In the summer lull between TV shows and summer movie blockbusters, it’s a perfect opportunity to spend some time in the sun and build memories with your kids that they’ll look fondly on. Instead of the normal night in on the couch, here are a few ideas that will let them see the world in a new light and think about the world in a new way.

Go Camping In Your Backyard

You don’t need to pack up the car and drive hours away from home in order to get spend a night outdoors. Setting up a tent in your backyard allows you to stay near your home while still letting your kids star gaze. As a plus, you’re only a few steps away from your kitchen in case you forget any last-minute snacks.

Make a Nature Map

We spend so much time in our homes but always walk past the trees or landmarks around them. Change it up this summer with a walk with your kids on an exploration tour. Ask your kids to bring some cardboard paper or coloring pencils and make your own map of your neighborhood. It will help their sense of direction and their curiosity. Mark large trees, statues, parks or even rivers you may see!

Write Handwritten Notes

Take a break from the sun and stay indoors to show appreciation for the people in their life by writing them a handwritten note. Whether it’s for a graduation gift, a birthday present or a dish they brought over or shared it’s always nice to practice being thankful. In an age where emails and Facebook status updates can be written in seconds, taking the time to hand write a note really shows someone cares. It’s also great opportunity to sit with your kids and share memories about the people they have in their lives.

You’re never stuck with the same summer choices if you think a little outside the box. With these quick tips we hope we’ve inspired you to try something new this summer. Share in the comments what your favorite family summer activity is!

One of the best parts of Listia is the people that make up the thriving community. From the gifts people find and give to the friends people meet, the impact is always felt. In a new series on our blog, we’re going to highlight the people and the stories that happen every day on Listia.

For our inaugural edition, we’re excited to have All-Star Christina L!

Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Massachusetts and I have resided in New Hampshire for 10 years. I pronounce all my R’s and do not have a “Bostonian” accent, unfortunately.

How long have you been a member on Listia?
As of September 2016, I will have been a member of Listia for 2 amazing years!

What has been your favorite thing that you’ve found on Listia?
I have found so many incredible items on Listia. I would say my favorite was a Build-A Bear gift card for my daughter. The pure joy she had when making 2 bears with accessories at our local mall really made me feel like I found the perfect item! Overall, anything that I get to find on Listia that I can do with my daughter really makes everything in life so perfect.

What do you do for a living?
I am an Arby’s manager and I love my job more than I could ever explain. Arby’s has changed my life for the best and helped make me an overall better person. I believe in the business and I love to make our guests happy with their food and Arby’s experience. I have been in the restaurant business most of my life and could not imagine doing anything different.

What do you enjoy doing for fun? 
During my down time, I enjoy being with my family. We are big car enthusiasts! We love all cars, but are die-hard Ford Mustang people! We highly enjoy taking part in car shows and races in our area. Our daughter, Shelby, has already told us she wants to be a mechanic like her dad! Sorry, Arby’s.

What’s been your favorite thing that you’ve sold on Listia?
I have been able to put many items up on Listia and I cannot think of any one item specifically that is a favorite. However, I really enjoyed doing Nintendo DS kits as well as gift cards that I do not plan on using! Listia gives all kinds of great options to really get your items out there for others to enjoy!

Have you made any friends on Listia? How did you meet?
Listia has had so many wonderful contests and goals that I feel really helped bring the Listia community closer together. Because of Listia’s Facebook page, I have met some truly incredible people! I have made numerous friends through Listia who I speak with quite often!

How has Listia inspired you?
Listia is like no other website. I absolutely love sharing my knowledge about Listia with people I meet and my co-workers. I love making youtube videos of items I’ve won from Listia to share with people who might otherwise, not know Listia even exists! Listia has inspired me not be afraid of telling people I got something for free. Listia has inspired me to be open and tell the world how the website works and give it a try! The worst someone can say is “No thanks”. Of course then, they miss out of some pretty amazing items and incredibly awesome people. Thank you for everything, Listia!

Thank you Christina for sharing your story with the community! If you’d like to share your story email us at ilove@listia.com . Follow us on Twitter and Facebook for more stories and announcements!