We wanted to share an idea for an activity that you can do with your family to help spend more quality time together. It will require that you first get some of your favorite pizza delivered. (note, if your favorite pizza normally makes the box greasy, ask them for an empty box...they've never said no to us.)
Now gather a bunch of random items scattered around the house...every house has them. Old board games and puzzles with missing pieces are great. Scissors, glue, tape, wrapping paper, egg cartons, thimble, blocks of woods, old keys, unused silverware...seriously; whatever you can find. Also, get some markers, pen and paper as well. Now, gather the family. Start by asking each person what their favorite board game is and why. Then, start talking about what the ultimate family board game would look like and how it would be played. Once you have some ideas, bring out the pizza box and supplies and get to creating. Turn your pizza box into the board game. Use all the materials you've gathered to make the pieces and parts of the game. Incorporate old family videos, the Wii, the family fish, whatever....just make it yours. Write the rules out on the paper. Once you have it all together, play it. You might have to make some tweaks along the way. And, hopefully, you'll have some opportunities to help your kids (or kid and dad) to work through a disagreement or two. What a great time to practice with them some important skills they'll need later in life. Anyway, once the board game is complete and you've enjoyed it once. Put everything back in the pizza box and store it away until next weeks family game night. Even if they want to play again...let them want for it later. WHAT? You haven't tried a weekly family game night....give it a whirl. Try it for one month, your family might just love it.
Now for the first instruction last. Before you begin, find a moment to pray and ask God to bless you with wisdom and patience and to be present in your families time together. Ask that he use you as a witness of his Love, Grace and Mercy for your children that are after all, his gift to you.
