From teaching you how to ride a bike to listening to all of your woes with an open mind, your dad has always made your life seem amazing. Thus, Father’s Day can be very stressful if you can’t find or afford the perfect gift for your own personal superhero. There are many ways to avoid the expensive presents that you might feel pushed into purchasing for your dad though. In fact, there’s a number of things dad might prefer to that pricey new tie or tool set. Instead of worrying about the budget you have to honor your dad, you can instead bask in the appreciation and smiles that dad will give you thanks to your unique gift. These ten tips should strike the chords of most father’s hearts and will leave you on dad’s favorite kid list for at least a few months. So, say thanks this Father’s Day without feeling overburdened by the commercial aspect of the holiday.

1. Fishing
Back in the good ole days you and dad used to love sharing a fishing trip. Dad loved listening to your stories and teaching you all of the tricks of the trade. This amazing bonding time might not happen as often now that you’re older though. So, why not take a trip down memory lane and let dad coach you through a few casting tips again. The best thing about going on a fishing trip with dad is it tends to be incredibly inexpensive. In fact, unless you have to buy a fishing license you can probably enjoy a trip at no cost if you live near a fishing hole or ocean. You may end up spending a little bit on gas, drinks and snacks but apart from that you’ll be well on your way to giving your father one of the best gifts around. That is, time with you. If you want to make this trip even more exciting try to get the rest of the family in on the trip. If you have kids of your own then make sure grandpa has a chance to teach them all of the exciting tricks he enjoyed sharing with you.

2. Golfing
If your dad is a golfing fanatic then get him the gift he will love above all. That is, take him out for a few rounds on his big day. Of course, if you want to save a little money you may want to take dad out on a weekday so the price of the round won’t be as much. However, even if you do choose to hit the golf course on Father’s Day you shouldn’t end up spending a whole lot of money. If you are a member of a country club then the price of this gift might be free, which will help you and dad enjoy the day even more. Your dad will love teaching you some golfing techniques while catching up with you about life in general. If you’re still alright with your budget then you may want to consider grabbing some lunch off a couple of rounds at the golf course.

3. Honey Do List
We all know about the magical Honey Do List that dad mulls over every time he has a little free time. Generally, the items on the list aren’t a whole lot of fun to accomplish, so why not provide dad a little break from some of these chores for his big Father’s Day gift. You can easily acquire the list from mom, so ask a week or two ahead of time and see which chores you can get finished. When you have a little free time try to get through some of the chores without dad realizing it. This might take a little extra effort, but it will be worth it when you present him with his Honey Do List with many of the chores crossed off. You may also want to concentrate on some of the chores that you know your dad really hates doing. Of course, if you don’t have a lot of spare time before Father’s Day you could offer dad coupons that offer your help whenever he needs to get a project completed. This will give you bonding and cut your dad’s workload in half.

4. Car Wash/Detailing
Every guy loves a clean car, so why not give your dad’s car a makeover this holiday. Get mom to sneak you dad’s keys early one morning and get to work. You can get cleaning supplies for fairy cheap at any discount or dollar store, so you won’t have to worry about spending too much in this regard. Once you’ve got everything cleaned up then you may want to add a wax coating to make dad feel extra special when he goes out next. When the exterior of the car is shiny and new then take to the interior. Place all the stray papers and trash you’re unsure of in a separate bag so dad can sort through and make sure its actually trash later. Food or bottle containers are usually safe to get rid of though, so make sure you get them all out. Wipe down the dash and if you can vacuum out the seats to leave everything feeling fresh. To finish things off you may want to grab an air freshener with dad’s favorite scent so the car will smell as good as it looks! You’ll love seeing dad’s surprised face when you return his keys.

5. Magazine Subscription
Sometimes it might be hard to pick something out for dad. This can be one of the best times to consider a magazine subscription. There’s a lot of subscriptions to choose from and many will even give you an entire year’s worth of magazine for just under $15. This can be the perfect gift for dad’s who love to read or have a lot of spare time on their hands. The best thing about magazines is you can totally customize your gift to fit your father’s interests. There is a magazine out there that will suit just about any hobbyist. From birdwatching to fishing your dad can be reading up on the latest news from his favorite pass time in no time. There are also magazine based on your father’s career path such as those for mechanics or carpenters. There’s also magazines based around health which could be a particular interest of your father. With a gift this convenient there’s no doubt your father will be ecstatic about your gift. You may even consider getting dad digital copies to save even more money and paper!

6. Favorite Meal
It has been said time and time again that a way to a man’s heart is through his stomach. This is pretty much true when it comes to dad too, so why not surprise him with his favorite meal for Father’s Day. If you’re not sure what to make him try to hint around about foods that dad might be particularly craving. You might also talk to mom about meals your dad has been asking for lately. Once you decide on what you’re going to good try checking out farmer’s markets or discount stores for the ingredients. This will help you cut down on the amount you spend on the meal. Try preparing the meal at your dad’s house before he gets home from work so he will be able to smell his favorite meal as he walks in the door. To be kind to mom make sure you pick up dishes duty too! If dad’s favorite treat happens to be from a restaurant then call around and ask for Father’s Day deals or any specials the restaurant may have in order to save more money on dad’s special treat.

7. Homemade Card
Sometimes dad is just happy to know you love and appreciate him which is where a homemade card comes in handy. Although there’s usually a great selection of affordable cards at the store, making your own helps save more money while adding that extra special touch that dad loves. You should be able to get pretty crafty with items found in your home like printer paper, scrapbooking paper and other supplies that might be found in your crafting area. Dad will especially love if you transform the card into something that shows the memories the two of you share together. When you’ve finished building the card add that extra special message that will make dad feel like a million bucks when he reads it. This is an easy craft for the whole family to take part in, so make sure you get everyone in on the crafting fun.

8. Special Mug
If nothing interrupts dad from his coffee time then you may want to consider giving him his own special mug this holiday. Pick a family photo of image of something your dad loves to chat about and get it places on a mug at your local department stores photo department. This generally cost very little and will ensure no one will take dad’s mug when its time for coffee. You could also buy a blank mug in dad’s favorite color and paint a special message on it, such as #1 Dad. Of course, if you really want to get crafty you may want to consider building your dad a mug in a pottery store. This will allow the entire mug to be your very own creation which will make dad extra happy. If you’re not feeling creative then browse sales and find dad a mug that will certainly spell out his love for coffee.

9. T-Shirt
What dad doesn’t love to relax at home in a comfortable t-shirt? T-Shirts make a great gift for dad’s of all ages and will allow you to show off some of your crafting skills. You can cheaply by blank t-shirts at any craft or department store, so make sure to shop around in order to find the best price. Once you’ve designed on a t-shirt then grab your fabric paint and get to work. You may even consider using a stencil to make dad’s shirt. This can easily be created with a little cardboard and crafting tool. When you’ve planned out the shirt then lay on the paint and wait to dry. Dad will be excited to have his very own dedicated shirt and will love how much work you put into it. You should also be able to find inexpensive pre-made dad shirts at your local department or clothing store, but make sure to wait for sales in order to get the best price.

10. Gift Basket
The gift basket is certainly a gift that requires a little thought but creates a whole lot of happiness. If you’re looking to make dad a gift basket then make a list of his favorite snack foods and beverages. Try shopping around before you make the purchases or look for coupons to help bring down the price. If you really want to save money then try baking some of dad’s favorite treats and wrap them in colorful plastic wrap to make the basket look all the more exciting. You can also throw in small items like a golf balls, fishing lures or other items that might make dad happy. You might also want to consider using a bucket or other item that dad might find useful around the house, rather than a basket that could go to waste. Dad will be happy for weeks thanks to your gift basket!

Father’s Day only comes around once a year, so make sure you let your dad know how important he is. With these ten gift ideas you can maintain your frugal budget while still providing dad with a gift filled with riches! You’ll certainly feel great about your gift choice when you see the smile on your dad’s face.

With summer only a month away and the final days of school rapidly approaching it might be time to think about some summer lunch options that your kids will love. Although its always tempting to rely on the classic chicken nugget and french fry diet, it often isn’t cost effective for your budget and is never entirely healthy for your child. It’s also time to start eating lighter to help make meal time more enjoyable in the heat. Although coming up with a menu for your kids can be difficult with a few hands menu suggestions your kids will be on their way to a healthier summer while you save money on their time at home. With any luck it might also help you find your healthier self so you can lead your kids into a healthy lifestyle by example. So, forget shopping for countless boxed meals and relax with simple, fast and cheap summer time lunches.

