Feed the Birds

When Snappy was little, we lived next to a wonderful duck pond, where we'd spend many an afternoon watching the birds and feeding them.

Then we moved. And had more kids. And bird ponds were forgotten. I came across this picture of Snappy at 21 months, and remembered how much she enjoyed it. So I asked around my new neighborhood, and was directed to the reservoir. Snappy still loves feeding the birds, but Noodle is terrified of them. Every time we go, she insists on staying in the car. (Admittedly, some of the geese at the reservoir are not shy at all!) As for Mr. Monkey, he just likes chasing the birds. And eating their bread before they can get to it.

The Great Outdoors

I love watching my kids interact with Mother Nature. They have such a sense of wonder about the smallest things. They'll stop to watch a bug crossing the path (or scream in horror at it, depending on the child), insist on smelling every flower, climb trees and rocks, and run like mad across a huge field laughing and squealing the whole way. Going for nature walks or exploring parks and gardens in our city is one of our favorite family pastimes.

Pipe Cleaners: Endless Possibilities

One of my favorite cheap activities for kids involves nothing more than a bag of pipe cleaners and an imagination. I'll pick them up for $1 at the dollar store, and they'll keep my kids entertained for weeks.

I'm constantly amazed at what they come up with. For instance, here's Snappy's home-made glasses (and Harry-Potter-hair headband). She and Noodle love to twist their pipe cleaners into little animals and make houses for their animals out of small boxes they dig out of our recycling bin. I've also seen them make magic wands, flowers, antennae, a doll ladder and a watch. They string beads and stickers on them to make necklaces and bracelets. They twist them together to create barbie accessories. The possibilities are endless!

April Fools!

Presented my family with "doughnut seeds" on April Fool's Day. Snappy wasn't sure what to think...she ate most of hers, but saved a couple to plant later. (She finally decided they weren't real and finished them off. They were, indeed, just Frosted Cheerios.)

Thanks to Family Fun magazine for the idea!