Posted by Tami

One of my favorite springtime activities is geo caching. It is adventure wrapped in fitness while spending time with your loved ones. I’m not sure how long this phenomenon has been going on around the country but I picked it up off the internet a few years ago. It is essentially a treasure hunt but the emphasis is on the adventure rather than the treasure. Truthfully, there never is really anything too dashing in the little containers. Actually, my family has found it enjoys finding those geocaches with a sign-up sheet enclosed more than those with little trinkets, aka junk.

You’ll need a geocache navigator or GPS device in order to track the coordinates. There are plenty of sites out there with the coordinates of already hidden treasure using geocaching maps. Of course, you are also welcome to hide your own cache in your favorite spot. Pick a spot that is remote, yet so beautiful it begs to be seen by others. Our favorite spots always have a stream and plenty of foliage. In this electronic era, when we are always connected, it is a real pleasure to get away from society, internet, and TV and experience nature like I used to as a child. It is very important to me that my children feel the excitement of exploration even if it is just in our hometown.

Click below to purchase geocaching containers, log books and more.

It’s a Treasure Hunt! Geocaching & Letterboxing Geocaching and letterboxing are pastimes that offer a modern twist to the age-old scavenger hunt by combining a hike in the outdoors with the technology of a GPS unit and the joy of gift-giving and receiving.

Geocaching Log Book A handy logbook, to record info about the caches you have done and plan on finding. A great way to keep all your info in one spot and handy while on the trail in search of caches.

Dr. B’s Geocaching Newbie Kit This Kit has everything a new cacher should need to get started on the trail to finding and hiding caches. (GPS and sense of adventure not included)

We will often make a picnic to take with us as we try to pick long journeys. Of course, it is important to be safe, so take a first aid kit and plenty of water. While the hike is most of the fun, there is almost always a challenge to find the geocache first. Most of the hiders will give you excellent coordinators, yet still find a way to make it very difficult to find the treasure. Really, you have to keep a keen eye out as you do not know what the cache will look like or how small the container will be.

Hidden behind all of this fun, is an excellent work out. You end up staying active for at least half of the day without even realizing it. Best of all, your kids become enthralled with the outdoors and staying active. In a time of obesity across the country, stressing good health and exercise in such a fun way is invaluable. In summation, quality time, exercise, health, and the outdoors combine to make geocaching a wonderful springtime activity for one person or many.

So, just around the corner is spring break. Considering that the economic times are not the best we have seen, a lot of families are seeking inexpensive ways to celebrate the week with each other and not having to break the bank. How about instead of a vacation, try a staycation! Families are in luck, because whether you live in Florida, like we do, or somewhere else there are plenty of fun things to do that will not require an expensive hotel stay or a long drive.

Whether your families interests are outdoors or indoors, by seeking out some local resources you are sure to find something that fits your likes and budget. Here are some great staycation ideas!

For the families who are searching for outdoor fun, start at your county, city, and state websites. These websites typically have a slew of information about local events, parks, and trails. Perhaps have a picnic at a local state park then enjoy a walk or hike through trails allowing your children to investigate the local wildlife. If your family enjoys biking, or kayaking, or boating, find a local state park that has trails or a local lake that will allow your boat. Most of the state parks have nominal or no fees to enjoy them and have great wildlife to enjoy. For those of you that enjoy camping and have tents or an R.V., consider camping at a local campground for a couple days. They are most likely inexpensive, and some may offer a discount for local people that are staying. Camping fees are out of budget, why not set up camp right in your own backyard? Younger kids typically find this a lot of fun, and it can be relaxing for mom and dad too. Stay up late and grill out, enjoy outdoor games such as flashlight tag or naming constellations.

Perhaps you live in a city that has many tourist attractions, as we do living in Florida, if this is the case, staycations are convenient because you can scope out local attractions that fit in the budget and visit a different one each day, or visit two or three. Perhaps allow each family member to pick one place so that everyone gets to enjoy something they are interested in. If you have many to choose from and are having trouble agreeing, write them down on individual pieces of paper and place in a hat. Allow for someone to pull out of the hat, and that will be the destination. Always call ahead as some of these places might give discounts to local residents.

Your staycation could also be focused on volunteering for others in the community. This is free and a valuable experience, especially if you have teenagers that can actually participate in the activities. Check your local phonebook or do a search on the internet to find local organizations that your family is interested in helping, then call and ask if they need volunteers for the days you are available. Your family could help a different charitable organization every day, and then have a special day to discuss with your children the importance of the week, and what they enjoyed the most. I believe you might be quite surprised by the answers you will hear. Some places that are great to try are not-for-profit animal shelters, food pantries, habitat for humanity, boys and girls clubs, litter clean-up in local parks, or operation shoebox.