1. Smoothies
After a long morning of enjoying the sun nothing will be quite as appreciated as a nice cold meal to relax the body. Smoothies are great way to make your kids believe they’re getting a sweet treat without having to give them actual sweets like ice cream. When you go shopping try to load up on both frozen and fresh foods as well as some of your favorite vegetables. You can have the kids help out making their own special smoothie blend, or you can prep them on your own. When you make the smoothies make sure you add a healthy serving of leafy greens to the mix as this will help make your child’s meal nutritious as well as delicious. If your child has problem with the green color then add a little food coloring and they will be none the wiser. You can usually fit in a full serving of vegetables in a smoothie so choose which you want your children to have wisely. Carrots are also an easy food to add to the mix without sacrificing flavor. You can even add almond or coconut milk to add more nutrients or cut down the fat in the smoothie which will help your kids stay fit.

2. Burritos
One of the cheapest and easiest foods to make in a hurry in the burrito. The best thing is you can totally mix up the ingredients to create a different taste for each child. If you’re looking to save a lot of money on your meal then try to make the tortillas from scratch. This might add a bit of labor and time to your meal prep, but your food will taste better and you’ll end up creating the meal for a whole lot cheaper. Burritos can even me pre-made and frozen so you won’t have to worry about cooking every single day, which is particularly good when the temperatures seem to sky rocket. There’s a lot of inexpensive ingredients you can use for your burritos, such as eggs, beans, potatoes and even bulk meats and cheese. Make sure you add plenty of vegetables to the mix too to make them a delicious and healthy meal. By the time you make a lot of these burritos your kids will be set for lunches for the next few weeks. They also make a great meal for kids who tend to be on the goal much of the summer. Simply pull one out of the freezer each night and pack it for your child’s busy day.

3. Build a Pizza
Kids love to be a part of the kitchen activities which is why build your own pizza day is typically a hit. Although this might seem like a pricey meal you may find that if you buy the materials in bulk you won’t spend as much money. Of course, you don’t always have to think inside of the box when it comes to your homemade pizzas either. In fact, you can easily utilize bagels, french bread or any other bread items you have around the house for your pizza dough. You can even use leftover spaghetti sauce to help keep the price tag down. Try to encourage the kids to use more vegetables and healthy meats on their pizza rather than loading it up with cheese too. If you have a convection oven you may want to try to cook the pizzas in it as it will cut down on the oven heating up the home. Of course, you could always put the pizzas on the grill for a unique meal that will make your kids feel like little chefs.

4. Eggs
Eggs are a good way to give your children an excellent amount of protein without worrying about their lunch sitting heavy on their tummies. Eggs are fairly cheap at just about any marketplace and can be transformed into a number of dishes that will please your kids. One of the more popular egg dishes is egg salad, which can be adjusted to suit your kids taste buds. There’s lot of free recipes online and making a batch of egg salad can last a couple of meals, so you won’t have to worry about cooking every day. Another simple kid friendly dish is the omelet. Although it is often a breakfast dish it can be used to power your kids through baseball practice that usually takes place later in the day. Omelets are fun to customize to your kids taste and can even be a great way to add some vegetables to their diet. Frittatas are another fun dish that kids can help out with, plus their total hands on food so your child can eat it on the go.

5. Crepes
Making a crepe might sound intimidating at first, but once you try it you’ll realize just how fun and easy it is to make. Usually the batter is very simple to pancake batter and is simply made with a thin layer that cooks quickly. Crepes are an excellent treat for kids because you can fill them with an assortment of different things. One of the best things to do is look up recipes for seasonal crepes which will show you how to utilize some of the best vegetables in your meal. This is one really simply way to get kids to eat the foods they never before would. Of course, you can always fill the crepes with fruit to make a cold meal that will please everyone in the house. As long as you shop seasonal fillings this meal should be incredibly inexpensive and might even become a household favorite. When everyone’s finished eating you can always freeze the excess filling to use at a later day, which will help save even more money.

6. Sandwiches
When it comes down to lunch time food nothing satisfies a craving quite like a sandwich. This quick and easy meal is one of the best ways to keep kids fed at a price that satisfies everyone, after all it won’t change the budget too much from when your child was eating sack lunches at school. You don’t have to keep your sandwiches limited to cold cuts and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches either though. In fact, there’s a wide assortment of cheap sandwiches to choose from so you won’t have to repeat a recipe twice unless you absolutely want to. Sandwiches are another great way to sneak in the vegetables too especially with the different ways of seasoning them to suit the meal. The best thing is your leftovers will always have a place thanks to the sandwich. This is especially true with leftover brisket or pulled pork from your barbeque. You can also mix things up with different types of breads and wraps to ensure you won’t have to keep eating the same meal over and over.

7. Snack Plate
Kids love having a little control over what they eat which is why creating snack plates is the perfect summer lunch. You can fill the plate with just about anything you want, but try to keep it light and healthy. Cut fruits, granola, veggie sticks and sliced cheese are some great options for your bunch. Of course, you can add your own special touch to everything though, so your kids will be delighted by the choices you present them. One good thing about a snack plate is often kids won’t eat as much because the plate will force them to slow down their eating. This will ensure you won’t have to worry about weight gain due to overeating, nor will the meal sit heavy while they are outside playing in the sun. Choosing a snack tray is also great for your childrens’ future nutrition. It will teach them to make wise decisions when it comes to a meal opposed to going for the fattier and less healthy options.

8. Beanie Weenies
Everyone who has been camping has probably experience beanie weenies. This summer, instead of just leaving it on the trails you may want to consider bringing the family favorite to lunch time. You can easily whip up the classic recipe with a can of beans and a package of hot dogs, but this might be a bit too tedious by the time summer is over. Instead of creating the same beanie weenies over and over try mixing in new ingredients. For instance, after your barbeque you might want to take some of your sausage links and add it to baked or ranch style beans for an entirely different experience. You may even want to try your hand at making your own beans in the crock pot which could save a whole lot of money in the long run. If you start with a big patch you can always freeze some of the leftovers for a later date.

9. Veggie Pasta
When it comes to pasta kids are usually right on board, but the noodles are high in calories which isn’t exactly the best thing in regards to your family’s health. Instead of using noodles try investing in a vegetable pasta maker. This amazing device will turn your vegetables into thing noodles. This works best with items like squash of zucchini, but you can try out a wide assortment of things. Once you’ve created your noodles you can easily boil them for a matter of seconds and serve them with your favorite pasta sauce. This amazing pasta dish will cut down calories significantly and will help kids who hate eating vegetables find a way to fit them into their diet. If you grow tired of pasta style meals then you can always mix things up by using the noodles in a ramen or stir fry. The sky is the limit so make sure to browse recipes that are cheap to fulfill.

10. Salad
One of the easiest things to whip up in a hurry without sacrificing nutrition is a salad. Salads might not be the idea for kids, but if they start eating them early they’ll learn to enjoy them for the rest of their lives. Salads can be pretty inexpensive to make as well as long as you steer clear from the pre-packed salads. Instead buy each piece of the salad separately which will save money and help keep everything fresh. You can always add some of your children’s favorite foods to make the salad a little tastier, such as chicken, cheese or even fruits. By the time summer is over your family will be in great shape and your children will have learned to eat healthily.

Lunches can be a simple thing if you know how to keep them under budget. With these ten menu items you’ll be able to rock your children’s lunch menu so you’ll have smiling faces all season. With a little luck they’ll pick up some healthy eating habits that will keep your food budget low all year.

Chances are you’re probably already running your air conditioning to combat the warm air moving in. Although the nice chilly breeze is a great way to cool down after a hot day it can really make your home begin to smell. With the lack of open windows a musky smell might begin to take over bedrooms leaving behind a stale sense in the home. Luckily, with a little aroma added to the mix your home will become inviting once again. However, there are some poor financial choices when it comes to buying scents for your home, but with a little guide to help you your home will be smelling like a dream in no time. So, stop plugging your nose every time you pass the litter pan or your teenagers dirty socks, instead fire up a little extra scent to create the perfect home environment.

1. Oil Diffuser
A diffuser can be one of the most important accessories you can buy when it comes to adding scent to your home. Diffusers are typically used for oils, but can be used to hold tea candles or potpourri if you are out of oils. There are a whole lot of diffusers on the market, so it is important to pay attention when it comes to buying one for the home as many can be surprisingly pricey. Generally, you should shop for a diffuser that is made of ceramic as it is easier to heat and tend to last longer than plastic diffusers. Of course, you will probably want to take appearance into account, but there’s plenty of cheap diffusers that can easily be decorated after you purchase them. You should probably try looking for a diffuser from your local discount or dollar store before you go on to buy one from a more expensive venue. You may even be able to make one in a pottery class which will allow you to your own artistic touch while saving some money.

