Last week, my husband and I were discussing summer plans for our three children. We want them to have opportunities to work their brains and their bodies all year round. Last summer their brains got a workout with daily reading assignments --regular math worksheets and writing tasks were on the list as well. To help with healthy bodies, we got them involved with a summer track team-although not the fastest children on the track, they each enjoyed some aspect of the experience.

Lately I have noticed that my email inbox is flooded with mail from retailers offering extra special deals if I “become a fan” on Facebook. At first, I was against the idea of having these new “friends,” but now I am starting to see it in a new light. Many of the social networking sites offer fun freebies and discounts on their products. I can’t resist the temptation of a fantastic deal dangling before my eyes (the latest one offered “new fans” a chance to win a free iPad). Are you making the most of Facebook , Twitter, Groupon, and other social media sites? If not, let’s get started today.

A couple of weeks ago, my girlfriend, Miranda, and I hosted our first Recycle, Reuse , Reduce, and Regift Party and it was so much fun (we nicknamed it the RE party).  The purpose of the party was to help ourselves and our girlfriends achieve three important goals: 1. to promote regular decluttering, 2. to creatively satisfy that natural womanly urge to “shop”, and 3. to enjoy a rejuvenating and supportive time of friendly fellowship.  Once you hear about this party, you will definitely want to throw one yourself.

When I first heard of this type of party, I was immediately interested in hosting one.  The main reason the RE party was such a success is that I teamed up with a friend and we planned and executed it together.  There’s a scripture in the bible that says that two are better than one, because they help each other succeed.  Two can also share responsibilities and the inevitable stresses.  In this case, my girlfriend and I were well-matched as we carried out party plans; my enthusiasm and creative ideas linked up with her organization and focus.  She kept me adhering to the party planning checklist and timelines and I kept her from over-thinking the details.  Long story short, I definitely want to do it again soon (I’ll have to see if my girlfriend still shares my eagerness a few months from now).

Do you remember the popular television game show of the 1970’s and 80’s called the Newlywed Game?  It was hosted by handsome Bob Eubanks, and I was a young fan who rarely missed an episode. In case you are unfamiliar with it, each week the show featured four recently married couples competing to determine which couple knew their mate best.  Bob had a charming way of getting the contestants to reveal too much personal information about their relationship, especially when it came to the topic of “whoopee!”  Since Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, I am wondering if you have made romantic plans with/for your honey.  Here are some Newlywed game-inspired questions that might assist you in deciding how to make your 2011 Valentine’s Day special (and budget-friendly).