Our kids are little; we have a 4-year-old and a 5-month-old. And before they get too busy or too cool, we are keeping things simple and making the best summer memories in our own backyard.
We didn’t sign up our older child for an evening sports activity. Or plan a road trip or vacation.
And guess what else we’re not doing? We are not allowing guilt to dictate where we go and who we see.
We are spending most of our free time this summer like we did last year, and the year before that: together, in our own backyard. And I’ve got to tell you, these have been the best summers of my life.
Get the Family Outside!
If you have a less-than-optimal yard or even no yard at all, no problem! We happen to live in a community that invests in parks. There are amazing, free spaces for family fun all around Fargo, Moorhead, and West Fargo! With plenty of space to run around, soak up some sunshine, and make memories.
So if your summer is a bit simpler this year, I don’t think you’ll regret it.
We have turned our backyard into our destination of choice and you can, too. If you need some convincing, here are the top three reasons simple summers are simply the best.
Reasons to Simplify Summer
1. Keeping it simple keeps it low stress.
The best part of primarily summering in our own backyard? I never have to pack anything. That’s right, a trip to our backyard requires zero preparation. We don’t need to pack diaper bags, fishing gear, suitcases, or toiletries to have fun in the yard. When we’re in our backyard everything we need is just a few steps away. The convenience eliminates stress, which increases everyone’s fun.
2. It is so much cheaper.
We’re not paying for gas, equipment, fees, or gear. There aren’t any costs for lodging, entrance fees, or eating on the road. Sure, we usually get new swimsuits each year and a new plastic pool, but I’m convinced it is far cheaper than weekends at the lake, amusement parks, or tourist attractions. By keeping our summer fun primarily confined to our backyard, we’ve saved a lot of money.
3. I’m more present to notice the memories being made.
The number of summers where we will be our kids’ preferred companions is limited. I’m enjoying this time before we start the next phase of shuffling them to and from activities and friends’ houses.
This season of life, the one before needing to wow them with epic adventures to keep them interested, will end far too soon. And while it’s here I am able to fully enjoy it. Because my family isn’t distracted by other places, people, or things, we can focus on having silly, simple fun with each other.
There’s magic in simplicity and I’m loving the summer memories we are making right outside our own backdoor.
Looking for simple fun indoors? Check out our post Simple Indoor Activities to Keep Kids Busy!