2. Buy Oils in Bulk
When it comes to using oils for your scented needs it is incredibly important to try to buy these oils in bulk. Typically oils can run you a whole lot of money, especially if you’re looking at buying some of the more expensive brands on the market. However, if you skip buying the small bottles of oils you may actually end up saving money in the long run. Larger bottles are usually only a few cents more than the average size, so you will get a lot more use out of the larger container. Of course, there are also options where you can buy large packages of oils at a discounted price. This is usually one of the smartest options, especially if you tend to use the oils more than most. You should probably make sure that you are getting an assortment of scents before buying though, as often times many people will fall in love with smell and end up disgusted by it before they finish all of the oils in a package. This should also be considered when buying larger bottles as it is usually best to test the scent before a major purchase. Of course, if you have friends who also burn oils you may be able to trade scents for something they’re tired of.

3. Know Your Oils
One important thing about burning oils is to know which ones to burn at what period of time. There are certain smells that just don’t work during certain seasons or periods of the day and to burn them would make the household feel uncomfortable. There are also a good number of scents that are designed to affect your mood as well as how you feel physically. With a little research you should be able to plan what you burn with precision. This method is called aromatherapy and is popular amongst many households now. The best thing about this method is your home won’t smell while you find a simple way to ease the stress from the day while helping the kids settle down for a good night’s rest. You can cheaply pick up a used book on aromatherapy or you can find a lot of information for free online, so you can better plan out the oils you choose for your home.

4. Candles
If you’re looking for a quick way that lasts a while to get the scent you want then a candle might the answer to your solution. Candles are great because they can work as decorative items while bringing an incredible scent to the home. Most candles won’t cost you a whole lot, but there are some brands that might be a bit too pricey for the budget, so try to shop sales as much as possible. Candles can last a very long time and make it simple to switch from one scent to the next without any extra clean up. You may also find you can move candles from room to room to help remove smells in particular areas of the home. If you’re looking to save more money on candles, or just have little fun then you may want to consider making your own candles. Its a great craft for the whole family and can really change the way your home smells.

5. Avoid Plug Ins
A lot of people believe that the convenient plug in devices you can buy just about anywhere are the best way to enjoy a fresh home. However, these devices can really end up costing you more than you’d think if you continue using them on a daily basis. The plug ins tend to use electricity to heat them so that they can put off their scent. Although it might not take a whole to power them the price will eventually add up when you compare it to the use of candles or even burning oils. A lot of the time the plug ins can be originally bought at a special price that includes the actual plug and a scented plug in, which makes it seem like you won’t have to spend a lot of money on keeping up the plug in. However, when you go to buy the refills the grim price becomes apparent. It is even worse when you realize how quickly the plugs dry out. The worst aspect of the plug in is you can’t mix products from different brands which means you’re stuck buying one type of plug in. So, if you like a scent from another company you’ll have to buy their system too.

6. Decorate with Potpourri
Potpourri is a common craft items that many people love to use throughout the home. You can easily pick up potpourri in a bag or in different floral shapes at your local hobby store. The best thing about potpourri is it is totally simple to create elegant centerpieces that will make your home smell amazing. Whether you plan on getting creative it or using it in a hidden area potpourri tends to be a household favorite because it last for a long time and doesn’t cost a whole lot of money. Many people will place potpourri in a basket in the bathroom to help keep the air and linens smelling great for months. Other people will create beautiful wreaths or other interior designs with the scented chips to help add a fresh look and scent to the environment. Potpourri comes in an assortment of scents and some may even be colored, so you’ll have some fun finding your signature scent.

7. Utilize Incense
Incense is one of the best ways to get rid of lingering odors in a hurry. There’s an assortment of different scents you can buy with incense and they are generally so cheap that you can stock up for the month without worrying about hurting your family’s budget. Incense can be burned a few times so you won’t have to constantly worry about running out of the amazing smells. The best thing about incense is it will add a peaceful vibe to the home no matter what scent you choose to burn. Incense is particularly great when it comes to relieving odors after you cook a particularly pungent food like curry or Italian food. Most people prefer to buy a special incense holder before they burn the sticks which are usually pretty cheap. However, you can get creative about where you store your incense if you don’t want to make the extra purchase.

8. Baking Soda
Easing odors throughout the house can be as simple as sprinkling around a little baking soda in the problem area. This is the ideal way of keeping your house fresh for families who don’t like artificial odors or intense smells in the air. Baking soda can be found inexpensively in most stores so you shouldn’t have to go to great lengths to make your home feel fresh. Some of the best places to put baking soda is in the litter box, bottom of the trash can and in older shoes. You will probably notice a significant drop in the way your home smells soon after you do this. It might also be a good idea to keep a small box of baking soda in your refrigerator as it will help keep food odors down while keeping some of your food fresh. In order to completely remove some foul odors you may have to sprinkle the baking soda on the carpets and vacuum it up. This should reduce and musky odors in the air so you can enjoy your cool air without feeling too stale.

9. Make Your Own
If you’re looking to keep your home smelling great while still keeping a low budget then there’s a few easy ways you can enjoy a fresh home without all the fuss. One way it take a bar of soap that has a lighter scent you enjoy and shave it down. You can put these shavings in small boxes around the home that will produce a great smell for a few weeks. You could also make your own variation of potpourri using a light perfume or oils you use with a diffuser. Simply spray the scent onto strips of paper and place it somewhere around the home. There is also an assortment of kits that will allow you to make your own potpourri, candles, and even oils which could save you money while helping the family bond. Another great option is to pick flowers with a sweet smell, such as roses, and dry them out. The flowers will still put out a scent that will make the home cozy.

10. Shop Sales
Of course, nothing will save you quite as much money as finding an amazing sale on your favorite scented items. You can easily check online for sales in your area, or you may run across discounted or closeout items on some of your favorite sites. Make sure to keep an eye out for items you particularly loved so you can easily find the perfect scent for your home for less. If you’re unsure where to shop for some of your items then you may want to start at your local hobby store. These stores often have plenty of scented goods as well as the kits to make your own, so you may end up finding a little bit of everything to try out in your home this summer. You should also keep a look out for coupons that could help you save even more on your favorite scents.

It is important to have a comfortable home, especially during the household when everyone will spend more time in the house. With these simple tips you’ll be able to create a desirable scent that will keep everyone feeling refreshed whenever they’re at home. You’ll love entertaining guests without feeling like your home is stale.

Memorial Day is an extra special day meant to for giving thanks to all those who have served to protect our freedoms and liberties. However, the holiday is often turned into an opportune time to spend money on celebrations and vacations. There is a way to celebrate this amazing holiday without actually having to spend a lot of money though. In fact, if you can avoid the sales and keep things simple there’s a good amount of fun you can have while still recognizing those that make your life as comfortable and free as it is. With these tips you’ll be able to break away from the commercial sale season that Memorial Day brings so you can teach your family the meaning of the holiday while still giving the holiday a sense of fun.

1. Potluck Barbeque
Barbeques are a great way to get people together to celebrate and spend time with one another. Try to invite close friends and family a few weeks early so you’ll know exactly how much food to purchase. You should also pay close attention and invite friends and family that you know have serves as a way of honoring them. On the invitation you can ask people to sign up to bring certain foods so you won’t have to feel as burdened by the grocery bill for the party. You may want to exempt veteran friends to honor their service though. Potlucks are great in the sense that you will get an assortment of foods from different cultural and family recipes, which can lead to some amazing stories. You could also ask your veterans to share their stories of time served in order to make the party more about their service.

2. Visit Vet Hospital/Home
One of the best ways to honor those that have served is to pay them a visit on their special day. There should be a wide selection of care homes, hospitals or other Veterans clubs that you can take the family for a visit. If you’re having trouble finding a location then try contacting your community center for a list of locations. You may also be able to choose an elderly vet who can’t easily leave the home to spend the day with. This can be one of the most meaningful ways to celebrate the holiday. Make sure you talk to the veteran about their stories and enjoy learning a piece of history from someone who actually experienced it. Visiting a vet won’t actually cost you anything though and you’ll gain a whole lot from the volunteer experience.

3. Go to Beach/Lake
For most, Memorial Day is a kickstart to summer. With the hot weather blazing down on you and your family there may be only one solution to your problem. That is, heading to the nearest body of water to celebrate the holiday. Beaches and lakes are usually the best option because they tend to be free of charge, apart from small expenditures like parking fees. If you live near a body of water then pack up some supplies for the day and enjoy spending time with those you care about. Make sure you pack plenty of snacks and water so you won’t have to spend money on food or drinks while you’re away. Usually sandwiches and fruits are a must have on hot days and will help keep the family full without feeling overburdened by the food. Of course, if you’re spending time at the lake you can always enjoy some fishing to catch dinner. Make sure you don’t need a license before you go though as a ticket could be an unwanted expenditure. You should also make sure to bring flotation devices and other fun water toys to keep the family occupied throughout the day.

