What do tree stumps, plastic bags and cardboard boxes have in common?

Well first off they're all free! And for some reason the toys of choice in our family. Thus proving that toys don't have to come from a store OR be expensive. Now I've known for years that a child will have more fun with the wrapper that a present came in then the present itself, but this brings it to a whole new level. I've realized I can officially clean out their closet of all the unnecessary toys and clutter, hand them 3 or 4 Publix grocery bags and let them go. Of course there are safety rules with any "toy".

Safety Rule # 1 : Don't place bag over your head and inhale
Rule #2: Don't place bag over your brother's head and tell HIM to inhale.
Rule # 3: Do not jump off any high objects and use bag as parachute.

Here is documented proof of this transpiring. They would get the bag full of air throw it up in the air, let go and then punch it on the way down. Yes this went on for a very long time. In the picture below I believe the bag had had enough and was inflicting some sort of pain on my son. When they get bored with the bags send them out back to play with the tree stump. This piece of tree was destined to be part of the yard trash and end up in a heap somewhere, but no. Oh no! It is no longer a tree stump, it has been magically transformed into a cow waiting to be roped and from what a heard the other day, milked by my 6 year old. Yes, milked! He actually rolled up paper and taped them to the underside of the "cow" and started milking. Alas, I do not have a picture of that. We need to get this boy out on a few 100 acres somewhere. As with any toy, once again there are rules.

Rule #1: Don't rope your brother instead of the cow and say you missed.
Rule # 2 Don't tie your brother to a tree and say the cow did it.
Rule # 3: When "cow tipping" don't use your head. Use your shoulder and lean into it.
Here is the cow in question.

Who's gonna win this tug of war?
Oh Yeah! Victory is sweet. Poor cow!
Now when they are tired of thus said toy, move them on to the cardboard box. Yes cardboard boxes are transformed into just about anything. A castle, a fort, a jail, a clubhouse, an inexpensive travel method for just your children (oh I'm so kidding, put the phone down!). Yes the only limit here is your imagination. Just give them some markers and crayons and watch the transformation begin. And again we as parents need to set the rules in place so as no one gets hurt.

Safety Rule #1: Don't try to ship your brothers to China.
Rule #2 When cutting windows in, let Dad use the really sharp knife.
Rule # 3: Remember to always have an escape plan in case of fire. So what strange and wonderful free things do your kids choose to play with rather than the expensive store bought junk? LOL.
Have a most excellent day! HUGS!