Frugal Ways to Enjoy the End of Summer
Back-to-school shopping already started, and Christmas decorations are appearing in stores. It’s easy to feel like summer is almost over, but it’s not – not yet. There is still plenty of time to enjoy the season, make the most of the warm weather and have fun with friends and family.
You can make it even more memorable (and less expensive) with one or more of these frugal ideas:
Walking or steps challenge: Start a challenge amongst your family, friends or coworkers to walk a certain amount of steps every day. This is a great excuse to get outside and explore, whether it’s as a group or on your own.
“Free admission” days: On a rainy day, search online to see what museums and attractions near you host free admission days. Again, try to bike or use public transportation to get there.
Pick berries: Depending on what grows in your area, summer is the perfect time for various berries to ripen. Find a local farm and go berry picking and then choose a recipe to bake in your fruit, like a pie, cobbler or even pancakes.
Pitch a tent: If you’re feeling adventurous, pack up for the weekend and head off to the wilderness to sleep under the stars. You don’t have to spend much for a camping weekend, depending on the supplies you already have. Keep in mind the cost of travel, site fees and any food you might bring. If you want to keep your costs even lower, or if you have small children that aren’t quite ready for the great outdoors, pitching a tent in your own backyard can be just as fun with less of the hassle.
Get out the paintbrush: Take advantage of the nice weather and carry out a few do-it-yourself projects. Look around the house to see what needs a fresh coat of paint, or give a makeover to your latest flea market find.
Water balloon fight: This cheap idea is the perfect way to cool off, and the more that join in the more fun it can be. This could be a great way to get to know your neighbours, as well.
Kids eat free: Sometimes it’s too hot to cook, but you don’t want to spend a ton of money by eating out. During the week, many restaurants host a “kids eat free” night or offer special discounts. Check a coupon or deals website to find out what restaurants in your area are doing.
Free outdoor movies: In most communities, you can find outdoor movie screenings for free during the summer. Check your town or city’s events calendar for locations and a schedule, as well as any local universities.
Grab your bike and head to a local swimming hole: Whether it’s a public beach, a hidden gem or even the local pool, there’s nothing better than going for a swim in the heat of summer.
Host a potluck: Summer is the perfect time to connect with friends before the busy school and holiday seasons start when everyone’s schedules are packed. No need to go to a pricey restaurant or throw an expensive party – just host a potluck. Assign your guests a type of dish (such as “appetizer” or “non-alcoholic drink”) and you’ll have everything you need for a delicious meal.
No-Bake Energy Bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup (dry) oatmeal (I used old-fashioned oats)
- 2/3 cup toasted coconut flakes
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/2 cup ground flax seed
- 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips (or vegan chocolate chips)
- 1/3 cup honey or agave nectar
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Stir all ingredients together in a medium bowl until thoroughly mixed. Cover and let chill in the refrigerator for half an hour.
- Once chilled, roll into balls of whatever size you would like. (Mine were about 1” in diameter.) Store in an airtight container and keep refrigerated for up to 1 week.
Makes about 20-25 balls
Muscle Stretching Exercise for Infants
Tummy Time
Tummy time can offer your infant the opportunity to stretch and strengthen muscles at the same time. Time spent on the tummy promotes flexibility of the spine while strengthening the muscles of the back. Tummy time also allows your child to engage in exercises that will help roll over, scoot, and crawl. To promote even more stretching during tummy time, hold a rattle or other enticing toy in front of your infant, just out of her reach. This exercise will promote flexibility of the shoulder and upper back.
Leg Stretches
While your baby is lying on her back, help her with hip and knee range of motion and flexibility by engaging them in bicycle kicks. Take one foot in each hand, and guide her legs in a circular motion like when pedalling a bike. Be gentle and keep the pressure light. Next, try the “toes to nose” stretch to promote lower body flexibility. With your babies feet in your hands, gently bring the toes to your baby’s nose. Some babies feet might not reach — don’t force it.
Arms and Shoulders
To promote flexibility of the upper body, try this chest stretch on your little one. Begin with your baby lying on her back and encourage her to grab onto the thumbs of each of your hands. Next, bring your babies arms out wide, and then back over so they are crossed over the chest. Repeat this exercise several times and don’t exert too much pressure or force your baby into any movement that she can’t do willingly.
Hands and Feet
Your baby’s hands and feet are so tiny that it can be easy to forget that they contain muscles that need to be stretched. Babies tend to grasp their hands tightly, so stretching them can be tricky. Encourage your baby to pick up toys on her own, and choose toys that have a variety of colours and textures to keep your baby’s interest. Take advantage of muscle stretching opportunities while your child is sleeping by gently massage the muscles in her hands and feet. Doing this will not only help stretch those tiny muscles, but will also help promote blood flow and circulation.
