I will not give up taking my corgi to the vet when he needs it and also for preventative measures. He is my life companion at this time in my life and I love him dearly!
I use to buy very expensive makeup too..never again..and look up how long makeup items last before you have to throw them out..to get an idea on what to save most on
I'm a 38 year old single woman, no kids or pets, and I live in a studio apartment. Overtime as friends have started families and hang out with other families, I find myself always alone, so the desire to go out really isn't there. Since I live in a small space, I'm intentional about everything I buy and bring unto my home. I'm a first responder, so I wear a uniform, and I have a free gym at work and don't pay for gyms or fitness related memberships. My overall lifestyle saves me money and I am content. I enjoy traveling, and learning new things, so I will take a class at the community college, or take a dance class from time to time, but I'm not a consumer of a bunch of junk.
I know that travel is expensive. But paying for experiences I think is important. And do it while you can. Everybody waits till they’re retired, but then they get ill, etc. and then they can’t do it. Do it while you can.
I started several years ago buying my kids and their spouses groceries. They really appreciated it. My granddaughter that is in college told me she wants groceries for Christmas now.
I'm glad I'm not the only one wanting to completely declutter their home. All of a sudden I'm finding I want a clean, organized home, but I want it simple. I want a simple, streamlined process. I want to spend my 50's and beyond, taking care of my health and volunteering in my community, not constantly cleaning and consuming. What I recommend for my fellow sugar addicts. If you have kids old enough to purchase their own snacks, either with allowance or part-time job earnings, tell them they have to buy their own & keep it in a drawer in their room. It REALLY helps me a lot! Luckily, my husband is a salt person & I'm not.♥️🇨🇦
I’m new to your channel and I’m just retired from a corporate job that required lots of travel. Now that I’m home I realized I have too much of everything! Clothes, shoes, beauty products and hotel soaps & lotions etc… I have my work cut out for me. I made individual baggies with new small products along with clean washcloths & towels and I’ve taken them to my local shelter for the homeless. It was hard getting rid of my business suites and fancy clothing but I found a place to donate called, “Working Women” for ladies out of jobs that need good clothes. My first drop off the ladies all gasped with excitement I didn’t expect that and I felt better after that. I’m still a work in progress. I love that you’re so frugal I am too now that I’m retired I cook healthy food we don’t dine out much at all I enjoy cooking organic foods even though they cost more we’re worth it! Right! I have been in the habit of having a cocktail or glass of wine every evening but listening to you I feel like we could cut back to 3 days a week then stop eventually. I look forward to watching more of your TH-cams thank you for all the awesome ideas!🤗
Bless you for helping the shelters and the womn looking for work. Am sure their hearts are full of relief and gratitudes as they are nervous regarding their new jobs and finances. 😊
I don't buy new decor, but I am keeping my stuff. Sorry but my kids will just have to deal with my stuff when I am gone. Of course, my kids love everything I have, and they are constantly asking for things, but they can have them when I don't want them anymore or I am gone. Right now, I still enjoy them. I enjoy my makeup. I am the first face people see when they come to my office. I stepped down from a high-pressure position to the reception desk and I love it. My heels stop at 2 inches.
I quit using purses altogether.. I don't wear high heels either...i don't have any anymore. Every once in a while I put something on my face. Now I only use moisturizer when my face really needs it. When I went through a period of unemployment, I stopped getting haircuts. I let my hair grow out. It was lovely... I liked it. Then, when I got another job in a big cosmopolitan area, I went back to haircuts. The cost of the cut and blow dry was $80, so the tip was $20. I know it could have been $16, but at that point, what's $4 more... Also, what I found over time was that everyone I ever went to, after about 5 haircuts, the quality dropped. It occurred to me that that might be the point when they think they've got you as a customer, and so don't have to try so hard to keep you coming back. It's a supposition... but it certainly seems true! Ditto on jewelry. I've never had cable. I haven't had a TV since the 1970's, except for a tiny bit in the 1990's. I don't like TV.. I stopped eating sugar and sweets when I was diagnosed with diabetes. I never liked sweet things so much. I stopped buying alcohol at all. Sometimes people give me a bottle of wine, and I'll open and use it up while they're here to drink most of it. I live on a low, fixed income. People had to get used to getting no presents from me. I usually have a nice, long call with the people I used to give gifts to. The call let's them know I love them and think of them often. An exception I made recently is that my nephew graduated high school. I sent him some money so he could buy what he wants or needs. I only bought 1 new car in my life. It's an 18 year old Subaru that I love so much, I'm still driving it!! I drove past a snow plow in the ditch once. My car did better than a snow plow!!! I love this car. That's why there are usually no used Subarus around to buy.... people keep them forever!! I don't do big events either. Don't want to deal with the crowds. I used perfume for a little while, but no more. I stopped eating out. Every time I think about it, I realize I have food at home that I like. I try to avoid plastics, but can't a lot of time. I don't buy any plastic bags. I keep the plastic bags I can't avoid buying and use those for everything I would normally buy plastic bags for. I wash them out and re-use them. This response is too long. I'll quit now.
I cut my husband's and son's hair, one of them cut mine. We all have learned to do it good job and we no longer need to go to a place to get a done. Saves a lot of money!
I hear you when it comes to air-conditioning. Or heat in the winter. I refuse to be uncomfortable in my own house. Luckily I have central air so it’s relatively efficient. When I say air conditioner, I mean, I put my thermostat at 78°. Some people think that’s really hot. But I hate the feeling of being 105 outside like it’s gonna be tomorrow and 65 in the house. That’s just craziness to me. But in the winter, I’ll also keep it at about 75. For the same reason. I remember scraping the ice off the inside of the windows when I was a kid. And I remember running around with two layers of clothes on because it was so cold. I refuse to do that anymore. I’m going to be comfortable in my own house.
I never bought much jewelry. When I did it was a bracelet. When my husband discovered how much I loved bracelets but I wouldn’t even buy a costume jersey bracelet, he started buying me one a year. It may be for my birthday or our wedding anniversary or Christmas. He bought real gold and gems - no costume. It means so much to me that he loved me and said I was worth it. I don’t buy jewelry much still but I have those bracelets/memories that are worth every dollar. I’m a widow now. LOVE YOUR VIDEOS. They keep me motivated
Hi ruthdennisK, My genuine sympathy for you experiencing the pain while grieving the loss of your husband, your best friend, your confidant. How he took notice, and would only buy the real (gold/silver/gem) bracelets for you knowing you would appreciate, treasure and cherish them. This simple of act of kindness from him means the world to you, and now more than ever. He will always be in your heart and on your wrist. Please stay strong. 🕊️
I reconsider everything that feels like a burden to me. This includes frequent runs to the grocery store, planting annuals, decorating for holidays, and keeping up with the latest trends. I meal plan and only shop once per month, have a beautiful yard filled with perennials, keep a clean uncluttered home, and have adopted a simple classic minimalist style. I do not enjoy having my hair done or fancy coffee. Living an authentic life has saved us thousands, and I only regret not coming to this realization sooner.
Planting annuals--yes!!! Our house is southern facing. We also had tomato blight (which I've since learned will kill off other plants as well). I know it sounds horrible, but this year I used fake flowers and greenery. No watering, no wilting and I'm hoping at the end of the season to pull them out, wash them off and hopefully use most (or all) of it again next year which saves me money and time in the end. And it still looks great.
@@flonotflow It doesn’t sound horrible. We did the same thing when we moved to our current location. The soil was so bad it took a couple of years to get anything to grow. It’s a work in progress, and I’m sure your yard looks amazing 💚
I shop for Xmas birthdays etc etc year round it helps with yen grandkids Xmas adds up i find new gifts yardsales to i stock up on stuff me hubby use saves we r seniors hubby been retired twelve years now we live on soc security small pension we r not rich but blessed compared to lot seniors i got Michael cor wristlet wallet yardsale dollar ninety ends cents and uggs boots ten dollars yardsale mint condition have tenth granddaughter born July first few days ago got every baby thing for my house ninety five dollars at yardsales mint condition would cost over four hundred dollars I only shop stores only clearance period
I'm 31 preparing to move into my own home and this is something I've begun to do lol. I've gotten rid of a bunch of clothes, shoes, and purses. I've also begun to simplify all my routines etc. It is soooo liberating, and I'm looking forward to continuing my simpler living in my home. And also I really appreciate gift cards, i wish more people would understand that. I genuinely relate to everything you said lol.
