Every Friday, I share my thoughts on Family Fun.

Friday’s here and it’s time to plan for some family fun!  This weekend, why not take your family outdoors for an adventure?  In many parts of the country, fall foliage makes a vibrant backdrop for your expedition.  Here, in my part of the country, our temperatures in the mid 80’s makes this the perfect time of year to explore local attractions.  Here are a few ideas of fun things to do outside with your family:

1. Go to the Fair - State and county fairs are all the rage at this time of the year.  You and your kids will learn so much about your local community by attending the fair.  When you arrive, ask organizers for the  documents they share with field trip students to get an overview of things you won’t want to miss.    My own boys love attending the horse races at the fair - younger horse lovers can often visit up close and personal with the horses as they get ready to run. Learn about your local culture and geography, hear great music, and eat some really outrageous food.
2. Find your way out of a Corn Maze - Corn Mazes are very popular in many parts of the country.  Last year, my husband and I chaperoned our teenage son and his friends through the local maze and it was the adventure of a lifetime!  Before diving into the maze, discuss with your children the need to stay together as a group.  If you are going at night, be sure to bring a few flashlights along.  Working your way out of a corn maze will require that your family think strategically, be very patient and work together as a team.
3. Strike up the band.  This is parade and band review season, so check your local calendar for an opportunity to watch local junior high and high school bands compete and perform.  These kids work for months perfecting their music, showmanship and moves.  Bring lawn chairs and snacks and enjoy a morning watching a great show pass you by - all free of charge.  Who knows?  Maybe your own children are budding musicians who will be inspired to learn something new.
4. Are you ready for some football? Friday night means high school football.  Since my favorite college team (the poor Fighting Irish) is struggling this year, I’ve contented myself with the success of my son’s junior varsity football team.  Even if you don’t have a child playing football, you’ll be surprised by how exciting these games can be.  This time of the year, teams are building towards the playoffs and the stakes are high.  Your children can enjoy a visit to their potential high school, the sounds of the band and cheerleaders, and a treat from the snack bar. 
5. Pick your pumpkin at a patch - If you’ve never been to a pumpkin
   patch, you’re missing out on a wonderful fall ritual.  Your children
   will love wandering amidst the vines, looking for the perfect pumpkin to
   match their personality.  My son Adam is always drawn to the oddest,
   most misshapen pumpkins, while his big brother always seeks out the
   biggest one he can carry.  Be sure to bring along your camera, as the
   beautiful colors of the pumpkin patch make the perfect backdrop for
   fall family photos.

Regardless of which adventure you choose this weekend, remember to spend these days off work in the company of your children and enjoying our beautiful world.  Family days are truly a blessing - let’s spend them making great memories with those we love most.