Thrifty Mommas Tips

Camping Word Games and Activities

Paula — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 16:38:29 +0000

There is something magical about trading the glowing screen of a tablet for the crackle of a campfire. Camping offers a rare chance to disconnect from the frantic pace of daily life and reconnect with nature and each other. It’s one of our favourite things to do in the summer months. When the kids were little we packed a regular activity bag or a bunch of tools to help them stay calm-ish while we drove to wherever we were going. Camping word games and activities, road trip word games and activities were staples. So I started offering them here too and they seem to be super popular so I keep them on offer throughout the year. Whether you are seasoned campers or planning your very first backyard adventure, the great outdoors is the perfect classroom without being overly school-like, if you know what I mean. Everything outside is a learning experience. But you don’t need to work too hard at it. Let your kids lead and interject occasionally to shape the conversation. Listen it’s not 100% certain you will never hear I am bored when you are camping away from all of the modern amenities that your house might have. But there’s so much to do when camping that it seems less likely that you will struggle to find ways to explore or stay active. Road Trip and Camping Activities On a rainy day or a slow, low key, morning you might still be looking for something simple to do. The trick to a successful trip isn’t just about packing enough marshmallows; it’s about having a few engaging, nature-focused activities up your sleeve to keep little explorers occupied while you set up the tent or prep dinner. That’s where Camping Word Games and Activities can come in handy. So print them off now before you embark on the road trip. While you are at it. Consider these road trip games too. Introducing the Ultimate Camping Activity Pack for Kids To help make your next trip stress-free and full of wonder, we’ve put together our new Camping Activity Pack for Kids. This printable resource is designed to turn your campsite into a hub of discovery. Inside, you’ll find: Ready to elevate your family camping experience? Download the pack today and turn every moment in the woods into an adventure to remember! Grab your gear, pack the sleeping bags, and get ready for a weekend of starry skies and s’mores. Happy camping!

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A Self Guided Edinburgh Literary Itinerary

