Substance of Living

When you and your family head out for vacation this year, don't leave your household budget at home.  The price of rest and relaxation ought to be priceless but in more cases than not are quite expensive. Add up all your cost: transportation, accommodations, sightseeing, souvenirs, food, attractions -- you might be tempted to cancel the trip altogether. Alas - you can still enjoy your vacation, family, and stay within budget by following these simple tips. Be Flexible Travel during "Shoulder Season" (Not during peak season or off season) April - May or Mid-August - October Choose alternative dates or days of the week to travel Try Vacation Packages or All-Inclusive Packages   Eat for Free (or nearly free) Many restaurants offer a free child's meal for each paying adult.  There may be restrictions such as two children maximum or might only be available on certain days. If you do eat out, lunch might be your best time.  The prices are reasonable a...

Family reunions and picnics seem to have been made for one another.  They both require people, food, and are most often held outdoors. Picnics and reunions are a cost effective and fun tradition.  Themes are a great way to make each year unique.  Often the location chosen will help guide the theme and types of games or activities. It's a relaxing way for everyone to come together and it's also a good excuse to see each other more than once a year! Things to Consider When Planning a Family Reunion: Choose a date that is convenient for the majority of attendees Choose three possible time frames; spring break, summer, winter break Choose a location - outside venues are typically the least expensive and will hold the largest number of people Consider overnight accommodations such as inexpensive hotels or camp grounds Select a site with plenty of shade A pool, river, ocean, nature trails, and playground facilities are great options with "built-in" activit...

Although it's the middle of July, it's never too late to start planning a patio garden or gathering landscaping ideas.  Here are some pictures that I took last week while I was out as well as some great ideas around the internet. These ideas inspire the imagination.  How about a stay-cation in the back yard?  Turn the backyard or patio into a quaint deli for the afternoon or imagine visiting a luxurious bed and breakfast.  The fantastic thing about all these ideas is that they are absolutely do-able! Isn't this a beautifully landscaped sloping back yard.  They have privacy and still have a view of the golf course. Better Homes and Gardens Even though this is actually a patio, it would make a beautiful sun room or a cozy area on a covered porch.  (Can you see the kitty?) Better Homes and Gardens Perfect.  Absolutely storybook perfect.  This is a lovely example of using the space between the house and garage or a small back yard....