5-7 years before retirement, my in laws knew what they wanted and where they wanted to be. Within 2 months they sold their nice city house, bought their retirement home and arranged to rent a very small studio apartment. They spent weekends and holidays at the lake house and weekdays at their jobs. On the exact day they planned, they retired and moved to the lake house. Mortgage free and very skilled, at age 55, they moved to the next stage of their plan. Both were in excellent health and very excited.
My brother was homeless and lived in a park in Brisbane. He died in December last year at 63yo. Ten days before my mum. So when l think of what l dont have, l remember what l do have. Because what l dont have is my brother and my mum. On a brighter note, l decided l wasn't going to run the heater unless it was for guests this year (in Melbourne). I keep warm and toasty watching TH-cam under an elctric rug l bought at Kmart. My electricity has been $30 p/m for the last 2 months.
I love the example you made of not trying to please people as well as not worrying about perfection. I’m definitely a fan of using every bit of product that I have left. It gives me pleasure to use everything that I have because I bought it.
Hi again Fine, I think that not caring what others think really let’s you live an authentic life and opens up a lot of possibilities for saving money as well as being happier. Gives me pleasure using up everything and making it last longer as well 🌸
Your sweet. We live on 30000 a year because that's all we make and have to pay our mortgage and save within that. It isn't hard when you know if a big emergency hits or house catastrophe occurs you have an easy place to draw from. Raise 3 kids on that, send one to university, help them get started.
Hi Dawn, thanks for sharing. I share these tips because I want to help people use their money as best they can…$30000 AUD is about $21,600 USD. Because of how we live it’s pretty comfortable for the two of us while paying off our mortgage but it’s definitely not how most people around us live… I understand that it’s so much harder on a limited income while raising children…I have raised 3 myself…all the best to you and I do hope that there might have been something helpful in my video for you 🌸
Thanks for mentioning the imperfect perfection (12:50). I think its a really important point to be grateful for what you already have instead of focusing on what you dont have. I practice this and its does put things into perspective and helps with the saving mindset.
Another great and helpful video. I do use a credit card for the % cash back. So I actually save money at the grocery stores and I do pay them off at the end of the month.
Honestly this was sooo helpful I go to the shops just for window shopping but end up spending £20-£30 walking back to my car and let money just flow through my hands thankyu so much!
Yes on the tubes of products. I cut open a tube of tinted sunscreen that no product would come out but seemed heavy. I got at least 4 tablespoons of product that I put in little pots to save buy again for another 3 weeks ‼️
I use a Breville bread maker. I use it daily. I love it because it makes a large loaf. I can get replacement pan and paddle locally when they wear out. Had mine for years. It's good to see a fellow Aussie
For bread I prefer to use a stand mixer with a kneading attachement. You then use a bread pan to cook it. The best part is you can use the mixer for other fun stuff, even make pasta!
Hi hi 😊. Thanks for the suggestion, I would prefer not to have to use my oven if possible as it really heats up the kitchen in the summer, so I thought a bread maker would be more convenient 🌸
Nice video! You don't need a bread machine. You can make your own starter and avoid buying yeast. All you need is a big bowl and 2 loaf pans, flour, oil, salt, sugar, water. The bread machine is totally unnecessary. Another great way to save money!
As far as making bread, we found that following the recipe from "5 Minutes a Day Bread" is DELICIOUS and so easy. I borrowed the book from the library and figured out our favourite recipes. We much preferred this method and end result to using a bread machine. The 5 Minute a Day bread is a great method and saved us time and money.
Oh I love this video. I'm a big fan of frugalism, minimalism & simple living, but this was one of the videos I enjoyed the most. Loved the good summary, your examples, the different categories and so on. Thanks a lot ! 😊🌻
Thank you so much Bernie, that’s so nice of you to say. I believe saving money is easier than people think once you’re in the mindset to do so…all of these tips add up to us being able to save as much as we do 🌸
When a recipe calls for ingredients used to add flavor only I go to the spice cabinet. Onion flakes or garlic flakes for fresh onion or garlic. Celery seed for chopped celery. Dried parsley and cilantro. Pepper flakes, Potato flakes. Of course dried beans and legumes and lentil are the best priced. Make big batches at once and freeze in serving amounts. Bottled lime and lemon juice.
I have a bread machine and often made six loaves of bread by hand when I had kids at home. I love my bread machine. I make a loaf a day in it. It is perfect for just me and my husband. I do not throw bread away because it molds and its easy. I make all kinds of things in it. I make one and a half pound loaves. Fits in a large zip lock. Makes great sandwiches.
Great video , thanks Rowena . I agree that when we eat out (which is very rare ) we are usually disappointed with the quality , quantity and price ! Love all your tips , and hi from Melbourne 😀
Miranda on the Running on Plants channel has lots of great bread recipes that you can make in the oven. She's also plant based, and her breads are so tasty. Our favorite is the herb and "cheese" bread. Thanks for the tips!
I am catching up on old videos. Excellent content as usual. Both my husband and I grew up without air conditioning in our homes and although we have it now, we hardly run it. It gets hot here but we’re very good at living without it. Opening the windows at night and sucking cool air in and then shutting it up and closing the curtains during the day is usually enough to keep the house livable. A whole house fan is also a great help. We had one in our old house and it was wonderful.
Copied from the internet:A whole house fan goes in the ceiling between a home’s uppermost rooms and the attic. It pulls cool outdoor air inside through open windows and doors and circulates it throughout the house. The fan draws warmer air in the house up into the attic where increased pressure pushes the hot air outside through roof vents. I don’t know how well they work in a two story home but we had one in our ranch style home and it was wonderful. It was installed in our hallway ceiling by the bedrooms and we ran it at night to cool the house down. Much cheaper to run than air conditioning.
Hi Sue, thanks for that. It sounds similar to a whirlybird…something I was just talking to my husband about a week ago 😊. That is something we are looking at installing once I’m spending any money again 🌸
@@RowenaMarie We loved ours even though it was noisy ( that house was built in 1959 so it was old). They are much quieter now I am sure. I highly recommend it.