Paula — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 14:22:32 +0000

The towering aging Sir Walter Scott Monument is the first thing you see, like a signal you have arrived in Edinburgh, a UNESCO City of Literature. Completed in 1837, second largest monument to a writer in the world, we catch the first glimpse of the monument upon arriving by train from Glasgow. It’s one of those moments that travel and culture hits you in the best way, reminding you that you are definitely not at home anymore. On one of the days you visit Edinburgh, if you are a literature loving guy or gal like me, you might wish to build a day in for exploring all of the literary landmarks and haunts dedicated to a love of the written word. Sir Walter Scott and perhaps also J.K. Rowling are the most well known writers globally to have strong ties to the city. But there are so many more. There are 63 UNESCO Cities of Literature worldwide. Some are known for their ties to publishing industry and others are true literary destinations. Turns out Amsterdam is also on that list which I didn’t know when we visited the city. Here’s a Look at an Easy Edinburgh Literary Itinerary Take a day and make it literary. You are, after all, in a UNESCO City of Literature. 1. Visit the Writers’ Museum The Museum is free and easy to find – it’s just off Lawnmarket, a part of Edinburgh’s historic Royal Mile, in Lady Stair’s Close. There are low ceilings and narrow staircases. It’s more than worth the visit but note it’s an old building and not accessible. Pay attention to the surrounding area. There are several adorable Instagram photo spots and winding closes that are gorgeous to stroll on the way there from the Royal Mile and also on the way to your next spot. What’s Inside? Situated within the 17th-century walls of Lady Stair’s House, the Writers’ Museum serves as a sanctuary for the stories of Scotland’s literary titans. These three are key: Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Robert Louis Stevenson. Beyond a remarkable collection of rare manuscripts and portraits, the museum offers an intimate look at these authors through personal items, such as Burns’ writing desk and the very press that gave life to Scott’s Waverley novels. 2. Scott Monument Sir Walter Scott was widely considered the founder of the literary scene in Edinburgh. Scott’s writing drew attention to Scottish culture and then fell out of favour before his writing a reputation surged yet again in the 20th century. Obviously he is a necessary stop in any Edinburgh Literary Itinerary. Standing proudly in the heart of Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens, the Scott Monument is a striking Victorian Gothic tribute to one of Scotland’s most celebrated authors, Sir Walter Scott. Completed in 1846, this 200-foot-tall statue was designed by self-taught architect George Meikle Kemp and remains one of the largest monuments dedicated to a writer anywhere in the world. The structure is adorned with 68 figurative statues of characters from Scott’s novels, while its base features a magnificent Carrara marble statue of the author accompanied by his faithful hound, Maida. 3. Greyfriar’s Kirkyard Find the inspo for many Harry Potter characters here. I have another post about Greyfriars on Thrifty Mommas Tips. Don’t miss it. This is the old moody and historic cemetery which gave JK Rowling some of the ideas for the names of characters. All of the Memento Mori art details on several headstones and tombs reminded me thematically of the series. 4. Stroll down Diagon Alley and browse literary spots Find the Harry Potter themed stores that remind you of the series. There are many used book stores in the city and a couple of them are extremely well known. For instance, walk down Diagon Alley – Elizabeth Street – and locate the Museum Context, which will have a lineup. It is always busy so plan ahead. If you are a diehard fan and need to go inside prepare to wait. There are great souvenirs inside if you are willing to wait. Down the street just a little, you will find John Kay’s Shop. 5. Peruse the National Library of Scotland The National Library of Scotland hosted a one-day pop-up display in November 2025, focused on Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein and we happened upon it on the last day in Edinburgh. Highly recommend visiting to see what they have in store when you are in town. This is a great last stop in an Edinburgh Literary Itinerary. Held at their George IV Bridge building in Edinburgh, this popup featured rare letters, including one where Shelley corrected Sir Walter Scott on the book’s authorship. ‘It was me who wrote it and not my husband.’ If you know me at all, you know why this hooked me and my daughter Payton. The library is a marvel of architecture and accessibility and frankly more like an art gallery than a library in that it had some insanely impressive exhibits including one about disability. Edinburgh is one of the most walkable cities we have ever visited. Take advantage and explore on foot. You can easily turn any afternoon into a self guided tour if you do some research first and bookmark the locations you want to see. Enjoy this gorgeous UNESCO city of literature. What other UNESCO heritage spots have you visited?

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Roll a Story Camping Game

Paula — Thu, 18 Jun 2026 01:57:52 +0000

This seven page roll a story camping game is so cute and educational. It’s one of those sneaky activities that most kids will enjoy because it combines creativity with writing and a little bit of imagination. Plus they get to roll the dice to determine what happens next in the story. Post contains affiliate links as a service to readers. I make a small commission on purchases made via qualifying links. The dice part of this story-telling game makes me nostalgic for game nights and summertime cottage visits with my mom when we all sat down and played a board game together. Roll a story camping activity was not something we did back then but believe me when I say that as a teacher’s daughter if she’d thought of this game she totally would have shared it with everyone. Summer evenings are perfect for shedding the rigid schedules of the rest of the year. The summer days are more relaxed usually and if you camp then you also know all about the joy in connecting outside, coupled with the very real need to occasionally still provide structure to some moments. Camping Fun The Roll a Story camping game is perfect for after dinner, while winding down, or print this out and take it with you to use on the rainy days. Oh, and there will be rainy days especially if you camp a lot or visit the cottage in the summer months. I can’t wait to get camping this year. By now you all know the drill. Download from this clean link and save and print it out to go camping. Have fun! Leave me a comment if you do use this and enjoy it. Just don’t resell, republish or reuse in any other capacity. Copyright belongs to Thrifty Mommas Tips. Whether you are gathered around a crackling backyard fire pit or lounging on a porch as the sun dips below the horizon, quiet moments invite memories to surface and tales to be told. When parents share stories from their own childhoods or recount funny adventures from the past year, it bridges the generational gap and creates a shared sense of identity that binds the family closer together. The Joy of Family Games Beyond the spoken word, playing games together offers a dynamic, interactive way to deepen those family connections during the summer season. Whether it is a fast-paced board game on a rainy afternoon, flying a kite together on the beach, a strategic card game on the deck, or an active game of lawn darts in the grass, the playful competition keeps spirits high and encourages teamwork. These shared challenges turn a simple afternoon into a memorable event, teaching everyone the value of good sportsmanship and the joy of spontaneous laughter. By carving out time for these low-stakes, high-fun activities, you create a vibrant atmosphere where the focus remains entirely on the people around you and the simple happiness found in just being together. There are no winners or losers in a roll a story game. It’s literally just a great chance to practice story-telling. Take turns and go around the table to tell the story. One of our favourite games on the beach is Bocce Ball. It is so portable and easy to play together. Pick one up via the link here or get a super cheap one at a discount store near you. Highly recommend. What other games or activities are you interested in seeing here?

