Don't spend all your money in one mall (or one Walmart) when shopping for kids and grandkids this year.

There are so many wonderful experiences waiting for kids here in the Springs and Denver - why not buy art or music classes, passes to the zoo or the philharmonic rather than the easy gifts that are likely to be forgotten so quickly? And if you're looking for a toy, book, or educational product, consider supporting your local stores rather than the national chains.

Tomorrow I will be posting a Colorado Christmas Wish List that can help you plan local-oriented, experience-rich gifts for your kids and share your favorites with the grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other gift-givers in your family.

Check back tomorrow, and be thinking about how we all can give our kids the best while supporting the local businesses and attractions that make Colorado such a wonderful place to raise kids!

Please stay home and stay safe!

Come join us at the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo for costumes, candy, and a special (mild - fine for little kids) spookiness only the zoo can offer!

Learn more at http://mykidsweek.com/events

Don't miss today's Royal Kid Fest. Explore the new castle, enjoy a bounce house, fun games and crafts, puppet shows and giveaways.

http://mykidsweek.com/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=20417

Here's a list of indoor kids' activities in case it rains: http://mykidsweek.com/events/index.php?com=searchresult&s=09%2F12%2F2009&e=09...

 You can always find a list of indoor events by searching the calendar for events with a category of Indoor.

 Or find indoor activity ideas you can do at any time by choosing Indoor Activities from the Anytime Activities menu: http://mykidsweek.com/component/option,com_jreviews/task,list/criteria,1/jr_o...

Tonight we escaped to one of our favorite local oases, as we enjoyed a quiet sunset walk around the lake at Fountain Creek Nature Center.

 Our engaging and patient docent, Mr. Paul, said he sent the memo to the beavers that we were coming to visit. Apparently they got the memo, since we got to see them swimming along the glassy surface of the water. The rest of the visitors may have seen more of them - we left early to bring our tired boys home.

Did you know MyKidsWeek.com always provides easy links to free kids' events from Colorado Springs to Denver? They are always available under the "Events" menu, or visit http://MyKidsWeek.com/freeevents any time (hint: this might be a good link to bookmark or add to your blog).

 Have a great week!

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