Your quite right, my husband and I plodded on, we retired early with no mortgage, own our car and have no debts. My sister used to have a large house with a swimming pool, long distance holidays etc, she now can't retire, lost her house 20 years ago and has been renting ever since. Yet I was always looked down on as poorer, as we made the decision to stay in a small house, with a second-hand car and holidays mainly in the UK. xx
I'm the same. Lived very frugal.over the past 13 years and People looked.down on me.for.not having flashy holidays etc stating you're a long time dead. These people admit they can't ever retire unfortunately however I retired this year, paid off my house with savings, retiring 4 years early. I don't do anything special and I'm not special, simply chosen to be very frugal.
I was the poor one in my circle of friends, being divorced and raising two young children. Frugality was the name of the game, but I made sure my kids got very well educated without debt. My house is paid off, I live in the granny flat, and my daughter rents the house at a very reasonable amount. Win-win for both. Many of my rich friends are not so lucky now.
Oh my goodness, yes to ditch the social group!! A group of us who were all at uni together and poor students at the start, over the years became financially successful. And our social activities became grander because we could all "afford it." Classic lifestyle creep!!! At one point I voiced my concerns and suggested "cheaper" activities instead and overnight became a social pariah. Which would have been fine except my now ex husband still wanted to do the activities and be part of that group. I have zero contact with that group of "friends" and also the ex husband!! 😂
Im 42 , part time tutor, my husband is in full time job , we have two teens in full time education. Living in uk our Mortgage is paid off, no other debts either. I have a small car while my husband own a hybrid to save on petrol. Our biggest expense at the moment is energy bills. I cook from scratch most of the days, kids enjoy take away twice a week and that comes from a small local business, a lady cooks meals in her kitchen and sells, so it’s our personal eat out help out scheme. Life is not as expensive as it seems.
You are so right Jane, we have never before lived in a time when it has been so easy to find information to help ourselves whether it is a cheap recipe, how to budget, learn a new skill or language or how to repair something. Knowledge is power. Another great video 🌟
Jane, as I listened to today’s blog, I was creeping around on the kitchen floor with a cotton swab and a tin of wood stain, touching up gouges in the cabinets. Thriftiness makes me chuckle!
I have watched this with my 16 yo teen - his choice - and we have had some brilliant debate. When my OH came in, he was told by my son that he needed to watch! I am so pleased to have a caring, socially and politically aware son. He goes to a very traditional, middle-class, selective school and knows how lucky he is, certainly doesn't take anything for granted. Things may not be easy but having his understanding makes it a lot better and less challenging.
Such great advice! I am 60 and lived through the inflation of the 1970's & 80's so these times are not unfamiliar to me. I saw my parents struggle to live only on social security in retirement. So I saved as much a as possible in my employer's retirement plan as well as a Roth IRA. Never was I'm more grateful for that when I was laid off from my job of 35 years and then a few months after that I suffered a massive stroke. I now work hard to live on only my social security disabilityvjenefitveach month and have not touched my retirement savings in 8 years. I am so grateful that I have a wonderful and caring and very competent financial advisor who invests my retirement savings and has done a wonderful job of helping that grow over the last few years. Of course right now we are struggling and so I'm glad that that money is just sitting there waiting to rebound. I do hope things get better for every economy in the world but I think we all better learn to put on an extra sweater and throw an extra blanket on the bed this winter. I live in the midwest United States and it has been down to 16 degrees Fahrenheit already so I have had to turn on the heat sooner than I had planned and with the projected rising fuel cost, it is going to be a long winter I fear. I feel particularly bad for everyone in Europe with all of the issues going on in Ukraine and the war as I know there is a lot of power that comes from that part of the world. Everyone please stay safe and warm and try to think about the long-term when spending. Hello to you Jane and Mike as well as adorable Dolly and Mary. Looking forward to your future videos!
I have let go of toxic or competitive people and people who are all about money or status. This is not money related but my husband and I choose not to drink or smoke and we've found people not wanting to know us because we are "party poopers". So we have people in our small circle that like us for us and we also love to spend time together with our beautiful great Dane in our home and garden (and it's fully paid off 😁). Definitely you do you that's what we like to live by. Sending you wishes to keep feeling better 🌸
Yes, Murphy always shows up. The difference is if you have an emergency fund that you have saved over the years, Murphy doesn’t cause much trouble. Great video.
Jane, It is so important to remind everyone that life is a cycle. There are times of plenty and times of hardship. The goal is to remember there is a process to face all of the events and everyone in the world is facing exactly the same issues. Food hikes, energy hikes, job loss or job restructuring, accepting and adjusting to change. I went to a meeting yesterday and even the men were discussing ways to save on gas for their cars and trucks and car pooling for next months meeting. WE ARE NOT ALLONE!!!! Thanks again Jane and Mike. MB
We've both been frugal all our lives, and when my husband got a yearly raise, we increased how much we put into long term savings. We allowed a little extra in the budget as our children got older and ate more, had school expenses, etc. but for the most part our cost of living didn't change. We retired with a paid mortgage, no loans or credit card debt and a substantial amount in the retirement and savings account. We recently had a conversation with other family members and it came out how little we earned compared to the rest. Yet we are the ones in good financial shape and others retired poor, living paycheck to paycheck from US social security, or not being able to retire yet because they owe so much on loans, credit cards and their mortgages. Sad to see them struggle, but they looked down on us for so long and they did this to themselves, so it's hard to be sympathetic. Glad you and Mike are feeling better.
