~Cheap Entertainment~

Think you have no money for a family trip out? Think again! There are lots of things to do around your area that will not only let you have fun but will create lasting memories.

Look up local U-Pick farms in your area. Take the whole family out to the farm and pick some berries. Not only will they learn about how food is produced but they will enjoy the sun, all the berries they can eat while picking and best of all, the fruits of their labor later when you make something yummy! When we go we pack a lunch for everyone and lots of water. Our U-Pick has an ice cream store on site so we each have one cone for a treat while there.

Go to the Library and Join a Summer Reading Program. The library usually has a summer reading program for kids and adults. At my local library if I complete my reading program my membership for the next year is free! I've also been taking advantage of the DVDs that I can take out for free from my library. Hubby and I sit down and list off the movies that we like or want to see and then I request them. It's always a surprise what movie will become available first so it keeps it interesting. At my library all movies can be kept for one week and you can renew for up to one more week. Not bad for my $7 a year membership (soon to be FREE).

Go Camping. Pitch a tent, light a fire, sing koombayah (yup can't spell that one)and have some s'mores. Everyone can do this, whether it's in your back yard or at a campsite, there will be fun!

Nature walk at the park. Take a walk with your family and collect items along the way that your kids can use to create art with later...leaves that can be pressed, used as stencils etc... Use this time to have some one on one time with each family member. Some of our favorite memories come from taking a walk!

Throw a picnic blanket, sunscreen and a beach umbrella in the vehicle and leave it there. All summer. Then if the urge strikes and the time permits you can set up with minimal fuss and enjoy a day at the park. In the winter we have crazy carpets in our vehicle...just in case we see a good hill and want to slide down it of course!

Airmiles reward miles redemption. Get yourself some Blockbuster and Cineplex coupons for free or B1G1 free movies. Or other gift cards that provide entertainment.

Community coupon books are usually a great investment. My local book has 4 free oil changes, 4 free haircuts, a whole section of B1G1 free meals and much, much more. It is well worth the $45 I paid for it plus the money I spent went to a good cause. Hubby and I are enjoying date nights lately thanks to the B1G1 free meals in that book.

Of course there are always local museums, parks and events that you can go to and have fun for next to nothing. The key is to pack a lunch, bring your own water and carry lots of sunscreen...great way to enjoy the summer!