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Unlike childhood birthday parties of yesteryear, which revolved around a birthday cake and a small gathering of mostly family and a friend or two, today’s parties require a bit more. Generally, all of your child’s acquaintances from school are invited to the party, which should at the very least have a theme if not an exotic locale. What is a parent to do when faced with the monolithic task of planning the party of the century for their toddler, without the time or even energy to begin thinking about doing so? Fear not, Austin offers plenty of kiddie-party options.

Halloween in Austin, Texas is one of the most popular nights of the year for revelers in the downtown area, especially 6th Street. Every year, throngs of people, old and young alike, dress up in their scariest, wackiest, or most unusual costumes, some home-made, some from expensive costume shops, and parade down 6th Street, enjoying the party atmosphere.

6th Street promises a wild night for those who attend, and there is usually a great deal of consumption of alcoholic beverages and subsequent inebriation. Most people claim to have a great time, even though there are the usual numerous arrests of those intoxicated or rowdy, but there are also more sedate, sober activities around town, many of which are family oriented.

The holiday season is a time for friends, family, togetherness and fun. It’s easy to get carried away when stocking up for the holidays from gifts, to food, to party favors and decorations, there are a seemingly endless array of ways to spend money in the name of the holiday season. In fact, the holiday season is the peak time of year for debt accumulation. While everyone wants to enjoy themselves during the holidays, and to show their loved ones how much they care, overspending is not the only (or even the best) way to accomplish these goals. Instead of building up outrageous debt, plan ahead and discipline yourself, in order to get through the holiday season on a reasonable budget.

To many children, a birthday is the single most important day of the year. And to many parents, it’s a day of both celebration and stress, as they strive to make their child’s special day a memorable event. Crafting a fun, unique party for your son or daughter isn’t always easy especially if you’re feeling pressured to measure up to the over-the-top events hosted by the parents of your child’s peers. But rest assured, there’s no need to spend big bucks in order to throw a bash you, and your child, will be proud of; all it takes is some planning, imagination, and a little elbow grease. Here are a few tips to get you on your way to hosting a memorable birthday party for your son or daughter, without blowing your budget.

Planning a vacation can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be: being well prepared can make a big difference, and a little forethought can go a long way. Follow these simple tips to plan a great trip on your terms.

Plan ahead
The overwhelming number of vacation possibilities available in the United States alone can make planning a vacation stressful in and of itself. One way to narrow down your options is to first decide on an overall tone or goal for your trip. Looking for relaxation? Consider renting a cottage by the lake or near the shore. Feeling adventurous? Try a camping and white-water rafting trip. Interested in fun and education? Check out the battlefields of Colonial Williamsburg or head to the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C.