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Four Ways Tracing Helps Preschoolers Learn

Paula — Sat, 13 Jun 2026 12:45:35 +0000

Before a child can draw a masterpiece or write their own name, they have to master the language of lines. For a preschooler, holding a crayon is a major athletic event for their tiny hand muscles. Tracing is often the bridge between random scribbles, designs and intentional creation. This early activity isn’t just about following a dotted line. Tracing is also about building the foundation for literacy and art. Helping a child prepare to learn and advance through school can be an active process and parents or early caregivers can help by sharing some workbooks, work sheets, digital activities, games and more. From Squiggles to Skills Quite simply tracing helps preschoolers learn. Here are four ways that tracing helps your little one grow new skills. 1. Building Muscle Memory Writing and drawing require fine motor coordination. Tracing teaches the hand and brain to work together to navigate curves, sharp corners, and straight paths. Over time, these movements become automatic, and intentional making it much easier for them to transition to freehand drawing and writing later on. 2. Understanding Shapes and Structure Every letter in the alphabet is essentially a combination of simple shapes and lines. By tracing a circle, a child is actually practicing the letter O. By tracing vertical lines, they are learning the backbone of an L or a T. Tracing helps them deconstruct the world into manageable pieces. It helps them learn to print letters and strong words together on paper eventually as they get older. 3. Boosting Confidence There is nothing quite like that satisfied moment when a child completes a goal. Tracing provides a starting skill that allows kids to produce recognizable shapes and patterns immediately. This success keeps them engaged and excited to keep practicing. When tracing helps preschoolers learn a new skill, they take pride in what they have learned. 4. Developing Spatial Awareness Tracing teaches kids where to start, which direction to move, and when to stop. This sense of spatial orientation is crucial for keeping letters on a line and ensuring they don’t run off the edge of the paper. Ready to get started? I’ve put together a comprehensive Tracing Bundle designed specifically for little hands. From whimsical wavy lines to geometric shapes, these printables are the perfect way to turn practice into playtime. Download the printable below and watch those squiggles turn into skills! Don’t Miss these other Educational Tools There are several Life Cycle Booklets that appeal to elementary age kids Keep them busy learning all summer Bald Eagle Life Cycle Learning Games Booklet Horse Life Cycle Frog Life Cycle Educational Booklet PIN IT For Later: Don’t forget the paper and supplies Don’t forget to order paper – HP Printer Paper and also be sure to use a good printer. This Epson Eco Tank Printer is amazing. It saves ink like nobody’s business. Post contains affiliate links. I receive a small commission when a purchase is made.