I moved/down sized almost 9 years ago and got rid of 75% of what I owned and I dont miss any of it. I actually said if I had to dust it, its going. lol Ive gotten a few things that need dusting since then but not very many and Ive not bought anything that didnt come from a thrift store since then either, except underwear and a couple of pairs of shoes. lol I just find I dont NEED anything. A couple of new shirts each summer or winter and groceries/necessities and Im good. lol
What a great idea to switch your tv apps out! I recently canceled everything by Amazon Prime and Paramount. I never thought of having apps for limited time.
I agree with you so much!! Some friends are puzzled by our frugality but we believe a simple life is less stressful and brings calmness to our lives. I wish I followed a few of our current life patterns when we were young but live and learn....
So true! I love my stress free life of financial freedom. Even on low income I feel richly blessed: no debt, no car or insurance, no cable, no subscriptions. I enjoy eating out. More than I should at times, but am always working on it by keeping my fridge full of sale meats and basics. My pantry us stocked as I like homemade food. 😊
One thing you mentioned that others have said is to cut the cost of paper products. I've been thinking for 2 yrs of cutting way back on the toweling I use as the price continues to climb, however...It is $4.25 to wash & dry a load in my appartment complex and two rolls cost $3.18 Factoring in my time and the soap I don't think it's worth it. Any ideas on this dilema? Thank you.
I'm retired now and in my 60's and I am so ready to declutter all the stuff my younger self just knew she had to have! I wish I knew then, what I know now, think of all the money I'd have saved :) I started my decluttering journey 5 years ago and have easily gotten rid of 40% of stuff no one needed and certainly wouldn't want after we were gone. Living in Texas where everything truly is bigger (houses!) made me believe I didn't have too much stuff since it all fit! Even after 5 years, I'm still finding stuff we just don't use or need, I always ask myself, if I was packing to move, would I box it up and take it with me? A no means it gets donated.
I am WILD about decorating for autumn/Thanksgiving and then Christmas. Those are the only times I use special decorations and my home decor is minimal. It feels extra special when any sort of 'extra' decor is only around a couple months of the year. I couldn't care less about decorating for other seasons/holidays but I am crazy about the holiday season!
The one about clearing out 50% of your stuff… that is where I am now! I have been spending my days going through the last of my mother’s things, as she is in a nursing home now. I am thinking the same about my stuff. I don’t want my niece and nephew to have to haul out stuff that I haven’t even thought about for years. So much of my mother’s things I know she loved and they bring back such memories, but I don’t have the space for it. It’s all so hard.
I've been using backpack purses for a long time. They are back in style. My daughter tries to buy a new backpurse each year for me. I don't need anymore. I have for each season. I plan to continue using them as the backpack reminds me to stand straighter.
To each their own as to what is worthy of spending Life is meant to be enjoyed and not lived in a state of sacrifice/ needing/wanting if you can afford it. I have curly hair and need a stylist that knows how to cut it and that is worth going to the fancy salon. I recieve compliments on my hair all the time.
My husband and I raised 6 kiddos on one salary so it was only recently that we made new major shift. One of our cars was stolen. In its place we bought 2 scooters, motorcycle level. Being able to pay cash, insurance $15 each per month, and at 90mpg, it works well. Hubs drives his to work every day, only 4 miles away and I ride mine for errands, meetings, and visits.
Here’s an idea. Fill your substitute cup in the evening before you go to bed. That way you can just pop it into your instant coffee maker in the morning when you’re not awake enough to do it. I haven’t used those plastic kcups for a few years. It’s SO much cheaper and it doesn’t harm the environment. I started making my own primarily to find ways to save money. Got tired of paying the extra money for the “convenience”.
I keep makeup to a minimum. My splurge is mascara (so it looks like I actually have eyelashes!), and I found a collection of eye shadow natural colors at the Dollar Tree. That floats my boat for my needs & I’m totally fine with it. The mommy group I’m with- we have a “give away” text thread and I’ve gotten rid of things, acquired decor items, and it’s perfect for us.
I had to buy spoons and forks too a couple months ago. It's been 20 years since I bought silverware. I'm like u when it comes to going to concerts and things like that. I go look at nature for entertainment.
Buy a coffee pot that is programmable. Set it to go off 20 minutes before you get up in the morning and your coffee will be waiting on YOU! We bought one from the Dollar Store 2 years ago for under $20 and its still going strong!😁
I’ve never really liked the Kcups. I purchased a really nice, gently used Cuisinart coffee maker 3 years ago at my favorite charity thrift shop. Works great, but I still love to use my double walled, stainless steel french press that I brought home from England in 2005. Now if I could just find a good quality, low cost coffee in a recyclable container, I’d be golden.
I grind coffee beans and percolate my coffee in a stainless steel coffee pot two days in a row, refrigerating leftovers , then the third day reheat those refrigerated leftovers. Saves a lot of $$$ this way!🙂
I agree with just about everything you said. For years I cut my own hair, but now I wear it short and just wash and blow dry. It pains me to pay $25 for a cut at the salon. I have never dyed my hair and even now at 79 it is only slightly salt and pepper gray. I have skin creams but always forget to use it. I wear no makeup unless I go out and then it is minimal. No manicure, no pedicure, no massage. I do put out a few holiday decorations but haven't put up a tree since the kids left home. My meals are cooked from scratch and only eat out when traveling. I do store food in plastic freezer containers because it is preserved from my garden and I bulk cook to put in the freezer. All plastic gets recycled either from local recycling or special drop offs. I do have cable and Netflix but since I seldom watch it anymore I am thinking of dropping them. I once loved purses, shoes, and jewelry, but haven't worn heels in 30 years. I have enough purses to last forever, and I seldom wear jewelry or perfume. I do like my Keurig, but I use the plastic reusable cup with Perfect Pod EZ cup filters that I get from Amazon (300 for less than $30). I have a coffee scoop that is the right amount to go into the cup. This is definitely a lot cheaper than buying those throw away plastic cups. Also the filter with the coffee grounds goes into my compost.
Absolutely love your video! I am pretty much the same and felt that I was a bit stingy (compared myself to other people),but after this video - not anymore! Nothing is wrong with being careful about your hard earned money! Thank you very much for being so open !😊
I have more problems with the added perfumes over time and have to spend a little more on fragrance free stuff. They seem to be adding it to everything now and in ever more toxic amounts. It's not really an option though so I can't begrudge the price. Also have the problems with sugar. I did give it up and it makes fruit and vegetables taste so much better so there is a reward (besides health benefits) at the end of it. Plastic is a work in progress but only use the Triton plastic water canteens and don't put hot food in plastic or heat it up in plastic. Maybe the canteens are my version of your coffee pods, they are a convenient habit i can't give up.
Actually, it depends on the food. Cottage laws (in most states) allow you to create and sell non-perishable foods out of your kitchen. The illegal part is the perishable foods or foods that would go bad if unrefrigerated. However, as I stated in the video, having the cook prepare the food in your kitchen is perfectly legal.
I really enjoy wearing makeup, so that is what I ask for for Christmas and birthday gifts. On average, I spend $100 a year on my hair for shampoo, conditioner, hair color, and cut.
I am with you on the central AC I line dry my clothes in the summer to balance my use of central AC it's not good for your AC though to have it below 68 F. I keep mine at 70 to 72F and lately with this heat wave in Ohio mid 90's I use a box fan at the foot of my bed when I am taking a nap or at night, it lowers the temp by up to 10 degrees. Anna In Ohio
We avoid sugar and all its various forms for a few years now. It has definitely helped! Also, about a year ago we stopped drinking alcohol not like intentional we have gotten to where we don't want to spend the money on a fancy drink ($15) and would rather get an appetizer or buy a better steak at the grocery store.
You are so cute and lovely. You are glowing and look beautufully healthy. This last year I have been wasting money like crazy. My excuse is that I live in China and everything is cheaper here. When I want to be frugal, I am so good at it. It's just a little challenging to cut the bad habits especially in China. Everything is so easy here. I dont eat much meat and when I do it's chicken. I could easily eat at school 3 times a day for $3 a day. You motivate me! My splurge will be on my health, vitamins, food, castor oil. No more taxis/ubers. No more eating out.
