Spring Fever?

Posted on April 28, 2008
Filed Under Living |

Summer is vast approaching and with the spring weather break many of us may all be a bit anxious to get out and about. Days are longer and warmer and people are looking forward to shedding a few layers of clothing, for those who didn’t let those winter comfort foods impose any extra-unwanted pounds. But with the economy in such a crunch and gas prices reaching record breaking highs if you are like most you may be a little strapped for change. So here are a few tips to enjoy the weather economically:

1. Check your newspaper for local events in your community. A lot of times your community will sponsor free family events.

2. Parks are also a good source for relaxing, maybe take the kids or walk the dog. If you don’t have either it’s still a good spot for kicking back and sunbathing (don’t forget your sunscreen) or just relaxing in the shade and reading a book. Maybe you could have some friends meet you there for a friendly game of flag football.

3. If your lucky enough to live near the beach, they are always free. 4. Barbeques are always good. Go out in your yard and fire up the grill. Invite a few friends over and let everyone bring a dish. This makes it easy on your pockets. Make some refreshing drinks, maybe a mint julep or margarita (alcoholic or non your choice). Decorate festively if you like. A little music and candles and you’ve got yourself a great get together.

5. Get some spring-cleaning done and have a yard sale. Invite some of the neighbors to participate and maybe incorporate a bake sale as well and split the proceeds. This is great way to clear out some stuff from your attic or basement bond with your neighbors and make a few bucks in the process. 6. Check your local listings for yard, garage or estate sales. What someone else considers junk may turn out to be a great little find for someone else.

7. How about going to a few open house. Although you may not be in the market for a home, it’s sometimes fun to look and maybe pick up some decorating ideas. 8. Do you know someone who is elderly, sick or shut in? Go by and take them a plate. Help them around the house maybe sit on the porch and read a book to them. Maybe they need to go shopping and they would greatly appreciate a ride and the company. Helping others is the best reward.

9. All city have things they are proud of. Maybe there a zoo or botanical garden in your are. Go and explore your city. Pretend you’re a tourist and visit the local tourist center and learn what makes your city so great. I bet there are things you take for granted as a resident. 10. Do you like working in the yard. Now’s the time to do some landscaping and gardening. If you’re not a real gardener maybe you can get some pots and grow some herbs for cooking and some pretty flowers. This requires less maitenance and it’s nice to look back and see your work blossom.

Just remember you don’t always have to go far from home to have a good time and you don’t have to spend a lot of money. You just need family, good friends and someone special to make memories with.