I had to buy a new refrigerator. Both of my sisters had bought the same brand before me. We live 1000s of miles apart. Both of their fridges developed the same issue. My one sister paid a repair man 800 dollars to fix her problem . My second sister just turned off the icemaker. Mine did the same and I went on line an found the problem could be fixed for 80 cents. Fixed it and called my sister who had turned hers off and she was able to fix hers also. It was a very simple issue and I was so happy to know it an easy fix.
My sister and I both looked online for videos on cleaning the cabin filters in our cars..we did it and saved about $100 each in labor charges from mechanics...
I have to note in my book every receipt as I would never remember my spending! You made a very interesting point about people who try and “bully” you into spending more than you are comfortable with! These are certainly not friends who do not respect your boundaries! We got sucked into this lifestyle when we were much younger, but thankfully realized before it was too disastrous but valuable lesson learned!
LOVE your channel!! We have had people who were puzzled when we didn't want to take part in things because it wasn't in the budget, and then we discovered these folks couldn't actually afford it either. They were putting everything on credit cards. Sadly, back pre 2008 we and a couple friends who were debt free, lived below our means, and lived in small homes did not go to Starbucks, were actually teased for being so 'frugal'. Then 2008 happened and the folks who teased us, had their homes foreclosed on, a car reprocessed. Thankfully our actual friends are like us. They live below their means, enjoy activities that do not cost money, are debt free etc.
Hello Jane! I've been binge watching your videos--so informative and practical--plus I enjoy the calm music, your gentle forthright manner and teaching skills. (Plus, LOVE the kitchen tiles!) I watch them on tv so had to switch over to the computer to leave a comment. Just had to tell you that this frugal lady gets a lot of encouragement to keep on keeping on the frugal path :) THANKS to Mike as well, you make a great team!
You talk about leaning I have always made our own bread we got rid of our oven so went on u tube to how to cook my bread found a lady making bread my candle 7small candle with a duct h oven takes 3 hours look it up I can still make my bread with no oven win win love your Chanel keep it up Jane & mike
I live in a community with lots of retired folks( I am retired also) We have stopped being invited to things) They are going out to Dinner 4 or 5 times per week. I do not eat out very often. Maybe 2 or 3 times per year.
Hubby and I live frugal. Older cars, no flashy vacations. I have noticed his family tends to look at us like we are poor. Proud to say I do not have their debts. I would rather save for retirement than have fancy clothes and high dollar coffee.
Yes, everything can be a learning experience. I thought my son just thought all cattle were called buffalo. I just found out this week that he thinks a boy cattle is a buffalo. So we had a vocabulary lesson on bovines in the car driving to the grocery store (for context, we passed a heard of cattle). Money skills are no different. Our kids don't have to know everything, but they need to understand that an item equated to a certain amount of money. We have shown them how our electric bill has gone down becasue we are working hard to keep it low as we don't know how bad the increase might get this year. 2 months ago it was $120, this past month it was $56. Our first bill after moving was $76. We're doing really well managing by shutting off lights as we leave a room. Unplugging things as we can (cell phone chargers, small kitchen appliances, etc.)
I’m glad you are talking to your kids about money; mine never did. They felt that anything to do with money was no business of children! It took years for me to learn a frugal mindset and to get out and stay out of debt. But I find I’m a lot happier with less and being debt free is awesome!
I had to chuckle when you mentioned the Haynes manual! I always got one for whatever vehicle I had, and came in quite handy when I needed to repair something on my car. I couldn't always afford a mechanic or my husband was working so much overtime he didn't have time to make repairs. I never learned to budget or pay bills on time, in fact quite the opposite...I learned how long I could go before electricity was turned off, or how to bounce a check and "pay it later". For that reason, and for the many kids learning the same, I really do wish there was at least one class in middle school or above that taught "there right thing". I know for certain, someone like me would've benefited greatly! Thanks you for your videos and for being so direct, they're quite helpful!
I agree with your strategies. One problem some people I knew made was each time they got a raise or a significant gift of money they would just go about spending it. I was taught and did put majority of that money in savings keeping only a very small amount to spend on something I wanted. Most of the time my want would be something practical. Lost a few friends along the way with that mindset. But nevermind...I'm retired debt free!
I’m 68, retired with debts but no savings!!! As they say, history repeats itself because this isn’t the first time I’ve been broke but it is the worst. Fortunately I have decided this is the last time. So I really enjoy your talks and lessons….they are valuable. And I love your food videos because of the simplicity. So…Thank You.
@@FrugalQueeninFrance My advice is save 20% of paycheck monthly and start young, “stuff” and keeping up with others is so not worth it and…Listen to your mother!! She knows what she’s talking about, although I would never admit this to her
love the part about how we live in a time to find information to learn a new skill etc.....i try to learn about paintings and my revelation is the Mona lisa....i really never knew why that painting was an absolute masterpiece and now i do...thanks to you tube ....cooked a one pot wonder last night from kitchen sanctuary ....no left overs from that meal, im sure the other half licked the pan as well as the plate and thanks again to you tube....love your channel..
I have coworkers well in their 70's who would like to retire however can't due to debt ( mortgages, car loans , credit cards etc.) They make alot but spend alot ( cruising, house upgrades, trendy clothes, etc.) They are my best deterrent to living a spendy life as I don't want to end up like them.
Your videos are always so full of useful information. Even if I have heard some of it before, it's always good to hear it again and often I learn something new. I love you no-nonsense approach. Must come from your days of school teaching! Mostly just good common sense! Thank you!
I also lived through the 70’s and 80’s when inflation was worse than it is now. This gave me a good grounding for dealing with what is happening at the moment. I have lived frugally all my adult life, some of the time I had no choice now I choose to live that way. Have always worked and paid into the pension when I was eligible.Years ago married women working part time were excluded. I am now retired debt and mortgage free with a full pension but I still live the same frugal life, still budget every month still have sinking funds and a 12 month emergency fund. These measures allow me to live well without dipping into my long term savings and also to have my little treats and occasional splurges.