Great video! My partner and I have been discussing more ways to save money. We live below our means already and intend on staying that way. Neither one of us has a fancy phone, we have flip phones. Our cell bill is $50 for the both of us. If we use a credit card, it is one that has 0% interest and the bill is paid way before any interest could accrue.
I have put external blinds on my home. The temp was 32 today, blinds down and air con did not need to be used. Solar also installed, credit on several bills
Hi Alicia, yes gratitude plays such an important part in our money management. I did an entire video on it th-cam.com/video/voI5jt-2R6g/w-d-xo.html, if you haven't seen it. Appreciating what you have really is the best money saver. hugs 🥰
We definitely think alike. Although it’s taken some time to get to the joy of saving. I too challenge my self to use less. Example: by using rags to clean everything I only use one roll of paper towels per year. Rags get washed & reused. Latest challenge was to make my own skincare products from basic pantry items. My skin has received so many compliments. TH-cam is a wonderful resource. Saving has become a new passion - Thank you for the inspiration- Ingrid, Washington USA
I became vegetarian in 1966, I've been vegan for the last 25 years. I've always batch cooked, portioned and frozen my meals because there was no other plant based options in the 60's, 70's or 80's. Luckily I love my own cooking.
Hi Patricia, it’s amazing how much product is left inside tubes and at the bottom of bottles. I figure we are paying for it, might as well use it all! Hugs 🥰
I don't know anything about bread machines but i notice you have a dutch oven. You can make a no-knead bread in that and they turn out beautifully. I make my olive bread like this.
Zojirushi makes a good bread maker. I have a Panasonic that I have had great results with. I see bread makers quite often at Goodwill stores much cheaper than new. Make sure the kneading paddle is in it.
Rowena, even though we pay our house in full we still have to pay property taxes, water/sewer, house insurance and house maintenance. One of the advantages of having a mortgage sometimes water, taxes, a tax break on interest paid and affordable monthly payments. Now I have read several articles were people lost there job they could not afford to keep their home because they had no savings and because they were focusing on paying up their house in full. Can you explain your logic and opinion?
Hi Dori, thanks for the question. As I explained we have a low interest rate loan locked for 5 years. We are not making extra payments on our home but instead investing our money with the goal of paying lump sum at the end of five years. We are very good with money and would not put ourselves in a compromising position. Our rates, or what you call property taxes, are really low as we chose a small house on a small block. ( about $2400 a year total) . I hope this clarifies things for you 😊🌸
I was walking past the lost dogs home recently and there were bins just inside for beets, towels and blankets. Great way to better rid of your old linen etc that is not good enough to donate
What a wise mother she is, loved this utube. I would also suggest that people assess the cost of solar power in their area, and work it out according to the number of years it will last for aswell.
Hi Rowena, I am from Adelaide. I was amazed with the video, everything you mentioned I am already doing it. I am very good with savings. I am saving next 2 years to boost my Super so I can retire early. Enjoyed your video very much. Looking forward to more of your videos. 😊
Hello Rowena, I just stumbled over this video and I loved it! A lot of great ideas to save money! I'll definitly subscribe to your channel and I'm looking forward to binge watch your other videos over the weekend 🙂! All the best from Germany 🙋🏼♀️
Thanks for some great tips to follow. If you are still looking for a bread maker. We have a panasonic. This was the brand recommended to us by the bread flour shop.
Instead of paying off my mortgage only to have all the money taken from a nursing home if I need it I am choosing to invest my money in a long-term health insurance that has a home health writer because many times is a long-term Health provider will say that I can be taken care of it home and then nothing gets covered
I heard a story recently a lady used to host all the baby showers, bridal teas, bible studies etc. At her place, she hadn't hosted for nearly a year so she donated her huge hot water urn. It was taking up so much space and then 2 weeks later she was asked to host. So she went to the 2nd hand shop bought it for $5 used it,.cleaned it and donated it back. She said the $5 is worth it not.having it take up so much space. So many seasonal items can be hired or you can buy and donated back for a few dollars at your 2nd hand shop
I buy food like Europeans I shop when I need food, clean out my fridge first. I use my bread maker, yogurt maker my tiny fresh garden. I use my sprouts maker I'm just healthy and I love it.
Thanks Rowena if I could offer some advice on bread makers, resist the urge to buy one they are not that good and you'll probably have it back on ebay with in a month. I make my bread by hand and and that for a fellow frugal minimalist is good enough. Since you're drowning in sun in WA can I suggest a solar cooker I've had one for many years and during the warmer months it gets used at every other day and never ceases to amaze me how well they can cook a meal. Enjoying your work on youtube. Cheers.
My Dad was a 25 bottles beer day for 12 years. He neglected maintaining house so he could have more beer. I paid $16600 to get house up to code n when i was broke he laughed n sId noone asked me to. That hurt it was money i worked hard for for college. Please dont drink alcohol, smoke or use drugs. PRAY.
Good evening , i live in south of France , i 'm frugalist in order to be on retirement as soon as possible , here is a testimonial to start this year right off : in december 2022 , i will be 40 years old and have closed the reimbursement of my appartment purchased in january 2014 , thanks to my savings on transport-food-accomodation , 12 years money back earn , it is in the same residence where i lived Child , back to the future lol I will invest in real estates , the best way of getting more for my retirement and protecting from inflation which is 4% in France , i wish you the best in your future 👍
Beauty products are expensive. I only buy a serum for discoloration and wrinkles. I do not purchase their recommended moisturizer and just use organic coconut oil from my kitchen. Works great. I also purchase a quality foundation but try to stick to “ clean “ drugstore makeup used sparingly.
