How to Get Away without a Car (or Leaving your neighborhood)

With gas prices still very high about $4.00 (I hope I don't see this article in a few months a think I wish gas was only 4.00) Finding things to do close to home has become more desirable. Besides being kinder to your wallet/pocketbook exploring your hometown can be a great way to uncover hidden gems in your area (It's part of being a local).

Having a camp-out in your own backyard can be a fun "adventure" for your little ones (in our case we setup the tent inside) and a good way to disconnect from electronic distractions. You can roast marshmallows and make smores over a grill or camping stove tell stories, play card games and anything else you would do on a camping trip. The advantage is if you forget something or if it rains you are at home. Some other things you can do around the house are have a scavenger hunt or a treasure hunt.

For hot days a Sprinkler, Slip and slide or inflatable pool (Read Water Safety) can be a good way to cool down. We got little magnetic fishing poles and fish from the Dollar store. We filled up a pool and went fishing in the backyard (sans hooks and worms)




For getting around by bike with small kids I would suggest a bike trailer, I use a Trek doodlebug deluxe that seats 2 doubles as a jogger and has plenty of extra room for picnic items or picking up some stuff at the local farmers market