Layaway is the topic du jour in consumer news this month as big-box retailers like Walmart, Kmart and Toys 'R Us battle it out for the best interest-free payment options this holiday season. With recent announcements of reduced or eliminated fees and extended repayment periods, layaway seems to be a smart option for cash-strapped shoppers.

Though some will find the benefits of layaway attractive, there is a method to the retailers' collective madness that everyone should be aware of. So before you get caught up in the layaway hype, consider these six reasons why holiday layaway may not be the right shopping strategy for you.

But wait, there`s more! »

One of the challenges I face during the summer is finding a way to successfully entertain my daughter without breaking the bank.  Finding a great source of family fun is a must when trips to the pool and park begin to get a bit stale.  Also, what do you do when the temperatures are scorching or it's raining outside and your child has already seen the latest summer blockbuster?

That's when it's time to visit your nearest Dave & Busters to experience all of the amazing summer fun that awaits.  My family and I recently had a chance to check out their newest creations especially for summer and we couldn't have been more delighted at what we found.  Keep reading to learn more!

But wait, there`s more! »

On our final day in Dallas, it was time for us to take part in two longstanding Texas traditions: the State Fair and of course, amazing barbecue.  Keep reading to learn more about two of Dallas' best kept secrets: Summer Adventures in Fair Park and the Lockhart Smokehouse.

But wait, there`s more! »

In the good ole summertime, flowers are in bloom and every tree wears a beautiful coat of green.  This is the perfect season to visit the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens to look at the amazing summer plantings.  Keep reading to learn more about my family's stroll the gardens and the wonders that were waiting there for us!

But wait, there`s more! »

Now that my family and I had successfully arrived in Dallas, Texas, it was time to see what family friendly activities this great city has to offer!  Since both my daughter and I are die-hard nature lovers and Dallas just happens to offer the largest zoological experience in Texas, we decided to visit the Dallas Zoo.

But wait, there`s more! »

Dallas, Texas...a city I've lived near my entire life, yet one I didn't really know too much about.  I've visited Dallas several times over the years, but each trip always had another agenda, leaving little time to explore the city itself.  This time though, I wanted to visit Dallas with my family and experience everything this town had to offer.  Keep reading this first in a series of posts to discover why Dallas, Texas should be on your list of summer vacation stops this year!

But wait, there`s more! »