Simplify

Much to our crazy suprise, families today are really way to busy! My family is top model for Life in the Fast Lane. We are always on the go; in October alone we will have spent 16 out of 31 days in our home. It is time to simplify our lifestyle. I just read an article in "Parents" magazine explaining that more and more families are slowing down when it comes to raising their children.

My husband and I started out by getting all the cool toys and games for my kids when they were small, then after a couple of years we purchased convenient toys (a little gift or souvenier to entertain the kids while on a trip). We tend to go out to eat for more than half of our meals a week. We are constantly in the car driving from point a to point b. The list goes on and on. Thankfully, we have learned earlier than later to stop, for soooo many reasons. When I came across the article titled, "Life in the Slow Lane", I thought it would be great to share a list of substitutes for going from Fast to Slow. Here are some fun family ideas:

GO, Go, Go to Slow, Slow, Slow
Skate Parks-----------Bike Paths
Video games-----------Board Games
Scree time------------Free time
Fast food-------------Local produce
Enrichment class------Story hour
Resort Vacation-------Camping trip
Session with tutor----Visit with Grandma
Mad Weekend Dash------Lazy Sunday Morning
iPods-----------------Sing-alongs

Some of my favorite Slow Autumn Activities: Nature walks/hikes, cleaning out toys and clothes to donate to those in need, and cooking as a family.