Summer Cash for Kids

What’s that saying: Kids and their money are soon parted? Okay, maybe it’s a fool and his cash, but you get the idea. My second grader would rather have her eyelashes yanked out than willingly take on extra chores around the house. However, the kid has expensive taste and just recently discovered that money does not grow on trees, or in Mommy’s wallet. Enter the summer job discussion. While my 7-year-old won’t be restocking shelves at Piggly Wiggly this summer, there are a slew of other money-making opportunities for her to take advantage of right here at home. If you … Continue reading

Summer Deals for a Steal

With summer fading fast, many hotels and resorts are trying to make the most of last-minute family vacations by offering unbeatable seasonal rates. The following are sample savings found at some of the most popular family-friendly vacation destinations: MEXICO Mexico’s Riviera Maya boasts sparkling white-sand beaches and picturesque ancient ruins. It’s also home to the Maroma Resort and Spa, which features 65 spacious, sunlit guestrooms and suites featuring king-sized beds, handcrafted mahogany furniture, and hand-painted tiles. Right now you can book a 3-night weekend stay for just $395 per night. The Best Deal Days offer includes complimentary inclusions valued at … Continue reading

Sweet Deals on Summer Vacation Favorites

Mexico and Florida are among the top summer vacation destinations for families, and now they are more affordable than ever. The deals are so incredible that even if you feel as though you are caught in the teeth of the recession, you may be able to swing a much-deserved break and have fun in the summer sun. Here’s a list of some of the most tempting offers available right now: MEXICO The Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, which is conveniently located less than an hour from Puerto Vallarta, boasts a 26-acre private sanctuary for families who are in need of … Continue reading

End of the Summer Hotel Deals

Have you taken time off to take your family on vacation this summer? As the new school year creeps closer the hotel industry is trying to entice families to get in that last hurrah by offering spectacular money saving deals on accommodations. Take a look: SOUTH CAROLINA The historic Mills House Hotel, located in downtown Charleston, is offering a “One Tank to Charleston” package deal starting at $420. It includes 3-night’s accommodations; free daily parking; in-room high-speed Internet; and four tickets to one of four museum homes within walking distance of the hotel. As an added bonus you can add … Continue reading

Summer Travel: Cruising the Boardwalk

It was nearly 30 years ago to the day that I took my first stroll along a boardwalk in New Jersey. Growing up in Hawaii I was used to the sound of crashing waves mingling with music, but getting to enjoy that combination while devouring salt water taffy and riding roller coasters, well, that was something the Aloha State, simply couldn’t offer. The United States is home to dozens of popular boardwalks and during the summer months they are packed with people looking for fun in the sun. Here are a few that I have visited that deliver in a … Continue reading

Beach Vacations that Won’t Break the Bank

Who says you have to obtain a passport to vacation at the world’s best beaches? The United States is home to thousands of miles of spectacular sandy coastline and now’s the time to experience fun in the sun, especially if you are working with a budget. The summer months spark dozens of travel packages aimed to help families save on airfare and hotel accommodations. Take a look at these hot summer deals waiting for beach lovers to snap up: CALIFORNIA One of San Diego’s most luxurious resorts wants you to spend time sunning yourself on their property this summer. And … Continue reading

Summer Travel: Michigan and Miami

I live in Wisconsin so it’s no surprise that our airwaves have been saturated with summer tourism ads heralding Michigan’s incredible natural wonders. From its spectacular lakes to its amazing waterfalls and beautiful beaches the state is well displayed in the new 2008 Pure Michigan advertising campaign. Tourism officials are hoping the award-winning campaign will draw people like me (who live in nearby states and Canada) to enjoy the state’s beaches, golf courses, fishing spots and bike trails. If you live in Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana or Ohio be prepared to be inundated with TV, radio and print ads boasting of … Continue reading

Are Fewer Students Getting Summer Jobs?

I will admit it. I never had a summer job while I was in elementary or high school. I was a cheerleader and I attended practices and camps. However, to say that I had a real job, I never did until college. My husband, on the other hand, has worked probably since about the age of 13. So are students getting summer jobs like they once did? Research says no. In the past 20 years, people seeking jobs between the ages of 16 and 24 have decreased. Many students are deciding against work and for hanging out and spending leisure … Continue reading

So What Do Teachers Do During The Summer?

The summer is here. As many of you know, most school systems are out for summer vacation. In turn, that means that teachers are also on a break. So what do teachers do during their time off during the two summer months of June and July? Some teachers must compensate for the lost of pay. Teachers are paid on a ten-month salary. Some teachers opt to have their ten-month salary split into eleven months. However, teaching is not a high salary job. Many teachers take on summer jobs, such as tutoring, summer programs, blogging, department store work, etc. Teachers with … Continue reading

Summer Courses or Summer Vacation?

Many public and private school systems are now out for summer vacation. Most colleges have been out for several days. So the question now for many recently graduated high school and current college students is whether to begin/continue to take classes or to take summer vacation. When I was in college I took a few summer semester hours and also worked. Some recently graduated high school students are ready to jump in and begin getting through with basic courses. If you are a self-starter and enjoy school, this may be an option for you. However, if you are dreading the … Continue reading