4. Festivals/Carnivals
One of the best things about Memorial Day is there is plenty of carnivals and festivals popping up around the country. With the warm weather out there’s a lot more people who want to check out the rides and enjoy the amazing carnival games. A lot of these carnivals and festivals will have a discount on Memorial Day tickets, especially if you buy them in advance. Carnivals tend to be really great for families with kids as they offer a wide assortment of shows, games, rides and sometimes even a firework show to make the holiday even more memorable. Festivals are also great as there is plenty of music to keep families with older children occupied as well. Usually you only have to spend enough for the cover fee, but if you plan on playing games it might be best to check out some of the package deals before going. Make sure to pack water for everyone so you don’t have to spend as much money on the beverages or food. You might also wait to see which carnival or festival is going to hold a special Memorial Day tribute before you choose what location to spend you holiday at.

5. Check Out Monuments
Although it might not be an easy task for some people, finding a monument could be an excellent way to honor those who have served on Memorial Day. There are lots of monuments all over the nations, so look for something in your area to help you save money. Usually monuments are free to see, but you may have to pay a cover fee if you choose to check out the museum that is usually attached to the monument. Seeing a monument can be a great way to show the true meaning of the holiday to your family and you will be able to teach them something valuable that they can share with others. If you live near more than one monument then you might want to plan a tour. You might even want to look up information on the area so you can teach the family about the battles, major movements or any other important historical event that may have happened in your area.

6. Make Patriotic Snacks
One of the best ways to make kids happy while spending some time with them is to make patriotic snacks. There’s so many recipes out there that you could go wild with the red, white and blue colors. Of course, if you’re looking to save money you may want to stick with some of the cheaper ideas. One classic snack is a jello mold. Try getting red and blue jello to simply make the mold and add a flag for a stopper. You could also make rice krispy treats with M&Ms. Have the kids pick out all of the red and blue candies and add it to your favorite rice krispy recipe. They’re fast to make and a whole lot of fun to eat. A healthier snack idea is to create parfaits. This requires yoghurt, blueberries and strawberries and will generally make enough to entertain an entire party. Of course, if you’re filling crafty you may want to try making a patriotic cake. This can be done in so many ways so make sure to look up some recipes that suit your cooking skills and budget.

7. Share Stories
One of the most interesting things to do on Memorial Day is to sit down and share stories with others. It doesn’t matter if the stories are from your personal life or stories that were passed down for generations as they will live on when you retell them. For many, finding people to enjoy stories may be tough, but if you look hard enough you may be able to find a group of people who are sharing stories during the holiday. Often, there are speeches held at community centers or schools and can be accessed by anyone who has an interest in listening or participating. You may also just want to spend some time with friends and family and share stories with them. The more stories you tell and hear the more connected you may feel with the true meaning of the holiday. The best this is that sharing a story and listening to other’s stories won’t actually cost you a thing. If you’re stilling having trouble connection then take to the internet and enjoy speeches made in the past, or find a live feed of a major celebrations, so you can enjoy hearing about the memories that make this holiday special.

8. Go Camping
Instead of sticking around and dealing with the temptation of shopping it might be a great idea to hit the camp site this Memorial Day. Camping is a great way to spend some quality time with your family and with the extra long weekend it is possible to spend a good amount of time living off the land. Try to find a free campsite near your area so you won’t have to spend too much money on gas or camping fees when you go. If you can, pack items that you already own or borrow from families who aren’t going to be camping during the holidays. You may also want to pack long lasting snacks, plenty of water and fishing poles if there is a nearby lake. You will love being away from it all in the beautiful weather and will get to catch up with the kids before they finish out the school year and start up their busy summer schedule. One of the best things about camping is it gives you ample time to sit back and enjoy some of the patriotic stories you grew up with. This will allow your kids to pass down the stories to the next generation too, so the meaning of the holiday doesn’t get lost in the sales ads.

9. Patriotic Movie
If you can’t find the time to travel or don’t have the money to throw a huge party then you may want to consider staying in and watching a patriotic movie with the family. There’s a lot of movies to choose from so you won’t have to settle with something no one is interested in, Make sure you check out the rating of the movie first though as some might be too violent for children. If you don’t own and patriotic movies and don’t feel like renting then try surfing your cable channels or streaming subscriptions. Usually around the holiday patriotic movies are features in a marathon or have their own streaming channel. Of course, if you still want to spend time with friends then you can invite them over for a movie day. Ask guests to bring in some of their favorites and have everyone vote on what to watch. You can also make simple and cheap snacks like popcorn and red, white and blue desserts.

10. Be Crafty
Being crafty is always a great idea, but Memorial Day is one of the best times to put your crafting skills to work. There’s so man projects you can start to make the day extra special and you can easily include the kids in on the projects. One of the more popular crafts is to print out color sheets for kids to color in. Once their finished kids can pass them out to vets in order to say thanks for their service. Another great idea to thank your local veterans is to create thank you letters. Take these with you to accompany your childrens’ drawings and color pages. You could also craft little flags to hand out using supplies found in the home.

Celebrating Memorial Day doesn’t have to be all about spending money and going over board on party supplies. These tips will help keep your holiday completely frugal while you show your appreciation for those who have serves. You may even find your family learned a lot more about the holiday than in previous years.

With the warm Spring air rolling in and the sun shining bright, it is time to check out some of the Renaissance Fairs in your area. These delightful fairs tend to only happen once a year, so make sure you enjoy your step back in time before it is too late. Many people will often avoid the Renaissance Fair because they believe it can be too pricey for the frugal household. However, the Renaissance Fair can be a great way for families to enjoy some time together as they take in some incredibly shows and food. There are numerous ways to experience this special fair that won’t leave you stressing over the money. In fact, with these ten tips you’ll find your family may want to frequent the fair while it’s still in town. So step away from the budget and let the entertainment of yesteryear entertain your family for a few hours.

1. Advance Tickets
The Renaissance Fair typically doesn’t cost a lost for an entrance fee, but you will certainly save even more money if you purchase in advance. Most Renaissance Fairs will actually have deals with your local banks and grocery stores, so you won’t even have to travel far to get a deal. When you purchase your tickets at these locations you tend to get a greater discount than purchasing anywhere else. This is largely because of the deals made between the fair and business establishment, but also to help draw people from other areas in to to see the amazing stuff. You should also be able to buy your tickets online or at the fairgrounds before the big day, but this will only provide you with a small discount opposed to buying at the set locations. A lot of the time buying ahead of time can even help you score free tickets for family and friends. You may also get free entrance for children that usually require a small entrance fee. So, shop ahead of time instead of waiting to the day of the fair to get your tickets.

2. Coupons
Renaissance Fairs are usually very good about putting out coupons before they begin selling tickets. You can find coupons for your local events in the paper as well as online so put your coupon shopping skills to good work. However, if you run out of coupons you may talk to local stores to see if there is anything you can turn in to help further your discount at the fair. For instance, many fairs will allow you trade in certain aluminum cans in order to get the price final price of your tickets knocked down. Some grocery and department stores will also give you a printed coupon when you buy certain items from their store. Before you go shopping call ahead or ask when you get there to see if there is any items you can buy to get a discount. Usually the items end up being on the average shopping list anyway, so you won’t have to worry about buying things you don’t need. Sometimes you may even get a free ticket for just shopping in certain areas, so make sure you’re aware of your best options before you buy the tickets.

3. Pack Snacks
Although bringing snacks with you might be frowned upon in many fairs, theme parks and other entertainment areas, bringing them into a Renaissance Fair usually doesn’t matter. Of course, there is always plenty of delicious foods on the menu at the fairs and you may want to set some money aside to share at least one item on the list. However, it will save you a whole lot of money if you just pack a few things to get your family through the day without having to eat out. One of the best items to bring is trail mix or simple fruits as they will help provide your family with plenty of energy without leaving you bogged down during your walk around the fair. Water is one of the most important things you can pack with you though. Typically water at any establishment cost a ridiculous amount and there is usually no place for a water fountain at the fair, so bringing enough water is absolutely crucial. If you can, pack some canteens with the kids so they can feel like they’re a part of the action too. You may want to avoid sodas, especially in cans, as they may weigh down your day bag and force discomfort while you’re trying to have some fun.

4. Dress Up
You might not think that dressing up could save you money at a fair but when it comes to the Renaissance Fair, the cooler you look the better. When it comes to dressing up for a Renaissance Fair you can actually go very far with very little money, especially when it comes to dressing up the kids. Children can easily slip into an old Halloween costume to fit in perfectly at the fair. Costumes like knights, fairies, jesters, archers and princesses are simple to find at a discount this time of year and will make your kids feel amazing as they pass other people in costumes similar. Adults are a little trickier, but with a simple pattern you can make a male or female costume with cheap fabrics. When you choose to dress up at a fair you may be able to get free goodies that will keep the family feeling great as they pass through the stalls. You may also get discounts on your tickets and other merchandise you choose to purchase while at the fair. This will really help out when it comes to souvenirs and other food. Of course, you may also win something cool if you happen to be picked as best costume, so make sure to put your heart into the way you look.