I swear by soda crystals for drains washing machine take stains out i love it .i now buy cheaper brands of washingliq now as i know the soda crystsls lift most stains .very interesting video .i use nice boxes for gify hampers put the box lid at the back celophane the gift .but then they can use the box x
Hi Marie, great tips. I love bicarb soda for adding to my wash and as a general household cleaner. I’ve not heard of soda crystals, I will look into them. 😊🌸
I would say you have this frugal thing down to a science. Many of those you mention I have instinctively done for years yet several others I have been too lazy to practice. Typically I go for the biggest bang for the effort more or less. That limits my savings I know and your video has me re-thinking my efforts and lazy streak ! I'm impressed with the way you have made it such a routine in your lives. My view has been enhanced and a lot more $ can be saved than what I realized. The so called "tradeoff" or extra time spent can pay off substantially more. Many will benefit from your shared information. Good stuff !
Hi Frank, I think it’s always important to start with the biggest things first and work your way down. I find the things we do are just second nature now and sometimes I feel as if I’m telling people what they already know…glad you enjoyed the video 🥰
I don't like using credit cards, but discovered that renting a car or a hotel room with a debit card is almost impossible - they all want that credit card! I've compensated by making sure I know what those costs will be and setting aside enough to pay the card off as soon as it shows up as a balance
Hi Plant Lady, I think it might work differently for you perhaps than in Australia. I don’t rent cars and haven’t stayed in a hotel for some time but did a little research and neither of these is an issue here particularly if you have a visa or MasterCard debit card 🌸
Yeah, I think it’s different. I live in New Zealand and have never had a situation where my debit card hasn’t been accepted as a credit card. I am 31 and have a mortgage but have never been asked for a credit score
Hi Jillian, I definitely suggest the felafels recipe, which is at the end of my kitchen tips video and the 26 Meals for $8.75. I hope you find something to enjoy. Also all of my recipes are on my website rowenamarie.com 😊🌸💕
I just found your videos and am enjoying learning about your suggestions. I am plant based too and am trying to find a good oat milk recipe. So I can stop buying it. Could you share yours please? Thanks 😊
Hi Anne…I show a recipe on my frugal reset challenge week 1 update video. I trialed know from the downshiftolgy channel. I’ve recently ordered enzymes so I can trial another recipe and when they arrive I will make that and video it too…hopefully very soon 🌸
I found your channel couple of days ago. I have been binge watching your videos. It relates to me in terms of cooking as i am Indian who cook lots of indian food. I like to batch cook too. I am vegetarian. You videos have given me so many more tips and ideas on cooking. Loving your videos. Xx
Hi Alka, thank you so much for saying hi and I am really glad my videos are helpful to you. I love Indian food and it’s a large part of our diet. My husband is Indian also 😊🥰
@@RowenaMarie thank you for your reply. Nice, i wondered how you talk about typical Indian dishes that you dont find in indian restaurants. I would love you to make some videos on your wardrobe tour, your kitchen cupboards/drawers, whats in your day to day bag(im a bit nosy😂love such videos) your washing routine, do you prefer hand washing dishes or dishwasher etc. I am in NZ. Its only me and my 9 year old son. My aim is to save as much as i can before retirement. Your videos are really helping. Thank you again. Lots of love xx
Hi Alka, as a minimalist there really isn’t much in my wardrobe or bag so I’m afraid that might be a very short video 😂😂. How long have you been in NZ? And love your attitude. I am glad you are finding my videos helpful. Hugs 🥰
@@RowenaMarie haha thats fair enough. Iv been in NZ for almost 21 years. Yes really loving your videos. Your content is different and realistic. I like the fact you said that home doesn’t have to look like on Instagram. Even minimalism has become a kinda business that when you first start it you want your home to look a certain way. I am trying to get into reading more and less screen but i struggle. Focus is not the same and i do get distracted and want to go back on my phone🤦🏽♀️🤦🏽♀️. I dont spend much on myself now and when i do practice self control i feel like a winner rather than giving into the marketing these days and waste my money. I do tend to spend on my son though but there nothing extravagant most of the time. Gonna watch more of your videos now. Hope you have a lovely afternoon. Xx
While saving money is a hundred percent good, I hope people who can read this consider investing as well. A lot of good things about investing and one of it is having your money doubled or tripled in value over a period of time. Wishing everyone success!
Hallo Rowena! Thank you for doing this video and sharing with us some great saving tips! We have a very good and inexpensive bread machine. It's the UNOLD 68456 Backmeister. Not sure if you'll be able to get this brand in Australia. We baked our breads almost every single day. It's amazing :) Greetings from Germany
I did the sharehouse thing for a while. The last straw was living with a guy who was a convicted sex offender who always used to sit outside my room. So I live on my own and it’s much more expensive than I would like but at least I’m not living in someone else’s parole office. Sheesh,
Hi Love Life Budget, I am unsure if they are. Here they are are very economical way for us to use our mobile phones. There are a number of providers, so I just shop around at the end of my 12 month period and always pick up a deal for $120 a year or less. hugs 🥰
I enjoy this video very much as it is packed full of practical advice that I want to learn. I will have to take notes. Thank you for sharing your experiences they are very practical.
@@RowenaMarie here in Europe they are the same but with rental companies you have to provide a credit card….that is the only reason I have one. But I’m what banks call a “dead beat”.
My husband makes using some of these tips impossible. He complains about the cost of food but will rarely eat the same meal twice. Plant based meals for him are also a no go. 🤷🏻♀️
So serve traditional meals that feature meat as an accent. Example chili, burritos made with Mexican rice, meat, etc, Indian curries, etc. I often go meatless and he eats the meat. I set it up like a burrito bar, chili bar, etc. So dishes have beans and he adds mince or chicken, etc. I'm happy because bills are lower. He's happy because he gets meat. 🤣
Hi Sara Beth, I do have a few recipe videos up, there is also a felafel recipe at the end of my kitchen tips video and a zucchini koftas recipe at the end of my frugal challenge update video. I am also working on a recipe video atm, which will be out next week 😊🌸
I have had two bread machines, the first a no-name generic machine for 30 years (never a problem, bread was always good. but we stopped using it and gave it to my sister.) Second a Cuisinart programmable (so we could make gluten-free bread in a machine. it's different.) So now I'm ready to give the second machine away because we've been making bread by hand and enjoying it very much. 30 minutes working time and about 1.5 hours wait time (rising and bake time). better bread too. so the point is, get any inexpensive machine if you want to see how it works for you. I think the biggest difference between machines is the shape of the loaf.