I have been decluttering for 9 years. I started when i moved 7 years ago. Im not deprived in the least - i just wonder how i aquired all this stuff!!! Some from my mum's house after she passed, admittedly. But i am still finding stuff and im better now at getting rid of the sentimental stuff because i take photo of it and scrapbook it.
I'm not into perfumes either BUT I love No 4711 cologne which was first produced in 1799. It's light, really inexpensive and it makes me feel really good - there's something about the combination of ingredients that work like aromatherapy. Coffee out is getting stupidly expensive here in Oz as is eating out. If we do eat out it's to catch up with friends or we go for something I can't make at home - and as for take-out we NEVER do that but I do have my easy meals for those 'too tired to cook' days. *SARA* how funny that right after you spoke about handbags an ad popped up for a 'pre-loved' designer and high-end bag website. Can't think of anything I would want less! Cheers from Oz!
I‘m from Cologne, where 4711 is produced. It‘s always funny to me how much foreigners and tourists love this cologne, whereas us Rhinelanders *hate* the smell.
@@vesperuges Gosh that's so funny!! It's a lovely scent for our hot summers but honestly, the smell just makes me feel good! Maybe it competes too much with the delicious smell of Rhineland food LOL - you make THE BEST sausages! Cheers from Oz!
@@vesperuges Oooh OUCH!! I think German food.....weisswurst, sauerbraten, sauerkraut, lebercasse, good rye bread with kummel, cream cheese, apple strudle.......PLEASE don't torpedo my tastebuds!! Honestly, I'll admit I'm going on memories of German food that are probably from before you were born but it's really sad if that is the view of that cuisine today. Good food is the one universal that we can agree or disagree on without bloodshed and I've found that there's more agreement than disagreement. Okay, I'm now off to do a deep dive on Rhineland cuisine, right after I go spritz myself with 4711 LOL. Sending a sincere hug from cold, wet Sydney - love the rain, we need it! Cheers/prost/Na zdravje/Slanj-a-va!!
Hahahaha, I'm the spoon loser. I bought 6 spoons about a year ago, now I have only 1 left !!! I suspect I throw them with the yogurt pot ! Unbelievable. Now I buy anything I can second hand ! Including spoons lol ! Lately I needed new plates, nice ones lurk at you in regular stores, yet too expensive... One day at the second hand shop, found exactly the 6 plates I wanted, for almost nothing ! I love second hand shopping ! Shopping spree is a LOT cheaper, yet I have the same nice feeling of getting new things sometimes, like a bag, a scarf, a summer dress...
Re: Travel-Great tip I learned for a TH-camr who does budget road trips..Hampton Inn. He said it was only a bit more than the usual budget places, but very nice, clean, and consistant no matter where you are. We took his advice. Hubby and I haven't been disappointed and saved quite a bit of $$$ without feeling like we sacraficed. Even stayed at one in Key West right on the ocean!
I do a lot of these already but we are all different in priorities. My husband loves when I wear perfume. It was important to him. I don’t wear it everyday though. I love glass, but… my husband doesn’t want glass anymore. He has health problems and tends to easily drop things. So… we don’t usually use the corelle, instead plastic. They are not my preference but important to him. I also buy a good moisturer for my skin and better shampoo/ conditioner, also deodorant. This is important to me.
I Only buy new cars, I take good care and maintance on them and they last for years. I used to buy used but after buying to many worn out used cars costing a fortune in repairs I learned my lesson well.
I'm as frugal as I can be. But ever since I went gray, I buy a $20 bottle of salon shampoo. I have short hair, so I get at least a year out of that 1 bottle. Conditioner don't matter. I'll use anything. Buy reusable k-cups. You can buy a few, fill them up ahead of time with your favorite coffee. Good to go.
I can so relate to soooooo much of what you've said. Especially the decorating part. Last year at Christmas I decorated with the things I truly loved and then what I didn't use, I donated. My home is decorated in "early scatterbrained college professor" with items we've bought on trips, artwork done by friends and family, etc. I'm in no hurry to change ANYTHING. The only one I can't give up are my bags, I'm a purseaholic LOL. We all have our kryptonite. I did dump my Keurig last year and bought a single serve coffee maker. Way cheaper and better coffee. But I totally get it. AC is a requirement for me due to allergies.
Regarding the spoons: when married mine were forks. I saw my husband take a fork for his work lunch. I suspected they were being left and lost at his work. Also watched my young niece at a birthday party take a paper plate to the trash while talking to her cousin. I told her she just thru out a fork. She was oblivious to what she had done. Just a kid. Never take good silverware, serving utensils to picnics and potlucks, church gatherings, etc. Always things left behind never claimed including cake pans and serving dishes!
A good premise for adapting your life. I was talking to my son about how I decide what special things like my hair that I spend money on and to be more practical with much of our spending. Every day I stop to give myself that extra time every day to see , do I really need this.
My family was all about practical gifts, especially once my sister and I were adults and moved out. Cash or a gift card were wonderful because we could use it for anything we wanted. If that was new shirt or shoes that was great, but it might just as well go towards groceries and toilet paper. And that’s fine too.
Hi, don't forget regular dental, eye, mammograms, flu shots, flossing first (each tooth and behind molars 5 up and downs) and then brush 5 circles each tooth with a soft brush angled down/up towards gums...a dental hygienist showed me I was doing it wrong! Don't forget yearly exams! Ask your gp what you are due for. Make sure they know all the other specialists and meds you are taking. That includes all vitamins, all over the counter pain relievers.
I am with you. I will not give up my k-cups. I will only drink flavored coffee. It is the one thing that I truly enjoy. I am frugal in lots of other ways.
No more monthly planners, calendars, journal notebooks, diaries, stationary and envelopes, address books, greeting cards or other paper goods. I've gone completely electronic and never spend money on these items anymore.
I just discussed this with a friend. It is so nice to receive a letter from family or friends. Stationary can be cheap. Check free take in your area or yard sales can stock you for years.@@sharroncalundan7794
I am so frugal in almost everything! Except organic meats pastured eggs for me including my dogs. They eat what I eat which is organic whole foods. I also won't skimp on good quality supplements ( thorne, pure encapsulations) for me and my dogs. Yes, they do take Reishi mushrooms, salmon oil and probiotics as well. I do put my $$$$ in my temple=body. Love your content! New subscriber!🙌🌠
I just threw out my Easter and Halloween decorations yesterday and it felt good! Not ready to let go of Xmas just yet but I only do a tree and door wreath instead of the whole place.
My decorating style is like yours, tropical plants and a little boho and minimumism. I love living in a 55+ apartment. It does cost me $775 a month (sliding scale) but I dont have to fix anything and there is a huge living room and meeting room and exercise room for everyone!
If you have teenagers or young adults living at home with you, maybe you should check the trash cans in their rooms for your spoons! I had the same problem with forks. Then I started finding them in the trash of my sons' rooms! They'd eat a snack and throw the paper plate (with the fork on it) in the trash! I started buying extra forks from the thrift store. I did this till they moved out! 😂
I'm still gonna use my Kcups. I do have, and use, the refillable ones but I fill them all at once so they're ready to go. They don't seem to deteriorate in the short term. I'm not happy about the plastic of them but, when my kids were little was back when disposable diapers were just coming out for everyday use but I had cloth and used them. 2 kids worth of diapers that I did NOT put into the landfills so I figure I have room for a few plastic Kcups. Yes, I can rationalize just about anything if I try .
Thank you for sharing your ideas being so frugal. I too am a nerd. I can relate to so many subjects that you just touched on especially with the jewelry and perfume. I do like spending money on the scented booster beads for my clothing. Down here in Georgia. I work in an environment that is outside sometimes and inside. So I try to smell presentable both outside and inside. Especially right now when it's hot. Wearing perfume is not an option. So thanks for your tips they are the same as mine in some ways different. But I get it
Bucking the trend, I don't spend money on travel anymore. I've been to 40 countries over the last 35 years. I've seen tourist attractions, ancient ruins, cathedrals/churches, historic hotels, UNESCO world heritage sites, museums, shopping areas, street markets, etc...and there's nowhere I really want to go. The cost and hassle of travel is enough to make me want to stay home.