5. Bring Cash
One of the best things you can do while you’re at a Renaissance Fair is to leave the debit and credit cards at home. Instead, pull out a certain amount of cash to get you through the day. Make sure you budget carefully before you decide on the amount you can spend at the fair. By bringing along cash you’ll avoid quite a few of the transaction fees you may be subject to when you purchase from an independent vendor. You also won’t be tempted to pull anymore money while you’re at the fair so you can enjoy the day without having to worry about spending too much. When you carry around cash you’ll tend to be a bit more careful with the money you have, as it is clear and visible to you. This will help you make wiser purchases and you may even end up with money left over at the end of the day. This can be your biggest asset when you get to the fair as there will be so many amazing items that it might be hard to say no to some of the vendors.

6. Unlimited Bracelet
It may not be an option at many fairs, but if you can purchase an Unlimited Bracelet when you go to the Renaissance Fair. This is a great way to save money one fairs that don’t allow you to bring in food to the fairgrounds. The bracelet is usually included in the price of an extended ticket and can help you get the most out of the fair. These bracelets are particularly important at fairs that actually have rides. With the bracelets on your family should be able to get a set number of free meals, snacks and drinks while also being able to ride as many rides as you can fit into your day. Anyone that plans on spending the full day at the park will benefit greatly from the convenience of this bracelet, so make sure to call ahead and see your best value before you purchase your admission tickets.

7. Plan Accordingly
One way to get your money’s worth at the Renaissance Fair is to make sure to plan accordingly. A lot of fairs will actually post their schedules online so you can look and see exactly what you can see each day at the fair. This can help you plan on which day you’ll get a bit more for your money. The schedule will also help you plan out how to spend your day. Instead of wandering around aimlessly through the merchant areas you will know exactly when to check out a show you’re looking for. This can definitely be a huge benefit on days that are particularly hot as you will know exactly when and where you can sit down and cool down. This will also allow you to find time for meals more efficiently so everyone doesn’t feel fatigued between meals.

8. Avoid Gift Shops
It might be a bit of a challenge, but avoid gift areas can really help you save the most money when you’re visiting the Renaissance Fair. During the fair you’ll see plenty of merchant ares, which are amazing to look at it, but they often lead you feeling like you need to buy some of the art in the area. One way to help avoid temptation is to stay away from the merchant area entirely. Instead, stay in the showroom or check out some of the rides to keep you occupied. If you do manage to wander into the merchant area then you can always ask for a card from vendors you’re interested in. This will help you not spend any money during your trip out and will allow you to find the item you liked if you’re still interested in it a few weeks after the fair.

9. Show Up Early
When it comes to getting the most for your morning you should always show up to a Renaissance Fair as early as possible. Usually the crowds aren’t as heavy when you go early so you can see everything you want without having to surf through crowds. You can also enjoy rides, food and shows without having to wait as long in tedious lines. Another great reason for heading out early is it allows you to fully enjoy yourself without actually having to stay in the heat all day long. This can be a huge money savor when it comes to buying refreshments for the family. With the quiet morning fair grounds you’ll be able to see everything you could possibly want before the family begins to get tired and cranky, which will allow you to get a whole lot for your money. You may have to hang around for a show or two after you’ve seen everything, but you’ll still feel energized and will have more positive memories of the event.

10. Go to the Shows
When it comes to the Renaissance Fair nothing will beat the shows. Usually shows are included in the price of admission which means you’ll be able to sit down and relax during your time at the fair. Typically fairs will have a few different shows that repeat throughout the day. This gives you time to see them all while still catching some time in the areas of the fair. The more time you spend at the shows the less time you’ll spend wanting to spend money on food or other merchandise though. The shows will also give you more vivid memories of the fair that can be shared with other people you care about.

The Renaissance Fair tends to be a once a year occasion so make sure you find some time to enjoy your visit. With these simple tips you should be able to find a mini vacation in the fair that doesn’t leave you calculating the expenses throughout the day. Finally, you’ll be able to find yourself in the past while enjoying the present with your family.

With puppy and kitten season upon us, chances are you’ve probably considered adding a new furry addition to your family. A lot of people may be hesitant about this though as the price of adopting an animal might be a little intimidating. There’s a few ways to work around the price of adopting a pet though, which could leave your family enjoying the new cute and cuddly member of your family in just a few days. From the initial cost of adoption and price of feeding your pet to getting it fixed and immunized against deadly pet illnesses, there’s a lot to consider before making this commitment. However, if you have the love and responsibility to share with a pet then there are many ways to make the financial burden of a pet one of the least of your concerns. So, put up your favorite shoes and get ready to enjoy the happiness of having a new pet in the home, because these tips will have you on your way to adoption in no time.

1. Check out a Shelter
When your family is considering adopting one of the first places you should check out is a shelter, especially if you’re looking to save money. Although prices for the pet could seem a little pricey you are getting a really great deal on a pet. Every time a pet enters a shelter they are automatically given their immunizations and neutered or spayed so you won’t have any added expenses when you walk out the door with your pet. Often, the shelter will even microchip your pet in case he or she is ever lost. The best thing about adopting from a shelter is you’re helping keep an animal alive, especially if you choose to adopt from a shelter that puts animals down after a certain amount of time. You may want to consider not adopting a puppy or kitten if you’re looking to save money. Often, these animals cost more to adopt because they are easier to find homes for. Older animals tend to cost less because they are harder to adopt out. Animals that are black in color are harder to place as well, but are often as sweet as can be.

2. Look in the Classifieds
During puppy and kitten season there is bound to be an abundance of kittens in your classified papers or online. This can be one of the cheapest ways to find a pet, but you will often have to pay for the animals shots and spay or neuter procedure. Many people, especially those who find their pet expectantly pregnant, may give out the puppies or kittens for free so make sure to act fast whenever you see an ad for this. Other people may charge a small fee for the food, litter, treats and other items they bought for the animal while it was under the care. However, these fees are rarely much and can help you get an animal for very cheap. When you do adopt from a home it is important to ask questions about your new pet though. Make sure you get paperwork on any immunizations they may have already had, ask about health issues the papers have had and if your new pet has any known likes or dislikes. Although it may seem unimportant at the time it can help you keep your pet healthy and save you money in regards to pet food and toys. Before you adopt you should also watch the behavior of the animal. Unfortunately, sometimes these animals end up being feral which could be hard to work with if there are children in the home.

3. Adopt Duplicates
Adopting can be great, but if you only have one pet it could often lead to loneliness for the animal, especially if the family is rarely home. One way to combat this is to adopt more than one pet at once. This can actually be a huge money saver and will ensure happiness for your family and your new pets. Often enough, a lot of shelters will offer a discount if you plan on adopting an entire family of animals. This is usually offered when a family is brought in that are particularly attached to one another, especially if the family came from an abusive environment. Rather than adopting the animals out separately many shelters will offer a combined price so people will feel better about adopting together. This might also be that case with family’s giving away pets as often siblings become attached to one another.

4. Starter Kits
When bringing in a new animal it may be wise to grab a starter kit. This will give you all of the basic items you need such as a small litter box, puppy pads, foods, and small toys. The price of a starter kit usually isn’t much and sometimes places will give them to you with your pet adoption. As time progresses you will need to upgrade your litter box and other items that come in the starter kit, but when your new family member is still small and getting adjusted to life in your home it will work out perfectly. It is also great if you’re looking to save on money as it allows you to get a feel of what your pet needs and wants before you go out and spend a lot of money on unneeded items.

5. Apply for Help
Although many places make you prove you have enough money to pay for a pet, there are also many others that are willing to help you whenever you’re in a tight spot. If you have recently adopted a pet and need help with the spaying or neutering fee as well as getting your pet immunized then there are special organizations that can provide vouchers for you. All you need to do is call your local shelter or look online for an organization in your area and then fill out the paperwork. Many will want to know your income information, but some will simply give out the voucher. You may even be able to get a voucher is you’re local shelter is holding an adoption event. Most counties want to ensure that pets in the area are not only vaccinated but aren’t able to reproduce as this not only causes health issues, but can force the shelters to be too full which means more animals must be put down. So, don’t be afraid to ask if you need a little help with your pet. There are also some organizations that will donate food if you are going through a hard time too. Your local shelter should have more information on this as well.

