Today's activity: a fun trip to the mall with my friend Lisa and our two little boys. What a welcome break from the sweltering July heat outside!

Some people avoid shopping like the plague, going only when absolutely necessary. For others it's a hobby, a past time and almost a sport. I definitely fall into the latter category. Of late I have curbed my enthusiasm for shopping due to my desire to live a lower impact lifestyle (see the No Impact Man website, blog and movie on Netflix for my inspiration). Still, I have many fond memories of outlet shopping with my Mom, who has bargain-hunting down to a science. We mostly shopped for clothes – the more deeply discounted, the better. When we'd arrive home with our loot I always found it fun to tally up what everything would have cost at full price, and of course there was always the requisite “fashion show” for Dad. As a teen in the late 1980s and early '90s, I'd either walk to my hometown's shopping area with friends or get dropped off at the mall to do my Christmas shopping. Thankfully this was not my only hobby, but I did love it!

In my adult years, I worked in an office building right next to a large upscale mall. If I was having a particularly stressful day, I'd take my lunch hour just to walk around Saks Fifth Avenue, window-shop and breathe the sweet smell of retail. Sometimes I'd be alone, but the more memorable and enjoyable times were when I met up with friends. Getting out and seeing what's new, picking up a gift I need to give, or “visiting” a pair of shoes I'm considering is an instant stress reliever. Going shopping together can feel like a very personal experience, depending on what you are shopping for. But I've found that some types of shopping trips can be a low-commitment activity that women can do together, even when they do not know one another well.

In my opinion, the best time to shop with friends is when either all or none of you have something specific to shop for – that way it's not just one person trying things on while the others watch. You'll also want to remember to SAVE YOUR RECEIPTS! I've been talked into many a purchase by a well-meaning friend only to go back and return the item later. But clothes shopping isn't the only option for a fun outing. Here are some ideas to get the creative juices flowing:

Outlet Shopping. In this economy, bargain-hunting is even more in vogue than ever. Make plans for a Saturday or Sunday trip to the outlets with your friends for back-to-school shopping, to get ready for an upcoming vacation, or to shop for that unique and discounted summer dress. Since you are likely visiting outlets you don't go to often, always start your day by stopping at the customer service desk to pick up a shopping map. Ask if there's a coupon book and plan your attack. Go to the clearance section first. I'm finding that clothing stores are selling more and more into the coming season, so for example in July and August, Fall clothes are already out. Summer styles are on clearance, so I can find some great stuff for me, my son or my husband to wear right now. I'm an odd size, so I have pretty good luck on the sale racks.

Craft Fairs. Shopping at craft fairs was something new I tried for the first time last year, and let me tell you, I'm hooked! My friends in Northern NJ, The Craftique Creations and Promotions, organize first-rate craft fairs featuring independent crafters. Their fairs are THE best place to find that one-of-a-kind gift or handmade item.

Christmas in July. On a sizzling summer day, sometimes the only option is to cool off at the mall. Plus who wants to fight the crowds during the holiday season? Round up your besties, make a list and plan to do your Christmas shopping early! If you have kids, check your local mall's website for details on face painting, music events, and retailer giveaways (try sites like Westfield.com and select your city). Grab your stroller walking buddies and make the most of it!

Shopping Events. Three fabulous shopping events I've had a ball attending with friends recently are:

Shecky's. Find your local Shecky's, register & round up your fashionista friends! These are so much fun, I've gotten the cutest stuff & hello, free cosmopolitans?

Bridal Shows. Some friends of mine runs these in Northern NJ through their company "Wedding Outlook" and they are tons of fun. They have a fantastic tool on their site where you can find your local bridal show. Bridal shows are great opportunities for brides-to-be, grooms, families and friends to see photographers pictures, watch sample wedding videos from local videographers, sample food from caterers, and just have fun.

Wee Sale children's consignment events. These are local to Maryland only, but there are sure to be similar events near you. Check out their website or Google "consignment sale" in your area as a start.

For those of you in St. Louis, the Becky Thatcher Riverboat offers private shopping events for groups of people. I have not attended these personally, but they sound like fun!

Remember to plan for nourishment, even if it's just grabbing a smoothie as you shop, and end the day with a mall massage or pedicure if you have time. Above all enjoy yourselves, save your receipts and seek out those bargains.

Please post comments on the best shopping ideas in your local area, or great ideas on how you like to shop with friends. Check out your city on MIRL to find new friends to shop with, and get out there! You'll be glad you did.