It always makes me a little sad to know summer has to come to an end - as it does every year:(  Why not enjoy the rest of this summer season by indulging in some fun and free summertime activities this long Labor Day weekend. Labor Day is seen as the unofficial end of summer.

Although the Fall/Autumn season doesn't actually begin until Friday, September 22, 2017 - some of the hottest days of the year occur in September (we are experiencing a heat wave now, with temps above 100 degrees - yikes)! So go ahead - celebrate, stay cool, relax, enjoy the long Labor Day weekend with these frugal and fun ideas!

1. The Beach or Pool or Lake - If you are lucky enough to live within driving distance to a beach (or any body of water), take advantage as much as you can before the end of summer. Go early to avoid the crowds and to find a good parking spot (for free of course!) Pack some essentials - such as food, drinks, reading materials, sunglasses, beach chairs, towels, etc.. and just relax.
2. Street Fairs - Check online for local summer fairs in nearby towns or cities. Admission is usually free and there are always lots to see and taste. We recently went to a local street faire. We didn't buy anything, but many vendors offered free samples. It's a fun way to spend the day and a great way to walk off your lunch (and kettle corn)!!
3. Summer Concerts - Many local communities still offer free outdoor summer concerts. This is a fabulous way to enjoy your city's music scene and learn about new bands and hear great music. Check your local listings throughout the summer and maybe even into the fall season in some states.
4. Stroll Old Town - This is one of my favorite things to do, in any season! Most areas have a downtown or old town with quaint local stores (vs. chain stores). Leisurely stroll and stop in at the shops and maybe grab a little bite to eat at one of the cozy cafes. I enjoy checking out little antique shops. This is a great way to discover little gems for one-of-a-kind treasures.
5. Farmers Markets - Hit your local farmers market early so you get the freshest produce. Support local growers (vs. big box supermarkets), often times they are cheaper and offer a much better quality. Most vendors offer samples too! You can also shop for healthier organic options. Make a shopping list of items you might need ahead of time, so you won't overspend.
6. Scenic Drives - Go a little off the beaten path to areas where you normally wouldn't drive to. Make sure it's not too far so you won't waste money on gas. Map out your destination ahead of time. Make sure to stop when you can to take in the sights.
7. Picnics At The Park - Pack a light picnic lunch and drive (or walk) to your favorite park. Pick a quiet, shaded spot and enjoy your meal. Bring some music or reading material if you plan to go by yourself.
8. Explore New Neighborhoods - This is a great way to feel like you are on vacation exploring a new neighborhood in another state or country! Pick a neighborhood, park your car, then meander around their downtown or residential area. I love walking around quaint residential streets with beautiful homes, I get inspirations on how I can improve my own home's curb appeal.
9. Flea Markets - One of my favorite destinations to browse & shop for treasures! There are several flea markets or swap meets happening every Sunday. I usually find unique, one-of-a-kind gifts or something for myself for dirt cheap. Don't be afraid to negotiate with the vendor. Most of them would rather sell the item(s) vs. take it back home with them.
10. Go To The Museum or Zoo - Most communities offer "free to the public" admission days. Call your local zoo or museum ahead of time and take advantage of these great local attractions.
    

     

     

The long Memorial Day weekend is around the corner which means Summer is almost here!! Memorial Day is the unofficial start of Summer, even though it doesn't actually start until June 21st.

Here in the Los Angeles area, the weather forecast says the high will be in the low 80's. A welcome change from the 100 degree weather we've been having.

If you are looking for fun and free things to do this holiday weekend (actually on any weekend), I've come up with at least 10 fun (mostly) outdoor activities that require little to no money at all.

1. Head To The Beach - pack up a cooler with food and drinks and head to the nearest beach. Leave early so you can get good parking for free.

2. Visit Farmers Markets - check out a few farmers market within your neighborhood. Sample a taste or two of some of the fresh fruits or drinks the vendors are offering. 

3. Pack A Picnic - Go to your nearby park with picnic basket in tow filled with yummy food, drinks & treats. Enjoy a leisurely day under a shady tree while listening to cool music.

4. Play Sports Outdoors - whether it's a game of basketball, tennis, tag football or frisbee ... the important thing is that you are amongst friends and having fun!

5. Stroll Art Festivals & Street Fairs - make a day out of of browsing through local artist's arts and crafts as well as other interesting vendor wares.

6. Check Out Flea Markets - explore local swap meets or flea markets and discover truly one-of-a-kind treasures.

7. Host A Potluck - instead of going out to a restaurant, get together with your favorite people and have a potluck at someone's house. You can rotate who will host the party next time amongst everyone.

8.  Tour Open Houses - pick a neighborhood that you might want to move to someday. Pick up a few ideas on how you might decorate your own home. 

9. Go For A Walk - whether it's a walk along the beach or the park, enjoy every sight along the way.

10. Plan Your Next Trip - it's never too early to start planning your next vacation. You not only save time, but money too! Plus, it gives you something to look forward to.

