Summer is the time for families to make memories together. It doesn’t matter what the economy is doing, building strong families has to be our priority. That doesn’t mean throw common sense out the window and whip out the credit card. Charging expenses for a vacation is a short-term benefit. That vacation will haunt you for months or even years instead of blessing you and your family.

First discuss and be firm about what your budget will be. If you’ve been able to put back some money and your not worried about every penny, then of course you will shop your best deals online. If you are wondering how you will pull this off, then let us discuss some alternatives.

Depending on where you are camping might be a reasonable choice. Check out state parks in your area. Their cabins and facilities are priced very inexpensively. Don’t feel you must have the tent and all that to have the camping experience. If you feel you must have one, chances are you can borrow one. Keep in mind most times you have to be a little handy and carry some tools.

Think cold stuff when camping. Drink lots and lots of water. Don’t buy bottles of water; refill your gallon jugs from home for a quarter apiece instead at the large vending machines. In addition to huge savings, you are saving the environment one bottle at a time. Grab a couple of watermelons and the snacking is just about taken care of. Don't forget the weenie roast. Take along some coat hangers, straighten them out for a free skewer. Be sure and warn the kids not to touch too close to the weenie or there's a good chance they will burn themselves.

Don't forget to take lots of pictures. With a camera on almost all phones there is no excuse. Then when you get home the kids can help make a collage. We use a sharpie on the frame to write down memorable things said on that person's picture.Also the latest on sunscreens is that there is no waterproof sunscreen, so reapply every two hours and right after swimming.

If these options are still too much, consider a day trip to your local park with a picnic, Frisbee, and card games. In the evening you can still do smores, then pack up and go home to your bed and shower. Bottom line: make time to make memories with your family.