Hi Linda, I do have a few recipes already on my channel and I also have them posted on my website rowenamarie.com I will do some more recipes videos in the future 🥰
I water down my clothes detergent at least 50/50 and it's winter here in Iowa now, and last night I had 3 layers of clothes on to watch our weekly movie.
No.6 @ 3:35 I never used to order takeway. However since the pandemic I have developed a very bad habit of ordering several times a week. Adding it up at the end of the month is eye watering. Not to mention I've gained 7kg in weight. I've deleted the apps, but find myself just doing it online instead if I'm really hungry. It's just too damn convenient!
Hi FoyshaCollection, it’s frustrating when we find ourselves picking up a bad habit and then having to break it 😊. Perhaps you could try having a few easy meals in your pantry that wouldn’t take much time to put together, or bulk cooking on the weekend. Even something as simple as baked beans on toast will be healthier, cheaper and quicker than ordering takeaway. 😊
@@RowenaMarie Hi Rowena. Thanks for your reply. Yeah I always have done for years. With ready meals, frozen foods and also cooking one pot dishes. Its something I need to get back to doing, but just proving much harder to do than I thought.
Cook a meal that is freezer friendly. Eat 1 portion and freeze 3. After a few weeks you will have your own ready meals so bye-bye takeaways and ca-ching! savings are adding up fast. 🤗
I used to do this I broke the habit by food prepping comfort food options. So when I’m feeling lazy I can just microwave a meal up. Also I looked at what I was ordering from the takeaway and made sure I had these options in my freezer ie Pizzas for me lol this way I could eat what I wanted and save myself money.
5-7 years before retirement, my in laws knew what they wanted and where they wanted to be. Within 2 months they sold their nice city house, bought their retirement home and arranged to rent a very small studio apartment. They spent weekends and holidays at the lake house and weekdays at their jobs. On the exact day they planned, they retired and moved to the lake house. Mortgage free and very skilled, at age 55, they moved to the next stage of their plan. Both were in excellent health and very excited.
Hi Kenyon, thanks fir sharing that great story 🥰
@@RowenaMarie 😃 your tips reminded me. Its amazing what can be accomplished with a clear goal.
Sx😅
I save money by sending hubby to do the food shopping. He really sticks to the list.
Hi Pam….sounds great…a two for one bonus..saving money and not having to go do the shopping 😂😊🌸
My brother was homeless and lived in a park in Brisbane. He died in December last year at 63yo. Ten days before my mum. So when l think of what l dont have, l remember what l do have. Because what l dont have is my brother and my mum.
On a brighter note, l decided l wasn't going to run the heater unless it was for guests this year (in Melbourne). I keep warm and toasty watching TH-cam under an elctric rug l bought at Kmart. My electricity has been $30 p/m for the last 2 months.
Why you do not have millions of subscribers is beyond me. Sensible. Down to Earth. Honest. THANK YOU.
Thank you A 1, that’s such a compliment…🤞I’ll have them one day 🌸
A veggie garden also keeps plastic packaging out of the landfills. Good general hints.
Hi Nancy 🌸
I love the example you made of not trying to please people as well as not worrying about perfection. I’m definitely a fan of using every bit of product that I have left. It gives me pleasure to use everything that I have because I bought it.
Hi again Fine, I think that not caring what others think really let’s you live an authentic life and opens up a lot of possibilities for saving money as well as being happier.
Gives me pleasure using up everything and making it last longer as well 🌸
Your sweet. We live on 30000 a year because that's all we make and have to pay our mortgage and save within that. It isn't hard when you know if a big emergency hits or house catastrophe occurs you have an easy place to draw from. Raise 3 kids on that, send one to university, help them get started.
Hi Dawn, thanks for sharing. I share these tips because I want to help people use their money as best they can…$30000 AUD is about $21,600 USD. Because of how we live it’s pretty comfortable for the two of us while paying off our mortgage but it’s definitely not how most people around us live… I understand that it’s so much harder on a limited income while raising children…I have raised 3 myself…all the best to you and I do hope that there might have been something helpful in my video for you 🌸
Thanks for mentioning the imperfect perfection (12:50). I think its a really important point to be grateful for what you already have instead of focusing on what you dont have. I practice this and its does put things into perspective and helps with the saving mindset.
Another great and helpful video. I do use a credit card for the % cash back. So I actually save money at the grocery stores and I do pay them off at the end of the month.
Hi Win, thank you. It’s definitely worth it if your rewards are free 🌸
Honestly this was sooo helpful I go to the shops just for window shopping but end up spending £20-£30 walking back to my car and let money just flow through my hands thankyu so much!
Hi Summaiya, I’m so glad you found it helpful. 😊🌸
Yes on the tubes of products. I cut open a tube of tinted sunscreen that no product would come out but seemed heavy. I got at least 4 tablespoons of product that I put in little pots to save buy again for another 3 weeks ‼️
Hi Starbright Blue…it’s surprising how much you get out of them isn’t it! 🌸
Paid off my our home here in california 100% full now. We are middle age couple and been so frugal everyday to save money
I use a Breville bread maker. I use it daily. I love it because it makes a large loaf. I can get replacement pan and paddle locally when they wear out. Had mine for years. It's good to see a fellow Aussie
Hi Michelle, thanks for the recommendation and thanks for saying hi 😊🌸
For bread I prefer to use a stand mixer with a kneading attachement. You then use a bread pan to cook it. The best part is you can use the mixer for other fun stuff, even make pasta!
