ceramics

We got a great family gift this Christmas! We were given a huge block of clay! Some family members work ceramics and even have their own kiln. Since they need to fire many pieces at once, they wanted us to join in! So after opening our gifts, we dug into the clay! We have several pieces drying, waiting to be fired then painted. This is a wonderful way to spend many family nights together!

low key holidays

As everyone around us hustles and bustles around in preparation for the holidays, our family kept a low profile yesterday. Our family gathered yesterday to celebrate being together. It is our first Christmas without Granny and we did not want to give up getting together, but did not want to make a big ordeal out of it either. We ate sandwiches and chips, played games and only the youngest kids were given gifts. All in all it was a good day and the stress level was kept to a minimum, reminding us all what is really important.

500 sack lunches

In conjunction with a church mission, our family is helping to put together 500 sack lunches for those living on the streets in the inner city. Doing service projects together as a family is a great way to spend time as a family. It teaches your family values in a way that words cannot. It lets your kids see others who are not as blessed as they are. It gives them a chance to think beyond themselves. Whether serving sack lunches or handing out clothes or buying Christmas gifts, there are lots of ways that families can work together to help other families.

church

Attending church together as a family is always important to me. I think attending together sends an important message to the kids. During the holiday seasons, there are many worship services offered that are geared to giving thanks and remembering Jesus' birth. Going to church together to participate in these types of worship services is a very beneficial family activity.

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!

sitting around the fire

There is just something magical about sitting around a fire. And doing it together as a family brings the magic home to you all. It is amazing to share this mystical experience with your children. Sitting around the fire is relaxing, it provides an excellent place to talk. With the shield of dark surrounding you inhibitions can be forgotten and teens can open up. Little ones can enjoy the magic dance of the flames (so can the older ones!) It is the perfect backdrop for storytelling. All ages love roasting marshmallows too. Whether it's an all out camp fire, a fire pit in the yard, or a cozy fire in the fireplace, sitting around the fire together makes an excellent family night 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.