BRUTALLY HONEST! SAVING MONEY, EARLY RETIREMENT, & FRUGAL LIVING!
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 18 ส.ค. 2022
- Save Money! Frugal Living! We share how we are managing our spending, our priorities, and early retirement! Early retirement debt and mortgage free couple shows you how you can have an abundant and full life with less money! Living a debt free life is possible by simple budgeting and not over spending! Debt free living is within reach!
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Contact Me frugalmoneysaver@gmail.com
Follow me on Instagram frugalmoneysaver
Mailing Address:
Frugal Money Saver
P.O. Box 256
Jefferson Valley, NY 10535
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I am 77 years old and live alone. I cut back wherever I can so that I am able to help my grandchildren (22, 21, 21, 17) with college expenses. I can't afford to pay for college for them, but I can help. Doing this brings me as much joy as a vacation would.
What a wonderful role model of a grandparent you are for your grandchildren!!! They are so lucky to have you....family is #1
Sandy that is truly wonderful!
My husband and I both retired early as well. He’s 73 and retired at 55, I’m 64 (one year away from Medicare!) and fully retired at 58. Love watching how you and Paul are making it work. We are very lucky to have insurance through my husband's company. We still pay for it, but it sounds like we pay much less than you do. I started taking my social security as soon as I could. The extra $1,700 a month gave us much more wiggle room in our budget and we are saving a lot more than we used to. We are prioritized travel and have been to almost 90 countries, but my husband is really slowing down and our traveling days might be behind us. My sister is always jealous of our travels, but we drive 18 year old cars and they get new cars every 2-3 years. I've probably spent $100 on clothes in the last three years and they buy new clothes constantly. What I’ve learned is that you can’t judge what other people's priorities are. We all need to follow our own hearts and do what feels right to us. Love your channel and your encouragement!
GREAT comment Linda! Thank you so much for sharing!
My priority recently changed. I moved in with my parents last week to help with both our finances and with their health issues. I also work full time but could not afford an apartment anywhere and had to leave my last place.
My priority now is to be sure that they are ok physically, mentally, and financially for the remainder of their lives (they are 80 and 85). If I can save money in this process (which I will be) that is a bonus. I can focus back on what I want after they pass or once this financial crisis in our country hopefully subsides. For now though the 3 of us will ride this out the way families should do things......together.
Thank you both for the insight into the beginning of your frugal journey and for the reminder to be who you are. You guys are awesome.
What a wonderful selfless attitude! Thank you for sharing!
I am a single woman who started my family thru adoption. She is my #1 priority. So with that, I find it very important to pay for a private Christian Education. The cost has gone up a ridiculous amt she is going into 10th grade. So far we still get all our bills paid, and I took a school Nurse job so I could be on her schedule, with that less pay too. I bought the first "new" to me piece of clothes at an upscale thrift store. Paid $6, I was so excited! We do much of the same things you do. I cut out cable, make my own laundry detergent, have prepaid cell phone with no monthly bill, and my daughter lives on hand me downs. Oh and I have a 2009 mini van that I plan on riding in till the wheels fall off LOL. I LOVE my life, God has blessed me beyond measure. I too am trying to pay of my mortgage $31K left to go!!!! Planning to retire at 60, 4 more years.
YES! What a wonderful uplifting comment! Thanks Kellie!
You are to be truly admired.
@kellie bennet. You are amazing!
Good health insurance, a good car, and a clean safe place to live are priorities for me. I love your frugal lifestyle ❤
EXACTLY! Thank you!
I would never ask someone the questions you get! But, thank you so much for sharing all this personal info with us. I admire simple living, and that is what impresses me. I am repulsed by excess😊
I completely agree with what you said Deborah and couldn't have put it better myself.
Same! Why would anyone not paying someone's bills ask such nosy/personal questions???
LOL! No worries! 99.9% of our viewers are THE BEST! We did this video hoping to encourage others!!
Yes! You're doing so well, who cares that they know your business? All your planning and hard work really paid off and still is!
My husband said “see, I knew it” when you said you were Italian. He said he knew it by the way you talk with your hands 😂❤️ (he has an Italian side of his family so he knows lol) I think your home is lovely, I can’t believe people are criticizing you like that. Just because something is new and “in style” doesn’t mean that it reflects good taste in decor and by the way, I covet your Pyrex collection.