Yes Jane I do feel we live very similar lives in different locations. Most of my close social group are like minded people, maybe not quiet as frugal as me but on smaller incomes and do not believe in living with debt. I do have friends who I know live above their means but these are not people who I am expected to go out socially with.
Murphy is coming. 💯 Even if you have your ducks in a row---one of those ducks will get out of line sometime somewhere. Thanks for the reminders. I hope you get better soon.
❤thank you Jane for this wonderful video❤. I’m keeping a budget book with your advice since last year and it has made a difference in my life. I’m in control of my $ not my $ is in control of me. I’m also putting more into the principal to be debt free in a few years. Thank you for all your great advise. Blessings from L A.
Hubby and I have family who look down on us because we don't buy new cars, drink expensive coffee and live in a small house BUT our only debt is a small mortgage we will have paid off soon. People think if they have retirement accounts they are safe but that is far from the truth. Hubby and I had a good income, money in the bank and retirement accounts then the unthinkable happened. Hubby was in a horrific accident right as the 2008 crash happened and we lost all our money and our business barely survived. Not to mention the huge bills from the hospital because the insurance paid up to so much and we paid the rest. It took a long time to climb out of the hole but we did and more cautious of the world now. Pay attention to what is going on with the world and don't think you're safe just because you have some money in the bank, be careful with debt so you don't lose your lifes work because the world went upside down. Prayers for all during this time!!
I completely agree, keeping learning. At 61,I am always learning new recipes, new gardening skills, investment ideas, and budgeting tips. We never no everything we need, but we can continue to learn.
I appreciate you sharing. It's so difficult to survive despite a very long list of things you must do. In our province, you need two incomes. Housing, food and basic services are inflated. If you use $24 in water, it costs you $65 with handling charges. We try to limit usage for washing. Communication is monopolized by two main providers and they lock areas for just their services at the rate they like. Internet is crazy fees. Something has to change... Appreciate you sharing
@@FrugalQueeninFrance Yes, I pinched raising them and earning their degrees, even they struggle unless married and both working. Housing should be 35% your income and it's now climbed to 50% with groceries raising to 42% hike. Enjoy your channel, your approach is much like ours.
When my less-than-frugal friends want to go out for an expensive dinner, I say either: "Let's have a potluck at my house" or "I can't do dinner but I'd love to join you for apero (or dessert)" or "Let's have a picnic at the beach/park." They often welcome my frugal alternatives! I tell them that for me it's more about getting together w friends than eating expensive food. They are just not used to thinking this way but they're often open to my suggestions. I imagine they sometimes decide to go fancy $$$ and don't invite me!
Omg, you are about the budget and spending tracking. I have a friend who earns 10k more than I do per annum and he doesn't have a penny to his name or knows where it's going. Whereas, I've bought a modest home and support two adults and two floof babies and still save at the end of the month xx
We are both loners and do not have a social network that always does expensive activities. Thank you for your encouragement to be frugal. Really, it is encouragement to be content and realize we have so much more than generations before us had. My husband just sharpened the mower with an inexpensive kit we purchased. Yes, there is so much information out there! I love to learn. I have our budget planned for May, including Mother's Day gifts!
Good reinforcement for those already understanding these important things -- and good information and motivation for those learning and beginning to put to use these important things.
I’ve learned over the years that most people don’t budget and aren’t willing to learn, and when I tell them ( when they ask) how I’ve lived my life to be completely debt free, including a paid off mortgage, they are unwilling to make those sacrifices. Also, being financially responsible is boring. It really is. Who wants to hear about me bringing my lunch to work every day to save eating out money to accumulate an emergency fund when it’s more exciting for my coworkers to commiserate together about their high credit card debt and car payments while seated at a restaurant? But, as my mom says, “ your dad and I were always Ok with boring. There’s nothing wrong with boring.”
I have heard you mention finding your tribe etc before and I totally agree, but I will point out another facet. People who are asking these questions [what do I do when people ask me to do things I can't afford] are often NOT telling these friends that they can't afford it - the first step in that equation is being honest and finding a script that works, "Sorry that's not in my budget'" is a legitimate response to a question [meet us at this restaurant, pitch in for this gift, etc] and if you're not willing to speak up about why then you can't resent the offers that are coming in - now if you've TOLD people that and they still press, well I agree they're awful LOL - and should be dropped!
I just got back from a trip that got more expense then I was comfortable with. My friend wanted a fancy hotel and fancy dinners every night. It took the shine off a wonderful trip. I will plan much differently next time. Lesson learned.
I have a very good banking app where I can make 'pots' to put money in eg Savings, Car, Utilities,and Rainy Day. Every pay day money goes into these straight away and when payments are due the bank takes from the appropriate pot.. .This way I don't worry about forgetting something. Also, any money I have left by the next payday goes into the rainy day pot. As you say, Murphy is coming. Love your vlogs,thank you.
