Backyard Fun | Candid Family Photos McAllen, Texas

Summer 2018 has been filled with lazy days and sunshine. Most days I feel like the heat is going to be too much to do anything outside, but, there's always the sprinklers!

These little ones had an amazing time just jumping through the sprinklers and throwing around some water balloons. I forget that sometimes these simple things are the cure to summertime boredom. 

If you are located here in Mcallen, TX or anywhere in the Rio Grande Valley, what are you doing to beat the heat? 

Here's a list of free (or low cost) activities we've done to stay cool in this 100 + degree weather. 

• Visit the local library. The Main McAllen Public Library (on 23rd and Nolana) offers a large children's department with planned activities and crafts. They have a play area for infants/toddlers as well as computers with access to ABC Mouse for your preschooler. If you're like me and have teens as well, there's a cool little Teen Nook in the library as well with age-appropriate books and activities. 
• Run the sprinklers and let the kids run loose. Easy Peasy. 
• Visit your local restaurants with play areas. In McAllen, there are a few places with large indoor areas. Depending on the time of day, you may have the place to yourself! (Bar B Cuties, Burger King, Chik Fil A, La Plaza Mall) 
• If you have a museum membership, it can help you beat the heat during the summer. If your husband is a teacher like mine, there's a discount for that membership! For a large family like ours, the membership fee is a great way to save money and pass the time indoors. (On cooler days, the outdoor play area is great too!) 

If you have ideas on what else we can do to beat this heat, feel free to leave a comment below. Help a mama out. Because this Valley is unbearable most days. Phew!

Love & Light,

Norma Hess