A few weeks ago I overheard a group of friends discussing vacation plans. As I listened to the many different plans, I heard we're just staying home this year. Some people were going to take a class, learn photography, others planned camping trips close to home and still others had projects to complete.

If you haven't yet decided on your vacation, and are leaning towards a vacation at home and you have a family, check out some of the suggestions in this article: http://childparenting.about.com/od/summer/a/athomevacation.htm

Me, I'm single, watching my budget and planning for my retirement, but I still like to pamper myself. I had thought about taking a cruise this summer, but with the tentative economy, a child going to college and gas prices, I decided I'd skip the vacation. But I didn't skip what I enjoy about vacationing: beauty, relaxation, peace, quiet and recreation.

I live on a corner, one-quarter acre lot. My house is small, but it will do. I spend most of my time outdoors. I lease, but I am responsible for maintaining the yard, which is just fine with me.

Take the time out your need and deserve. It's OK to call your family and tell them you are taking a vacation. You don't have to tell them you will be vacationing at home. (Knowing most families, this will kill your vacation. If they know you are available, they will find some uses for your free time.) I recommend, you let your calls go to voice mail and have the post office hold your mail. A true vacation means taking time away from everyday life and stress.

First, keep in mind that you are vacationing at home to save money. I was tempted to take the money I would have spent on vacation and spend it around the house. I didn't.

I decided I could enjoy my vacation on one-quarter the expense of a cruise. So I shopped online, and looked through magazines and made a list of what I wanted to buy to enhance my oasis.

I have been working on my yard for years, but it was more maintenance than beautification. I decided to add a pond, tons of flowers, bird feeders and create some exotic looking containers. (When planning a container garden, I suggest you shop some thrift stores and garage sales before you shop at the department stores. Containers can get very pricy and eat up your budget. Don't forget you also have to buy soil and flowers.)

I had a great time with shopping for unique containers for my flowers, buying water plants and fish for the pond. I bought plants to attract hummingbirds and different kinds of bird seed to attract a wider variety of birds. I found everything else I needed at Home Depot and Target. But I enjoyed shopping at Pier 1 Imports and Kohl's.

http://www.homedepot.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/HomePageView?storeId=10051&catalogId=10053&langId=-1

http://www.target.com/Patio-Garden/b/ref=nav_t_spc_6_1/602-7616710-2518213?ie=UTF8&node=1038618

Don't forget to spruce up your lawn furniture. New cushions or a set of chairs will enhance your patio. Make sure you have a comfortable place to stretch out and read and relax.

Take some time to be a tourist in your own hometown. In the Seattle/Tacoma area, we've put in new street cars and light rail lines. There are excellent inter-city commuter buses. We have ferries to the San Juan Islands, Bainbridge Island, Victoria B.C.and many points in between.

And there are plenty of museums, arts, crafts, shows and concerts. Do you know I have lived in the Seattle area and had never toured Pike Place Market? What a treat.

No vacation would be complete without light and delicious summer meals, good wine or sparkling juices. Remember, you're vacationing, no cooking. Just go online and order whatever pleases you. There is a wide variety of all the foods you want just a click of the mouse or a phone call away.

And you will want to stock the refrigerator with plenty of fresh fruits and melon, restock your wine supply and keep plenty of ice on hand. I suggest you also buy a new selection of CDs, summer glassware, and don't forget those drink umbrellas.

Kick back and enjoy the ideal vacation.