I've learned to do a lot from TH-cam videos too! I've always been bad with money. Have been out of debt except for my house a few times and got right back in. The pandemic made me worry about getting ill and then possibly dying so I went back in debt again and tore off a delapidated sunroom, adding a porch there and redoing the roof and gutters in case my kids had to sell my house. lol. I've been exposed to several people, two in my household at that time and never got it. Seems silly now but I do love my porch and the roof was way overdue. It is original to the house, built in 1987. I did make some good decisions, going back to school at 37ish to get a nursing degree, taking a pay cut to go to a government hospital to work. So, now I have a pension where I would only have had a 401K that I would have to make myself contribute to. I also have a tsp account (like a 401K) that I have a little bit saved in but that is where I took a loan for the roof from...so another bad decision. I was going to retire at 65 but have decided to go at 62. Changes at work are stressing me out again. I work from home but they are adding so much to our workload that I'm just tired of it. So, I enjoy your videos and they help keep me on track. I have quit going out to eat and getting take out food which is so much easier now that I don't have to commute. I also haven't been to a movie theater in a while. I will continue to travel but will budget for it. I also don't mind eating at cheaper places and even supermarkets during my travels. I have stayed in hostels and cheap, not so great hotels before that would bother other people. Who cares, you're only sleeping and bathing there? Glad you and your husband are feeling better!
Jane you are so right. I decided I am going to fix my propane heater myself. I have previously fixed my dryer. Here is $65-$80 just to wave at you. Then $80-$100/hour. The fix is very simple. The Broken Wallet assisted me in paying myself first. I always thought to wait until the end of the month out of what is left. Never anything left. I learned to take it out first. What a difference it makes.
Hi Jane and Mike Just a question. Wondering if you had heard of Boursorama Banque, or ING or Fortuneo? Banking fee’s from 2021 yearly amount was Boursorama 22.72 euro, ING 24.88 and Fortueo 27.98 yearly. Not monthly. In Canada if you leave at least $4000 in your checking account at all times, there is no charge for your checking/savings account. If I go under the $4000 at any time during the month, they charge me $12 a month. I suppose I could earn a few pennies if I moved it to a online high yield bank account with no store front but the money is harder to get to. Could I be too frugal? Is trying to save $12 a month being too picky?
@@FrugalQueeninFrance I have no problem with banks charging fees. But if they offer it for free while I have a place to park my sinking funds, then I am all for saving $144 per year. Better in my pocket than theirs.
So, I bought a house. In my country, fixed rates don’t really happen. When I bought the house, I anticipated that the interest rates would rise(although it’s going faster than I hoped) and worked my budget(as in monthly bond amount) out based on the pre-Covid rates. Here’s my question wrt paying yourself first: My mortgage is a flexi-account, thus I can withdraw any amount I have put in. So far, I treat it like my savings and put my “pay myself first” money in there in order to pay it off as quickly as possible and avoid paying so much interest. I have been of two minds about this… Do I split my “pay myself first” money half into the mortage and other half into my other savings account? Or, seeing as I can withdraw what I have put in, just treat my flexi account as a savings account while keeping the intrest down as much as I can?
@@FrugalQueeninFrance Indeed, I’m just always interested in different opinions as I might get an idea or angle I haven’t thought of previously.:-) I will still make my own decision. Mortgage free is still VERY, VERY far off since I’m only in my second year of buying so trying to get and stay ahead of interest as much as I can. I’m just worried about being “house poor” at the end of it all. This is my first recession also and I must admit that I’m feeling a bit jittery, BUT being in control of my finances and keeping my money close to my chest, makes me feel more on top of things. Thank you for your fantastic channel! I’ve gotten some great tips and useful way of thinking about things here.🙂❤️
I like your channel not because I learn to be financially frugal because I always have been but because it reinforces my choices. We would seem to be the poor ones of my group but I have a good investment package. I appreciate too you gift to the needy. Good character attributes.
My budget is simple: Save a percentage, And then figure out how to live on the rest.
The next biggest skill is saying;"No. Thank You."
Your quite right, my husband and I plodded on, we retired early with no mortgage, own our car and have no debts. My sister used to have a large house with a swimming pool, long distance holidays etc, she now can't retire, lost her house 20 years ago and has been renting ever since. Yet I was always looked down on as poorer, as we made the decision to stay in a small house, with a second-hand car and holidays mainly in the UK. xx
Absolutely winning at life
I'm the same. Lived very frugal.over the past 13 years and People looked.down on me.for.not having flashy holidays etc stating you're a long time dead. These people admit they can't ever retire unfortunately however I retired this year, paid off my house with savings, retiring 4 years early. I don't do anything special and I'm not special, simply chosen to be very frugal.
Good on you Lena
Good video
I was the poor one in my circle of friends, being divorced and raising two young children. Frugality was the name of the game, but I made sure my kids got very well educated without debt. My house is paid off, I live in the granny flat, and my daughter rents the house at a very reasonable amount. Win-win for both. Many of my rich friends are not so lucky now.
Oh my goodness, yes to ditch the social group!! A group of us who were all at uni together and poor students at the start, over the years became financially successful. And our social activities became grander because we could all "afford it." Classic lifestyle creep!!! At one point I voiced my concerns and suggested "cheaper" activities instead and overnight became a social pariah. Which would have been fine except my now ex husband still wanted to do the activities and be part of that group. I have zero contact with that group of "friends" and also the ex husband!! 😂
Well done
Yes, I'd one of "those" husbands as well...eventually I'd to leave to live the way I was familiar with, and wanted to..never looked back..
I have cut just about everyone out of my life. These people spend like they're going to die tomorrow.
Im 42 , part time tutor, my husband is in full time job , we have two teens in full time education. Living in uk our Mortgage is paid off, no other debts either. I have a small car while my husband own a hybrid to save on petrol. Our biggest expense at the moment is energy bills. I cook from scratch most of the days, kids enjoy take away twice a week and that comes from a small local business, a lady cooks meals in her kitchen and sells, so it’s our personal eat out help out scheme. Life is not as expensive as it seems.