Yeah. Outdoor decor is one of my hobbies. I just put up Independence Day decor. I do live in a small place with an equally small patio. I did the math, and use outdoor seasonal lights from both solar and battery packs. I buy a lot of the other stuff on after-season clearance, make use of Hobby Lobby, and reuse stuff, changing it out here and there. I always hated high heels! In the 70s, platforms were big. I've never been talented up high. I do wear wedges on occasion. I have a pair that I've worn for good for years. Hair- I use apprentices. We have an apprenticeship program in our state. The apprentices are supervised. The cost is $20, $4 for any chemicals. I am not a jewelry person, either. When my hubz died, I gave our wedding rings and my blue topaz earrings to my youngest, and my engagement ring to another daughter, and put away the other set for my granddaughter when she's older. I switched to pearls, cultured pearls. I already had 2 strands, so all I had to get were earrings. I just went through a bad round of gift giving during graduation season. I got our new doctor a nice doctor's briefcase, but cloth. I got another newly minted professional woman a string of (cultured) pearls. And I am waiting for one to cash the graduation money I sent for high school. It's been a month. Not one word. I surmise that people, including doctors, who can't at least text "thank you" don't need gifts. My aunt was a big one on practical gifts. And a giant jug of Tide is much appreciated by me!
Its amazing how many of the not buying anymore that I do as well! Foo Fighters yes! But I don't do concerts anymore. I find that they're just too loud and crowded for me anyway and once I'm there, I wish I had stayed home! I'm sure you know the feeling. I will however treat myself and a daughter or 3 to 1 live production a year. A musical or a play. We all enjoy those. But I so agree with you on hair, perfume, coffee shops, restaurants and most of the others you mentioned. I would appreciate a travel video as well. Husband and I are thinking of doing a road trip for our 20th anniversary coming up. Going to keep it West Coast but the stay in hotel vs. the RV and RV park is something to consider.
Sara, i absolutely love your channel, your videos, and your content. AND i especially enjoyyour sense of humor and style of delivery. So fun. Thank you for all your effort! Very appreciated.
I can't sleep.hit either, but I don't need my whole house cold in the summer. I bought a unit that is just in my bedroom, so the house is 74 and my bedroom is 64.
The thing about makeup- eyeshadow and lipstick is that they can literally last years. So yes you can use them, but use up before buying more. Hair can be cut yourself if you have an easy to upkeep style. If you do get it cut, do it only a couple of times a year. Its expensive to do every 6wks. Coffee is very easy to save on.
You look beautiful with the minimal amount of makeup!!! I have gone to just wearing only mascara, and add lip gloss when I go out. I stopped coloring my hair.... shaved all of it off (which was dyed dark brown) after my roots grew out to about a 2 guard on my clippers and went to the bathroom and shaved it all off to a pixie cut about 3 years ago!!! Now it is down to the lower part of my back. I have people stop me all of the time expressing to me how much they love my hair, my skin looking so healthy, or my clothing. Not bragging at all just saying my simple look I guess is beautiful. I used to put on "the dog" believe me...but now I just enjoy less hassel and honestly I feel more radiant and beautiful. No beauty routine either. Wash face in the bath or shower and the lotion I put on my body, goes on my face too...I know some might gasp but it works!!!! Life is easier and lived better without adding the pressure and stress of what other people think. Spoons....blame that one on the kids or young adults living at home lol. Love your channel and you are fabulous!!!!!
Great tips Sara! Love your channel! I used to be a financial coach and I still love to get information about saving money. I’m 65, retired and debt free. I do spend a little extra on my hair, skin care and healthy food but always find ways to not over spend on it. I live in NH, summers are short but I spend time walking with my little dog, easy hikes, swimming, cooking out with friends, reading and watching movies on streaming, all no or low cost fun. Have a great summer!
I have 4 Refill K Cups, I use them, wash them with the evening dishes refill them each night, so its ready in the morning, I do have a few K Cups, just in case😊
You have to start where you are, and change 1 thing at a time, until it becomes a habit. It takes 3 weeks for something to become a habit, from what I've read. Grassfed, pasture raised, organic meat and dairy is the best, if you're not growing it yourself. You have to do what works best for you, and the changes you have made are awesome! Keep working at it, and before long you will be eating all organic, grassfed, pasture raised food, and those k cups will be a thing of the past! The EWG- environmental working group puts out the clean 15, and dirty dozen list. Watch for sales for organic foods, and stock up when you find them on sale, or on clearance!!!😊
I would like to know about frugal travel. I had a bad experience staying at a bad dirty hotel, and WILL NOT happened again! Love your channel, you think like me! 😊👍
I go to the Paul Mitchell School in a nearby town. The haircut is $12, I give the stylist the other $8; so the whole cut, wash, etc. is $20. I always get a great haircut.
Thank you ....i am already doing alot of these..i guess its the age thing...Where is the budget planner for comparison please.. I am a REALTOR and been saying for years that people should declutter before they die so that their loved ones dont have to deal with additional trauma feeling guilty that thy need to toss things
I enjoy instant Nescafe Gold coffee with soy milk. Its delicious. I wont give up my silver earrings and bracelets. I adore my pets and I make sure they recieve what is important. I buy good quality shoes. Visit hairdresser regularly for haircuts stopped dying my hair . Less make up. Less furniture, ornaments, pot plants but I love to have a happy flower garden.
I'm enjoying your videos. Frugal living is the path to financial independence. But in my opinion, it's all about balance. May I ask what products you use? (hair, etc.)? Thanks again.
OMG I thought I was alone about the air conditioning temperature! I am totally right there with you. That is how cold I love mine can I do the same thing I love my blankets and pillows. I call it my spot right in front of the TV on the floor. I live in an apartment though where if I have it too low it does freeze over and water starts dripping from it and getting my carpet wet. Everybody makes me feel like I'm crazy. They say its so cold in here but they know I love the cold so I tell them dress for the occasion I'm not changing it for anyone. I do the same thing with my car. It's so much easier to breathe in the cold air and it's better for you. But I was so happy when I heard you say that I didn't feel so alone anymore 😁.
I will not give up taking my corgi to the vet when he needs it and also for preventative measures. He is my life companion at this time in my life and I love him dearly!
Absolutely! Our beloved pets are worth it!
Absolutely! Pets are family!
I love my pets as well.
Yes..no matter how frugal you are..never neglect the health of our babies, always take them to the vet when we need to ❤
I use to buy very expensive makeup too..never again..and look up how long makeup items last before you have to throw them out..to get an idea on what to save most on
I'm a 38 year old single woman, no kids or pets, and I live in a studio apartment. Overtime as friends have started families and hang out with other families, I find myself always alone, so the desire to go out really isn't there. Since I live in a small space, I'm intentional about everything I buy and bring unto my home. I'm a first responder, so I wear a uniform, and I have a free gym at work and don't pay for gyms or fitness related memberships. My overall lifestyle saves me money and I am content.
I enjoy traveling, and learning new things, so I will take a class at the community college, or take a dance class from time to time, but I'm not a consumer of a bunch of junk.
You are very wise.
Admirable that you are so conscious about spending. I like the simplicity of a studio apartment.
BRAVO you're one smart lady, I wish I would have been that way when I was younger
Buy gifts for xmas and birthdays during the year at sales/clearance sales. Saves a lot of money and saves rushing around at Christmas time
I have been doing this for 30+ yrs. It also allows you to be more thoughtful about the gift.
I know that travel is expensive. But paying for experiences I think is important. And do it while you can. Everybody waits till they’re retired, but then they get ill, etc. and then they can’t do it. Do it while you can.
I agree
I started several years ago buying my kids and their spouses groceries. They really appreciated it. My granddaughter that is in college told me she wants groceries for Christmas now.
What a great gift idea!
I'm glad I'm not the only one wanting to completely declutter their home. All of a sudden I'm finding I want a clean, organized home, but I want it simple. I want a simple, streamlined process. I want to spend my 50's and beyond, taking care of my health and volunteering in my community, not constantly cleaning and consuming.
What I recommend for my fellow sugar addicts. If you have kids old enough to purchase their own snacks, either with allowance or part-time job earnings, tell them they have to buy their own & keep it in a drawer in their room. It REALLY helps me a lot! Luckily, my husband is a salt person & I'm not.♥️🇨🇦
I love this - great ideas on snacks!
