Sample issue

Hi there,

This weekend's ideas

1. A library visit with a mission. Each person picks a book, a movie and something they've never borrowed before. Many libraries also lend games.

2. A neighborhood scavenger hunt. Make a list: a red door, a dog, a round window, a bird. First to find them all picks dinner.

3. Living-room camp-out. Blankets, flashlights and stories. Popcorn optional.

More ideas in Free and cheap family fun, season by season.

This week's money tip

Thinking about a zoo or museum membership? Add up one family visit, including parking, and divide the membership price by it. That's how many visits it takes to pay off. The membership calculator does it for you.

Reader question

"My kids want a big party every year. How do I keep it affordable?" Host at home or in a park, keep the guest list to the child's age plus one, play simple games, and skip expensive goodie bags. See Birthday parties on a budget.

Have fun,
Thrifty Bunch