Amy Larson

Inversion much? INversion means it’s a good idea to stay indoors and not take in the ick. Even if the air quality’s low, our activity level can be high with all of the free, family-friendly stuff going on this week. Need more ideas...

A couple of fun things you should know about that are going on Saturday in Boise: The first is another WaterShed Weekend Family Day from 10-12 at the Joplin Road location, this one’s called the Science of Snow. They say there will be a “flurry” of snow-related activities, crafts, and games...

It’s cold out, and it’s tempting to stay home, snuggle up with a comforter and a mug on the couch and hibernate. Getting out a couple of times a week with the kids (or without), and doing something new and meeting new friends is still good for the soul, though...

This week is where the Holiday Season gets real. My suggestion: Start with the parade on Friday night in Meridian, and keep it going from there with a Holiday Bazaar marathon all Saturday long.

I’ve been waiting all month to be able to say, “What a ‘bazaar’ weekend!” ---and this is definitely it. Tons of places to browse through, many with some complimentary cider, appearances from “You Know Who”, baked items, handmade ornaments, and the smell of cinnamon spice and pine everywhere you go...

It’s highly possible to get cabin fever with the weather that’s going on out there. If you do happen to venture out, there’s still a lot to do in the Treasure Valley. Grab some hot chocolate, a crazy winter hat, and the long underwear and enjoy a Boise-style winter wonderland...

The neighborhood where I grew up (gravel roads, a bazillion trees, hills ideal for flying down on bikes and a candy store and haunted woods only a short walk away) would hold huge outdoor picnics each fall, where a huge bonfire was built and logs were circled around so we could eat, laugh, and get to know each other better...

It’s Autumn for sure, with the Trailing of the Sheep in Ketchum, Tree Walk at Julia Davis Park, Fall Home Show, bird-watching, Kuna family bike ride, Renaissance Faire, another fun Oktoberfest, and even a Zombie Walk. (Have you got your Halloween costume picked out yet, ‘cause that’s coming right up, too...

Time for hay rides, corn mazes, and dressing in layers. It’s also time for FallFests, Civil War Reenactments, Wii with friends at the Library, bowling in costumes, and Greenbelt Anniversary celebrations all week long.

The colors on the trees are changing, and so are the Treasure Valley activities. Tons to do both indoors and outdoors, like the Wilder Oktoberfest on Saturday, Fall Dollar Book Sale, huge 100-vendor consignment sale, Gardenpalooza, Art Festival, Bishop’s House 125th Birthday Party, and it’s the Greenbelt’s (45th) birthday celebration, too...