You are so right Jane, we have never before lived in a time when it has been so easy to find information to help ourselves whether it is a cheap recipe, how to budget, learn a new skill or language or how to repair something. Knowledge is power. Another great video 🌟
Thanks Margaret
Jane, as I listened to today’s blog, I was creeping around on the kitchen floor with a cotton swab and a tin of wood stain, touching up gouges in the cabinets. Thriftiness makes me chuckle!
Good for you
I have watched this with my 16 yo teen - his choice - and we have had some brilliant debate. When my OH came in, he was told by my son that he needed to watch! I am so pleased to have a caring, socially and politically aware son. He goes to a very traditional, middle-class, selective school and knows how lucky he is, certainly doesn't take anything for granted. Things may not be easy but having his understanding makes it a lot better and less challenging.
Thanks for sharing
Such great advice! I am 60 and lived through the inflation of the 1970's & 80's so these times are not unfamiliar to me. I saw my parents struggle to live only on social security in retirement. So I saved as much a as possible in my employer's retirement plan as well as a Roth IRA. Never was I'm more grateful for that when I was laid off from my job of 35 years and then a few months after that I suffered a massive stroke. I now work hard to live on only my social security disabilityvjenefitveach month and have not touched my retirement savings in 8 years. I am so grateful that I have a wonderful and caring and very competent financial advisor who invests my retirement savings and has done a wonderful job of helping that grow over the last few years. Of course right now we are struggling and so I'm glad that that money is just sitting there waiting to rebound. I do hope things get better for every economy in the world but I think we all better learn to put on an extra sweater and throw an extra blanket on the bed this winter. I live in the midwest United States and it has been down to 16 degrees Fahrenheit already so I have had to turn on the heat sooner than I had planned and with the projected rising fuel cost, it is going to be a long winter I fear. I feel particularly bad for everyone in Europe with all of the issues going on in Ukraine and the war as I know there is a lot of power that comes from that part of the world. Everyone please stay safe and warm and try to think about the long-term when spending. Hello to you Jane and Mike as well as adorable Dolly and Mary. Looking forward to your future videos!
ThAnks Rosemary
I have let go of toxic or competitive people and people who are all about money or status. This is not money related but my husband and I choose not to drink or smoke and we've found people not wanting to know us because we are "party poopers". So we have people in our small circle that like us for us and we also love to spend time together with our beautiful great Dane in our home and garden (and it's fully paid off 😁). Definitely you do you that's what we like to live by. Sending you wishes to keep feeling better 🌸
Thank you.
Yes, Murphy always shows up. The difference is if you have an emergency fund that you have saved over the years, Murphy doesn’t cause much trouble. Great video.
Thanks Elizabeth
So true! This year Murphy showed up twice and my savings saved me!
Jane, It is so important to remind everyone that life is a cycle. There are times of plenty and times of hardship. The goal is to remember there is a process to face all of the events and everyone in the world is facing exactly the same issues. Food hikes, energy hikes, job loss or job restructuring, accepting and adjusting to change. I went to a meeting yesterday and even the men were discussing ways to save on gas for their cars and trucks and car pooling for next months meeting. WE ARE NOT ALLONE!!!! Thanks again Jane and Mike. MB
We are not alone.
We've both been frugal all our lives, and when my husband got a yearly raise, we increased how much we put into long term savings. We allowed a little extra in the budget as our children got older and ate more, had school expenses, etc. but for the most part our cost of living didn't change. We retired with a paid mortgage, no loans or credit card debt and a substantial amount in the retirement and savings account. We recently had a conversation with other family members and it came out how little we earned compared to the rest. Yet we are the ones in good financial shape and others retired poor, living paycheck to paycheck from US social security, or not being able to retire yet because they owe so much on loans, credit cards and their mortgages. Sad to see them struggle, but they looked down on us for so long and they did this to themselves, so it's hard to be sympathetic. Glad you and Mike are feeling better.
I’m so glad to hear that
I had to buy a new refrigerator. Both of my sisters had bought the same brand before me. We live 1000s of miles apart. Both of their fridges developed the same issue. My one sister paid a repair man 800 dollars to fix her problem . My second sister just turned off the icemaker. Mine did the same and I went on line an found the problem could be fixed for 80 cents. Fixed it and called my sister who had turned hers off and she was able to fix hers also. It was a very simple issue and I was so happy to know it an easy fix.
Thanks for sharing
My sister and I both looked online for videos on cleaning the cabin filters in our cars..we did it and saved about $100 each in labor charges from mechanics...
I have to note in my book every receipt as I would never remember my spending! You made a very interesting point about people who try and “bully” you into spending more than you are comfortable with! These are certainly not friends who do not respect your boundaries! We got sucked into this lifestyle when we were much younger, but thankfully realized before it was too disastrous but valuable lesson learned!
We did too that why from experience I can call out their behaviour as shallow
LOVE your channel!!
We have had people who were puzzled when we didn't want to take part in things because it wasn't in the budget, and then we discovered these folks couldn't actually afford it either. They were putting everything on credit cards.
Sadly, back pre 2008 we and a couple friends who were debt free, lived below our means, and lived in small homes did not go to Starbucks, were actually teased for being so 'frugal'. Then 2008 happened and the folks who teased us, had their homes foreclosed on, a car reprocessed.
Thankfully our actual friends are like us. They live below their means, enjoy activities that do not cost money, are debt free etc.
Who’s laughing now?
Hello Jane! I've been binge watching your videos--so informative and practical--plus I enjoy the calm music, your gentle forthright manner and teaching skills. (Plus, LOVE the kitchen tiles!) I watch them on tv so had to switch over to the computer to leave a comment. Just had to tell you that this frugal lady gets a lot of encouragement to keep on keeping on the frugal path :) THANKS to Mike as well, you make a great team!