They were criticizing they were just asking if we updated LOL!!!
@@FrugalMoneySaver I was under the impression that someone was being mean, I know that TH-camrs mention having to deal with that kind of thing on occasion. I heard you wrong 😂
We are an early retirement, debt free and mortgage free couple too ❤️
I am 52 Robert is 55. He is leaving his job in December.
We are looking forward to the adventures.
We enjoy traveling. Not necessarily a "frugal" thing to do but we do keep the costs down buy researching and getting deals.
Exactly Rhonda! Thank you!
I love your ‘hovering Mom’ ways. They are so comforting and reassuring. My husband and I prioritise private health insurance, reliable vehicles and we sacrifice a lot of modern conveniences to ensure we can take in stray and abandoned animals and give them a second chance at a good life (we don’t have children, so they are our family). Your home is beautiful and full of character. Not dated! Thank you for your positivity and encouragement xx
Dee, you and your husband have good hearts! I don't have children either, but I have 4 cats of my own and several that I feed every day.
Just a great comment Dee! Thanks so very much!
Agreed! I watch your videos when I’m missing my mom/family & am needing some mothering ❤️ don’t ever change. It’s sweet
My priorities are to be able to afford to live a life my husband and I want. That means living simply. I like to travel so saving money was important when the kids were young so we could go on vacation. We have been married for 33 years and in our home for 31. I was a stay at home mom who learned how to be frugal. My sister would always ask me when I was going to sell my "starter" home and I said never. My decor is simple and I don't like dusting knick knacks. Had enough of that when living with my parents. My sister's house is perfectly decorated although I don't know if I feel comfortable there. After losing a lot of weight I now am happy to entertain. I try to do it as frugal as possible without looking "cheap". Living a simple life is very satisfying to my husband and I. We enjoy our new deck and love to sit and read our library books out there. Life is good!
Wonderfully said!
Life is good! Like you and your husband, we have a modest home. We didn’t want to take on a mortgage that required two incomes to make the payment. We wanted some breathing room in case of illness or job loss. We figured over the course of 30 years (typical mortgage term) there are bound to be ups and downs.
If I have ever seen a home so reflective of its owners it is yours. I get a sense of comfort just spending some time in your house. You two are so well matched with your money ideals, that makes these decisions for the future so much better and the desire to work toward your mutual goals so much more effective. You are very motivational! 💜👍💜
Thanks so very much! Appreciate all your support!
Dated! 😂😂😂 that’s insane, your home is precious! We choose to live below our means, helps us sleep so good at night. You have a lovely home! ❤️❤️❤️
We agree Edith! Thank you!
Thank you for the strong message of taking responsibility for ones own choices. When you and Paul both said "we live to impress no one", I just smiled so big. That's how I'm working to live. Thanks for the encouragement.
Absolutely Linda! Thanks for watching!
My number 1 priority right now is to live in the apartment I am renting at the moment with my Husband, even thought we could be paying less in another area of the city, we feel safe in our tiny studio and for us safety is a priority 🥰 thanks Emmy and Paul for doing this video and helping me keep my toes down to earth ❤
Yes being safe is top priority! Thanks for watching
Emmy and Paul you are beautiful people. Thank you for sharing yourselves with others in a encouraging uplifting way. The name of your channel cought my eye but your encouragement keeps me come back for more. Thank you
Thank you so much! So happy you are a part of our channel!
I have been watching you for a couple of years & this really hit home. We live in a community of very wealthy people with mega houses. Ours is a small ranch that I'm sure would be bulldozed for a mega house if we weren't here. Sometimes I'm uncomfortable with our humble lifestyle in this community...I needed the reminder to just do "me". My priority is to be with my hubby & family as much as possible instead of working crazy hours as a nurse like I use largely for the money. Thank you for being a gift in my life.
You are so welcome! So happy the video was encouraging!
I can relate to what your situation because mine is similar. I'll bet, however, that some of those mcmansion people envy those who have right-sized, simple. humble homes. Not only are those homes cozier and homier but they are less stressful to own and maintain.
