Cheap Summer Plans

Phew!  I needed a few weeks (okay, six, sorry) off.  Well, it hasn’t been “off,” really.  I’ve been helping out some folks who own their own business, who needed a few hours off in the middle of the day.  With the kids at school, and because I really understood their situation, I have been happy to help.  Plus, they paid me.  And there have been tons of assemblies, performances, field trips and year-end events.  But that ends May 30, when the kids get out of school for the summer. 

Ah, yes, summer.  We all agreed to have a nice, calm, serene summer.  That was before all the activities and opportunities surfaced.  So, as usual, we have now filled several days per week with “stuff to do.”  Teen fitness classes, library volunteering, reading programs, Cub Scout camp, Boy Scout camp, pottery class.  We’ve had to weigh each activity’s cost with the expected return, and overall, we believe it’s a frugal vacation plan. 

Still, I am determined to spend hours each week at the pool.  Again, I recommend the Omaha public pools (low cost) and spraygrounds (FREE).  Several books are coming my way from the Omaha Public Library (FREE), and I intend to read them cover  to cover.  I recently discovered a new to me hi-powered sunscreen (a bargain for the protection), and found a wide-brimmed hat I had tucked away, both of which are quite welcome.  The remaining item is an ongoing concern, but I have a plan for that. 

A few years back I decided to spare the world further trauma by wearing a skirted swim suit, thus covering the ongoing concern.  But I’ve come to realize that it’s a bigger picture kind of thing.  Healthy bodies and higher energy are a priority for us this summer.  Therefore, I am joining, and would encourage all you ladies, as well, to join, the Curves/Avon Fitness Study.  The 30-day study (and before and after figure analyses), is a great deal, at just 30 days for $30, with no sign-up fee.  That is a frugal thrill, and a terrific value for the program. 

Now, I’m not usually an early workout gal.  I’m a no workout gal.  (And that is why I now have the ongoing concerns.)  In the past I have shed pounds and inches easily by walking alone, which is FREE.  But our bodies change, and our schedule situations change.  Therefore, solutions change.  Is this me, easily accommodating change?!?  Huh!  Who would have guessed?  I guess you really can teach an old dog new tricks.  And just in time for summer vacation. 

Coming up:  How To Keep Tummies Full on the Cheap This Summer