Getting Real with Kira Hazledine
With cold weather around the corner, I am a little concerned with how Hallie and I are going to survive the winter. Sure, there are plenty of things to be excited about, but like I said, it’s really cold. Cold is lame. We can’t take our daily walks and trips to the park, and there isn’t a single indoor play place for miles. With winter pretty much here, I’m scrambling for fun indoor activities for my 18-month-old who still eats play dough and crayons. What will we do, trapped inside for much of the season?
I am not crafty.
Many friends refer me to Pinterest, the end-all-be-all of crafts and activities. Unfortunately, I do not craft. I am not crafty in any way, shape, or form. I was this close to canceling my own daughter’s first birthday party and throwing a BYOB at the house instead, because the planned crafting was falling to pieces. Luckily, others came to the rescue, but I am not to thank for the decorations at the party. In all reality, I pretty much showed up. Such is my life.
I actually hate crafting.
I don’t even know how to use Pinterest. I tried once, and I found it to be overwhelming and full of “that’s not happening” and “I’m not that talented.” It all seems great in theory, but many of the projects I’ve attempted end unfinished or not at all like the example. I try to stay positive for Hallie’s sake, but my heart just isn’t in it. It also feels like an extra special waste of time when everything I’ve so carefully prepped is eaten, even when it’s not edible. Perhaps when she’s older I’ll have better luck, or motivation, or something.
So, what will we do this winter? I honestly have no idea. When I can steal my parent’s car we will head off to the local play center for some indoor fun, but that doesn’t appease Hallie’s constant desire to be outside, entertained, running and jumping. I’ll bundle her up when it’s reasonable and brave the cold anyway, but when it’s below freezing we should have another plan of action.
I’m good at adventure.
What I am good at is chasing Hallie around the house. Playing hide-and-seek and building forts out of boxes and blankets. Anything to do with food (outside of fancy Pinterest reindeer or something) I’m all about. I just need something more fine motor and less gross motor, especially when I’m tired.
I will begrudgingly attempt a few crafts this winter, but Pinterest is not the answer, and will never be the answer. I attempted some sensory play with uncooked rice the other week and there are still rice grains that she eats off the floor from time to time. She likes to paint, but that’s not a mess I want to clean up every day. I’m not sure how we will busy ourselves, but I know it will be an adventure. Just when I ask for some suggestions, please, don’t tell me Pinterest. We both know it’s not actually going to happen, and I will roll my eyes at you. Like, do you even know me?
I know I can be grumpy, but I love hearing what other people do for fun! What do you like to do with your kids during cold weather?