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Summer Survival Activity Pack

Paula — Thu, 11 Jun 2026 12:06:00 +0000

Summer vacation is right around the corner for many of you and might have already started for some depending on where you live. Boredom Busters Now that summer has officially arrived, it won’t be long before the kids are bellowing for something to do. I’m bored. Amuse me. I mean I am paraphrasing here but you know exactly what I mean. While we all cherish those long, sunny days and the break from the school-day hustle, every parent knows the boredom bug usually makes its appearance within the first week. So what’s a mom or dad to do? Well, maybe you have them booked in solid summer camps and activities all season long. Nothing wrong with that. (Other than the cost actually.) What Does Summer Survival Look Like for You? And maybe on a few of those days you pop by online resources like this site to print out some activity pages. Road Trips? Whether you are prepping for a long road trip, looking for quiet activities to balance out the high-energy outdoor play, or simply need a sanity-saving tool for those unpredictable rainy afternoons, I have exactly what you need. Summer Activity Pack to the Rescue I am thrilled to introduce the Ultimate Summer Survival Activity Pack—a substantial, 25-page treasure trove designed to keep little hands busy and creative minds engaged. This is a thoughtfully curated collection packed with everything kids love. From brain-teasing word searches that sharpen those observation skills to intricate colouring pages perfect for mindful downtime, and open-ended drawing prompts that spark the imagination, this pack is designed to be your go-to resource for the summer or even just for a couple of weeks. Survive and Thrive I know how hard it is to balance keeping kids entertained while managing your own busy schedule. That’s why we’ve taken the guesswork out of “What can I do now?”—just print, play, and watch the boredom melt away. Summer survival should also be enjoyable and maybe even creative and fun. In fact, I bet years from now if you ask your kids what they remember from the summers of their childhood, at least one of them will say that road trip to the cottage up north. Or maybe it’s do you all remember that time we were rained out camping and we sat in the tent or trailer and played cards and did word games all weekend? After all, summer doesn’t need to be perfect and you shouldn’t just need to survive it. Have some fun and hit pause and turn the negatives into positives when able. Grab Your Activity Book Are you ready to grab your copy and make this summer the most creative one yet? By now I think you know exactly what to do here. Click on the link above and save it then print it out. These are for your personal use only. You may not republish. Thanks for reading! Believe me I know that the start of the summer especially for working parents can be rough. The transition is chaos and trying to work with kids underfoot is challenging. BUT that said, summer also tends to fly by and it is the best season to get outside chasing long sunny days at the beach or building core memories with a camping trip that will warm your hearts well into February when the snow and ice feels embedded deep in your bones. I have so many other summer printable activities to try and a few ideas of things you might want to do this year as well. Here’s a tool that can help you get started. Summer Bucket List Use this summer bucket list to prioritize the best summer activities that you plan to do and want to ensure you do not miss a moment of the fun. Check out my Road Trip Activity Book for those days when you are in the car or the van for hours on end Happy Summer!

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Free Summer I Spy Printable

Paula — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 14:29:00 +0000

The sun is shining, the days are long, and let’s be honest, the quest to keep everyone entertained during the warmer months can be a full-time job. Whether you’re lounging in the backyard or packing for a weekend getaway, having a few tricks up your sleeve for those “I need a distraction” moments is key. That’s where this Summer I Spy printable comes in. Word and Picture Games I’m a huge fan of I Spy games and word searches because they are the ultimate quiet time hero. They don’t require batteries, they don’t make noise, and they actually get kids focusing on the little details. This version is themed with all the classic icons of the season. From ice cream cones to sunshine and hummingbirds (my favourites this time of year) These games are a fantastic way for younger kids to work on their counting and observation skills, but it’s honestly just as satisfying for older kids who love the challenge of clearing the whole page. A Few Fun Ways to Use These Ready to get started? You can find the download link below. Grab some crayons, find a nice spot in the shade, and enjoy a few minutes of seasonal fun! Don’t forget the paper and supplies Don’t forget to order paper – HP Printer Paper and also be sure to use a good printer. This Epson Eco Tank Printer is amazing. It saves ink like nobody’s business. Other Activities Bald Eagle Life Cycle Learning Games Booklet Horse Life Cycle Frog Life Cycle Educational Booklet Post contains affiliate links. I receive a small commission when a purchase is made.