I’m new to your channel and I’m just retired from a corporate job that required lots of travel. Now that I’m home I realized I have too much of everything! Clothes, shoes, beauty products and hotel soaps & lotions etc… I have my work cut out for me. I made individual baggies with new small products along with clean washcloths & towels and I’ve taken them to my local shelter for the homeless. It was hard getting rid of my business suites and fancy clothing but I found a place to donate called, “Working Women” for ladies out of jobs that need good clothes. My first drop off the ladies all gasped with excitement I didn’t expect that and I felt better after that. I’m still a work in progress. I love that you’re so frugal I am too now that I’m retired I cook healthy food we don’t dine out much at all I enjoy cooking organic foods even though they cost more we’re worth it! Right! I have been in the habit of having a cocktail or glass of wine every evening but listening to you I feel like we could cut back to 3 days a week then stop eventually.
I look forward to watching more of your TH-cams thank you for all the awesome ideas!🤗
Bless you for helping the shelters and the womn looking for work. Am sure their hearts are full of relief and gratitudes as they are nervous regarding their new jobs and finances. 😊
I don't buy new decor, but I am keeping my stuff. Sorry but my kids will just have to deal with my stuff when I am gone. Of course, my kids love everything I have, and they are constantly asking for things, but they can have them when I don't want them anymore or I am gone. Right now, I still enjoy them. I enjoy my makeup. I am the first face people see when they come to my office. I stepped down from a high-pressure position to the reception desk and I love it. My heels stop at 2 inches.
I quit using purses altogether..
I don't wear high heels either...i don't have any anymore.
Every once in a while I put something on my face. Now I only use moisturizer when my face really needs it.
When I went through a period of unemployment, I stopped getting haircuts. I let my hair grow out. It was lovely... I liked it. Then, when I got another job in a big cosmopolitan area, I went back to haircuts. The cost of the cut and blow dry was $80, so the tip was $20. I know it could have been $16, but at that point, what's $4 more... Also, what I found over time was that everyone I ever went to, after about 5 haircuts, the quality dropped. It occurred to me that that might be the point when they think they've got you as a customer, and so don't have to try so hard to keep you coming back. It's a supposition... but it certainly seems true!
Ditto on jewelry.
I've never had cable. I haven't had a TV since the 1970's, except for a tiny bit in the 1990's. I don't like TV..
I stopped eating sugar and sweets when I was diagnosed with diabetes. I never liked sweet things so much.
I stopped buying alcohol at all. Sometimes people give me a bottle of wine, and I'll open and use it up while they're here to drink most of it.
I live on a low, fixed income. People had to get used to getting no presents from me. I usually have a nice, long call with the people I used to give gifts to. The call let's them know I love them and think of them often. An exception I made recently is that my nephew graduated high school. I sent him some money so he could buy what he wants or needs.
I only bought 1 new car in my life. It's an 18 year old Subaru that I love so much, I'm still driving it!! I drove past a snow plow in the ditch once. My car did better than a snow plow!!! I love this car. That's why there are usually no used Subarus around to buy.... people keep them forever!!
I don't do big events either. Don't want to deal with the crowds.
I used perfume for a little while, but no more.
I stopped eating out. Every time I think about it, I realize I have food at home that I like.
I try to avoid plastics, but can't a lot of time. I don't buy any plastic bags. I keep the plastic bags I can't avoid buying and use those for everything I would normally buy plastic bags for. I wash them out and re-use them.
This response is too long. I'll quit now.
I think you are living a great life!
I wear moisturizer and sunscreen only, I have also stopped eating sweets 😋 ❤
I cut my husband's and son's hair, one of them cut mine. We all have learned to do it good job and we no longer need to go to a place to get a done. Saves a lot of money!
I hear you when it comes to air-conditioning. Or heat in the winter. I refuse to be uncomfortable in my own house. Luckily I have central air so it’s relatively efficient. When I say air conditioner, I mean, I put my thermostat at 78°. Some people think that’s really hot. But I hate the feeling of being 105 outside like it’s gonna be tomorrow and 65 in the house. That’s just craziness to me. But in the winter, I’ll also keep it at about 75. For the same reason. I remember scraping the ice off the inside of the windows when I was a kid. And I remember running around with two layers of clothes on because it was so cold. I refuse to do that anymore. I’m going to be comfortable in my own house.
I never bought much jewelry. When I did it was a bracelet. When my husband discovered how much I loved bracelets but I wouldn’t even buy a costume jersey bracelet, he started buying me one a year. It may be for my birthday or our wedding anniversary or Christmas.
He bought real gold and gems - no costume. It means so much to me that he loved me and said I was worth it. I don’t buy jewelry much still but I have those bracelets/memories that are worth every dollar. I’m a widow now.
LOVE YOUR VIDEOS. They keep me motivated
Hi ruthdennisK,
My genuine sympathy for you experiencing the pain while grieving the loss of your husband, your best friend, your confidant. How he took notice, and would only buy the real (gold/silver/gem) bracelets for you knowing you would appreciate, treasure and cherish them. This simple of act of kindness from him means the world to you, and now more than ever. He will always be in your heart and on your wrist.
Please stay strong. 🕊️
I reconsider everything that feels like a burden to me. This includes frequent runs to the grocery store, planting annuals, decorating for holidays, and keeping up with the latest trends. I meal plan and only shop once per month, have a beautiful yard filled with perennials, keep a clean uncluttered home, and have adopted a simple classic minimalist style. I do not enjoy having my hair done or fancy coffee. Living an authentic life has saved us thousands, and I only regret not coming to this realization sooner.
Planting annuals--yes!!! Our house is southern facing. We also had tomato blight (which I've since learned will kill off other plants as well). I know it sounds horrible, but this year I used fake flowers and greenery. No watering, no wilting and I'm hoping at the end of the season to pull them out, wash them off and hopefully use most (or all) of it again next year which saves me money and time in the end. And it still looks great.
@@flonotflow It doesn’t sound horrible. We did the same thing when we moved to our current location. The soil was so bad it took a couple of years to get anything to grow. It’s a work in progress, and I’m sure your yard looks amazing 💚
This sounds like a great life!
I shop for Xmas birthdays etc etc year round it helps with yen grandkids Xmas adds up i find new gifts yardsales to i stock up on stuff me hubby use saves we r seniors hubby been retired twelve years now we live on soc security small pension we r not rich but blessed compared to lot seniors i got Michael cor wristlet wallet yardsale dollar ninety ends cents and uggs boots ten dollars yardsale mint condition have tenth granddaughter born July first few days ago got every baby thing for my house ninety five dollars at yardsales mint condition would cost over four hundred dollars I only shop stores only clearance period
readyornot that is a fantastic comment you wrote. Thank you. I’m going to remind myself if those things. You are very wise.
I'm 31 preparing to move into my own home and this is something I've begun to do lol. I've gotten rid of a bunch of clothes, shoes, and purses. I've also begun to simplify all my routines etc. It is soooo liberating, and I'm looking forward to continuing my simpler living in my home. And also I really appreciate gift cards, i wish more people would understand that. I genuinely relate to everything you said lol.
I moved/down sized almost 9 years ago and got rid of 75% of what I owned and I dont miss any of it. I actually said if I had to dust it, its going. lol Ive gotten a few things that need dusting since then but not very many and Ive not bought anything that didnt come from a thrift store since then either, except underwear and a couple of pairs of shoes. lol I just find I dont NEED anything. A couple of new shirts each summer or winter and groceries/necessities and Im good. lol
Sounds like a great plan. We have sooooo much stuff. I love to get rid of stuff but sweet spouse struggles to get rid of anything. His dad was same.
What a great idea to switch your tv apps out! I recently canceled everything by Amazon Prime and Paramount. I never thought of having apps for limited time.
I agree with you so much!! Some friends are puzzled by our frugality but we believe a simple life is less stressful and brings calmness to our lives. I wish I followed a few of our current life patterns when we were young but live and learn....
With age comes wisdom!
So true! I love my stress free life of financial freedom. Even on low income I feel richly blessed: no debt, no car or insurance, no cable, no subscriptions. I enjoy eating out. More than I should at times, but am always working on it by keeping my fridge full of sale meats and basics. My pantry us stocked as I like homemade food. 😊
One thing you mentioned that others have said is to cut the cost of paper products. I've been thinking for 2 yrs of cutting way back on the toweling I use as the price continues to climb, however...It is $4.25 to wash & dry a load in my appartment complex and two rolls cost $3.18 Factoring in my time and the soap I don't think it's worth it. Any ideas on this dilema? Thank you.
Love your ideas! The thing that I cannot live without is a cat! My feline rules!
