Finding Free Stuff

I came across this article by accident (or not?) today--I'm not totally sure what the liability is with re-posting other people's stuff on my blog, so go check it out yourself at 21 Things You Should Always Try To Get For Free.  I'm not so sure we would actually utilize a lot of these, but we're going to be trying out #7 (free TV) for sure!  And I'm already three posts in on #10 (free speech) by blogging!

Here's some free stuff that we do on a regular basis:

• Library--not just for kids!  We've discovered this new fangled thing called e-books--woo hoo!  We've taken the kids to tons of different age level programs, and while they're doing their thing, we can sit in a comfy chair and....you guessed it, read a book!  Uninterrupted!  Check out your own county library website and see what they have to offer.
• Home Depot kids workshop--first Saturday of every month they have a pre-packaged kit with wood, nails, and instructions.  Kids Kaela's age (10) can do the entire thing without help, while kids Maezie's age (5) need some parental help but can definitely feel they've accomplished building something!
• Lowe's Build and Grow--same concept as Home Depot, but it's the second and fourth Saturdays of the month, and the kits are slightly different.  Altogether, we're building something three Saturdays a month!
• Browse your local parks and recs website and see what kind of parks, trails, and bike paths are available.  And if you've already been to the library, parents can sit and read a book while kids play!
• During the summer, lots of towns have a free lunch in the park for kids ages 1-18.  Totally free!  No low-income verification required, just show up and eat.  (Kids only--parents have to bring their own, or they can pay for a lunch.)  Then play at the park!

When the weather gets colder, it's a bit more of a challenge.  But when the alternative option is staying home with fighting kids.....somehow I'll manage to find some free activities!