What to do with a 9 year old for the summer.

I'm having a hard time with Helen, or more accurately the situation. Helen is here 1/3 of the time and since her school friends are naturally back in Vermont she wants to spend all of her time with me and has trouble entertaining herself. Her numerous games, crafts, science activities, etc are out of favor and she doesn't want to do them by herself. When I try to ask her what she does with her friends she gives vague answers like playing, having fun. I know the phrase "I'm bored" seems to be in every young child's repertoire but, Oui Vey what is one to do. Camp is out of the picture for this year partly due to Helen's wishes and partly do to the budget of a dad in grad school.

If anyone has some ideas or experience with this type of thing please share.