Movies are a favorite past time of mine (at least they used to be before the boys were born… now I catch glimpses from the kitchen) and they don’t always have to be an indoor event. Most of the old drive-in movies have closed down, but you can recreate the outdoor experience in your own backyard. Rent a movie projector, or possibly borrow one from your local library, and set up outside. Select a section of your home without windows and set the stage. A few lounge chairs, big bowls of popcorn and a soda or two and you’re in business. The kids will love the change of pace.
Archive for July, 2008
take it outdoors
Written on July 31st, 2008 by Kimwho hoo… wants an adventure?
Written on July 30th, 2008 by Kim
Over the past few days I’ve shared some fun ideas about how to pull together a great campout. But really, the first thing you need is an invitation to get everyone excited. We designed just the one, from the owl to the campfire to the cool blue moon, this invitation is sure to be accepted. Who hoo could resist?
Check out the invitation and the party decor.
campout favors
Written on July 29th, 2008 by KimA few fun favor ideas for your campers:
Battery operated lanterns - Coleman has a Pack-Away Personal Size Lantern that would be perfect for each of your little campers with up to 14 hours of burn time on D batteries.
Hobo pack - For the craftier gift, using dowels from the hardware store and 16 x 16 swatches of cotton fabric, create a hobo pack. Simply fill the center of the cloth with candy, pull two opposite corners together and tie them to one end of the dowel. Repeat with the other two corners and you’re done.
camping activities
Written on July 28th, 2008 by KimHere are my two favorite camping activities (aside from making s’ mores of course):
Telling tales - On your campout invitation, ask everyone to come prepared with their favorite ghost story. Once the sun goes down, have the kids join you around the campfire. Pass a flashlight to each guest when it is his/her turn. The kids will love holding it under their chin or flashing it in the bushes for effect while telling their ghoulish tale!
Firefly hunt - Arm each of your guests with a mesh bug habitat (or a Mason jar with holes in the top) and send them into the yard on a firefly hunt. The child who brings back the most fireflies in 15 minutes gets a prize.
setting up camp
Written on July 25th, 2008 by KimOn the topic of having a campout party, set the stage by pitching the tents and building the fire pit in advance of your guests’ arrival. Then name your new camp something fun, like Camp Firefly. If you want the wow! factor, create and hang a banner before everyone arrives. Or, you could make it an activity for them. You’ll need a few things:
- Banner - 24″ x 72″ cut of fabric, grummets
- Camp name - ½ yard coordinate fabric, a 10″ letter template (enlarge in Word), scissors, fabric glue
- Placement - string (note: If you don’t have trees nearby, hammer two dowels in the ground and tie your banner to them.)
If you find yourself short on time, take the easy way out and order a banner from your local office supply store. It will cost you a little more, but you can check it off the list quickly.
