages can benefit from a quiet evening doing a puzzle together. It is great for dexterity, problem solving and spending time together. It allows a place for interaction and conversation. Or even some great background music. Puzzles are a great family activity!

high school football game

Going to a local high school football game is a great outing for many families. Rates should be fairly affordable, at least cheaper than a movie. You can see a fun sporting event and watch a great half time show. It's fun to root for the local team and see many friends.

out for breakfast

Sometimes you gotta take "family night" when you can get it. Today, our son's school had "late arrival" day (the high schools don't do early releases, instead they have late arrivals.) So we went out together as a family for breakfast. We don't do that often and the kids all thought it was a real treat!

snow cones

As summer draws to a close, it's not too late to enjoy an icy treat! Kids love the refreshing treat. You can find tons of flavors from which to choose. It's fairly cheap. A nice way to spend a late summer afternoon or evening.

just talk

In our most recent family meeting, it was brought up that as parents, we only talk to our kids about things we are reading, hearing, worrying about. That we don't "just talk" about random everyday things. We try to make every conversation into a teachable moment (yes, we do!) But it sounded as if the kids really just want some plain old chatting too. Leave the lessons behind from time to time and just talk.

build a sandcastle

As summer is upon us, one of the favorite past-times of many families is a day at the beach. Whether you live near the coast, or just have access to a sand box, building sandcastles together is lots of fun for kids and adults alike. You can find plastic tools to help make the job easier. You can add accessories like seashells, flags, sticks, and cars to make your castle even more fun. Playing in the sand with your kids can make you feel like a kid again!

archaeological dig

I learned about an opportunity to be a part of one this summer. Located outside of San Antonio at Rancho de las Cabras, Floresville, Texas, there are three FREE dig days being offered! Saturday June 13, Saturday August 29, Saturday October 3 from 8:30 am- 2:00 pm is a great chance to dig for fossils and artifacts! This is sponsored by the UTSA Center for Archaeological Research and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park at this 18th century Spanish Mission Ranch. There is also a scout day being offered in November. Ages ten and up are allowed, with those sixteen and under requiring adult supervision and one adult per every three children. You need to bring your own lunch and snacks, water and digging tools will be provided.

Call 210-932-1002 ext 223 or e-mail Krystal_Fleeger@nps.gov for more
information and to reserve your spot!

three on three tournament

This weekend my son was able to join a friend and his father for a three on three basketball tournament! What a fun way to spend some family time together doing what your kid loves to do! It is a great way for families with older kids to get to be together, have some fun, let off a little steam, and even get some exercise! The tourney was enjoyed by all, even if they didn't win!