Cupcake War

I’ve been known to indulge in a cupcake or two… or six, at times. Typically, I follow the splurge with a few miles on the treadmill or an extra-long bike ride. Not exactly the healthiest of patterns, but it supports the philosophy that in order to avoid packing on the pounds you need to burn more calories than you consume. Interestingly, that simple equation is at the center of a controversial ban being implemented in Massachusetts public schools. Beginning August 1st, the state is no longer allowing bake sales to take place on school grounds. In addition, Massachusetts is unveiling … Continue reading

Memphis for a Day

Memphis is a pretty cool town. While you may not find it ideal for an extended stay, a day or two. or a long weekend could be perfect. The city of Memphis can provide your family with a steamboat full of fun activities. The city is steeped in history, be it the civil right movement, the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination or the musical styling of B.B. King, Johnny Cash and some dude named Elvis (among many other legendary performers), and should provide an exciting weekend for families interested in music, American history and amazing food. The … Continue reading

FUMBLE!

In honor of the NFL’s big game this weekend, our family is playing a lot of a game we like to call Fumble! To begin, we find any ball lying around the house. Our favorite to use is actually not a proper ball at all, but a cat toy. It is a little plush, bouncy blue and black soccer ball that is perfect because of its small size (about that of a small Clementine) and overall elusiveness. The game starts simply enough, with my daughter and I tossing the ball back and forth pretending to play basketball or football (or … Continue reading

Facing the Giants (2007)

When I first grabbed this movie off the shelf at Blockbuster, I was expecting another “Remember the Titans” or “Glory Road” or “Miracle” or some other movie about a sports team coming from behind to beat all the odds and how the coach is in danger of losing his job unless the team wins and when they win, his job is saved and children make up with parents and they dig a well and find water and a vein of gold cutting through the town. Okay, I’m getting sarcastic, but you must know how I feel. I’ve seen more versions … Continue reading

Indoor Family Relays

If the weather outside if frightful, there’s no reason things inside can’t be delightful. Sure, kids get bored easily and we grown ups do sometimes as well. This is the perfect time to try out some indoor family relays. You can divide family members into teams or play one on one. Quick Trip Relay Give each person or team a suitcase or duffel at the start line. At the other end of the room, place a stack of clothes, socks, pajamas, etc. (an equal number of items in each stack). Each member will run to the stack, grab one item, … Continue reading