We are military family.  We have noticed that many military families do not take advantage of the inexpensive lodging offered by different bases.  We took two mini vacations this summer that were very cost effective.  We rented a cabin $25 a day right here near our home on Fort Bragg, NC.  We were able to swim in the lake, grill, make s'mores, pitch a tent (for play) and walk through the woods in the comfort of a two bedroom cabin. 

 

The second mini vacation was to Busch Gardens, Williamsburg.  Anheuser Busch Amusement Parks are offering free admission to the military until DEC 2005.  Go to herosalute.com for more information on free admission to Busch Gardens, Sesame Place, and Sea World.  We also saved on lodging by staying at Cheatham Annex Naval Base which is 2 miles from Busch Gardens.  Lodging was $31 for a suite with a kitchenette (this allowed us to save big on meals) and a sofabed.  The Lodge is called Cheatham Colonies.  The amenities also included pool, 2 TVs w/dvd players and dvds available for checkout.

 

These resources were such a blessing for us. Many times we want to take the kids on a vacation but the costs keeps us from doing so.  I have been a stay at home Mom for the last 7 years, so I am constantly looking for ways to SAVE!!!!