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Join Me on the Trip of a Lifetime: Christmas Market River Cruise

Paula — Fri, 22 May 2026 15:17:00 +0000

Cat’s out of the bag. I have been working on a most amazing once in a lifetime itinerary for a Christmas market river cruise down the Danube River. This collaboration is with Indus Travels, providing exceptional experiences for group travel since 2001. We leave November 30th on an epic 9 day, 8 night River Cruise with Christmas markets down the Danube! Read on for all the details. Partnering with Indus on this adventure is a dream come true! A Little About Indus Travels Navigating global travel can often be complex, requiring meticulous planning. Indus Travels and their team of expert Travel Planners design each itinerary in close collaboration with a trusted network of local partners. Thanks to buying power and long-standing relationships with airlines and suppliers, they are able to negotiate the best possible rates and pass the savings directly to you. Indus Travels delivers exceptional value, maximizing your budget without ever compromising on quality or cutting corners. Option 1 pricing is available with flight included above and the lower price is with flight not included in the event you want to book the flight yourself. Check out the Market Itinerary Now We will sleep on the cruise ship. Many meals on board included. Please check the link below for all the details. All rooms are based on double occupancy. The Christmas market river cruise is one of a kind and a truly memorable trip that often sells out fast. Drop a deposit of $500 to commit to attending and pay the remainder by the end of the month. The Amazing Christmas Market Cruise Itinerary: Christmas Markets are magical and I am so looking forward to this trip more than you know. The cruise leaves from Munich and then goes on to Passau, Vienna, Budapest, Bratislava and Wachau and Melk. I mean these ports and markets are brilliant. Imagine This Picture this: November 30th arriving in Munich, Germany, settle in on board and relax before we sail away down the Danube. Wake up to breakfast on board and a tour of some of the most well known and memorable Christmas markets in Europe. I imagine it feels like being dropped into a Hallmark movie! Contact Sabine for more information. sabine@indus.travel. Of course, you can always reach out to me if you want any other details. You deserve this adventure and the price is reasonable for the content and the inclusions. Join us for this one of a kind Christmas market cruise. The Christmas market river cruise often sell out. Indus Christmas Market trips are extremely well done and always a joy! This is your sign to book the trip now. See this link for more information and to book the trip now.

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Canada Day Word Games Packet

Paula — Thu, 14 May 2026 06:44:00 +0000

You know by now that I love word games. Paper, printable, digital or apps: it’s all the same to me. And Canada Day is one of my favourite summer events, kicking off the summer season for many of us. So, combine Canada Day word games into a bundle or a packet and that is a recipe to share! Canada Day History Initially known as “Dominion Day,” Canada Day became Canada Day on October 27, 1982. The change reflected a growing sense of a distinct Canadian identity, separate from its colonial ties. Canada adopted the iconic maple leaf flag in 1965. Seventeen years later, the patriation of the Canadian Constitution took place (1982.) This event transferred the country’s highest law from British to Canadian authority. A Day of Festivities Across the country, Canada Day is a vibrant public holiday featuring a wide array of celebrations. Communities large and small host parades, concerts, festivals, and family-friendly activities. Barbecues and picnics are a common tradition, bringing together friends and families to enjoy the summer weather. Over the years we have caught numerous spectacular fireworks displays, a hallmark of the national celebration. Don’t miss my Canada Day Maze printable, a popular download here. Where to Go Most major city parks have a fireworks celebration. In London, Ontario, Canada Day often coincides with Sunfest, a multicultural celebration at Victoria Park downtown. In Ottawa, Parliament Hill in the nation’s capital holds thew official ceremony annually and it is well worth the trip. The event typically features musical performances by Canadian artists, speeches from dignitaries, and a ceremonial flag-raising. No matter where you live in the country, if you want a celebration, you can probably find one, but Ottawa’s celebrations are a highlight. I mean, if there’s one thing the nation’s capital does well, it is throwing a party. Culture, History and Reconciliation Of course, I’d be negligent if I didn’t note that Canada Day celebrations need to be tempered with this reality. We live on land stolen from people that were here before we were. Here are Some Ways to Educate Yourself Re: Reconciliation and How We Can Do Better Make time to read about the true history of the country. Attend a traditional pow wow and amplify indigenous voices. Read the 94 recommendations out of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Make your own commitment to doing better and acknowledging the painful truth about Canada’s history. Read books by indigenous peoples and learn. Interesting Facts About Canada’s National Day: Remember to check out my Free Printable Pinterest Board where I have some other popular word games. How to Use these Games: To Print these word games out this month, you can right click on any of the images above and save and print off of your computer. Please do not reprint on your own site without attribution. Or download the entire lot of word games here: The answer key is included at the end of the word games package so use that if you are stuck. No matter how you celebrate, I wish you a happy Canada Day!

