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12 months of fun
By Christina Quick | January 15, 2008
Our tree is packed away and dust is already starting to collect on the new Christmas toys. But the fun is just beginning at our house as the kids leaf through their new calendars and look forward to the year ahead.
It’s a tradition to give them their own calendars for Christmas — pre-marked with individualized parent-child outings, game nights, camping trips and other special activities we can anticipate each month. I’ve found it’s a great way to carve out family time before other obligations rob us of the moments we meant to share. If it’s on the calendar, we can honestly say we already have plans.
Some of the activities are common family experiences, like ordering pizza and watching a DVD. Others are a little sillier. Here are a few of the highlights from this year’s calendars:
Winter campout
We drag the sleeping bags into the living room, eat hot dogs and s’mores and read stories by battery-powered lamplight.
Backwards Saturday
Think backwards and upside down. Sleep in daytime clothes the night before and then change into pajamas. Eat supper for breakfast and breakfast for supper. Find ways to maintain the theme all day long. Kids think this kind of thing is hysterical.
Leap year party
I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to do something for leap year on February 29. However, I haven’t yet decided how we’ll celebrate. Any suggestions?
Breakfast picnic
Pastries and fruit are extra special when eaten in the backyard or at a local park.
Girls’ spa night
Cucumber slices, scented hand lotion, a polka dot manicure and pedicure and an evening of giggles leave my little girl feeling like a pampered princess.
You plan the menu
On rotating months, the kids get to plan one meal. They’re especially fascinated with dessert and have invented some interesting ones, such as M&M pizza and Andes mint sundaes.
First day of summer ice cream supper
What could be better than ice cream for dinner? Add a little fruit topping or sorbet, and it’s almost a balanced meal. Almost.
Family water fight
It’s kids vs. adults in a backyard battle involving Super Soakers and water balloons. When we run out of ammunition, someone inevitably goes for the garden hose, ensuring total drenching and total fun.
Christmas in July
On July 25, we break out the Christmas movies and a few simple decorations, exchange small gifts and make a batch of fudge.
Back to school party
A homemade paper-mache piñata filled with treats and school supplies is a big hit.
Topics: Family fun |