Yes…Remember what looks like wealth might be debt and stress. So many as we get older realize smaller and less is so much better
@@joanmcmanus5320 thank you so much! I admit I love our little home but sometimes feel uncomfortable with our outside environment. We live in a river house & where we have kayaks, neighbors have huge boats & marines. I am still learning to be comfortable with our humble lifestyle.
@@tugboatgirl1296 thank you! You are absolutely right! Great reminder! We are older & we are very content with our lives. I just get the twinge when I look around sometimes.
My priorities are to be able to treat my grandson from time to time and to live debt free. I don’t buy anything that I don’t have the money for, and if I need to use my credit card, I pay it off every month, I have been living this way for a long time. Believe me, Better Homes and Gardens hasn’t considered featuring my house, but it’s cute, reflects my personality, and is paid for! You do you, Emmy!
Love that! Thank you!
“We live to impress no one”.... love it! I am the same way.... my car is almost 20 yrs old.
Love that Cisa!
Every week your family brings a smile to my heart. You guys are a bright light in a world that can be overwhelming at times. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you do. Love and blessings!
Jennifer thanks so much for the kind words!
Your graciousness shines through in the way you have answered all of the questions. Some were appropriate and some should not have been asked. Thank you both for being who you are. ❤️
Thank you! We figured we could take them and encourage others by answering!
You said exactly what I was thinking but in a much nicer way about some of the questions people have apparently been asking.
Thank you for putting together this video and sharing what works for you. I would love to retire early like Paul and you (and I am pretty sure my husband would retire at 36 if he could 😂). It is a great reminder that it is possible, we just need to make saving and paying off our house a priority. While my husband was in college for his Bachelor's and Master's degree our # 1 priority was him graduating debt free and we did it! He got scholarships for his grades, he worked while going to school (at one point, he had 2 jobs at the same time while majoring in mechanical engineering) and we would budget, budget, budget. Now, our priority is remodeling our house without incurring debt. We paid for our new kitchen (cabinets, countertops, appliances) with cash. We have done almost all the work ourselves to save money. This means it takes longer to finish the job, since we both work full time, but it saves us a lot of money on labor. I agree with your stance on entertaining. I could never rely on food other people bring for my party menu. I recommend stocking up on sale items for hosting gatherings. Hosting a barbecue hardly impacts your budget if you have a stockpile of extra food, paper plates, napkins, etc. Please keep sharing your frugal tips and meal ideas, they are appreciated!
So wonderful and encouraging! Thanks so much Amy!
i dont chabge my decorations hardly ever. i love second hand stuff. i dont like stainless steel it looks dirty quickly. i like white appliances.
Sounds like us lol!
I still use Pyrex that was wedding gifts 50 years ago! After my husband’s passing, I used some of the money to upgrade the windows and bathroom at the home we purchased in 1977. Was I questioned? Yes! But I was looking at future resale value down the road.
Yes, you do what you need to do! Thanks for sharing Sheila!
From one who over-mothers to another, thank you for your positive spin on life!!
LOL! Thanks Stacey!
I feel a little uncomfortable that people have asked you all these questions that you felt you need to answer...
You owe us no explanation.
Your advice and friendship is more than enough!
I hope this personal intrusion has not put you off us....your utube family.
Very best wishes xx
Well Said!
Oh my gosh no Sue! No worries! In this video we took a negative and turned it into a positive to encourage others!
Hi Emmy and Paul it’s hard to believe people are so nosey and want to know so much. I absolutely love watching you both. I admire the way you live. It’s exactly the way my parents taught us 5 children. My husband and I have 4 grown boys in their late twenties to mid thirties and we worked 2-3 jobs each to be able to purchase our home and acreage with cash not to have a mortgage we are debt free also and retired early. Living frugally and growing, raising and making everything possible ourselves, preserving by water bath canning, pressure canning, dehydrating, fermenting, freezing, salt and sugar curing and smoking meats. Sewing and quilting, soap and candle making. I made our kitchen cabinets, countertops, and hardwood flooring and all trim for our house. We have an suv and a pickup truck for hauling firewood , hay and feed, because we are very rural also and when it snows or most likely ice storm the suv is our way out and up this one hill that is 3/4 of a mile up with a rock wall on one side and over 100 ft drop off on the other. We don’t try to keep up with the ( jones) as they say. We live as much of an unworldly life as possible in these times. People are so busy trying to outdo each other now they don’t know what true happiness and satisfaction is. Please don’t change a thing yall are just right. God bless you and your family.
