If you're anything like me, you started the summer with a list full of endless possibilities for family fun this summer. As we approach the home stretch of the season, though, I'm personally finding it hard to believe that my family has only checked a few things off our list. We've had all summer long, how is this possible?

First of all, I must admit that I was far too ambition with my list to begin with. Imagine that! I also mistakenly forgot to pencil in lazy afternoons, rainy day naps, play dates, family gatherings, etc. you get the idea. It's important to factor in spontaneity when planning for a great summer, I think. Second, summer is my busy season at work and my husband travels for business.

So aside from the fact that we missed a few classic Saratoga events due to a mid-summer family illness (family oriented evenings at the Ballet at SPAC, for example), there's two weeks (weekends, at least) left to squeeze in a few more activities before the back to school bell rings. Below you'll find a few easy activities from our newly edited "before summer ends" wish list:

Moreau Lake State Park - We went once early in the season and swore we'd be back. It's so close and has summer written all over it. Swimming, playgrounds, fishing, and cookouts make this a special location. Minutes from Saratoga located at exit 17 off the Northway, Moreau is easy to get to. Just make sure you get there early since there's a crowd limit and they enforce it.

Peerless Pool - We have a pool, but a trip to the Peerless Pool is special. The gradual wading pool makes it easy to watch your kids from the water or from a blanket or towel on the grass a few feet away. The snack bar and playground right outside complete an easy afternoon of fun in the sun.

Camping - We've made it a point to camp at least once each year since my son was born, but haven't been able to make it work so far this year. I'm thinking we'll resort to a bonfire in the backyard for S'mores followed by a night spent sleeping outside in our tiny three man tent. To think we had actually planned to buy new gear and go camping MORE than once this year!

Tailgating at Saratoga Polo - We brought our son to the clubhouse for a match last year and quickly realized that the tapas and cocktails don't hold much appeal for a three year old and stomping the divots with my son in heels didn't work out well for me. This year the plan is to pack a picnic, meet up with friends and enjoy the match from a picnic blanket. Tailgating is definitely the way to go!

Great Escape - We had a blast at Magic Forest in Lake George two weeks ago for son's pal Cooper's birthday, but are still trying to make it to Great Escape this season. I have a feeling this one may end up being pushed to the Fall to-do list since the park is open on weekends through Halloween.

Carousel in Congress Park - grab a cup of coffee at one of our great coffee coffee shops - Saratoga Coffee Traders, Uncommon Grounds and Starbucks (right across from the park!) and stroll to the park. A ride on the historic carousel is a favorite family activity for the Rose's since my husband and I rode this carousel (yes, the same one - they moved it to Congress Park) together when we were 17 and 16 respectively working during the summers at Kaydeross Park on Saratoga Lake. Oh, the memories...

So, let's enjoy what's left of summer. It will be gone before we know it!