Hi hi 😊. Thanks for the suggestion, I would prefer not to have to use my oven if possible as it really heats up the kitchen in the summer, so I thought a bread maker would be more convenient 🌸
Nice video! You don't need a bread machine. You can make your own starter and avoid buying yeast. All you need is a big bowl and 2 loaf pans, flour, oil, salt, sugar, water. The bread machine is totally unnecessary. Another great way to save money!
As far as making bread, we found that following the recipe from "5 Minutes a Day Bread" is DELICIOUS and so easy. I borrowed the book from the library and figured out our favourite recipes.
We much preferred this method and end result to using a bread machine. The 5 Minute a Day bread is a great method and saved us time and money.
Hi Lori, thank you for the tip. 😊🌸💕
Oh I love this video. I'm a big fan of frugalism, minimalism & simple living, but this was one of the videos I enjoyed the most.
Loved the good summary, your examples, the different categories and so on. Thanks a lot !
😊🌻
Thank you so much Bernie, that’s so nice of you to say. I believe saving money is easier than people think once you’re in the mindset to do so…all of these tips add up to us being able to save as much as we do 🌸
When a recipe calls for ingredients used to add flavor only I go to the spice cabinet. Onion flakes or garlic flakes for fresh onion or garlic. Celery seed for chopped celery. Dried parsley and cilantro. Pepper flakes, Potato flakes. Of course dried beans and legumes and lentil are the best priced. Make big batches at once and freeze in serving amounts. Bottled lime and lemon juice.
I have a bread machine and often made six loaves of bread by hand when I had kids at home. I love my bread machine. I make a loaf a day in it. It is perfect for just me and my husband. I do not throw bread away because it molds and its easy. I make all kinds of things in it. I make one and a half pound loaves. Fits in a large zip lock. Makes great sandwiches.
Thanks Rowena. Avoid perfection. Such a good reminder!
Hi Liz, thanks 🌸
Great video , thanks Rowena . I agree that when we eat out (which is very rare ) we are usually disappointed with the quality , quantity and price ! Love all your tips , and hi from Melbourne 😀
Thanks so much Nikki and hi back from Perth 😊🌸
Miranda on the Running on Plants channel has lots of great bread recipes that you can make in the oven. She's also plant based, and her breads are so tasty. Our favorite is the herb and "cheese" bread. Thanks for the tips!
Hi Alex, thanks for the recommendation and I’m glad you found the tips helpful 🌸
Love Miranda!
I am catching up on old videos. Excellent content as usual. Both my husband and I grew up without air conditioning in our homes and although we have it now, we hardly run it. It gets hot here but we’re very good at living without it. Opening the windows at night and sucking cool air in and then shutting it up and closing the curtains during the day is usually enough to keep the house livable. A whole house fan is also a great help. We had one in our old house and it was wonderful.
Hi Sue, I have never heard of a whole house fan before, what are they? 😊🌸
Copied from the internet:A whole house fan goes in the ceiling between a home’s uppermost rooms and the attic. It pulls cool outdoor air inside through open windows and doors and circulates it throughout the house. The fan draws warmer air in the house up into the attic where increased pressure pushes the hot air outside through roof vents.
I don’t know how well they work in a two story home but we had one in our ranch style home and it was wonderful. It was installed in our hallway ceiling by the bedrooms and we ran it at night to cool the house down. Much cheaper to run than air conditioning.
Hi Sue, thanks for that. It sounds similar to a whirlybird…something I was just talking to my husband about a week ago 😊. That is something we are looking at installing once I’m spending any money again 🌸
@@RowenaMarie We loved ours even though it was noisy ( that house was built in 1959 so it was old). They are much quieter now I am sure. I highly recommend it.
Well believe it or not I'm allergic to a/c so I try never to use it unless I'm dying from the humidity. Wheeee
Great video! My partner and I have been discussing more ways to save money. We live below our means already and intend on staying that way. Neither one of us has a fancy phone, we have flip phones. Our cell bill is $50 for the both of us. If we use a credit card, it is one that has 0% interest and the bill is paid way before any interest could accrue.
That's great to hear Lisa 😊. I'm glad you enjoyed the video 🌸
I have put external blinds on my home. The temp was 32 today, blinds down and air con did not need to be used. Solar also installed, credit on several bills
I have watched ALOT of Videos and this is by far one of the most straight forward advice …. Be grateful with the things we already have ‼️🙌🏾
Hi Alicia, yes gratitude plays such an important part in our money management. I did an entire video on it th-cam.com/video/voI5jt-2R6g/w-d-xo.html, if you haven't seen it. Appreciating what you have really is the best money saver. hugs 🥰
We definitely think alike. Although it’s taken some time to get to the joy of saving. I too challenge my self to use less. Example: by using rags to clean everything I only use one roll of paper towels per year. Rags get washed & reused.
Latest challenge was to make my own skincare products from basic pantry items. My skin has received so many compliments. TH-cam is a wonderful resource.
Saving has become a new passion -
Thank you for the inspiration- Ingrid, Washington USA
Hi Ingrid, the great thing about using less is we are saving money snd using less resources so win win 🥰
I became vegetarian in 1966, I've been vegan for the last 25 years. I've always batch cooked, portioned and frozen my meals because there was no other plant based options in the 60's, 70's or 80's. Luckily I love my own cooking.
I started cutting the ends of toothpaste or ointments. My there is a lot of product left in the tube. Thanks for the idea .
Hi Patricia, it’s amazing how much product is left inside tubes and at the bottom of bottles. I figure we are paying for it, might as well use it all! Hugs 🥰
I don't know anything about bread machines but i notice you have a dutch oven. You can make a no-knead bread in that and they turn out beautifully. I make my olive bread like this.
Zojirushi makes a good bread maker. I have a Panasonic that I have had great results with. I see bread makers quite often at Goodwill stores much cheaper than new. Make sure the kneading paddle is in it.
Just found your channel. Gonna binge watch all your videos! Hello from Los Angeles California!
