I have been trying to find a way to afford extra curricular activities for all of my children. I have actually worried my self sick over it. I don't ever really realize how many kids I have until..
-I am staring at 10+ school supplies list.
-dear Santa letters start showing up on my dresser.
-the account total from Parks & Recreation shows up.
I recently joined a "big family" Facebook group. I have read lots of interesting post and I recently asked how other families afforded to do sports with all their children. The typical size family on the site ranges from 5-8, so I still don't think the majority of moms understand my struggle. Regardless, I realized that our state is one of the few states that charge their children for city league sports AND school sports. Several people said they only have to pay for uniforms with the option of wearing a loaned, used jersey from the years prior. I wish this was an option every where. I know I am not the only mother who struggles to let every child branch out with sports and activities.
Regardless, Kendal and Kyle wanted to do 10U baseball and softball. I was shocked to see that registration was $175 a piece. On top of that fee, I knew I would need to purchase glove, cleats, helmet, bag, and possibly even a bat. It just wasn't an option right now with Bristol in travel ball and Taytum in t-ball. While finalizing Taytum's t-ball (which, by the way, was only $90), I saw that soccer was offered at half of the price. I was able to sign Kendal and Kyle up for soccer for $150.
I hit up two thrift stores today to find cleats, soccer balls, and shin guards. I didn't have much luck finding much things "soccer" but I did find Taytum a glove, helmet, bat and practice pants. I did find some practice shorts for Kendal and Kyle. Among other things, I stumbled upon some board games for $1.99. I was able to open the box and verify all the pieces before purchasing, and was surprised to see that two of them were still wrapped in plastic.
My kids played with those board games for hours tonight. Aunt Haley and I even got in on the fun. I was so impressed with how well the kids played together, and at how good they were about putting the pieces back in the bag.
Now I want to be "that family".
The family that does game night on Wednesday, and has a closet full of board games that range in ages and strategy. My kids enjoyed it and I did too!
As we were getting ready for bed, I heard Paisley tell Taytum, "this was the best night ever," and I knew I was sold.
Games purchased: Don't Break the Ice, Egged On and Giraffalaff Limbo.
Oh, and we managed to get to the park in between board games and dinner. I walked a mile while the kids played on the play ground. Kendal and Kyle started practicing with a soccer ball that I was able to find.
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