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Spend A Day in the Scottish Highlands

Paula — Tue, 05 May 2026 06:51:00 +0000

What exactly is a Highland Coo? And is Nessie every bit the legend you’ve heard? Spend a day in the Scottish Highlands and you will learn all of this and so much more. You might come for the coos and the gorgeous movie screen views but you’ll leave with a heart full and the overwhelming desire to book a return trip. A Visit to the Highlands After exploring the historic heart of Edinburgh, strolling the Royal Mile many times over, raising a dram in a lowland distillery and making the rounds to all the Harry Potter inspired city locations on our bucket list, it was time to head north. Believe me when I tell you we were not leaving Scotland without visiting the Scottish Highlands. We needed to experience a few of those epic views we’d heard about and we were very interested in seeing some Highland cows too. Where Movie Magic Meets Nessie and Coos So on one of our last full days staying in Edinburgh, we booked a bus tour of the Scottish Highlands, where movie magic meets Nessie and Coos. That was literally one of the tag lines. I mean how can you resist? If Edinburgh is the country’s polished, regal face, the Highlands is its wild, untamed soul. Spending a day touring the Highlands with a guide was indeed a dream come true. Recently my daughter Payton and I took a 12-hour bus tour of the Highlands with Highland Explorer Tours and Haggis Adventures. What started as a rainy, misty Thursday cleared up the closer we got to the Three Sisters, one of Glencoe’s most photographed landscape features. In the week we spent in Scotland, that weather was pretty typical. Rainy mornings followed by clearer afternoons. Book it Yourself Before You Go Get Your Guide Highlands Tour has a similar tour if interested. Click the link to check it out. Post contains affiliate links as a service to readers. I receive a small commission via qualifying links. The Tour With 2-3 surprise stops, a constant charming educational narrative from our local bus driver and highlights in Glencoe, the Highlands and Loch Ness, this trip was so much more than expected. We paid roughly $65 each for a full day of sights, folklore and memories. Buckle up, queue up your best Scottish folk music, or one of your favourite movie soundtracks (set against this backdrop of course) and dive into a day where myth and shaggy cows are the main characters and the setting is timeless. On the Road: Winding Through the Scenery Driving here is an experience that puts every other scenic route to shame. The roads wind and weave dramatically through valleys carved out by glaciers millennia ago. Listen, if you are a person who gets motion sickness this might be a bit rough at times for you. I had no issues but there was one younger child on the bus who had a few moments that were close calls. (Tip: Maybe not a tour for anyone under 12.) What You See You’ll pass through iconic areas like Glencoe, a dramatic hauntingly beautiful glen that gives Outlander and BraveHeart sort of vibes. The mountains here, the Three Sisters, tower above, cloaked in mist and breathing history. Every bend reveals a new breathtaking panorama. Know that you can also rent a car and do this drive on your own, but if you do that budget extra time, because you will want to stop every five minutes for a photo. This is the ultimate road trip territory. Honestly, we were grateful to leave the driving to someone else and the continuous educational, historical updates from our guide Torvah added so much value to the adventure. In Search of Legends: The Mystery of Loch Ness No trip to the Highlands is complete without a pilgrimage to the world-famous Loch Ness. This is no ordinary body of water; it’s one of the largest and deepest lochs in Scotland, holding more fresh water than all the lakes in England and Wales combined! The atmosphere here is truly special. Whether you’re a total sceptic or a believer, there’s a palpable sense of mystery hanging over the deep, dark, peaty waters. Hire a boat tour from the village of Drumnadrochitor and simply gaze out from the shores near Urquhart Castle. These magnificent ruins sit right on the loch’s edge, providing the perfect vantage point (and a suitably atmospheric backdrop) for your Nessie-spotting efforts. Even if the famous monster remains elusive, the sheer scale and beauty of Loch Ness is worth the trip. Stand by a loch steeped in legend, take a short cruise to absorb the scenery or spend an hour or two browsing the shops and restaurants nearby. Tip: There aren’t a lot of restrooms here. When we went there was one small public restroom and a LONG line. If there’s no line, go quickly before everyone gets off the cruise, the boats or the buses. Say “Heeellloooo!” to a Highland Coo! After all that driving (which someone else does