Thank you
You talk about leaning I have always made our own bread we got rid of our oven so went on u tube to how to cook my bread found a lady making bread my candle 7small candle with a duct h oven takes 3 hours look it up I can still make my bread with no oven win win love your Chanel keep it up Jane & mike
Thanks so much
I saw that and was intrigued. Planning to try it. I also have some gel quick flame cans (for buffet warmers) that work
I live in a community with lots of retired folks( I am retired also) We have stopped being invited to things) They are going out to Dinner 4 or 5 times per week. I do not eat out very often. Maybe 2 or 3 times per year.
You’re not missing much
@@debbieframpton3857 I do not want soup 3 or 4 times a week just so I can go out to eat with people. Sorry not happening.
@@debbieframpton3857 That is fine for you and I understand what you are saying. For me it isn't worth it.
Hubby and I live frugal. Older cars, no flashy vacations. I have noticed his family tends to look at us like we are poor. Proud to say I do not have their debts. I would rather save for retirement than have fancy clothes and high dollar coffee.
Yes, everything can be a learning experience. I thought my son just thought all cattle were called buffalo. I just found out this week that he thinks a boy cattle is a buffalo. So we had a vocabulary lesson on bovines in the car driving to the grocery store (for context, we passed a heard of cattle). Money skills are no different. Our kids don't have to know everything, but they need to understand that an item equated to a certain amount of money. We have shown them how our electric bill has gone down becasue we are working hard to keep it low as we don't know how bad the increase might get this year. 2 months ago it was $120, this past month it was $56. Our first bill after moving was $76. We're doing really well managing by shutting off lights as we leave a room. Unplugging things as we can (cell phone chargers, small kitchen appliances, etc.)
Thanks for sharing
I’m glad you are talking to your kids about money; mine never did. They felt that anything to do with money was no business of children! It took years for me to learn a frugal mindset and to get out and stay out of debt. But I find I’m a lot happier with less and being debt free is awesome!
You are so wise Jane, and give such helpful frugal advice, thank you!
Thanks Marjorie
I had to chuckle when you mentioned the Haynes manual! I always got one for whatever vehicle I had, and came in quite handy when I needed to repair something on my car. I couldn't always afford a mechanic or my husband was working so much overtime he didn't have time to make repairs.
I never learned to budget or pay bills on time, in fact quite the opposite...I learned how long I could go before electricity was turned off, or how to bounce a check and "pay it later". For that reason, and for the many kids learning the same, I really do wish there was at least one class in middle school or above that taught "there right thing". I know for certain, someone like me would've benefited greatly!
Thanks you for your videos and for being so direct, they're quite helpful!
Thanks for your Honesty,
I agree with your strategies. One problem some people I knew made was each time they got a raise or a significant gift of money they would just go about spending it. I was taught and did put majority of that money in savings keeping only a very small amount to spend on something I wanted. Most of the time my want would be something practical. Lost a few friends along the way with that mindset. But nevermind...I'm retired debt free!
You did well. Too many people succumb to affluenza
Our saying at our home is when the emergency comes, not if. We know emergencies arise. They always will
So glad you are both feeling better!
You’re very right about that
I’m 68, retired with debts but no savings!!! As they say, history repeats itself because this isn’t the first time I’ve been broke but it is the worst. Fortunately I have decided this is the last time. So I really enjoy your talks and lessons….they are valuable. And I love your food videos because of the simplicity. So…Thank You.
I’m sorry to hear this, what advice would you give to others so they do save?
@@FrugalQueeninFrance My advice is save 20% of paycheck monthly and start young, “stuff” and keeping up with others is so not worth it and…Listen to your mother!! She knows what she’s talking about, although I would never admit this to her
And P.S. dump the credit cards…if you need something, save for it.
love the part about how we live in a time to find information to learn a new skill etc.....i try to learn about paintings and my revelation is the Mona lisa....i really never knew why that painting was an absolute masterpiece and now i do...thanks to you tube ....cooked a one pot wonder last night from kitchen sanctuary ....no left overs from that meal, im sure the other half licked the pan as well as the plate and thanks again to you tube....love your channel..
Thanks Annie
I have coworkers well in their 70's who would like to retire however can't due to debt ( mortgages, car loans , credit cards etc.) They make alot but spend alot ( cruising, house upgrades, trendy clothes, etc.) They are my best deterrent to living a spendy life as I don't want to end up like them.
Absolutely! Nothing is more liberating than when we hit 40 with no debt and 50 with no mortgage either.
Your videos are always so full of useful information. Even if I have heard some of it before, it's always good to hear it again and often I learn something new. I love you no-nonsense approach. Must come from your days of school teaching! Mostly just good common sense! Thank you!
Thank you
I also lived through the 70’s and 80’s when inflation was worse than it is now. This gave me a good grounding for dealing with what is happening at the moment. I have lived frugally all my adult life, some of the time I had no choice now I choose to live that way. Have always worked and paid into the pension when I was eligible.Years ago married women working part time were excluded. I am now retired debt and mortgage free with a full pension but I still live the same frugal life, still budget every month still have sinking funds and a 12 month emergency fund. These measures allow me to live well without dipping into my long term savings and also to have my little treats and occasional splurges.
You live just like us.
Yes Jane I do feel we live very similar lives in different locations. Most of my close social group are like minded people, maybe not quiet as frugal as me but on smaller incomes and do not believe in living with debt. I do have friends who I know live above their means but these are not people who I am expected to go out socially with.
Murphy is coming. 💯 Even if you have your ducks in a row---one of those ducks will get out of line sometime somewhere. Thanks for the reminders. I hope you get better soon.