Some indoor activities that can also be free or inexpensive are visiting your local library. Spend an afternoon getting reacquainted with your library and the various free activities that they have to offer for patrons of all ages. Take a tour of a local university; this is especially fun for older children who are going to be off to college in a couple of years. Speak to professors, tour the library, eat lunch in the cafeteria, and talk to college students. Visit local museums, go to the local roller-skating rink, or spend a day at the bowling alley. However, if you are set on having to stay at home, that can be lots of fun too. Perhaps dig out some old craft books and let your younger children’s imaginations run. Have a movie and pizza day. Let each member of your family choose their favorite movie and watch all of them in a row. Order in everyone’s favorite pizzas and just crash in the living room. Spend the next day cleaning up as a family and discussing all the movies that you watched, why your children liked or disliked certain ones, and what did they learn or enjoy the most about the movie day.

I hope this list of ideas allows your family to spend spring break having fun and getting to know each other a little bit better. Have a happy staycation! You may find it was the best vacation ever.

(This is a guest post by one of our readers)

As the cold days of winter begin to recede into the past, it is time to enjoy the balmy days of early spring with your children. Down here in Texas spring comes early, which means we get to bask in the warm sun while Northern parts of the country are still plastered in snow.

While we pay the price for this with incredibly hot summers, for now it is time to get outside and take advantage! One great spring activity is a nice picnic in the countryside; and the perfect time for a picnic in Texas is late March.

Bluebonnets are the state flower of Texas, and beginning in late March they bloom all over. Many families love to pose for photos sitting amongst the Bluebonnets on the side of the highway, but they make a great picnic location also!

Laying down a blanket in an area covered with these beautiful blue flowers makes for an absolutely breathtaking dining area. It may not have the finesse or elegance of a meal at home, but the appeal of a picnic is breaking your bread with your family whilst surrounded by the beauty of the outdoors.

Packing food for a picnic is another fun activity. You can either throw something very simple together – like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches – or spend some together time with the kids preparing something a little nicer.

My personal favorite for a picnic is a delicious curried egg salad. As a child my family used to make this a staple on these outings, and I have carried the tradition over as an adult. Another great option is chilled fruits – biting into an ice cold peach while relaxing in the outdoor son a warm spring day is a priceless joy.

A good loaf of bread, preferably fresh baked, is also another great choice for a picnic. Combined with some good cheese and you have a very versatile and tasty treat. Many families also like to throw in some lunch meats and lettuce. You can make a mighty fine sandwich with this list of ingredients.

Also great for a picnic amongst the bluebonnets are ice cold drinks. You picnicking experience will be much more enjoyable if everyone involved is kept dehydrated and cool by their own cold juice boxes, sodas or bottled waters.
While it is very possible to pack a picnic basket and enjoy a good meal, many people prefer their food and drinks refrigerated. To that end either a cooler or a small fridge freezer for the car can be very useful if you happen to own one.
Refrigeration is definitely optional if you select the right foods however. Don’t let a lack of expensive equipment prevent you from getting out and enjoying a beautiful picnic with the kids!

As spring approaches, families prepare for beautiful days filled with sunshine and fun. It is a favorite time of year as families often try to reconnect and spend much needed time together in the great outdoors. With the previous winter only a memory, they take advantage of what the “outside” offers. Warmer temperatures, picturesque views, nature, and more are at the fingertips of families who are willing to get out there and explore. Spring time offers many advantages and opportunities for families to get outside and enjoy themselves. The following are examples of fun outdoor spring time activities that you and your family can enjoy this spring.

Spring can bring a refreshing for families and serves as a time for bonding. Opportunities for enjoyment outdoors are endless. Whether your family enjoys camping, taking a stroll in the woods, gardening, or getting in shape, spring time has something for you. Get busy planning the spring for your family. A new spring brings new adventures. Spring awaits you!

Camping – A popular spring time activity for families is camping. Whether in a tent or in a camper, camping promises loads of fun for those who are interested. Many families choose to travel to local rivers and lakes for their spring time camping trips while others opt for the mountains. Kids especially enjoy camping. Consider popping a tent in your backyard for the kids to enjoy or visiting a local KOA Campground. Regardless of the location, camping is a great outdoor spring activity.

Parks – Spring time picnics at the park can make lasting memories for families. Parks are often a hit with children as being in the fresh spring air and playing on the play ground arouses their senses. Spring time makes for more energy in parents and in children. Playing at the park is a great way to expend the extra energy!

Barbecues – As the warmer weather comes with spring, so does the change in the food families enjoy. Barbecues are a popular spring time activity and families will choose this time to fire up the pit. Barbecues are great for family reunions, get together with friends, or a casual family dinner in the backyard. These get-togethers are a great time to enjoy family oriented games such as hide and seek, tag, or football. Fun at barbecues will be left up to you and your family! What games will you play?

Nature Walks – Children and parents alike enjoy going on nature walks. The spring brings new blooms and movement in the forest. Choose a nature trail near you and explore what it has to offer. Children are intrigued by nature. Nature walks can be a time for bonding and learning.