so no complaints really) and Loch Ness monster hunting, it was time for some pure, unadulterated charm. Time to meet some more Highland Cows (or Coos, as the locals call them). On this adventure I was warned there were no guarantees of spotting the cows. So, when we stopped not once but twice as a surprise part of the trip we were over the moon. These shaggy-haired, gentle giants are iconic worldwide now. But in the Highlands where they are native, seeing them up close is an absolute joy. With their long horns and sweeping, often ginger, fringes covering their eyes, they are the super photogenic and memorable. Fun Highland Cow Facts: Highland Cows are from Scotland but now are found worldwide. They can live to about 13 years old. Queen Elizabeth II bred and established her own herd of Highland cattle at Balmoral Castle in Scotland in 1953. There is a Highland Coo map should you be on your own trying to spot these beauties in the Highlands or in the Inverness/ Loch Ness area. Wildlife Look for them grazing in the fields along the winding roads. Many local farms or roadside spots allow visitors to safely get near them for a photo opportunity. Just remember to be respectful. They are huge animals and while docile, should be treated with respect. You will probably also see reindeer grazing throughout the Highlands on the drive. Keep your eyes open. Getting close to a Highland Coo is one of those quintessential Scottish moments that will instantly put a huge smile on your face. This is also one of the classic souvenirs you will need to take home with you. Coos in any form – key chain, plushy, cute little figurine make ideal gifts for people back home. My stuffed cow sits on my office chair so I can see it every day. On the Trail of Screen Magic: Outlander and Harry Potter For many of us, the decision to visit Scotland is often cemented by what we have seen on screen. And luckily, the Highlands are a treasure trove of filming locations for some of the biggest cinematic and TV hits! The Outlander Effect If you’re a fan of Jamie and Claire, the Highlands are your spiritual home. While many indoor scenes are shot elsewhere, the rolling hills, misty forests, and dramatic backdrops you see in Outlander are all here. Keep your eyes peeled for places that remind you of the dramatic landscapes of the Ridge or the areas surrounding Lallybroch. If driving on your own take a slight detour to locations like Glenfinnan Viaduct. A Spot of Wizardry And speaking of the Glenfinnan Viaduct, if you’re chasing the Harry Potter magic, this is where you need to be. This incredible railway structure, curving through a stunning green valley, is famously seen carrying the Hogwarts Express. Timing your visit to coincide with the passing of the Jacobite Steam Train (a seasonal service) is truly magical. Seeing that iconic black and red engine puffing smoke across the landscape is a moment of pure cinematic wonder. Note: this only runs during certain seasons and not the winter. So if it is a priority to see the train, time your visit accordingly. Braveheart A lot of Braveheart’s action scenes were filmed in the Highlands. Many took place in Ireland. The village of Lanark where William Wallace grows up filmed near Loch Levin and Glen Coe. You will also learn more Braveheart lore. On this trip our guide had a lot of views about the movie and what it got right and what historically was wrong. Most of us know that Hollywood movie magic takes liberties with facts to build stories that get people into theatres so we weren’t surprised. Game of Thrones Finally, as huge Game of Thrones fans we were on the lookout for GOT film locations. While I did not get any great shots of Doune Castle, we drove by Stirling and could see it from a distance. Doune Castle in Stirling is the only Game of Thrones filming location in Scotland. It was used to shoot the Feast of Winterfell in the pilot episode. Northern Ireland was the main location of filming. Finding Your True North A day in the Highlands is a must do when you visit Scotland. It will itch all of the right spots in your brain and leave you with some lasting core memories. Hands On Sensory Experience The sound of the wind across the lochs, the incomparable sight of the Three Sisters and the quick glimpse of the viaduct and a castle most definitely used for multiple movies. These are the sights and sounds that make the trip multi-dimensional. Scotland in general strips away the noise of modern life and replaces it with the rhythm of nature and the grounding effect of history around every corner. Final Thoughts Pack some proper walking shoes, a big water bottle, a rain jacket or windbreaker with a hood. Don’t forget your iPhone and some wet wipes (cows are messy eaters). Prepare to be captivated. The winding roads, scenery and occasional Highland cow sightings make this an unforgettable journey.

