With gas prices sky rocketing (and our house not selling) it's hard to think about planning an entire vacation.

The next thing to cross your mind is what to do all summer long, especially if you have kids?

My answer to that is taking day trips. It doesn't have to be far or even too long... just keeping the kids busy makes summer so much more fun for everyone.
 
With some intense planning, our summer is pretty well packed full of day hikes, park trips, farmers market adventures, play dates, sprinklers, swimming pools, afternoon movies and so much more. Who wants to think about dinner, laundry and house cleaning while on an all day adventure?

Here is what I consider to be key elements in keeping it all together, while still having fun.

Plan out the week! I don't survive my week if it's not planned out either Sunday night or first thing Monday morning. I make sure to have my things to do list mapped out (so errands can get done without multiple trips).

Pack up the car/bags the night before. After the kids have gone to bed and I have had my "down time" I like to pack the car for our next day. No matter where we are going, I like to make sure the car is loaded with everything we will need for the next day (sunscreen, hats, extra shoes, toys, books etc.). The next morning all I need to worry about is dressing the kids, breakfast and packing lunches. You could even pack lunches the night before if you are feeling ambitious.

Confirm times or rates before hand. Make sure to confirm when places open and how much entry fees (if any) will be. There is nothing worse than arriving somewhere without enough money or worse... they aren't open that day. Also it's good to confirm with friends what time you are meeting and which days... we all get mommy brain sometimes!

Have one day to "catch up." No matter how packed our week is, I always plan one day at home. This way I can catch up on laundry and housecleaning. Usually miscellaneous projects fall on that day as well, and the kids can spend a day relaxing and enjoying some fun at home.

Employ helping hands! No matter where we go, I think it's important to give each child a task. For my oldest, he is in charge of turning off all lights, tv's or radios before we leave. The little one carries the drinks and opens the garage door. Not only do they feel like they are contributing, but it makes my life easier for mom.

**HELPFUL TIP**Be sure to check your local newspaper (and of course the web) for local activities and events in your area. I ran across Around the Sun in the newspaper a few weeks back and I have to say, it's one of my favorite blogs. She posts tons of free events and activities in the Portland area... you gotta love free!

*photo was taken last week on a hike with the boys up the Salmon River.