Thanks so much! We have no plans to change LOL!!
I might just put extra on my mortgage today. !!LOL.. I've shaved 6 years off in 6 years I've lived here. It's my only debt. As of now I'm set to pay it off by the age of 45.. I'm really hoping just under 40 🤞🤞🤞
Thank you for inspiring us 🙏
CONGRATS! You are doing wonderfully paying it off!
@@FrugalMoneySaver thank you. It's nice to have a space to celebrate these wins since there's not many people around me who share the same views . Also don't want to feel like bragging. But I'm so excited
You remind me of my Jewish mother. She always made sure you were fed when you visited and she always mothered everyone. Love you guys!
LOL! Yup that's me!
🦋Wonderful example of how to make a simple life be fulfilling. I’m not there yet, but trying with each daily decision of how to spend our money. Blessings to you!🦋
Thanks for sharing Laurie!
Hi Emmy and Paul my wife and myself loved your latest video you were very honest I can’t believe people have said that about your house it is a lovely home full of love and warmth and very welcoming I think some people are jealous that you are so loved by Paul your son sorry I have forgotten his name 🤪and all your lovely family and your TH-cam family you are a really lovely person my wife Juliana is also Italian and. she is. just. as lovely as you and I don’t think you have ever sounded blunt in your speaking you just talk the truth in a lovely way so please carry on as my wife and myself really look forward to seeing your videos very week take care of yourselves love Kevin and Juliana in the UK 🇬🇧
Yes people who are critical and opinionated are unhappy and say negative things to make them feel better about themselves
Thank you Kevin so much! What a lovely uplifting comment!!
You guys are really organized, financially and otherwise. The pension income sounds like a game changer. You have your priorities straight when you talked about retiring and being together. PS. I also love Pyrex, Eva Zeisel, and Corelle - basics that have stood the test of time. Cheers to both of you.
YAY! Thanks so much!
My priorities are my faith, my family and my friends. I live simply and quietly and don't care about keeping up with the Joneses. Your home is lovely and you are both wonderful people
So kind Deborah, thanks!
Paul and you KNOW what you are doing and you work together on all your plans. May the LORD CONTINUE TO BLESS YOU!
Thank you! You as well!
You both bring so much joy to my days. I learn so much from you, and am so grateful.
I love your nurturing nature, and because you're genuine, I return to your channel repeatedly. Thank you for being you, Tammy ❤️
Tammy thank you so much! You are such a blessing as well!
Emmy and Paul, I absolutely love your home. It is cozy and I can tell you take excellent care of it. I remember in one of your videos you said someone who visited your home said they could curl up and take a nap. To me, that would be the ultimate compliment. ❤️
Yes! One of Paul's coworkers!! Thank you!
Thank you Emmy and Paul for being such a great inspiration. You both are true role models for my husband and I. My husband had to retire early at 46 due to health. I hope to retire in six years at 56. Your lifestyle choices, personalities, and transparency are helping so many of us in diverse financial and family situations. May the Lord bless you for your humility and love for His people. Please continue being who God made you to be. Grace and Peace.
Thanks so very much for the blessing! You as well!
Thanks for sharing and encouraging everyone. I’m semi retired early and my husband is still working by choice. Our priorities are to be debt free and have two cars. Family is also a huge priority. We want to be near family and, despite advice to the contrary, we want to continue to spend on our daughter and granddaughter. It’s also my priority to spend on my cats, though I minimize it as much as possible. We’re frugal and do take advantage of free entertainment, but it’s also a priority for us to be able to go to concerts of bands we love. That’s what we do instead of spending on lavish vacations and other activities.
Exactly! You do you! Paul and I love live music and splurge on concerts as well!
