10 From GEM:
Easy, Inexpensive Forced Family Fun!
Ahhhh yes, would you like a little “Forced Family Fun” with your fall? We’ve got just the thing for you! No, seriously, it’s a great time to get out with the fam and there are plenty of things to do on the cheap; who couldn’t use that with wallets stressed between back-to-school and the upcoming holidays. So “F” is also for “frugal”… sometimes even “free”.
1. APPLE PICKING
We’ve all heard about the apple picking antics of one Ms. Rene Syler over the years. It is not pretty. A mother blogs, two children protest, and a dad seems hell-bent on making sure there is some tradition in the family. But even with all that, apple picking remains a fall family favorite. This year, the Head GEM took two trips to the apple orchard; one with the family and one with just Buff, courtesy the fine folks at Green Mountain Naturals (By the way, Rene said the apple cider K-cup pods for the Keurig machine are AWESOME and all natural.. naturally).
2. LEAF PEEPING
Sometimes those of us who live in areas with four seasons forget to appreciate the natural beauty around us. Whether it’s a walk around the neighborhood or a hop in the car for a two-hour drive, take the time for a color tour. Bonus points for parents who think to help collect leaves for that school or Scout project that’s bound to come up.
3. BE A-MAZED
Corn mazes have grown in popularity to the point they’ve popped up pretty much everywhere. If you want to make it a competition with older kids, go in one by one and have someone keep time. Just make sure this doesn’t happen to you and the little ones.
4. ANOTHER CHILD’S TREASURE
As cold weather closes in, people are having their last yard and garage sales of the season. Make a game of it and give each child a budget, then watch what they pick out. It might be a vintage jacket, or some ugly knickknack that gets proclaimed the perfect room decor. You might get inexpensive insight into the person your child is becoming.
5. HAY THERE!
Everyone should go on at least one hayride. If you have multiple options, choose the longest one possible — even better if it’s at night. Bonfires are a plus.
6. RAW JACK-O’-LANTERNS
It’s never too soon to pick pumpkins. Whether you stop at a store or a roadside stand, or even tromp through a field, everyone has their own idea of the perfect shape. Start pondering and doodling carving designs now so you’re not just blindly stabbing a pumpkin on October 31st.
7. ‘TIS THE SEASON
Holiday window shopping is some of the best because retailers go all out for the season. Who has the prettiest lights? The most unusual display? It’s safe for the wallet, wonderful for the kids, and, hey, you to walk off a few extra holiday pounds.
8. KIDS IN THE KITCHEN
Air conditioning done for the year? That means it’s safe to fire up the oven again. Recipes don’t have to be hard — as box brownie mix or meat and cheese layered into crescent rolls will do. The point is the fun and the memory, not a gourmet result. You can double up from another fall activity and roast pumpkin seeds, or grab a premade crust for an easy apple pie.
9. RINK RATS
Your ice skating might take place outdoors or indoors, but lace ‘em up. The less experienced you are, the more laughs there will be — sorry, but it’s true. Make sure someone is shooting video, then offer bribes to keep it in the family.
10. THE GREAT AMERICAN GAME
American football is like nothing anywhere else, so celebrate it. Whether’s it’s a youth league game or a storied high school rivalry, everyone can grab a blanket and get into the spirit. Side bets optional; go for chores or favorite snacks as the stakes.
So, what does your family love to do in the fall? Got something to add to the list? Let’s hear ya!
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Single Mom Slice of Life: The 4 Things I Learned On A No-Kids Vacation
To My Daughter: See, Hair’s The Thing..
Beth Bellor is a journalist living in Michigan. She grew up in Kentucky (go Cats!), has been married 23 years and has a 19-year-old son and 18-year-old daughter. You also can find her on Twitter @bethbellor and at bethbellor.wordpress.com.
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