My cat is a comedian
I'm retired now and in my 60's and I am so ready to declutter all the stuff my younger self just knew she had to have! I wish I knew then, what I know now, think of all the money I'd have saved :) I started my decluttering journey 5 years ago and have easily gotten rid of 40% of stuff no one needed and certainly wouldn't want after we were gone. Living in Texas where everything truly is bigger (houses!) made me believe I didn't have too much stuff since it all fit! Even after 5 years, I'm still finding stuff we just don't use or need, I always ask myself, if I was packing to move, would I box it up and take it with me? A no means it gets donated.
I am WILD about decorating for autumn/Thanksgiving and then Christmas. Those are the only times I use special decorations and my home decor is minimal. It feels extra special when any sort of 'extra' decor is only around a couple months of the year. I couldn't care less about decorating for other seasons/holidays but I am crazy about the holiday season!
The one about clearing out 50% of your stuff… that is where I am now! I have been spending my days going through the last of my mother’s things, as she is in a nursing home now. I am thinking the same about my stuff. I don’t want my niece and nephew to have to haul out stuff that I haven’t even thought about for years. So much of my mother’s things I know she loved and they bring back such memories, but I don’t have the space for it. It’s all so hard.
I've been using backpack purses for a long time. They are back in style. My daughter tries to buy a new backpurse each year for me. I don't need anymore. I have for each season. I plan to continue using them as the backpack reminds me to stand straighter.
To each their own as to what is worthy of spending Life is meant to be enjoyed and not lived in a state of sacrifice/ needing/wanting if you can afford it. I have curly hair and need a stylist that knows how to cut it and that is worth going to the fancy salon. I recieve compliments on my hair all the time.
My husband and I raised 6 kiddos on one salary so it was only recently that we made new major shift. One of our cars was stolen. In its place we bought 2 scooters, motorcycle level. Being able to pay cash, insurance $15 each per month, and at 90mpg, it works well. Hubs drives his to work every day, only 4 miles away and I ride mine for errands, meetings, and visits.
Here’s an idea. Fill your substitute cup in the evening before you go to bed. That way you can just pop it into your instant coffee maker in the morning when you’re not awake enough to do it. I haven’t used those plastic kcups for a few years. It’s SO much cheaper and it doesn’t harm the environment. I started making my own primarily to find ways to save money. Got tired of paying the extra money for the “convenience”.
I keep makeup to a minimum. My splurge is mascara (so it looks like I actually have eyelashes!), and I found a collection of eye shadow natural colors at the Dollar Tree. That floats my boat for my needs & I’m totally fine with it.
The mommy group I’m with- we have a “give away” text thread and I’ve gotten rid of things, acquired decor items, and it’s perfect for us.
This is a really great idea!!! A give away thread is so good! I’m going to mention that to friends to see if they’re interested!!
I had to buy spoons and forks too a couple months ago. It's been 20 years since I bought silverware. I'm like u when it comes to going to concerts and things like that. I go look at nature for entertainment.
Buy a coffee pot that is programmable. Set it to go off 20 minutes before you get up in the morning and your coffee will be waiting on YOU! We bought one from the Dollar Store 2 years ago for under $20 and its still going strong!😁
I’m with you! I gave all the Easter decorations away recently. I will do Christmas and Halloween.
Can’t wait to clean them all out!
I’ve never really liked the Kcups. I purchased a really nice, gently used Cuisinart coffee maker 3 years ago at my favorite charity thrift shop. Works great, but I still love to use my double walled, stainless steel french press that I brought home from England in 2005. Now if I could just find a good quality, low cost coffee in a recyclable container, I’d be golden.
I grind coffee beans and percolate my coffee in a stainless steel coffee pot two days in a row, refrigerating leftovers , then the third day reheat those refrigerated leftovers. Saves a lot of $$$ this way!🙂
I agree with just about everything you said. For years I cut my own hair, but now I wear it short and just wash and blow dry. It pains me to pay $25 for a cut at the salon. I have never dyed my hair and even now at 79 it is only slightly salt and pepper gray. I have skin creams but always forget to use it. I wear no makeup unless I go out and then it is minimal. No manicure, no pedicure, no massage. I do put out a few holiday decorations but haven't put up a tree since the kids left home. My meals are cooked from scratch and only eat out when traveling. I do store food in plastic freezer containers because it is preserved from my garden and I bulk cook to put in the freezer. All plastic gets recycled either from local recycling or special drop offs. I do have cable and Netflix but since I seldom watch it anymore I am thinking of dropping them. I once loved purses, shoes, and jewelry, but haven't worn heels in 30 years. I have enough purses to last forever, and I seldom wear jewelry or perfume.
I do like my Keurig, but I use the plastic reusable cup with Perfect Pod EZ cup filters that I get from Amazon (300 for less than $30). I have a coffee scoop that is the right amount to go into the cup. This is definitely a lot cheaper than buying those throw away plastic cups. Also the filter with the coffee grounds goes into my compost.
I'm looking those up! Thanks!
Absolutely love your video! I am pretty much the same and felt that I was a bit stingy (compared myself to other people),but after this video - not anymore! Nothing is wrong with being careful about your hard earned money! Thank you very much for being so open !😊
I have more problems with the added perfumes over time and have to spend a little more on fragrance free stuff. They seem to be adding it to everything now and in ever more toxic amounts. It's not really an option though so I can't begrudge the price. Also have the problems with sugar. I did give it up and it makes fruit and vegetables taste so much better so there is a reward (besides health benefits) at the end of it. Plastic is a work in progress but only use the Triton plastic water canteens and don't put hot food in plastic or heat it up in plastic. Maybe the canteens are my version of your coffee pods, they are a convenient habit i can't give up.
In most states, if you're selling food you did not cook in a certified commercial kitchen is not only unethical, it's illegal.
Actually, it depends on the food. Cottage laws (in most states) allow you to create and sell non-perishable foods out of your kitchen. The illegal part is the perishable foods or foods that would go bad if unrefrigerated. However, as I stated in the video, having the cook prepare the food in your kitchen is perfectly legal.
Lol I'm 41 and just bought a backpack bag. I needed a bigger one than the 1 I have now but I like it better than a regular pocketbook
YES! I love hands free!
I really enjoy wearing makeup, so that is what I ask for for Christmas and birthday gifts. On average, I spend $100 a year on my hair for shampoo, conditioner, hair color, and cut.
Going to Norway in October(Grandmother's Father immigrated to America from there). So excited!
I am with you on the central AC I line dry my clothes in the summer to balance my use of central AC it's not good for your AC though to have it below 68 F. I keep mine at 70 to 72F and lately with this heat wave in Ohio mid 90's I use a box fan at the foot of my bed when I am taking a nap or at night, it lowers the temp by up to 10 degrees. Anna In Ohio
We avoid sugar and all its various forms for a few years now. It has definitely helped! Also, about a year ago we stopped drinking alcohol not like intentional we have gotten to where we don't want to spend the money on a fancy drink ($15) and would rather get an appetizer or buy a better steak at the grocery store.
You are so cute and lovely. You are glowing and look beautufully healthy. This last year I have been wasting money like crazy. My excuse is that I live in China and everything is cheaper here. When I want to be frugal, I am so good at it. It's just a little challenging to cut the bad habits especially in China. Everything is so easy here. I dont eat much meat and when I do it's chicken. I could easily eat at school 3 times a day for $3 a day. You motivate me! My splurge will be on my health, vitamins, food, castor oil. No more taxis/ubers. No more eating out.
I have been decluttering for 9 years. I started when i moved 7 years ago. Im not deprived in the least - i just wonder how i aquired all this stuff!!! Some from my mum's house after she passed, admittedly. But i am still finding stuff and im better now at getting rid of the sentimental stuff because i take photo of it and scrapbook it.
I'm not into perfumes either BUT I love No 4711 cologne which was first produced in 1799. It's light, really inexpensive and it makes me feel really good - there's something about the combination of ingredients that work like aromatherapy. Coffee out is getting stupidly expensive here in Oz as is eating out. If we do eat out it's to catch up with friends or we go for something I can't make at home - and as for take-out we NEVER do that but I do have my easy meals for those 'too tired to cook' days. *SARA* how funny that right after you spoke about handbags an ad popped up for a 'pre-loved' designer and high-end bag website. Can't think of anything I would want less! Cheers from Oz!
I‘m from Cologne, where 4711 is produced. It‘s always funny to me how much foreigners and tourists love this cologne, whereas us Rhinelanders *hate* the smell.