I'll bet you two can't wait for Medicare and social security, if it's still around! I hope the young people watching your channel get the bug to be debt free. Owing no one gives you all the options in the world. I waited until my early 70s to retire, but unfortunately I still have a mortgage, car payment and credit card debt. Was paid off when I retired but have had big additional expenses (5 trees removed for $4,000 on credit), etc. Still trying to get bills under control but I'm enjoying retirement. One thing I can't get rid of are the cats! They keep showing up and no one claims them so I guess I mother them. They are my biggest expense, but I couldn't abandon them. Most are around 12 years old. They will probably outlive me, so I hope they can continue to pay the mortgage!
Oh kitties! How wonderful! Thank you for loving them!
Patricia, I'm 66 and will be receiving SS benefits in November because that's my full retirement age. I have 4 cats and about another 15 - 20 that I feed on a daily basis. I say my prayers that I will be able to continue to feed them all as long as I can!
@@susanstacy2493 I'll pray for you also. I spend more money on their food than on food for me. We can only hope they get jobs! Thank you for caring for these fur babies. So many people think cats are nuisances but they really are sweet creatures.
Cats happen! And they always know who the "cat people" are.
The end of my marriage ten years ago flipped my world upside down but the gift was I was able to put the frugal practices I learned from my mom and aunts. At age 51 I got a job in the public school system and quickly enrolled in the state pension system and a 403b plan contributing at almost the max allowed. I also set my course to get out of debt which will happen next April with the exception of my student loans and mortgage. I am thrilled to report I am 96% of my retirement fund goal and will be rolling the money I was using to pay off my other debt to pay off my mortgage and student loans faster! I am 58!
An aside about your "Italian mothering", I am not Italian, but my children's God Mother "Aunt Denise", is originally from Brooklyn. They adore her! I got my now-grown kids watching your videos and my two youngest say to tell you "you're just like Aunt Denise! 🥰
Laura I love that!! Thanks so very much for sharing! You are doing so well on your frugal journey!
I just love your home and how you maintain it. It is so perfect. I so enjoy all of your videos and get so much out of them. You two are the real deal!❤️
Thanks so very much Marilyn!
Wow, having a pension sounds amazing. I wish my husband and I had thought of getting jobs that would end with pensions. As it is, we are behind in our retirement planning and it’s an uncomfortable feeling. But we are working to catch up!
I had to smile at your explanation of over-mothering. I do the same. My kids are young adults and I am big on reminding. I try hard not to nag. But when you know information, it’s hard not to share it with people to hopefully prevent them from getting hurt or disadvantaged in some way!
Same here. I'm single and planning to downsize again to reduce expenses. Good luck to you!
YES! Around the Middle Exactly...thank you LOL!
I retired at 56 from a government job of 32 years and my husband is thoroughly enjoying his career at 60. We sat down with our financial advisor last year and told us that we had saved enough for him to retire and he declined to retire. I’ve taken on the traditional role of taking care of our home and making sure that his clothes are in good repair and we have nutritious, home cooked meals. I grow a garden, I can and freeze and we live simply in our 1840’s cobblestone home in the Fingerlakes of NY.
My priority is taking care of our 8 horses. We even have a 31 year old mare who was born on our farm. We are living a full and abundant life. Thank you for your message.
Sounds wonderful Sherrie!
If it ain't broke don't fix it. You do you. I love that expression. I enjoy your videos and appreciate your frugalness. My children are my priorities. I live my life frugally so that I can provide a good life for my children.
Absolutely!! Thank you!
Oh my gosh...you two are so gracious! I never cease to be amazed at the comments people will make. Our priorities are very similar to yours. My husband and I are both 60 and he will retiring in 10 months. We have our own "little house" in Florida and will be moving there when he retires. Our priorities are keeping the health care insurance that we currently have, keeping our two vehicles, which are paid off, and continuing to live our frugal lifestyle so that we can do some traveling throughout the US if and when we want. Thank you for what you do! I'll be praying that you continue for a long time!
In this video Cindy, we took a negative and turned it into a positive to encourage others!
Emmy, you are Paul are precious! Thank you for the frugality encouragement.
We love living a frugal life. We owe nothing to anyone and our goal is always to live below our means. Living a frugal life means we have more money to travel (traveling in Latvia right now for our 44th wedding anniversary) and extra money to live generously. Debt is captivity and debt free is freedom.