6. Consider Fostering
If you aren’t quite sure if the family is ready to adopt then fostering a pet might be a great way to get your feet wet. There’s a lot of pets that need temporary homes or else they will be put to sleep. These homes need a simple qualification and the basic needs for the animal met and they are good to help as many animals as the county allows them too. So, this could be a great way to see if your family is ready for a pet. As the kids work with you to take care of the pets you can see if an animal particularly bonds with your family. If this is the case then you might want to adopt this pet from the shelter. If the pet doesn’t seem like the right fit then show the pet all the love you can until you and the shelter finally find the home the animal has been looking for. Fostering can be incredibly rewarding and will allow you to know for sure if you’re ready for this responsibility before you actually commit to it.

7. Utilize Humane Society
After you’ve adopted the perfect pet for your home you should consider using your humane society to help keep your pet healthy and legal in your state and county. The humane society is not only a great place to adopt a pet from, but they also offer so many incredible services to pet owners. For starters, most humane societies and other animal shelters will offer low cost neutering, spaying and vaccination clinics. This can help you start your pet’s life with your family off right without forcing you to pay a whole lot of money. Usually the prices offered at the shelter are a mere 1/3 of what you may pay at your veterinarian. A lot of the time the shelter will also offer check ups for pets which will help you put your mind to ease about your pet’s health. You may even be able to get a microchip here which ensures if your pet is found they will safely be returned to you.

8. Place an Ad
If you’re having trouble finding a pet then one of the best things you can do is put an ad in your local classifies or local websites. This will let people who are trying to get rid of an animal know that you’re willing to take one in. You can be as specific as you like about what type of pet your looking for, how old, size, breed and so on as you will have a greater chance of finding just what you’re looking for. This is one of the best ways to find rarer pets like birds and lizards, but it can also be an efficient way to get a specific breed of cat or dog. You may end up paying more than you would for a pet using this method, but you may also find a family that is looking to give away an animal due to unforeseen circumstances.

9. Pets Without Papers
When it comes to saving money on a pet there is always one thing you should avoid. That is, pets with papers. These animals are usually thoroughbreds which means they will be sold for a whole lot more money than you’d pay for ten pets adopted from a shelter. Usually if you see an animal listed with papers in the classifieds then it is just easier to avoid calling the number. These pets have to be certified in order to get papers which means you’re not only going to pay for having a pet specially bred, but you’re going to pay the licensing fee for the papers that were already drafted. These animals can also have more behavioral problems, so it simply wiser to stick with your local shelter and save a life rather than paying thousands for a pet that will be adopted out no matter what.

10. Volunteer
Most shelters require you to pay a fee whenever you adopt a pet. This is to show you have money to care for the pet, but it also helps the shelter pay for things like food, litter and medicine for the pets that are temporarily under their care. If you are a big animal lover you may want to talk to your local shelter about volunteering to help waive the fee for your adoption. This may require proof that you will be able to care for the pet, but it will also show the shelter that you have what it takes to provide a good home. After volunteering for a little while you may be hooked on the feeling and spend more of your time with the animals who haven’t found their home yet.

Adopting a pet can be incredibly exciting until you realize how much money it cost. With these tips you should be able to find your new pet and bring it home without having to stress too much about how you’re going to pay for it. Instead, you can enjoy the love surrounding your new pet as you adjust to your new life as a pet owner.

With the summer heat slowly creeping up on us it might be time to consider this year’s bathing suit attire. Although it might be tempting to shed some of those unwanted winter pounds by going on an expensive crash diet there’s actually some really simple and frugal ways to lose. These ten tips will have you working on your perfect summer bod before you even have time to stop and think about how pale you’ve gotten. With the pounds on their way off of your body you’ll feel confident and ready to take on the long summer pool parties and days at the beach. You may even want to incorporate all of these quick and easy ways to lose into your every day life, so you’ll never have to worry about spending a small fortune on weight loss again.

1. Running/Walking
It’s pretty easy to lock ourselves up during the cold winter days. It’s even easier when you live in a place that gets plenty of snow and icy cold wind. One of your first ways of combating that extra fat you stored during the day of bad weather is to actually get out and get walking or running. Although it might be a bit hard to begin your weightloss journey by running miles you can easily work yourself up to this level of fitness. Once the weather begins to mellow try to stop using your car as often. Instead, find excuses to walk. For instance, if you don’t live too far from your children’s school then walk them to and from school. This will give you lots of exercise and will work up your metabolism thanks to the early morning exercise. You may also want to consider walking to the grocery store, work or anywhere that isn’t too far from your home. If you don’t have a safe place to walk then find a nice park you can walk before or after work. You may even want to try spending time walking a lap or two during your lunch break. Once your fit enough to walk far you can easily take some of those routes and turn them into a run.

2. Eat Seasonal
Our bodies love seasonal foods and so do our wallets. During the spring and summer months there are lots of fruits and vegetables in season that don’t have a whole lot of calories. In fact, sticking to a primarily fruit and vegetable diet can help you lose weight rather quickly. During this season there are lots of alkaline foods in the marketplace which means you’ll feel energized and healthy faster. You can even use many of these seasonal fruits and veggies to power up your diet with breakfast smoothies that will help keep you going all day. Seasonal foods and vegetables are often on sale in stores and look better than all of the other fruits and vegetables. Fish is also another great thing to buy in season now which will help you get plenty of protein in your diet without the extra calorie intake.

3. Utilize the Household
Your house can actually be the solution to many of your weight loss needs. In fact, simply doing the strenuous cleaning jobs in the home more often you’ll begin to lose weight a whole lot faster. One amazing thing is that all of the effort you put into spring cleaning is a great jump start to your weight loss goals. In fact, organizing, installing carpets and painting is one of the easiest ways to find yourself on the way to healthier lifestyle for the summer. You can also utilize items in the home like chairs, cans of food and bottles of water to help you lose weight. These items can easily replace some of the more expensive work out items you need to push your at home workout a little further. Now, with your cleaning routine altered, your home under reorganization and your pantry aiding you in workouts, you should be able to lose plenty and tone up before you put on your first bathing suit.

4. Take Breaks
If you tend to spend a lot of time at the office desk you may be gaining more weight than you think. The longer you are inactive the greater chance you have of gaining weight as well as other health issues that could make it more difficult to get in shape and feel confident about your body. Instead of working straight through for hours you should try to stop and take a break every hour. In this hour you can do a set of push ups, set ups or jumping jacks to help keep your metabolism up and active. You don’t have to start out doing 100 in each set either. In fact, simply doing sets of ten can get your in better shape than you could ever imagine. Of course, we don’t all have somewhere private to go to do these types of exercises and many of us may not be able to take a break that often. If this is the case whenever you can take a break you should stand up, walk and perform basic stretches before sitting back down. Between your walking breaks you can easily remain sitting and perform small arm and leg stretches that will help the body stay active. Taking these breaks can also help you maintain your concentration and will help your eyes stay healthier for longer.

5. Play with the Kids
You might not have guessed that playing with the kids can be one of the biggest ways to help your fat melt away. Children are usually healthier for a reason so follow their lead and play outside. It doesn’t matter if you’re shooting hoops, playing tag or seeing who can get the best score at hopscotch, as long as you’re moving you’ll be on your way to a healthier lifestyle that will give you more energy. Playing with the kids will also help them develop a healthier lifestyle which could mean they will be going into their adult life with more tools to keep their bodies and minds healthier and happier. The more you play with the kids the greater a bond you will develop too which will help your family as you all grow stronger and healthier together.

6. Dance
It doesn’t matter if you think you’re the best dancer on the planet or you are too shy to bust a move in public! Dancing is one of the greatest ways to get your heart rate up while having a whole lot fun. The best thing is, you don’t have to stick with the dancing you’re good or even the dancing you know how to do. In fact, you can give just about anything a try because all dancing can not only help you loose weight but make you feel happier about life in general. From ballet to hip hop, you can take moves you didn’t even know existed to created a workout plan for you. If you love dancing as much as possible them try to schedule a night out with the girls. You can even host the dance night in if you’re looking to save some extra money. Of course, if you’re a bit on the shy side then go somewhere private, put on your favorite songs and just let loose for awhile. If you’re looking for some direction with your dancing then you may want to work on joining a class or you could even purchase a video game that lets you interact with it. No matter what you choose to do you’ll be ready to show off your body in your new suit thanks to your dancing skills.

7. Skip the Sweets
Let’s face it, in the past six to eight months we’ve had our fair share of sweets. From Halloween on to Easter there’s been an abundance of pies, chocolates and hardened pieces of sugar to last us for the entire year. So, it might be time to take a step away from the chocolates bag and let your body gets its sugar from fresh fruits instead. Cutting out sweets can be one of the easiest ways to cut the calories and get your summer figure back. Most desserts contain just as many calories as a meal, so by skipping this part of the meal you’re already cutting out the amount you need to burn off substantially. One of the best ways to cut down your cravings for the leftover Easter chocolate or the apple pie at parties is to enjoy a nice smoothie for breakfast. You can add vegetables to the smoothie to keep it healthier, but the sweetness from the fruit will instantly ease your sweet tooth for the day.

