As our remote classes come to an end, it’s finally time to take a break from our screens and enjoy the beautiful weather. Here are some screen-free things you can do this weekend:
Visit a Little Free Library
Just because libraries are closed doesn’t mean you can’t find a good book to read. CU Boulder Libraries offer many popular eBooks for students to check out electronically. If you’d prefer to turn the page of a physical copy, visit a local Little Free Library to explore your options. Little Free Libraries are neighborhood book exchanges that allow everyone in the community to take a book or leave a book, no checkout required. Find one near you by using the Free Little Library map.
Recreate your favorite recipes
Enjoy the taste of home wherever you are by recreating one of your favorite family recipes. Reach out to your extended family to see if they have recipes or traditions they can pass down. You can also make recipes from the CU Boulder Taste of Home cookbook, which is full of recipes submitted by CU parents and families. Alternatively, you can recreate your favorite restaurant dish at home. Try looking up copycat recipes to get started. Some restaurants even publish their recipes online.
Game night
While many party games require a large number of players, there are plenty of games you can play with your family or roommates. So break out the snacks and challenge each other to a 2-4 person game. Here are some bestsellers you can try:
Volunteer
Are you looking for ways to make a positive impact and stay involved? Check out the Volunteer Resource Center for a list of ways you can volunteer your time! Don’t have time to commit to a regular volunteer schedule? That’s okay! Many places have flexible scheduling options and drop-in opportunities. You may also consider signing up to make masks for critical employees or making a blood donation to help hospitals in need.
Go camping at home
Campgrounds may be closed, but you can still have fun camping at home. Set up a tent in your living room, on your deck or in your backyard. Pretend you’re in the backcountry with no service by turning your phone off for the evening. Instead, enjoy a peaceful night of playing games, relaxing or reading. Don’t forget to make s’mores - no campfire needed.
Bake a treat to share
The banana bread craze is real. Baking is not only a great way to relax and take a break from our screens, but it’s also a great way to spread the love. If you’re tired of banana bread and want to try something new, check out these New York Times Easy Baking Recipes. They are perfect for sharing. Split a recipe with your household, drop some off for your neighbors or package them up to send in a care package to your friends or family.
Spring clean to spark joy
If you haven’t watched the Netflix Original Tidying Up with Marie Kondo, add it to your list of things to watch during quarantine. If you have watched the show, take this opportunity to put the #KonMari method to the test by doing some spring cleaning! This weekend, start your cleaning journey by tackling your wardrobe. Pull out all of your clothes, shoes and accessories and pile them in one place. Sift through the pile and identify items that “spark joy” or bring you happiness when you touch them. If an item doesn’t spark joy, consider donating it or selling it online using apps like Mercari, Poshmark or ThredUP.
Go geocaching
Get outside for some exercise while joining the world’s largest treasure-hunting community! Millions of clever containers, also known as geocaches, are hidden in almost every country around the world. You can join the search for them by downloading the free Geocaching app, which will walk you through your first geocache adventure. Wherever you’re at, geocaching is a great way to add fun to your walking routine. Just remember to maintain social distancing, wear a face covering when out in public and wash your hands.
Dive into a DIY project
DIY projects are a great way to upgrade your space and wardrobe on a budget. Need inspo? Check out this list of TikTok-inspired DIY projects that are actually worth trying.