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Happy Birthday Colouring Pages Package

Paula — Fri, 01 May 2026 15:48:23 +0000

Birthdays are unique marker in our lives. And I mean generally speaking there are two camps around birthday celebrations. Love them or hate them and try to ignore. Either way, this year I am sharing a birthday printable package because I love to share and I adore word games and birthday colouring pages as many of you do too. My Hot Take I am not a massive birthday celebrator. It is often one more day of the year. For a time I worked at a spot where it was your job to bring in treats for everyone else on your birthday. So baking something the night before your birthday was an expectation. And it better be good. Typically, a lot of years I have worked on my birthday driving into the office because there are no great exceptions or built in acknowledgements of the day when you are an adult. If your workplace has a birthday PTO day then kudos for working at a place that gets it and appreciates you. Kid’s Birthdays are Events For kids, the anticipation is the best part. It is all about the party planning, the excitement of who is coming, and that feeling of being the centre of the universe for a few hours. But as we get older, I think the focus shifts a little. It becomes less about the noise and the guest list and more about those quiet moments of reflection. Maybe it is a special meal with your partner or just hearing from your kids, but it becomes a time to look back at the lessons learned over the last year and look forward to whatever is next. Comforting Rituals No matter the age, there is a certain comfort in the rituals we build around these days. Whether you are someone who needs a full weekend of festivities or you prefer a low-key dinner with good food and great company, those little traditions are what make the years feel distinct. Your birthday can be a wonderful excuse to hit the pause button, celebrate the people you love, and enjoy the simple fact that there is one more year of memories awaiting. Birthday Colouring Pages Package Ready to colour? Click on the above link to download your free high-resolution printable colouring pages today! For other colouring pages check out my Free Printables board on Pinterest. Please note this is a 6 page colouring book basically. It is for you to use and feel free to share with your family. But you may not republish or take these sheets and post as your own. Thanks and help me to keep these items free and accessible for all. Don’t forget these: Don’t forget to order paper – HP Printer Paper and also be sure to use a good printer. This Epson Eco Tank Printer is amazing. It saves ink like nobody’s business. Don’t forget to pin this for later. Post contains affiliate links. I receive a small commission when a purchase is made.

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