8. No Take Out
Sure, you have a busy lifestyle and with the weather heating up its too hot to heat up the oven. There’s still no real excuse to opt for the fast food option though. This can be one of your worst enemies when it comes to combating your winter weight gain and can make you feel tired and unmotivated while you’re working out. Instead of eating take out try to stick to salads, or package some crock pot meals to make your life a little easier after work. If you can maintain eating healthy for the next few weeks there’s actually no reason why you should gain any more weight before the summer months. Take out foods can be incredibly greasy, filled with too many calories and designed to make you want even more fast food. Each of these items is already a recipe for disaster so try to avoid temptation at all cost. After a few weeks of no take out food you’ll not only feel better, but you’ll have a whole lot of extra money in your wallet to enjoy some amazing summer activities.

9. Hit the Pool/Beach
Although you might not feel as confident in your bathing suit, a trip to the beach or pool could help you burn some major calories. Swimming is one of the best exercises available and is gentle on just about every body type. If you can find a pool that isn’t as busy it could be one of the best places to swim laps or do some water aerobics to get the body working better. Of course, the beach is also a great place to work out some of those excess calories. Whether you decide to play in the waves, go for a swim or simply walk or run on the beach, you’ll burn more calories than you ever though possible. The beach and pool are also great places for family fun so you can enjoy getting active with the entire household.

10. Think Positive
One of the biggest problems with a lot of weight loss plans is many people go into them believing they’re not going to work. The best thing you can do about your weight loss plan is to believe you’re going to get healthier and feel better about yourself. Thinking positive helps get rid of chemicals in the body, like Cortisol, which force the body to hold onto fat around the mid-section. When you go into a workout feeling better about yourself you are more likely to keep up the routine. You’ll also feel better about your body and mind even before you begin to lose weight which will already help you feel great about your summer body.

Finding your summer body can be a hard task, especially if you already have confidence issues. With these few tips you’ll be able to enjoy your summer body without actually spending any money on weight loss plans or special diets that could lead to nowhere. With this knowledge at hand you may even find your fitness levels skyrocket throughout the entire year.

With May finally here and the sunshine creeping through all of those rain clouds, it is time to start getting ready for the long months of summer. One of the best ways to help cut down on cooling costs and soak up some rays is to enjoy time outdoors. Unfortunately, decorating your patio or lawn can be very pricey if you’re looking to completely remodel or start from scratch. There are a few ways to avoid the high prices if you’re willing to think out of the box. With these ten tips you’ll be able to transform your empty backyard, patio or porch or into an outliving room that will make you want to have company over all of the time. So, throw on some shorts and sunglasses and hit the stores so you’ll be ready when the first heatwave hits!

1. Shop Second Hand
When you’re looking to start your outdoor oasis from scratch you may want to begin your search in a local thrift store. There’s usually a few items that have come from different sets of patio furniture, so you will have a nice selection to choose from. Another thing to look for is items that can be transformed into suitable patio furniture. For instance, a nice glass table would make a great cocktail table for outdoors. You could also use the frames of some existing furniture to create a set that is ready to ensure the elements. If you have no luck at the thrift store then you may want to look for yard sales or used furniture shops, as you may find lots of luck here. Another option is to check the listings in your community to see if anyone is selling a set at a price that you can easily afford. Remember, you can always upgrade these pieces later, or add your own special touch to them so they suit the way your home looks.

2. Buy in the Winter
One way to avoid the high prices of outdoor furniture is to do your shopping during the winter months. This may be a bit more difficult if you choose to shop locally as many department and furniture stores will pack away these products during the winter months. If this is a problem then you should start shopping in late August when the sets begin to go on clearance. Of course, if shopping online isn’t a problem then you should wait until the weather gets cold before shopping. A lot of stores, especially those that specialize in outdoor furniture, will knock down the price substantially during the winter months. This helps them maintain business during the off season and helps you save money. You can choose from a wide selection of more expensive models this way without having to feel guilty about the price. So, if you have your eye on a set of furniture during the summer wait it out until winter before you buy. You can even keep the set in boxes until summer hits, so you’ll be able to enjoy the new furniture look during your first barbeque.

3. Cash in on Sales
The good thing about outdoor furniture is there tends to be a whole lot of sales surrounding the items. Summer tends to start out with Memorial Day, which automatically means huge weekend savings around the country. If you really want a set badly before the heat wave really sets in then this is probably the sale to hit. The next major sales period will hit around the 4th of July, but this may be too late to really get the most out of your furniture. Of course, there will be many sales that don’t involve holidays though so it is up to you to keep your eye out on the stores you’d prefer to buy from. A lot of stores may even hold sales welcoming summer, so call around, check online and look through sales papers to find out when you store is having an item at a discounted price.

4. Makeover Old Furniture
If you already own a set of patio furniture then you can easily make them presentable in just a few simple steps. Finding a new cloth for the body could be one easy way to take your drab furniture to the next level. You may even consider switching some of the fabrics or with specialized outdoor fabrics so your furniture can withstand the elements for a whole lot longer. Another great way to mix things up is to paint what you already have. A new coat of paint on wooden furniture not only helps it stay protected from the elements, but will make your yard shine. If you have metallic furniture then you may need to do some extra work to rid it of rust and build up, but this isn’t too hard if you know what you’re doing. Try to look up some tutorials online to help out with this project. Of course, you could always be adventurous and cut some of your larger furniture into single chairs or you may even consider bringing out old interior furniture and remodeling it for the outdoors. The project can even be turned into a bonding experience for the family.

5. Skip the Set
Sometimes it is all too tempting to buy a large set of furniture and call it a day. Sometimes these sets are filled with items you don’t really want or don’t have room for. They also might not fit your particular taste which could lead to disappointment later on. Instead of simply opting for a set try to find some furniture piece by piece. You don’t have to buy a lot to begin with, instead try starting out with a couple of chairs. The chairs don’t even have to match one another if you’re interested in creating a unique look. As time progresses consider adding a lounger, table or maybe even a swing which will help provide ample space for social gatherings or hanging out with the kids on a summer night. You may even find shopping piece by piece allows you to have more pride in your yard and how you present it to those around you.

6. Build Your Own
One of those more rewarding ways to enjoy your backyard is to build your own patio furniture. You may have to start out simple, but with a little practice you’ll have some cool furniture that you’ll be proud to show off to friends and family. If you’re looking to start off simple you may want to consider using some used goods from around the home. For instance, an easy way to make a relaxing swing chair is to strap an old tire to the top of the patio. This is a great place for kids to sit and will add a rustic look to your home. Of course, you can also easily make a basic swing seat from scrap pieces of wood. Another easy item to make is a frame for a simple wooden chair and a wooden table. As you begin to build these things you may find out more about your building skills so you can work with what you’re good at. You may even want to turn furniture building into a new hobby!

7. Shop Wisely
One of the best ways to cut down on the cost of your spending is to shop wisely. You should always have a fair idea of what you’re looking for before you go out, especially if you plan on visiting a furniture store. This will help you ward off the salespersons pitches so you’ll get what you want for exactly what it is worth. Another easy tip is to avoid certain stores altogether. You should start your furniture shopping at a store you know is going to offer great prices. Look for stores like Big Lots or Wal Mart that offer wide selections at prices that won’t make you rethink your budget. Another great thing to do before shopping is to know exactly what you need. This will ensure you don’t overdo it while shopping and buy accessories that probably won’t be used.

8. Invest in Covers
A lot of outdoor furniture certainly isn’t made to deal with some of the harsher elements. This is why you should invest in the proper covers for when your furniture isn’t in use. These covers are great for high end furniture as they will help keep your outdoor furniture looking almost as vibrant as the day you bought it. Covers are also great for areas that tend to have unpredictable weather. So, if you live in one of those regions where its not uncommon to sunshine all week and snow by the weekend, then a cover is a must have. They also protect the furniture during the off season months, which can help if you don’t have a lot of space to store the furniture. You can usually get these covers at a decent price, especially if you shop at a wholesale store. However, if you still feel the price is too much you could also use tarps as a cheaper alternative that will still work wonders on your outdoor living area.

9. Water Resistance
It is important to consider water resistance whenever you choose your patio furniture. A lot of brands will already spray down the cushioning with a water resistant seal, but it is always safe to check before you leave your furniture out in the elements. It isn’t a huge deal if your furniture doesn’t come with a water resistant seal. In fact, you may want to go over your furniture every summer with a water resistant spray anyway. This spray tends not to be too expensive and it doesn’t take a whole lot to get the job done. This product is especially important if you choose to make your own furniture or you buy from a second hand store. Without the seal your furniture could be ruined after the first rain of the season, or by the children simply splashing it with pool water. So, make sure to shop around and find a water resistant spray that suits your budget before you leave your furniture outdoors.