Hi Cassandra 😊. Thanks for saying hi....and a big hello back from Perth, Australia 🌸
Rowena, even though we pay our house in full we still have to pay property taxes, water/sewer, house insurance and house maintenance. One of the advantages of having a mortgage sometimes water, taxes, a tax break on interest paid and affordable monthly payments. Now I have read several articles were people lost there job they could not afford to keep their home because they had no savings and because they were focusing on paying up their house in full. Can you explain your logic and opinion?
Hi Dori, thanks for the question. As I explained we have a low interest rate loan locked for 5 years. We are not making extra payments on our home but instead investing our money with the goal of paying lump sum at the end of five years. We are very good with money and would not put ourselves in a compromising position. Our rates, or what you call property taxes, are really low as we chose a small house on a small block. ( about $2400 a year total) . I hope this clarifies things for you 😊🌸
I was walking past the lost dogs home recently and there were bins just inside for beets, towels and blankets. Great way to better rid of your old linen etc that is not good enough to donate
Hi Puff Piece, I love this tip 🌸
What a wise mother she is, loved this utube. I would also suggest that people assess the cost of solar power in their area, and work it out according to the number of years it will last for aswell.
If I need something, I check Goodwill or Dollar Tree first.
Hi Rowena, I am from Adelaide. I was amazed with the video, everything you mentioned I am already doing it. I am very good with savings. I am saving next 2 years to boost my Super so I can retire early. Enjoyed your video very much. Looking forward to more of your videos. 😊
I am in India.I very written down what you have said.Thank you v much.....Thomas Romauld.
Hi Thomas, I'm so glad you found this useful. 🥰
Hello Rowena, I just stumbled over this video and I loved it! A lot of great ideas to save money! I'll definitly subscribe to your channel and I'm looking forward to binge watch your other videos over the weekend 🙂!
All the best from Germany 🙋🏼♀️
Hi Kathy, thanks so much for taking the time to comment 😊. I’m so glad you loved my video.
Hugs from Australia 😊🌸💕
These tips are solid. I am definitely taking notes 📝
Hi Fine 😊 glad you find them useful. They really work to save a lot 🌸
Thank you Rowena! Very good suggestions!
I’ve found we can buy our main groceries once a month, then just buy extra produce and good sale items during the month.
Thanks for some great tips to follow. If you are still looking for a bread maker. We have a panasonic. This was the brand recommended to us by the bread flour shop.
Hi Joanne, thanks for the recommendation 🥰
Thank you. I am learning to arrange my life in Australia. Your tips are helpful to me
Hi Luna Luna, you’re new to Australia? Which state are you in? I’m glad my tips are helpful to you. Hugs 🥰
Instead of paying off my mortgage only to have all the money taken from a nursing home if I need it I am choosing to invest my money in a long-term health insurance that has a home health writer because many times is a long-term Health provider will say that I can be taken care of it home and then nothing gets covered
❤Great tip freeze fresh veges. Ty🎉🎉
I heard a story recently a lady used to host all the baby showers, bridal teas, bible studies etc. At her place, she hadn't hosted for nearly a year so she donated her huge hot water urn. It was taking up so much space and then 2 weeks later she was asked to host. So she went to the 2nd hand shop bought it for $5 used it,.cleaned it and donated it back. She said the $5 is worth it not.having it take up so much space. So many seasonal items can be hired or you can buy and donated back for a few dollars at your 2nd hand shop
Hi Mel, that's a great story and one that shows how we can always find another solution other than having to own things "just in case". thank you 🥰
I buy food like Europeans I shop when I need food, clean out my fridge first. I use my bread maker, yogurt maker my tiny fresh garden. I use my sprouts maker I'm just healthy and I love it.
Hi Luddenis, sounds wonderful 🥰
I loved this :). Thank you for all the great tips!
Hi Lauren, I’m so glad you found it useful, thanks so much 🌸
Thanks Rowena if I could offer some advice on bread makers, resist the urge to buy one they are not that good and you'll probably have it back on ebay with in a month. I make my bread by hand and and that for a fellow frugal minimalist is good enough. Since you're drowning in sun in WA can I suggest a solar cooker I've had one for many years and during the warmer months it gets used at every other day and never ceases to amaze me how well they can cook a meal. Enjoying your work on youtube. Cheers.
Hi Anthony and thanks for the suggestions, I shall definitely consider them both 😊🌸
My Dad was a 25 bottles beer day for 12 years. He neglected maintaining house so he could have more beer. I paid $16600 to get house up to code n when i was broke he laughed n sId noone asked me to. That hurt it was money i worked hard for for college. Please dont drink alcohol, smoke or use drugs. PRAY.
Good evening , i live in south of France , i 'm frugalist in order to be on retirement as soon as possible , here is a testimonial to start this year right off : in december 2022 , i will be 40 years old and have closed the reimbursement of my appartment purchased in january 2014 , thanks to my savings on transport-food-accomodation , 12 years money back earn , it is in the same residence where i lived Child , back to the future lol
I will invest in real estates , the best way of getting more for my retirement and protecting from inflation which is 4% in France , i wish you the best in your future 👍
Hi Fruga, thanks for sharing your impressive story, that’s so great to hear. All the best to you too 🌸
Awesome advice, this is going to be many peoples mantra.
Hi Christopher thank you 🌸
Beauty products are expensive. I only buy a serum for discoloration and wrinkles. I do not purchase their recommended moisturizer and just use organic coconut oil from my kitchen. Works great. I also purchase a quality foundation but try to stick to “ clean “ drugstore makeup used sparingly.
