Winter… when it first begins is associated with beautiful snow falls, skiing and snowboarding and the holiday season. However, months in, it becomes associated with bitterly frigid temperatures, ugly brown snow and days that are far too short… leading us to Cabin Fever.

As many of you probably are experiencing similar situations, my children are in desperate need of things to do (as am I).

So, I am compiling a list of fun activities for the family to do locally. With the economy suffering as it is, and family budgets doing just the same, I am definitely incorporating those thoughts into these plans. If I leave anything out, PLEASE add to it…

Go bowling! – Places are offering deals with food/shows and rental equipment
Open skate – the Rink offers a variety of hours to get out and get moving
Check out the Digistar Planetarium at Kingman Museum – only a few dollars admission
Go swimming – Battle Creek Family YMCA – get moving and get ready for summer
Hands on fun for the kids – Kids ‘n Stuff in Albion
Watch a game – The Battle Creek Knights play at Kellogg Arena – fun for an entire evening
Hit ‘em Here Golf Driving Range and Riverview Recreation – mini golf, batting cages

Another great idea, that my husband and I will be doing this weekend… is renting a local hotel room for the night. The kids can swim in the pool; we can order a pizza, rent some movies, play games and enjoy a mini vacation right in town. No need to spend hundreds of dollars to get those quality memories… and it gives me a break from having to clean up from everyone.

I’d be interested in hearing other suggestions!

Welcome to 2009! After the difficulities of 2008, everyone is surely anticipating, and hoping, for an upswing in the coming year! This New Year's Eve, my family and I went to some friends of ours. We enjoyed appetizers and games as the children played together. Staying up to midnight was quite the challenge for me, but I was glad to welcome 2009. Now that the hustle and bustle of the holidays are over, it's time to look ahead of what to do to avoid the 'winter blues.' With money tight, and the temperatures bitter cold, there are still things to do in the area! Try glow bowling at Nottke's, or head over to Kingman Museum to see the all new planetarium. I would also suggest going to a Battle Creek Knight's game at the Kellogg Arena, or the Revolution Ice hockey team at the Rink! No need to stay in and suffer the blues, get out and about and enjoy these great ideas perfect for any budget!