Last weekend we went to a family church camp. We slept in a tiny cabin (which got really, really hot), ate lunch in a big dining hall and had a lot of fun.
One great thing we got to do together was float down a creek on inner-tubes with some friends. I was so looking forward to time in the water because of the sweltering heat. I’ll admit, though, that as much as I wanted to float the creek, I wasn’t sure about having all the kids with us. And then I reminded myself of how I’ve really been wanting to involve the kids in our activities rather than just using them as an excuse not to do things.
We knew that it would be more difficult to float while holding the kids but we did it anyway. And it was a lot of fun.
Isaac was a big boy with his own tube (he could stand up in the creek). Ian held both Eva and Ella and I floated the creek with Isaiah, who decided he wasn’t happy and that the only thing that would calm him was a snack. Trying to steer a tube while nursing a baby wearing a bulky life jacket is tricky! I suggest trying this when there is no chance of running into a bank lined with hanging thorn bushes. Ouch.
So here’s a suggestion if you don’t do this already. Yes, that scraping noise is the sound of my soap box being dragged out of the closet.
Involve your kids. It may surprise you how fun and easy it is.
Yes, it may take some getting used to.
No, they don’t need to go on date night.
And no excuses.
I have 4 kids – the oldest is five and the other three are three and younger. If I can do it, you can do it – I’m definitely not superwoman. They’re part of the family. Involve them.
Unless it’s pretty dangerous. Common sense, people.
There we go. Soap box can go back in the closet for a little while 
What are some fun things you do together as a family?
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This post was written by
Nina Nelson – who has written 203 posts on Shalom Mama.
Nina Nelson is a freelance writer, mama to four and wife to one. She writes regularly about minimalism, living more sustainably and living more intentionally. She loves reading, snuggling and giggling at miniature horses.
Way to go Nina! Sounds fun!
I love involving the kids in playing with my horse. He’s so gentle with them while they brush him and, of course, they love riding! We’ve also taken them skiing and hiking. I want them to grow up loving the outdoors and being active! I think it’s great.
Yikes! Sounds like an adventure, lol.