How do u manage kids with bulk cook and same food for a 3 meals
Just happened upon your video and subscribed. You gave wonderful tips to save money! Ty for sharing
I swear by soda crystals for drains washing machine take stains out i love it .i now buy cheaper brands of washingliq now as i know the soda crystsls lift most stains .very interesting video .i use nice boxes for gify hampers put the box lid at the back celophane the gift .but then they can use the box x
Hi Marie, great tips. I love bicarb soda for adding to my wash and as a general household cleaner. I’ve not heard of soda crystals, I will look into them. 😊🌸
I would say you have this frugal thing down to a science. Many of those you mention I have instinctively done for years yet several others I have been too lazy to practice. Typically I go for the biggest bang for the effort more or less. That limits my savings I know and your video has me re-thinking my efforts and lazy streak ! I'm impressed with the way you have made it such a routine in your lives. My view has been enhanced and a lot more $ can be saved than what I realized. The so called "tradeoff" or extra time spent can pay off substantially more. Many will benefit from your shared information. Good stuff !
Hi Frank, I think it’s always important to start with the biggest things first and work your way down. I find the things we do are just second nature now and sometimes I feel as if I’m telling people what they already know…glad you enjoyed the video 🥰
Plant based and frugal. I'm in! Hello from Canada!
Hi Valda, nice to have you join us 😊🌸
Thank you for your very thoughtful and useful video!
I don't like using credit cards, but discovered that renting a car or a hotel room with a debit card is almost impossible - they all want that credit card! I've compensated by making sure I know what those costs will be and setting aside enough to pay the card off as soon as it shows up as a balance
Hi Plant Lady, I think it might work differently for you perhaps than in Australia. I don’t rent cars and haven’t stayed in a hotel for some time but did a little research and neither of these is an issue here particularly if you have a visa or MasterCard debit card 🌸
@@RowenaMarie You're right - it must be different in Australia, I've never been there. Thanks for checking on that though.
Yeah, I think it’s different. I live in New Zealand and have never had a situation where my debit card hasn’t been accepted as a credit card. I am 31 and have a mortgage but have never been asked for a credit score
I enjoy plant based. I must look through your videos hoping to find some food ideas and recipes. Frugal meals. Jillian
Hi Jillian, I definitely suggest the felafels recipe, which is at the end of my kitchen tips video and the 26 Meals for $8.75. I hope you find something to enjoy. Also all of my recipes are on my website rowenamarie.com 😊🌸💕
@@RowenaMarie thanks so much.
You are doing so well. Been watching back when you only a couple of hundred subs.
Hi Shireen, that’s really nice of you to say 😊🌸
I just found your videos and am enjoying learning about your suggestions. I am plant based too and am trying to find a good oat milk recipe. So I can stop buying it. Could you share yours please? Thanks 😊
Hi Anne…I show a recipe on my frugal reset challenge week 1 update video. I trialed know from the downshiftolgy channel. I’ve recently ordered enzymes so I can trial another recipe and when they arrive I will make that and video it too…hopefully very soon 🌸
I found your channel couple of days ago. I have been binge watching your videos. It relates to me in terms of cooking as i am Indian who cook lots of indian food. I like to batch cook too. I am vegetarian. You videos have given me so many more tips and ideas on cooking. Loving your videos. Xx
Hi Alka, thank you so much for saying hi and I am really glad my videos are helpful to you. I love Indian food and it’s a large part of our diet. My husband is Indian also 😊🥰
@@RowenaMarie thank you for your reply. Nice, i wondered how you talk about typical Indian dishes that you dont find in indian restaurants. I would love you to make some videos on your wardrobe tour, your kitchen cupboards/drawers, whats in your day to day bag(im a bit nosy😂love such videos) your washing routine, do you prefer hand washing dishes or dishwasher etc.
I am in NZ. Its only me and my 9 year old son. My aim is to save as much as i can before retirement. Your videos are really helping. Thank you again. Lots of love xx
Hi Alka, as a minimalist there really isn’t much in my wardrobe or bag so I’m afraid that might be a very short video 😂😂. How long have you been in NZ? And love your attitude. I am glad you are finding my videos helpful. Hugs 🥰
@@RowenaMarie haha thats fair enough. Iv been in NZ for almost 21 years. Yes really loving your videos. Your content is different and realistic. I like the fact you said that home doesn’t have to look like on Instagram. Even minimalism has become a kinda business that when you first start it you want your home to look a certain way. I am trying to get into reading more and less screen but i struggle. Focus is not the same and i do get distracted and want to go back on my phone🤦🏽♀️🤦🏽♀️. I dont spend much on myself now and when i do practice self control i feel like a winner rather than giving into the marketing these days and waste my money. I do tend to spend on my son though but there nothing extravagant most of the time. Gonna watch more of your videos now. Hope you have a lovely afternoon. Xx
While saving money is a hundred percent good, I hope people who can read this consider investing as well. A lot of good things about investing and one of it is having your money doubled or tripled in value over a period of time. Wishing everyone success!
Hi Olga, I completely agree…all the best 🌸
Love grows in small spaces
That’s beautiful Karen 🌸
I’m always looking for people that live plant based, subscribing now ❤
Hi Lesley glad to have you here 🥰
Hallo Rowena! Thank you for doing this video and sharing with us some great saving tips! We have a very good and inexpensive bread machine. It's the UNOLD 68456 Backmeister. Not sure if you'll be able to get this brand in Australia. We baked our breads almost every single day. It's amazing :) Greetings from Germany
Hi Peixin Lee, thanks for your recommendation. Hugs from Australia 😊🌸💕
Finally, someone I can relate to right across the boards!! 🌱 😊
Hi Sharon, so glad you feel that way 🌸
1/14/22....Lots of excellent info about all aspects of saving/shopping/general advice.
this is such and underrated channel! new subbie here😀
Hi the simple lady and thank you so much. I only started my channel 4 months ago so still very new and waiting for people to find me 😊🌸
I did the sharehouse thing for a while. The last straw was living with a guy who was a convicted sex offender who always used to sit outside my room. So I live on my own and it’s much more expensive than I would like but at least I’m not living in someone else’s parole office. Sheesh,
Hi Meow Meow, that definitely wasn't an ideal share situation 😬. In that situation moist definitely better to live alone. hugs 🥰
Wow, yeah be careful out there!!
Didn’t you vet your roommates before letting them move in?
Awesome tips, thank you!
