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!

So we survived the floods of 2008! After raining for days upon days, my family and I are ready to spend every minute we can outdoors. Thankfully this coming weekend poses the perfect opportunity to be out and about and even enjoy a piece of Michigan heritage.

Albion's Festival of the Forks will take place in Downtown Albion Friday thru Saturday (September 19-20th).

There's SO much to and so much going on that I won't have to worry about finding something else for the kids this weekend. The festival kicks off with a spaghetti supper (and I don't have to cook!) a 5k run/walk and a Lobster Bash among other scheduled events. Then, on Saturday, the parade will entertain, the food will stuff, and the ballets and concerts will excite. Summer may officially be over, but the variety of things to do in the area are still going strong. Hope to see you in Albion this weekend! Post for more information!