10. Layaway
If you’re already preparing for the summer months, but aren’t quite ready to set up all of the outdoor fun then layaway might be the way to go. This allows a store to hold your item for you until you can pay it off. The best thing is you don’t have to worry about interest charges and a lot of the time you can get the item on sale. It is a better option than purchasing items with a credit card as it will save you money while ensuring the item is already yours. In order to balance your budget you can make monthly payments on the goods which is especially great if you put the item on layaway during the winter months. By the time you pay off your new furniture it will be time to set it up and enjoy it properly in the beautiful weather. It will also allow you to spend some of your extra money on the extras for the yard, like toys for the kids or candles to deter those pesky mosquitoes.

Summer is a great time for bringing families together and letting them enjoy all the fun mother nature provides. With some outdoor furniture you’ll be able to take in the relaxed vibe summer puts off while sharing stories with friends and family. You may even decide to move all of your typical family activities, like dinner or board game night, into the backyard where you can soak up sun and enjoy the fresh air. With these tips you’ll certainly be on your way to a backyard that you’ll love to call home.

Graduation is one of the biggest milestones in life, which is why so many find it to be one of the most expensive times. From getting your cap and gown to planning the perfect party, there’s a lot of spending to be done. This can sometimes seem impossible with the looming fear of student loans and not knowing where life is going to take you next. There’s a few ways to combat the graduation blues though, which will ensure your milestones is a joyous time rather than one filled with stress over money. With these simple tips you’ll be on your way to life’s next adventure without the cost of graduation following you around for the next few months. So, whether you’re a parent sending your child off to college or a recent college graduate, you can find bliss in the new moment of success without tying the bill to accomplishment.

1. Order Gown in Advance
With all of the hustle of studying for finals, putting in your final paperwork and absorbing the fact that this stage in life is almost over, you may forget to order your cap and gown. This can be a huge financial burden, so try to make sure you get your gown order in as soon as the paper work to do so is available. Usually, the price of the cap and gown start off much lower and gradually increases in price. If you find yourself without the order forms in and graduation weeks away you could be looking at paying a lot more for something that shouldn’t cost a whole lot. You may also be looking at late fees, which also add up and make the bill ridiculously higher. The best thing about ordering your cap and gown early is you can still choose the rent options over the purchase option. Renting cost so much less and you won’t have to find a place to store the gown when graduation is over, which can be a huge burden for graduates moving into smaller spaces.

2. Skip the Ring
By the time the second term of the year rolls around, chances are the ring booths are out trying to coax seniors into buying the ring that will supposedly help them remember the biggest year of their lives. Chances are though, the ring will be worn for a few months and then will make its way into a jewelry box for the rest of its days. Sure, senior rings are great. They’re shiny, have your name and birthstone and some even have personal designs. The thing is, once you leave school you’re going to have so much more going on in your life that you’re going to be ready to step away from your school days and the big ring that’s meant to remind you of them. Whether you’re heading to college, graduate school, or the work force, the ring is going to be triumphed by the new things going on, so you will get very little use out of it. So, instead of spending hundreds on something like this you can easily take the money and apply it to something that will actually be useful in the future.

3. Print Out Invites
There’s a lot of companies that will claim to offer you great deals on invitations for your graduation. Although some may be tempting, nothing will save you as much money as printing out your own personal graduation invitations. You can easily find a simple template to work with that can help you provide all of the information needed so people will know when and where the big event is happening. The best thing about printing out your own invites is you can add a whole lot of customization to make the invitation suit your personality. Most templates easily allow you to add photographs, which is the perfect way to show off your new graduation photos. You can also add what you majored in, future goals, GPA, your clubs and interest and any other information you want to share with the world. When you’re satisfied you can email the invites to save even more money. However, if you want a tangible copy then you can print on high gloss paper or send them to your local department store to printed for way less than you’d pay a company.

4. Graduation Photography
One of the biggest expenditures for graduation is certainly the photography session. Most high schools will have a session prepared during the school hours. However, even though this is provided by the school, ordering your photos can be a ridiculously high price. Some schools will force you to bring your photos in too, which hiring a professional could also mean you’re going to end up paying way too much for photos. It doesn’t matter if you’re finishing up high school or graduate school as the photos for this occasion will help you remember just where you were when you met the accomplishment. This is why you should always try to hire someone you trust for the photos. You can easily pick a student willing to do the photography at a low cost. This won’t just help you, but will give them job experience they need. You may even ask a family member to do the photos for you if you have a good camera. These options will save you the most money on your senior photos, but if you have to go professional make sure to call around and ask about discounts, pricing and the smallest package you can order. After all, you can always get copy of the pictures to share later on.

5. Home Celebration
It is pretty tempting to want to put a lot of money into a congratulation party, especially if you’re a parent celebrating your child’s success. Big parties can be a huge financial burden though. Instead, try to invite close family and friends to a celebration at your own home. This will allow everyone to relax in a comfortable environment so you can actually enjoy one another’s company. This is also a great way to send off the student to college, as the student might not have another chance to see a lot of the people before moving out. You can easily create a few appetizers and drinks at a decent price or have people bring in their own potluck dishes to help save on money. You can also decorate the home for a party inexpensively as there are many party stores that sell graduation banners and other décor items at a remarkably cheap price.

6. Go Casual
A lot of people might be tempted to buy an expensive dress or suit to wear underneath their robes. This can really run you a lot of money for absolutely no reason at all. Most of the gowns will show very little of your clothing so there is no reason to find something expensive to wear to an event. Usually, you can only see a small portion of your legs in the robes so a suitable pair of pants of a dress is perfectly fine to wear underneath the robes. Of course, you’re going to be sitting for a very long time, especially if you go to a larger school, so make sure you choose something that is going to be comfortable to wear for a few hours. You may also want to consider the temperature when you choose what to wear. If your graduation is outdoor then it might be wise to wear light clothing with short sleeves. You may even be able to get away with a t-shirt and shorts depending on the guidelines of the school and how much the robe actually covers. The best thing you can do is decide what to wear after you try on your gown.

7. Forget Pricey Frames
If you’re graduation from college then chances are your school probably wants to you to spend some money to get your degree framed. A lot of schools will send out paperwork with this option as soon as you submit the request for graduation. Paying for the pricey frame can be way out of the budget though and a lot of times well over priced. There’s a lot of framing companies that can do the same job for a whole lot less, so it is important you shop around before you sign off on any framework through the school. Of course, when it comes to a degree you could always opt for a simple frame. This will allow you to switch the frame whenever you change décor and it shouldn’t cost you more than $50 to get the item framed. One of the best things about waiting for the framing is you get a bit more control over how the degree is framed. You can even choose the special mats that accent your degree, so it is more appealing to the eye.

8. Host a Party with Friends
It’s fairly common to want to throw a party to celebrate your success, but having the money to throw the shindig of your dreams isn’t always easy to come by. Of course, if you have friends who have also graduated then you may want to split up the cost to throw the party you want. The more friends you have to share the cost, the more money you’ll end up saving on the party, which might come in handy when you have to pay bills. Make sure you know the friends are reliable and that you consider their wants too when planning. This will leave to an epic party that will last in your memories for years to come. Planning a party with friends also means you won’t have to schedule parties around each other, which is just an added bonus.

9. Tickets
Graduates tend to be given a few seats for their family at graduation, however if you plan on having a lot of people you’ll end up paying extra for the seats. Instead of buying your tickets ahead of time you may want to simply buy for the immediate family first. This will ensure they get their seats at a good price. A lot of the time when students buy tickets in bulk relatives tend not to make it to the ceremony for one reason or another. This leaves extra tickets that won’t get used, so the money is entirely wasted. The best thing to do is to send out a low invite list as this will save on money entirely and will guarantee the seats to other graduates family and friends.

10. Look for Sales
You might not believe it but shopping for graduation sales can save on this expenditure. You should be able to find a discount for everything from the cap and gown to the restaurant you choose to celebrate at. The key is to call around and ask people for deals, as they may not be in the papers or even listed on the site. This might take a little extra work, but when you find the perfect restaurant at a discount and your cap and gown for a shocking low price, you’ll know it all paid off. You can even work to find the perfect party supplies at a graduates discount. So, use you shopping skills to find the best deals!

Graduation is an exciting filled with uncertainties. The last thing you need to worry about is how to fund your achievement. With these ten tips you should be well on your way to feeling the beauty of your success while getting the celebration you deserve. Now, you can concentrate on what the future will bring next, rather than the bill for your graduation supplies.