In my house every morning begins with "Mom, what are we going to do today?" Fortunately I live in Austin, TX, a really fine city with lots to do. If you happen to live somewhere else, perhaps there are similar events in your home town. Here are some of the GREAT things to in Austin and surrounding areas.

Beat the heat! and check out your local library. The City of Austin public library offers story times, special shows and events your kids will love. All for FREE.

For kids nothing beats a good ol' playgound. "The Austin Parks and Recreations Department oversees 89 composite playground sites with playscapes for 2-5 and/or 5-12 age use, and 5 sites with swing sets only."

You can find things to do in unexpected places. I found a great park while looking at a site for stay-at-home dads. The dads and Rollingwood Park were on The Daily Show.

In Texas, the best thing about summer is spending time in the water. We've only recently discovered Emma Long Metropolitan Park. I look forward to going back for a picnic lunch and a swim. Note: There are no lifeguards at this park on Lake Austin.

Seems like splash pads are popping up all over town. There is one at The Grove at Southpark Meadow,Ricky Guerrero Park 2006 S. 6th Street, Butler District Park, and Rock'N River Family Aquatics Center. These are all FREE except for the Rock'N River pool which does charge a fee and isn't in Austin.

The last thing I'd like to mention is children's theater. Sure there is the dollar movie if your children are old enough, but I think performances at the Scottish Rite Children's Theatre are tops!