Heck to you Murphy !
Jane you talk so much sense
You should write a book, it would be a best seller 📚
Pleased to see you are both feeling better 😊
Thank you
This video was SO excellent!!
Every young person should hear this.
I'm definitely sharing this with others.
Thanks so much
I really enjoy your videos. I don't know that I learn at 10, but I enjoy your sharing your experiences
❤thank you Jane for this wonderful video❤. I’m keeping a budget book with your advice since last year and it has made a difference in my life. I’m in control of my $ not my $ is in control of me. I’m also putting more into the principal to be debt free in a few years. Thank you for all your great advise. Blessings from L A.
Thanks very much
Hubby and I have family who look down on us because we don't buy new cars, drink expensive coffee and live in a small house BUT our only debt is a small mortgage we will have paid off soon. People think if they have retirement accounts they are safe but that is far from the truth. Hubby and I had a good income, money in the bank and retirement accounts then the unthinkable happened. Hubby was in a horrific accident right as the 2008 crash happened and we lost all our money and our business barely survived. Not to mention the huge bills from the hospital because the insurance paid up to so much and we paid the rest. It took a long time to climb out of the hole but we did and more cautious of the world now. Pay attention to what is going on with the world and don't think you're safe just because you have some money in the bank, be careful with debt so you don't lose your lifes work because the world went upside down. Prayers for all during this time!!
Thank you
I completely agree, keeping learning. At 61,I am always learning new recipes, new gardening skills, investment ideas, and budgeting tips. We never no everything we need, but we can continue to learn.
Wonderful!
I appreciate you sharing. It's so difficult to survive despite a very long list of things you must do.
In our province, you need two incomes. Housing, food and basic services are inflated. If you use $24 in water, it costs you $65 with handling charges. We try to limit usage for washing. Communication is monopolized by two main providers and they lock areas for just their services at the rate they like. Internet is crazy fees.
Something has to change...
Appreciate you sharing
It is incredibly hard, challenges like the ones you are experiencing will happen again. Do you have children ?
@@FrugalQueeninFrance Yes, I pinched raising them and earning their degrees, even they struggle unless married and both working. Housing should be 35% your income and it's now climbed to 50% with groceries raising to 42% hike.
Enjoy your channel, your approach is much like ours.
When my less-than-frugal friends want to go out for an expensive dinner, I say either:
"Let's have a potluck at my house" or
"I can't do dinner but I'd love to join you for apero (or dessert)" or
"Let's have a picnic at the beach/park." They often welcome my frugal alternatives! I tell them that for me it's more about getting together w friends than eating expensive food. They are just not used to thinking this way but they're often open to my suggestions. I imagine they sometimes decide to go fancy $$$ and don't invite me!
Great ideas there Donna
❤️ Frugal Queen!
Great advice. Glad you are both feeling better.
Thanks
Omg, you are about the budget and spending tracking. I have a friend who earns 10k more than I do per annum and he doesn't have a penny to his name or knows where it's going. Whereas, I've bought a modest home and support two adults and two floof babies and still save at the end of the month xx
That’s the way it is for many. They didn’t save when they had the money.
We are both loners and do not have a social network that always does expensive activities.
Thank you for your encouragement to be frugal. Really, it is encouragement to be content and realize we have so much more than generations before us had.
My husband just sharpened the mower with an inexpensive kit we purchased.
Yes, there is so much information out there! I love to learn.
I have our budget planned for May, including Mother's Day gifts!
Thanks for watching
@@FrugalQueeninFrance my pleasure 💐
Good reinforcement for those already understanding these important things -- and good information and motivation for those learning and beginning to put to use these important things.
Thanks very much
Thank you for the refresher course. We'll said!
Thank you for this video 🌺wishing you a full speedy recovery ❤
Thank you
I’ve learned over the years that most people don’t budget and aren’t willing to learn, and when I tell them ( when they ask) how I’ve lived my life to be completely debt free, including a paid off mortgage, they are unwilling to make those sacrifices. Also, being financially responsible is boring. It really is. Who wants to hear about me bringing my lunch to work every day to save eating out money to accumulate an emergency fund when it’s more exciting for my coworkers to commiserate together about their high credit card debt and car payments while seated at a restaurant? But, as my mom says, “ your dad and I were always Ok with boring. There’s nothing wrong with boring.”
On the contrary, far from boring.
Excellent video Jane & Mike 👍🏴
Rock-solid advice.
Thanks Linda
Thank you again for a wonderful video. Life skills Indeed.
Thanks Mary
I really got a lot out of this Jane! You are amazing!
Thanks very much
I have heard you mention finding your tribe etc before and I totally agree, but I will point out another facet. People who are asking these questions [what do I do when people ask me to do things I can't afford] are often NOT telling these friends that they can't afford it - the first step in that equation is being honest and finding a script that works, "Sorry that's not in my budget'" is a legitimate response to a question [meet us at this restaurant, pitch in for this gift, etc] and if you're not willing to speak up about why then you can't resent the offers that are coming in - now if you've TOLD people that and they still press, well I agree they're awful LOL - and should be dropped!
And I so agree about the beauty of the hive mind full of knowledge - such an amazing time to be a curious person!
Another great video. We have learned to "act our wage" and to live within our means. Just wish I had started earlier.
We all wish we’d started earlier
We keep using credit unions, for cd's, money market, checking due to higher interest offers.
I just got back from a trip that got more expense then I was comfortable with. My friend wanted a fancy hotel and fancy dinners every night. It took the shine off a wonderful trip. I will plan much differently next time. Lesson learned.
We learn every day
Another excellent video Jane.