Exercising- With the push for a healthier family engulfing society, many families take advantage of spring to shed unwanted pounds that the winter has packed on. Exercising can be a fun family activity. Consider training together for a local 5K event. Running/walking as a family is fun and each member of the family serves as motivation. Find a local 5K event and sign your family up. Most children are able to run/walk the 5K. Remember, an active family is a healthy family!

Gardening – Gardening is a great family outdoor activity during the spring. Young children especially enjoy this activity as it gives them the opportunity to get dirty. They will also enjoy planting plants and watching them grow over time. Planting flowers and watching them bloom gives children the feeling of accomplishment. Visit your local garden store to purchase flowers and the gardening tools that you and your family will need.

Lastly, don’t forget to bring out the sprinklers for the children to play in. While spring time is not yet warm enough for swimming, the sprinkler can be equally as fun for children.

Celebrate the warmth of Spring with a family picnic. Grab a sheet to sit on, a Frisbee and a few of these tasty sandwiches and delicious picnic food and enjoy the day with your family.

Cobb Salad Pitas
Serves: 4

Ingredients:
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon red-wine vinegar
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 small avocado (preferably California)
2 1/2 cups diced cooked chicken (about 2 whole breasts)
1/2 cup chopped seeded vine-ripened tomato
4 slices bacon, cooked until crisp and crumbled
1/2 cup crumbled Roquefort cheese (about 2 ounces)
2 cups shredded romaine
four 7-inch pita loaves, halved crosswise
1 hard-boiled large egg, forced through a coarse sieve

In a bowl whisk together mustard, vinegar, and salt and pepper to taste and add oil in a stream, whisking until emulsified. Peel, pit, and finely chop avocado and add to dressing. Add chicken, tomato, bacon, and cheese and toss lightly. Divide romaine among pita halves. Divide chicken mixture among pita halves and sprinkle with egg.

Pressed Picnic Sandwich
Pressing this sandwich melds the flavors of this sandwich allowing the layers to become one incredible experience. This sandwich can be made one day ahead of time; instead of adding the vinaigrette in step three, add it just before you pack the sandwich, or one hour before serving.
Serves: 10

Ingredients:
1 large flat loaf rustic bread
1 1/2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Salt and freshly ground pepper
1 loaf rustic Italian bread, such as ciabatta
1/2 cup prepared black-olive paste
8 ounces fresh goat cheese
8 ounces marinated artichokes
6 ounces prosciutto, thinly sliced
1/4 pound peppered salami, thinly sliced
2 1/4 cups loosely packed mixed fresh herbs, such as basil, cilantro, or parsley

1. Heat a grill or grill pan to hot; alternatively, heat the broiler. Cook peppers until completely charred, turning frequently so all sides cook evenly, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Place peppers in a deep bowl, and cover bowl with plastic wrap. Set bowl aside until the skins loosen and the peppers are cool enough to handle. Using your hands, rub off the charred skin, rinsing your hands frequently under cold running water. Slice peppers in half, and remove the seeds and stems. Cut flesh into 1-inch-wide strips.

2. In a medium bowl, combine the mustard and vinegar. Gradually whisk in the olive oil. Whisk in 2 tablespoons warm water. Whisk in salt and pepper to taste, and set the vinaigrette aside.

3. Slice the loaf of bread lengthwise, and remove crumb; reserve crumb for another use. Spread the olive paste on the bottom crust, and add the pepper strips. Crumble the goat cheese on top of peppers. Arrange artichokes over goat cheese. Drizzle half of the reserved vinaigrette on top. Arrange prosciutto and salami over artichokes. Drizzle with the remaining vinaigrette. Scatter herbs over meats. Place the top crust on sandwich.

4. Wrap the sandwich tightly with plastic wrap. Set a weight such as a brick or large cast-iron skillet on top for at least 1 hour. When ready to serve, slice sandwich into ten pieces.

All American Club Sandwich
A layered sandwich that’s an all-American lunch special.
Serves: 4

1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard
12 slices whole wheat bread, toasted
8 leaf lettuce leaves
8 (3/4-ounce) slices LAND O LAKES® Deli American Cheese
1/2 pound thinly sliced deli ham
8 slices tomato
1/2 pound thinly sliced deli turkey breast
8 slices cooked bacon

Combine mayonnaise and mustard in small bowl; mix well. Spread 1 teaspoon mayonnaise mixture on 1 side of each toast slice.
To assemble each sandwich, layer 1 slice toast, mayonnaise-side up, 1 lettuce leaf, 1 slice cheese, 2 ounces ham, 2 slices tomato, 1 slice toast, mayonnaise-side down. Spread 1 teaspoon mayonnaise on toast. Continue assembling each sandwich with 1 slice cheese, 2 ounces turkey, 2 slices bacon, 1 lettuce leaf and 1 slice toast, mayonnaise-side down. Cut into triangles. Secure with toothpicks.