Snowballs and Snow Forts

Many schools declared today a snow day, and if the storm coming in packs the punch it’s promising, schools just might be canceled for tomorrow, too. It’s hard to forget the pure joy of waking up as a kid and realizing that school isn’t in session (it’d be nice to get that surprise once in a while into adulthood). But, that excitement soon would turn to boredom as cartoons gave way to soap operas and the toy was found in the sugar-coated cereal of morning’s breakfast.

7 ways to spend your next snow day

Many schools declared today a snow day, and if the storm coming in packs the punch it’s promising, schools just might be canceled for tomorrow, too. It’s hard to forget the pure joy of waking up as a kid and realizing that school isn’t in session (it’d be nice to get that surprise once in a while into adulthood). But, that excitement soon would turn to boredom as cartoons gave way to soap operas and the toy was found in the sugar-coated cereal of morning’s breakfast.

Now what? Whether you’re looking for a fun activity for the backyard or to safely trek to a close-by location offering outdoor splendor, there’s tons to choose from on a snow day.

Stay at home and …

1. … build forts out of snow, filling your side with the most snowballs to engage in an epic snow battle.
2. … stay inside and make something warm: Think hot cocoa, chili, potato soup, or even a homemade pie for dessert.
3. … check out the do-it-yourself crafts and other ideas on Pinterest that you can do with the kids or just on your own. Here’s one I’m pinning for a future snow day: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/26880929004067087/.
4. … curl up under a thick, warm blanket with a good book and a cup of hot apple cider. With a local library membership, you can even grab a new novel without leaving the house for your tablet or eReader.

Venture into town and …

1. … head over to Dow Gardens where you can enjoy the beautiful snow- and ice-covered grounds, check out the waterfall, and veer around the stunning landscape.
2. … don’t forget your skates! Hoyt Park in Saginaw, Bay County Civic Arena in Bay City, Midland City Forest Park in Midland, or the ICE Arena in Mount Pleasant, you can glide around the ice somewhere close to home.
3. … go for a winter hike in a nearby park. Take the kids or the dog and walk around your favorite summertime spot in the winter. It’s just as much fun, and you can gain a new perspective on and appreciation for some of your warm-weather hangouts.

What’s your favorite way to spend a snow day?

Photo by Doug Julian