Thank you
Excellent advice as always, thank you. Hope you get well very soon 💐
Thanks very much
I am blessed with good friends. If I really wanted to go do something fun, and my friend was tight on her budget, I would pay for her.
Your information is right on time. Thank you.
Thanks so much
I have a very good banking app where I can make 'pots' to put money in eg Savings, Car, Utilities,and Rainy Day. Every pay day money goes into these straight away and when payments are due the bank takes from the appropriate pot.. .This way I don't worry about forgetting something.
Also, any money I have left by the next payday goes into the rainy day pot. As you say, Murphy is coming.
Love your vlogs,thank you.
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment
I've learned to do a lot from TH-cam videos too! I've always been bad with money. Have been out of debt except for my house a few times and got right back in. The pandemic made me worry about getting ill and then possibly dying so I went back in debt again and tore off a delapidated sunroom, adding a porch there and redoing the roof and gutters in case my kids had to sell my house. lol. I've been exposed to several people, two in my household at that time and never got it. Seems silly now but I do love my porch and the roof was way overdue. It is original to the house, built in 1987. I did make some good decisions, going back to school at 37ish to get a nursing degree, taking a pay cut to go to a government hospital to work. So, now I have a pension where I would only have had a 401K that I would have to make myself contribute to. I also have a tsp account (like a 401K) that I have a little bit saved in but that is where I took a loan for the roof from...so another bad decision. I was going to retire at 65 but have decided to go at 62. Changes at work are stressing me out again. I work from home but they are adding so much to our workload that I'm just tired of it. So, I enjoy your videos and they help keep me on track. I have quit going out to eat and getting take out food which is so much easier now that I don't have to commute. I also haven't been to a movie theater in a while. I will continue to travel but will budget for it. I also don't mind eating at cheaper places and even supermarkets during my travels. I have stayed in hostels and cheap, not so great hotels before that would bother other people. Who cares, you're only sleeping and bathing there? Glad you and your husband are feeling better!
Thanks for sharing
Agree never stop learning no what age you are.
We certainly don’t
Feel better soon!
Thanks
Thank you for the video!
Thanks for watching
Fabulous 👌 👏 vlog you are both troopers Anna.
Thanks very much
Thank you for sharing 😊🐿
Thanks for watching
Love your common sense.
Thank you
Jane you are so right. I decided I am going to fix my propane heater myself. I have previously fixed my dryer. Here is $65-$80 just to wave at you. Then $80-$100/hour. The fix is very simple. The Broken Wallet assisted me in paying myself first. I always thought to wait until the end of the month out of what is left. Never anything left. I learned to take it out first. What a difference it makes.
Thanks for sharing
You are preaching to the choir 😊
Glad to hear that
I'm not in the choir yet! 😆 Still learning!
I’m learning new things each day. Thank you Jane and Mike for your videos. I really appreciate each of them
Hi Jane and Mike Just a question. Wondering if you had heard of Boursorama Banque, or ING or Fortuneo? Banking fee’s from 2021 yearly amount was Boursorama 22.72 euro, ING 24.88 and Fortueo 27.98 yearly. Not monthly. In Canada if you leave at least $4000 in your checking account at all times, there is no charge for your checking/savings account. If I go under the $4000 at any time during the month, they charge me $12 a month. I suppose I could earn a few pennies if I moved it to a online high yield bank account with no store front but the money is harder to get to. Could I be too frugal? Is trying to save $12 a month being too picky?
We pay 11€ a month in banking fees, why shouldn’t banks charge for their services?
@@FrugalQueeninFrance I have no problem with banks charging fees. But if they offer it for free while I have a place to park my sinking funds, then I am all for saving $144 per year. Better in my pocket than theirs.
So, I bought a house. In my country, fixed rates don’t really happen. When I bought the house, I anticipated that the interest rates would rise(although it’s going faster than I hoped) and worked my budget(as in monthly bond amount) out based on the pre-Covid rates. Here’s my question wrt paying yourself first: My mortgage is a flexi-account, thus I can withdraw any amount I have put in. So far, I treat it like my savings and put my “pay myself first” money in there in order to pay it off as quickly as possible and avoid paying so much interest. I have been of two minds about this… Do I split my “pay myself first” money half into the mortage and other half into my other savings account? Or, seeing as I can withdraw what I have put in, just treat my flexi account as a savings account while keeping the intrest down as much as I can?
It’s important for you to make that decision. How will your life be better when you’re mortgage free ?
@@FrugalQueeninFrance Indeed, I’m just always interested in different opinions as I might get an idea or angle I haven’t thought of previously.:-) I will still make my own decision. Mortgage free is still VERY, VERY far off since I’m only in my second year of buying so trying to get and stay ahead of interest as much as I can. I’m just worried about being “house poor” at the end of it all. This is my first recession also and I must admit that I’m feeling a bit jittery, BUT being in control of my finances and keeping my money close to my chest, makes me feel more on top of things. Thank you for your fantastic channel! I’ve gotten some great tips and useful way of thinking about things here.🙂❤️
Sound advice to be a lifelong learner.
Thanks so much
👍👍👍
Wow your amazing!!! ;) x x x x
Well thank you
Well done! I love all your scarves…😊
Thanks
I love your stripey tops
Love you outfit Jane..and yes, I'm here for the inspiration..lol..
Thanks very much
I like your channel not because I learn to be financially frugal because I always have been but because it reinforces my choices. We would seem to be the poor ones of my group but I have a good investment package. I appreciate too you gift to the needy. Good character attributes.
Thanks very much
Hope you continue to be on the mend and stay healthy! Thank you for your lovely content!
Thanks Mary