Ways to Have Fun While Decorating for an Outdoor Party

If a tight budget has put the kibosh on your plans to host an outdoor party this summer, then I have good news for you. There are many simple ways to liven up your outdoor entertaining space without going broke and without making it look like a kiddie party ala balloons and paper streamers. One very inexpensive way to brighten up your party area is to use fresh fruit as part of your decor. Lemons, limes, apples, oranges, pomegranates and kumquats placed in a glass bowl or cylinder make an easy and vibrant centerpiece. Another way to add splashes of … Continue reading

Smart Savings Solutions to Prepare for Winter

Many people tend to be in the deepest financial crisis in the winter months. This may be due to a few different factors and can be different for each family. Here are some common causes of a winter financial crisis as well as some smart savings solutions that you can get started on right now to prepare for winter and protect yourself. Causes of a winter financial crisis Illness With flu and cold season approaching, an illness could cause a financial crisis in more ways than one. Doctor visits, prescriptions and even hospitalization can take a toll on your finances. … Continue reading

Summer Deals for a Steal

With summer fading fast, many hotels and resorts are trying to make the most of last-minute family vacations by offering unbeatable seasonal rates. The following are sample savings found at some of the most popular family-friendly vacation destinations: MEXICO Mexico’s Riviera Maya boasts sparkling white-sand beaches and picturesque ancient ruins. It’s also home to the Maroma Resort and Spa, which features 65 spacious, sunlit guestrooms and suites featuring king-sized beds, handcrafted mahogany furniture, and hand-painted tiles. Right now you can book a 3-night weekend stay for just $395 per night. The Best Deal Days offer includes complimentary inclusions valued at … Continue reading

More Big Amusement Park Fun For a Little Bit of Money

In a previous post I raved about Bay Beach Amusement Park in Green Bay. While the nation’s other mega-amusement parks may dwarf the historic Wisconsin theme park in regards to size, if you are looking for big savings, shorter lines and massive family fun, then Bay Beach can’t be beat. Fortunately, you don’t have to trek to the Dairy State to get more bang for your buck. The country is filled with smaller amusement parks that offer major savings to budget conscious travelers. Take a look: OREGON Oaks Amusement Park in Portland, Oregon, has been in business since 1905. It … Continue reading

Paying Off Your Debt for the Summer

Whether you have a large mortgage payment or owe your best friend $50, paying off your debt can be satisfying, not only for your financial well being, but for your self esteem as well. But how can you pay off debt when you are overwhelmed? Summer is a great time to pay off some debt. Here are some tips. Go on lock down Stop adding to your debt and avoid spending money on anything new. Obviously, you will need food and shelter. Unless you are going around naked, new clothes are not a necessity. Stay home, cancel the gym membership … Continue reading

Sewing for Savings

Creative Commons image by by zizzybaloobah/flickr There was a time when a woman wishing to save money could use her skills to make her own clothes instead of paying designer prices. Somewhere along the way, sewing became a mere hobby as clothing got cheaper, and fabric and patterns became more expensive. Therefore, technically it is cheaper to purchase clothing from stores, especially on sale, than to try your hand at sewing. Personally, the last time I sewed an outfit was when I was pregnant with my daughter. Maternity clothes cost a fortune, so I got some dollar fabric, and one … Continue reading

Educational Summer Fun for the Whole Family

Just because school is out for the summer doesn’t mean that your kids have to take a 3-month hiatus from learning. If you are planning a summer road trip across the United States, then consider making a pit stop at some of these educational destinations: WASHINGTON Give your kids a crash course in culture in Tacoma. That’s where you’ll find the 500-foot Chihuly Bridge of Glass, built by native glass artist Dale Chihuly. The one-of-a-kind stunning blue art piece spans the Thea Foss Waterway and connects the city’s three museums —Washington State History Museum, Tacoma Art Museum and the Museum … Continue reading

Fun Outdoor Activities for Families

Good news for cash-strapped families: You don’t need to put the brakes on your summer road trip because you’re pinching pennies. Dozens of cities across the country are offering free family fun in the sun this summer. Take a look at these outdoor adventures that won’t cost you a penny to partake in: VIRGINIA Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge is best known for its wild pony round-ups that take place each July. However, the 14,000-acre park also features dozens of other free activities, including bird watching, kayaking, and fishing. The refuge is filled with dunes, marshes and maritime forests. You can … Continue reading

Free Family Fun in Big Cities

If you are spending a bundle on gas or airfare to travel to a major U.S. city this summer, then you might consider taking time to visit the following attractions. They’re not only family-friendly and educational, but they won’t cost you a penny to experience. MISSOURI No trip to St. Louis would be complete without a pit stop at the brick Main Street of Saint Charles. The iconic attraction is celebrating the start of summer with weekend entertainment in honor of the city’s 200th anniversary. The free entertainment is just one of 200 events being held in St. Louis this … Continue reading

More Free Family Fun in the Great Outdoors

If you get off the couch and out of the house this summer, you’ll find that there are a host of exciting events just waiting for your family to enjoy. Not only will you get the chance to have fun in the sun, but all of the following family-friendly attractions are free: MARYLAND Ocean City is making summer fun for kids and their parents with an array of free activities, from movie nights, concerts and storytelling around a bonfire to shows and demonstrations at the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum. Don’t miss Tuesday night “Beach Olympics” where you can go … Continue reading