by Vicky Monroe
Spring seems like it’s finally arriving in the Midwest. I’m probably speaking too soon though. Right now there isn’t any snow on the ground, but it could be a fool’s spring. The fact that I can finally see grass has still made me start thinking about and making summer plans.
Last year I think we overdid it—we went on a trip back to the East Coast, attended multiple concerts including the Eras tour, and had family come visit. Honestly just thinking about all that activity makes me tired! Especially with my family member being sick and having lots of extra work coming in. I’m so busy I’ve actually had to turn away work, which rarely happens and is a great “problem” to have.
This year I want to have a slower and cheaper summer, which will be easier on our wallet and more aligned with our financial goals. Here’s what we have in mind so far.
Free Camping Gear
I think I’ve mentioned that we want to try camping and spending more time in nature, which will help support my mindfulness goals. After my partner’s mom heard about our plans, she really kindly gave us her REI rewards points so we could get some camping gear.
We’re all set up with a tent and camping stove thanks to her generosity. I’m looking forward to going on at least one camping excursion this year. I don’t think we’ll go too far from home since there’s a lot of great nature around us.
We’re planning to stay at rustic campgrounds to save money and get a nature-oriented experience. Some of the premium campgrounds in our area have wild amenities like mini golf courses and convenience stores. Although I’ve never been camping before, I think that would feel more like vacationing at a resort than camping! That isn’t the vibe I’m going for. I want the true s’mores around the campfire, roughing it in the woods experience I never had as a kid!
Attending a Family Wedding
Another event we have planned for summer is an upcoming family wedding. It’s happening at the beginning of June out on the East Coast, which will be quite a drive. But luckily we can stay with family, so gas should be the main cost.
Usually we don’t travel out of our way to go to weddings. But my partner hasn’t seen this side of the family in person in years and I’ve never even met them, so we really wanted to attend.
These two trips are all the excitement and activity I think I can handle this summer! The rest of the time I want to relax on my porch and soak up the sun with some iced tea and a book. Let me know if you have any plans you’re looking forward to. I’m interested to hear how you all save on summer fun.
By the way, thank you for the kind comments on my last post! I wish I had time to respond to everyone individually but things have gotten hectic between work and family. Whereas before I could’ve been at risk of falling down emotionally, I’m still hanging tough thanks to my new somatic coping strategies. It’s reassuring to know that they work and make a difference even in times of stress.
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Vicky Monroe is a freelance personal finance and lifestyle writer. When she’s not busy writing about her favorite money saving hacks or tinkering with her budget spreadsheets, she likes to travel, garden, and cook healthy vegetarian meals.
Bring bug spray, and a tarp to go under your tent! Camping is fun but I confess I like having a site with electricity, LOL! I hope the family trip goes well too 🙂