Ahh, Fall is in the air! The Autumn Equinox officially started Sunday, September 22nd. In some parts of the country, the weather is starting to transition to be a bit cooler. The leaves are starting to turn beautiful colors and it's time to pull out those sweaters stored away for the summer! Although I love Summer, Spring as well as Fall weather is much more pleasant (and cozier) for me.

Enjoy the Fall season by indulging in some great activities that are not only fun but free (or practically free)! For more tips and ideas on Fall happenings, click here.

Here are my top 15 fun and frugal Fall festivities and activities. Try some of them this weekend.

1. Decorate your home with collections of Fall inspired items such as pine cones, autumn leaves, twigs, etc... 

2. Create a welcoming DIY Fall decor at your front door like the photo above. Click here to find out how!

3. Bake a delicious pumpkin pie, pumpkin bread or some pumpkin cookies!

4. Visit a local pumpkin patch with your children for a kids point-of-view experience!

5. Do some Fall Cleaning... keep, donate, or purge items you no longer want or need.

6. Before the weather gets too chilly, plan a picnic in the park and bring a blanket.

7. Take a relaxing stroll down your favorite Old Town and browse the shops for Fall inspirations.

8. Host an Autumn potluck party with dishes such as pumpkin soup, turkey sandwiches, etc...

9. Go for a hike or a bike ride while taking in the season's beautiful scenery.

10. Make your own creative Halloween costume!

11. Sit in your favorite comfy chair with a great book while sipping a hot apple cider.

12. Start making homemade Christmas presents.
 
13. Attend a free local Fall festival or Oktoberfest event.

14. Check out a local museum on their free admission days.

15. Make a list of what you are thankful for. Not just for Fall but all year round:)

Happy Frugal Friday! Summer (un)officially starts this Memorial Day weekend. Here in Southern California, the weather already feels like summer came early. There are so many frugal ways to enjoy this summer season. Get ready, summer fun is here!

You don't have to spend a lot of money (or any money) to enjoy summertime activities. If your budget is tight, but you still want to feel like you're on a mini vacation or staycation. Here are 10 fun, fabulous and free ways to enjoy summer.

1. The Beach - If you are lucky enough to live within driving distance to a beach (or a lake or a river or even just a pool), take advantage as much as you can this summer. Go early so you can find a good parking spot nearby, for free of course! Pack some essentials - such as food, drinks, reading materials, sunglasses, beach chairs, towels, etc.. and just relax and maybe even work on your tan!
2. Street Fairs - Check online for local summer fairs in nearby towns or cities. Admission is usually free and there are always lots to see and taste. We recently came back from the nations largest single day street faire in Carlsbad, CA. We didn't buy anything, but many vendors offer free samples. It's a fun way to spend the day and a great way to walk off the delicious rotisserie chicken lunch that we shared for only $6.00 !!
3. Summer Concerts - Many local communities offer free outdoor summer concerts. This is a fabulous way to enjoy your city's music scene and learn about new bands and hear great music. Check your local listings throughout the summer.
4. Stroll Old Town - This is one of my favorite things to do, in any season! Most areas have a downtown or old town with quaint local stores (vs. chain stores). Leisurely stroll and stop in at the shops and maybe grab a little bite to eat at one of the cozy cafes. I enjoy checking out little antique shops. This is a great way to discover little gems for one-of-a-kind treasures.
5. Farmers Markets - Hit your local farmers market early so you get the freshest produce. Support local growers (vs. big box supermarkets), often times they are cheaper and offer a much better quality. Most vendors offer samples too! You can also shop for healthier organic options. Make a shopping list of items you might need ahead of time, so you won't overspend.
6. Scenic Drives - Go a little off the beaten path to areas where you normally wouldn't drive to. Make sure it's not too far so you won't waste money on gas. Map out your destination ahead of time. Make sure to stop when you can to take in the sights.
7. Picnics At The Park - Pack a light picnic lunch and drive (or walk) to your favorite park. Pick a quiet, shaded spot and enjoy your meal. Bring some music or reading material if you plan to go by yourself.
8. Explore New Neighborhoods - This is a great way to feel like you are exploring a new neighborhood in another state or country! Pick a neighborhood, park your car, then meander around their downtown or residential area. I love walking around quaint residential streets with beautiful homes, I get inspirations on how I can improve my own home's curb appeal.
9. Flea Markets - One of my favorite destinations to shop! There are several flea markets or swap meets happening every Sunday. I usually find unique, one-of-a-kind gifts or something for myself for dirt cheap. Don't be afraid to negotiate with the vendor. Most of them would rather sell the item(s) vs. take it back home with them.
10. Go To The Museum or Zoo - Most communities offer "free to the public" admission days. Call your local zoo or museum ahead of time and take advantage of these great local attractions.