@@vesperuges Gosh that's so funny!! It's a lovely scent for our hot summers but honestly, the smell just makes me feel good! Maybe it competes too much with the delicious smell of Rhineland food LOL - you make THE BEST sausages! Cheers from Oz!
@@andersonomo597Impossible, the Rhineland cuisine is gross even by German and French standards.
@@vesperuges Oooh OUCH!! I think German food.....weisswurst, sauerbraten, sauerkraut, lebercasse, good rye bread with kummel, cream cheese, apple strudle.......PLEASE don't torpedo my tastebuds!! Honestly, I'll admit I'm going on memories of German food that are probably from before you were born but it's really sad if that is the view of that cuisine today. Good food is the one universal that we can agree or disagree on without bloodshed and I've found that there's more agreement than disagreement. Okay, I'm now off to do a deep dive on Rhineland cuisine, right after I go spritz myself with 4711 LOL. Sending a sincere hug from cold, wet Sydney - love the rain, we need it! Cheers/prost/Na zdravje/Slanj-a-va!!
Hahahaha, I'm the spoon loser. I bought 6 spoons about a year ago, now I have only 1 left !!! I suspect I throw them with the yogurt pot ! Unbelievable.
Now I buy anything I can second hand ! Including spoons lol ! Lately I needed new plates, nice ones lurk at you in regular stores, yet too expensive...
One day at the second hand shop, found exactly the 6 plates I wanted, for almost nothing !
I love second hand shopping ! Shopping spree is a LOT cheaper, yet I have the same nice feeling of getting new things sometimes, like a bag, a scarf, a summer dress...
Re: Travel-Great tip I learned for a TH-camr who does budget road trips..Hampton Inn. He said it was only a bit more than the usual budget places, but very nice, clean, and consistant no matter where you are. We took his advice. Hubby and I haven't been disappointed and saved quite a bit of $$$ without feeling like we sacraficed. Even stayed at one in Key West right on the ocean!
I’ve had good experiences with LaQuinta Inns and Suites.
I do a lot of these already but we are all different in priorities. My husband loves when I wear perfume. It was important to him. I don’t wear it everyday though. I love glass, but… my husband doesn’t want glass anymore. He has health problems and tends to easily drop things. So… we don’t usually use the corelle, instead plastic. They are not my preference but important to him. I also buy a good moisturer for my skin and better shampoo/ conditioner, also deodorant. This is important to me.
I Only buy new cars, I take good care and maintance on them and they last for years. I used to buy used but after buying to many worn out used cars costing a fortune in repairs I learned my lesson well.
I recently found your channel and love your content! You are so right about meal delivery kits, they also have so much packaging! ❤
Oh my gosh YES! A lot of packaging!
I'm as frugal as I can be. But ever since I went gray, I buy a $20 bottle of salon shampoo. I have short hair, so I get at least a year out of that 1 bottle. Conditioner don't matter. I'll use anything. Buy reusable k-cups. You can buy a few, fill them up ahead of time with your favorite coffee. Good to go.
I can so relate to soooooo much of what you've said. Especially the decorating part. Last year at Christmas I decorated with the things I truly loved and then what I didn't use, I donated. My home is decorated in "early scatterbrained college professor" with items we've bought on trips, artwork done by friends and family, etc. I'm in no hurry to change ANYTHING. The only one I can't give up are my bags, I'm a purseaholic LOL. We all have our kryptonite. I did dump my Keurig last year and bought a single serve coffee maker. Way cheaper and better coffee. But I totally get it. AC is a requirement for me due to allergies.
Oh yeah...I'm all about the books! I totally get it ☺️
Of course you should keep doing the 6 things you enjoy. Those conscious choices that make us happy are so worth it.
I agree with you in every single point you make !
Regarding the spoons: when married mine were forks. I saw my husband take a fork for his work lunch. I suspected they were being left and lost at his work. Also watched my young niece at a birthday party take a paper plate to the trash while talking to her cousin. I told her she just thru out a fork. She was oblivious to what she had done. Just a kid. Never take good silverware, serving utensils to picnics and potlucks, church gatherings, etc. Always things left behind never claimed including cake pans and serving dishes!
A good premise for adapting your life. I was talking to my son about how I decide what special things like my hair that I spend money on and to be more practical with much of our spending. Every day I stop to give myself that extra time every day to see , do I really need this.
I use the Norwex Body & Face cloths too! One of my besties introduced them to me. They’ve replaced facial cleanser, bar soap & shaving cream too.💗
You are a woman with your priorities right.
Well done!😊
Amen I'm not alone 👍🏻😊 Thanks for sharing 🤗 God bless
I love the "Foo's" too!!!😂
My family was all about practical gifts, especially once my sister and I were adults and moved out. Cash or a gift card were wonderful because we could use it for anything we wanted. If that was new shirt or shoes that was great, but it might just as well go towards groceries and toilet paper. And that’s fine too.
Hi, don't forget regular dental, eye, mammograms, flu shots, flossing first (each tooth and behind molars 5 up and downs) and then brush 5 circles each tooth with a soft brush angled down/up towards gums...a dental hygienist showed me I was doing it wrong! Don't forget yearly exams! Ask your gp what you are due for. Make sure they know all the other specialists and meds you are taking. That includes all vitamins, all over the counter pain relievers.
I like a cold room too
I am with you. I will not give up my k-cups. I will only drink flavored coffee. It is the one thing that I truly enjoy. I am frugal in lots of other ways.
No more monthly planners, calendars, journal notebooks, diaries, stationary and envelopes, address books, greeting cards or other paper goods. I've gone completely electronic and never spend money on these items anymore.
Great idea!!
Hallmark cards are 2 for a $1.25. Getting a note card is wonderful. Yes, you have to buy a stamp but friends really appreciate a real card.
I just discussed this with a friend. It is so nice to receive a letter from family or friends. Stationary can be cheap. Check free take in your area or yard sales can stock you for years.@@sharroncalundan7794
I’m old school but I buy my notebooks at yard sales.
Or Marshall or TJ Maxx
I am so frugal in almost everything! Except organic meats pastured eggs for me including my dogs. They eat what I eat which is organic whole foods. I also won't skimp on good quality supplements ( thorne, pure encapsulations) for me and my dogs. Yes, they do take Reishi mushrooms, salmon oil and probiotics as well. I do put my $$$$ in my temple=body. Love your content! New subscriber!🙌🌠
Sarah! Prep your reusable Keurig basket the day before, then all you have to do is push the button in the morning ❤
I just threw out my Easter and Halloween decorations yesterday and it felt good! Not ready to let go of Xmas just yet but I only do a tree and door wreath instead of the whole place.
Christmas is a tough one to let go of. I'm not ready yet either.
I suggest giving them to a newly married couple or someone that will be living on their own for the first time.
My decorating style is like yours, tropical plants and a little boho and minimumism. I love living in a 55+ apartment. It does cost me $775 a month (sliding scale) but I dont have to fix anything and there is a huge living room and meeting room and exercise room for everyone!
I also use the free passes from my library to go to museums, the zoo, and the aquarium.
😮
I need to see if my library does this!
Thank you for all your tips and content!! ❤❤❤
Great video. For the salon my problem isnt even the cost, its thr time. I just dont have the patience any more.
The spoons! Oh my goodness, I have the same problem 😂 I went to my local thrift store to replace the ones that went AWOL!
I have spoons on my list the next time I go thrifting!
If you have teenagers or young adults living at home with you, maybe you should check the trash cans in their rooms for your spoons! I had the same problem with forks. Then I started finding them in the trash of my sons' rooms! They'd eat a snack and throw the paper plate (with the fork on it) in the trash! I started buying extra forks from the thrift store. I did this till they moved out! 😂
Its an excellent tip, THANKS!
I'm still gonna use my Kcups. I do have, and use, the refillable ones but I fill them all at once so they're ready to go. They don't seem to deteriorate in the short term. I'm not happy about the plastic of them but, when my kids were little was back when disposable diapers were just coming out for everyday use but I had cloth and used them. 2 kids worth of diapers that I did NOT put into the landfills so I figure I have room for a few plastic Kcups. Yes, I can rationalize just about anything if I try .
Thank you for sharing your ideas being so frugal. I too am a nerd. I can relate to so many subjects that you just touched on especially with the jewelry and perfume. I do like spending money on the scented booster beads for my clothing.