Hi Tia, thanks for dropping by 🌸
Totally agree with the idea of borrowing! Better for the environment too.
Never heard of prepaid SIMs. Wonder if thats available in Canada...
Hi Love Life Budget, I am unsure if they are. Here they are are very economical way for us to use our mobile phones. There are a number of providers, so I just shop around at the end of my 12 month period and always pick up a deal for $120 a year or less. hugs 🥰
I enjoy this video very much as it is packed full of practical advice that I want to learn. I will have to take notes. Thank you for sharing your experiences they are very practical.
RE: credit cards: how do you rent a vehicle on a holiday bid needed? I do agree with everything you said 😊
Hi Ivan, I’m Australia our debit cards are also visa or MasterCard. We just use them the same as a credit card but using our own funds. 😊🥰🌸
@@RowenaMarie here in Europe they are the same but with rental companies you have to provide a credit card….that is the only reason I have one. But I’m what banks call a “dead beat”.
Excellent video. Well done!
Thanks Clayton, so glad you liked it 🌸
Great video so true and been a realist been happy with what you can afford and have amazing good advice
What are soda crystals? Do they have them in the US?
Such a great video! Thank you :D I was wondering if you were planning on sharing your oat milk recipe? We drink oat milk too and it's so pricey!
Hi the Clutter Cutter, the oat milk recipe is on Sauce Stache’s channel. 😊🌸
My husband makes using some of these tips impossible. He complains about the cost of food but will rarely eat the same meal twice. Plant based meals for him are also a no go. 🤷🏻♀️
Hi Cidalia, that does make things a bit more difficult. 🥰
So serve traditional meals that feature meat as an accent. Example chili, burritos made with Mexican rice, meat, etc, Indian curries, etc. I often go meatless and he eats the meat. I set it up like a burrito bar, chili bar, etc. So dishes have beans and he adds mince or chicken, etc. I'm happy because bills are lower. He's happy because he gets meat. 🤣
Please keep up the good work!!!
Hi microtrader, I’ll certainly try 😊🌸
Your food looks great. Do you have any of your recipes posted anywhere?
Hi Sara Beth, I do have a few recipe videos up, there is also a felafel recipe at the end of my kitchen tips video and a zucchini koftas recipe at the end of my frugal challenge update video. I am also working on a recipe video atm, which will be out next week 😊🌸
Brilliant Video. What you are speaking of is exactly how I operate. The results speak for themselves. Keeping things simple is the key. :)
Hi Juliet, thank you. I am always so happy to hear that other people live like this because it really does being great results. 😊🌸💕
Many thanks for valuable and useful suggestions
Hi Gaurav, glad it was helpful 🥰
Great tips! Zojirushi makes awesome bread machines if you can find one.
Hi Janelle and thanks for that recommendation 🌸
So do I cut tubes and add water to conditioners shampoos etc
I have had two bread machines, the first a no-name generic machine for 30 years (never a problem, bread was always good. but we stopped using it and gave it to my sister.) Second a Cuisinart programmable (so we could make gluten-free bread in a machine. it's different.) So now I'm ready to give the second machine away because we've been making bread by hand and enjoying it very much. 30 minutes working time and about 1.5 hours wait time (rising and bake time). better bread too. so the point is, get any inexpensive machine if you want to see how it works for you. I think the biggest difference between machines is the shape of the loaf.
Hi Vicky, thanks so much for sharing, I appreciate the advice and you’ve had a lot of experience with this…😊🌸
Yess do what you want don't worry what other people think
Amazing video ❤❤❤❤ thank you!
Thanks Petra 😊🌸
I just found you and I am enjoying your videos.
Could you please share some recipes?
Thank you
Hi Linda, I do have a few recipes already on my channel and I also have them posted on my website rowenamarie.com I will do some more recipes videos in the future 🥰
Thank you 😊
I water down my clothes detergent at least 50/50 and it's winter here in Iowa now, and last night I had 3 layers of clothes on to watch our weekly movie.
Hi Marisa, thanks for sharing 🌸
Very nice video thanks again Rowena
Hi Jerry and thanks 🌸 hubby made parathas this week and they were good..but we still need to perfect them 😊
Hi Rowena, how are you doing? The algorithm has brought me back here after 2 years 🎉🥰😎
I own a breadman bread maker and it was less than $100.00. It makes 1-2 lb. loaves.
Hi Tessa, thanks for sharing 🌸
Outstanding
This video is amazing 🔥
Hi Yulianna, thanks and I’m glad you found it useful 🌸
You got me at number 1 🙈🤣😬
No.6 @ 3:35 I never used to order takeway. However since the pandemic I have developed a very bad habit of ordering several times a week. Adding it up at the end of the month is eye watering. Not to mention I've gained 7kg in weight.
I've deleted the apps, but find myself just doing it online instead if I'm really hungry. It's just too damn convenient!
Hi FoyshaCollection, it’s frustrating when we find ourselves picking up a bad habit and then having to break it 😊. Perhaps you could try having a few easy meals in your pantry that wouldn’t take much time to put together, or bulk cooking on the weekend. Even something as simple as baked beans on toast will be healthier, cheaper and quicker than ordering takeaway. 😊
@@RowenaMarie Hi Rowena. Thanks for your reply.
Yeah I always have done for years. With ready meals, frozen foods and also cooking one pot dishes.
Its something I need to get back to doing, but just proving much harder to do than I thought.
Cook a meal that is freezer friendly. Eat 1 portion and freeze 3. After a few weeks you will have your own ready meals so bye-bye takeaways and ca-ching! savings are adding up fast. 🤗
I used to do this I broke the habit by food prepping comfort food options. So when I’m feeling lazy I can just microwave a meal up. Also I looked at what I was ordering from the takeaway and made sure I had these options in my freezer ie Pizzas for me lol this way I could eat what I wanted and save myself money.
I shop once a week saves petrol and more time for yourself
Clean own car in UK valeting now 12 to 25 pounds use to be 5.00
Out in sun get a suntan