5 Ways To Celebrate Mom Outdoors With The Whole Family
This is a great idea no matter what the age of your kids. If the kids are younger, choose a park with a playground. If they're older, bring some board games (that don't have too many pieces, so you don't lose them in the grass); or choose a place that has some walking trails or beautiful sandy beaches, depending on where you live.
Before heading outside, put together a picnic basket with a lunch packed with all of mom's favorite foods -- including some cheese and wine, for starters -- and everything you need for a perfect picnic. This should include some disposable plates and napkins. The goal should be to pack everything you need so mom doesn't have to lift a finger!
Cities across the country often host 5Ks, among other races, on Mother's Day -- and these can be fun even if mom isn't a runner; many are open to participants walking or taking a stroll together. Some too even offer ways for kids to get involved with their own race, or a kid's dash. Afterwards, many of these races have post-race activities that often involve food and prizes so the whole family can hang out and socialize. Races and events such are these are often put together by charitable organizations.
Mother's Day also often marks the start of gardening season for a good part of the country. Help mom spruce up the yard by donning some garden gloves and digging into the dirt to pull up weeds, planting some colorful flowers or vegetables, and finishing the work by watering all the new plants. When you're done 'working,' sit back and relax in your yard -- and serve mom a refreshing glass of homemade lemonade or iced tea.
No matter where you live, chances are there's a nature, biking or walking trail of some sort nearby. Enjoy the sights, take some time to catch up with one another, and get your heart rate up with some exercise. If you want something less physical, a stroll around a local park can be a great way to enjoy the great outdoors too, and places like nature preserves and botanic gardens can be both beautiful and informative.
The family that plays together, stays together. Organize a fun sports game the whole family can enjoy. Break off into teams to play softball. Or, perhaps plan a tennis tournament of sorts, and take turns playing and cheering each other on. Golf is another great option, especially if the kids are at least teenagers. An easy rule of thumb? Pick a sport that you know mom likes.
Outdoor activities are a great idea come Mother's Day for one simple reason: You're creating memories as a family, and that's a gift Mom will cherish the whole year round.
Elizabeth SanFilippo is a freelance writer, who enjoys trying new foods from all over the world. But her favorite city for culinary treats will always be Chicago. When not writing about food, she's working part-time at a culinary vacation company, The International Kitchen, based in the Windy City. Some of her work can be found at Examiner.com.