Down here in Georgia. I work in an environment that is outside sometimes and inside.
So I try to smell presentable both outside and inside. Especially right now when it's hot. Wearing perfume is not an option. So thanks for your tips they are the same as mine in some ways different. But I get it
You can prep your reusable kcup the night before so you can just hit the button in the morning
Bucking the trend, I don't spend money on travel anymore. I've been to 40 countries over the last 35 years. I've seen tourist attractions, ancient ruins, cathedrals/churches, historic hotels, UNESCO world heritage sites, museums, shopping areas, street markets, etc...and there's nowhere I really want to go. The cost and hassle of travel is enough to make me want to stay home.
This is AMAZING! You’ve experienced some glorious places. I’m just getting started. 😊
Yeah. Outdoor decor is one of my hobbies. I just put up Independence Day decor. I do live in a small place with an equally small patio. I did the math, and use outdoor seasonal lights from both solar and battery packs. I buy a lot of the other stuff on after-season clearance, make use of Hobby Lobby, and reuse stuff, changing it out here and there.
I always hated high heels! In the 70s, platforms were big. I've never been talented up high. I do wear wedges on occasion. I have a pair that I've worn for good for years.
Hair- I use apprentices. We have an apprenticeship program in our state. The apprentices are supervised. The cost is $20, $4 for any chemicals.
I am not a jewelry person, either. When my hubz died, I gave our wedding rings and my blue topaz earrings to my youngest, and my engagement ring to another daughter, and put away the other set for my granddaughter when she's older. I switched to pearls, cultured pearls. I already had 2 strands, so all I had to get were earrings.
I just went through a bad round of gift giving during graduation season. I got our new doctor a nice doctor's briefcase, but cloth. I got another newly minted professional woman a string of (cultured) pearls. And I am waiting for one to cash the graduation money I sent for high school. It's been a month. Not one word. I surmise that people, including doctors, who can't at least text "thank you" don't need gifts.
My aunt was a big one on practical gifts. And a giant jug of Tide is much appreciated by me!
I totally agree if you can’t even say Thank you you didn’t need or want it. Im only giving consumable gifts. I ❤ Tide also
Its amazing how many of the not buying anymore that I do as well! Foo Fighters yes! But I don't do concerts anymore. I find that they're just too loud and crowded for me anyway and once I'm there, I wish I had stayed home! I'm sure you know the feeling. I will however treat myself and a daughter or 3 to 1 live production a year. A musical or a play. We all enjoy those. But I so agree with you on hair, perfume, coffee shops, restaurants and most of the others you mentioned. I would appreciate a travel video as well. Husband and I are thinking of doing a road trip for our 20th anniversary coming up. Going to keep it West Coast but the stay in hotel vs. the RV and RV park is something to consider.
Sara, i absolutely love your channel, your videos, and your content. AND i especially enjoyyour sense of humor and style of delivery. So fun. Thank you for all your effort! Very appreciated.
Thank you so much!! I appreciate you and thanks for watching!
Im not buying a private jet this year! Ill save millions!!!
Me neither! 😂
I'm not giving up heavy whipping cream for my coffee even at 5.50
a quart
@@kathymccune2679
And no one can make you! You deserve to have your "guilty pleasure"!
Probably the jet you bought in 2021 is still good, right?😉
I'm with you on plastic! Glass is my favorite.
I make my own mayonnaise and put it in a mason jar. Most of the mayo is made with canola oil, so I make my own with avacado or olive oil
I can't sleep.hit either, but I don't need my whole house cold in the summer. I bought a unit that is just in my bedroom, so the house is 74 and my bedroom is 64.
100% agree and follow this list. We are a k.cup household. In Canada they have compostable pods.
The thing about makeup- eyeshadow and lipstick is that they can literally last years. So yes you can use them, but use up before buying more.
Hair can be cut yourself if you have an easy to upkeep style. If you do get it cut, do it only a couple of times a year. Its expensive to do every 6wks.
Coffee is very easy to save on.
Excellent on all points. Thank you. ❤️
Yes to all of it. Except the Pecan Sandies. Thanks for the reminder I used to love those things and haven't had them in ages?:)
You look beautiful with the minimal amount of makeup!!! I have gone to just wearing only mascara, and add lip gloss when I go out. I stopped coloring my hair.... shaved all of it off (which was dyed dark brown) after my roots grew out to about a 2 guard on my clippers and went to the bathroom and shaved it all off to a pixie cut about 3 years ago!!! Now it is down to the lower part of my back. I have people stop me all of the time expressing to me how much they love my hair, my skin looking so healthy, or my clothing. Not bragging at all just saying my simple look I guess is beautiful. I used to put on "the dog" believe me...but now I just enjoy less hassel and honestly I feel more radiant and beautiful. No beauty routine either. Wash face in the bath or shower and the lotion I put on my body, goes on my face too...I know some might gasp but it works!!!! Life is easier and lived better without adding the pressure and stress of what other people think. Spoons....blame that one on the kids or young adults living at home lol. Love your channel and you are fabulous!!!!!
Great tips Sara! Love your channel! I used to be a financial coach and I still love to get information about saving money. I’m 65, retired and debt free. I do spend a little extra on my hair, skin care and healthy food but always find ways to not over spend on it. I live in NH, summers are short but I spend time walking with my little dog, easy hikes, swimming, cooking out with friends, reading and watching movies on streaming, all no or low cost fun. Have a great summer!
Why not fill some the refillable cups with your favorite coffee and have them ready to go in the morning. It's cheaper and very doable.
It’s a really great idea !! Pop right in!
I have 4 Refill K Cups, I use them, wash them with the evening dishes refill
them each night, so its ready in the morning, I do have a few K Cups, just in case😊
I swear you are in my brain. Yep, I think very much the same. A few differences though. Great content.
You have to start where you are, and change 1 thing at a time, until it becomes a habit. It takes 3 weeks for something to become a habit, from what I've read. Grassfed, pasture raised, organic meat and dairy is the best, if you're not growing it yourself. You have to do what works best for you, and the changes you have made are awesome! Keep working at it, and before long you will be eating all organic, grassfed, pasture raised food, and those k cups will be a thing of the past! The EWG- environmental working group puts out the clean 15, and dirty dozen list. Watch for sales for organic foods, and stock up when you find them on sale, or on clearance!!!😊
I am glad I found your channel! Love the content.
Thank you for the tips. There are several I will incorporate and some I already have adapted😁
I would like to know about frugal travel. I had a bad experience staying at a bad dirty hotel, and WILL NOT happened again! Love your channel, you think like me! 😊👍
I go to the Paul Mitchell School in a nearby town. The haircut is $12, I give the stylist the other $8; so the whole cut, wash, etc. is $20. I always get a great haircut.
Thank you ....i am already doing alot of these..i guess its the age thing...Where is the budget planner for comparison please.. I am a REALTOR and been saying for years that people should declutter before they die so that their loved ones dont have to deal with additional trauma feeling guilty that thy need to toss things
I enjoy instant Nescafe Gold coffee with soy milk. Its delicious.
I wont give up my silver earrings and bracelets.
I adore my pets and I make sure they recieve what is important.
I buy good quality shoes. Visit hairdresser regularly for haircuts stopped dying my hair . Less make up. Less furniture, ornaments, pot plants but I love to have a happy flower garden.
I'm enjoying your videos. Frugal living is the path to financial independence. But in my opinion, it's all about balance. May I ask what products you use? (hair, etc.)? Thanks again.
Sigh, sugar is a hard one, but I'm in my 50s and was just diagnosed with pre-diabetes. I am going to learn to make keto sweets.
“Who’s taking my spoons? LOL.
That was so funny. 🤣
They get thrown away accidentally, I’ll bet. I’ve caught my grandchildren doing it.
OMG I thought I was alone about the air conditioning temperature! I am totally right there with you. That is how cold I love mine can I do the same thing I love my blankets and pillows. I call it my spot right in front of the TV on the floor. I live in an apartment though where if I have it too low it does freeze over and water starts dripping from it and getting my carpet wet. Everybody makes me feel like I'm crazy. They say its so cold in here but they know I love the cold so I tell them dress for the occasion I'm not changing it for anyone. I do the same thing with my car. It's so much easier to breathe in the cold air and it's better for you. But I was so happy when I heard you say that I didn't feel so alone anymore 😁.
I love a cool bedroom and tons of blankets, too!