Thank you for everything you do.
You are so right! Enjoy your amazing trip! Happy Blessed Anniversary!
I love your home. A happy home is beautiful home.
Bought the best quality bedroom set for our son when he was 6. It lasted for him, our nephews' sleepovers, and now our grandkids! None of them have ever complained. The grandkids love snuggling under one my homemade quilts. The room is also my sewing room, but I keep it tidy. Still using our 40 plus years Corell also.
Thanks so very much!
for us,quality products,like good kitchen tools,good dish soap,good laundry soap,good winter gear.we live in.chicago.winters can be brutal.
Us too!
The video of Dixie under the blanket was too short! She is the most precious dog! More Dixie footage please.
LOL! She is our little Diva girl! Thank you!
My 5 rescue kitties. I Do without a lot to spend money on them as they give me so much joy xx
YAY! Love that so much!
I love your frugal lifestyle! That's how my husband and I live. Why spend money on things you don't need?
We appreciate all the tips you give us. It's fun saving money. Then we have money for important things.
God bless y'all and Dixie and your son!
Love that! God Bless you as well! Thank you!
Amen on supplying food for guests! I was raised this way. I cater to my guests and don't rely on anyone to bring something. I never ask. If someone offers, I tell them to bring their special drinks.
P.S. I think we are long lost relatives. I feel the same way as you stated in this video. 🙂
So kind, thank you!
You guys are so great together and give really practical advice. Money is just a tool it won't buy happiness, neither will buying the so called latest and greatest thing. Happiness is a mindset. I love being frugal and don't care what other people think! Sending lots of love to you both ❤
Thanks for the encouragement DeAnna!
Giving to God and ministries we believe in.😊
We do the same!
I put a high priority on having pets. First it was cats and now it is a dog. People may want pristine homes and ability to just go anywhere they want but I would rather be with a drooling, shedding dog more than anything else.
YES!! Love that so much!
Your lifestyle is an inspiration. Slowing down when I make decisions that involve spending money makes me do a better job managing what we have. Time spent with friends and family is priceless. Having people in your home for a meal, what a gift to all concerned.
Couldn't agree more Susie!
My Mom passed away in 2008. I love to have people in my life to watch over me! My husband is that way also,so I understand Emmy!👍Love your channel& the content!
Lisa thank you!!
I admire how you both have stuck to your values with your home and anything else you choose.
We don’t all have to live a cookie-cut lifestyle like everyone else. That’s too boring.
Love your message 🥰
Thanks so very much Annee!
you're right
it's always best to do the research,get the best possible quality you can for the price.
higher quality items are in fact a bit more expensive,but they last,so while you pay more at first,you save over time not repairing or replacing over and over
Very true Rochelle!
So glad to know there are others who don't try to keep up with the 'Joneses'!
Yup, not us LOL!
My priority is having a comfortable home. I don't like granite. My formica is just fine. As long as my stove works I will keep it. As long as my 25 year old dryer I never use ( love my clothesline) works that's fine. Ceramic tile floors? No way. I like linoleum. My bedroom suite I purchased in 1984 still works great. Buying things to have newest fad is not me. Stainless steel appliances never always look like a bird pooped on them!
BHAHAHAH! Vicki that is funny...bird poop!
I love how you both are on the same page and how you look at things. I wish I had not purchased so much "stuff" over the years that I now need/want to get rid of. Lol. I really appreciate all the tips and advice and feel it is never too late to start doing more to live frugally. Your channel and Hope and Larry at Under the Median both stress that living frugally is not deprivation living, but instead choosing how to spend what you have on what is most valuable to you. You are all so positive and I not only learn from you all but enjoy how you present everything in such a positive, caring way. We are retired and home is paid for. We value good health insurance and with chronic illness, it is worth the cost. Family get togethers are important and we used to do both the entire meal and the bring a dish of your choice type. Now we mostly do a dessert and coffee type of get together especially if a lot of company at once. Thank you so much Emmy and Paul for all you do. God bless you!
Such a wonderful comment Lulu! Thank you! God bless you and yours as well!
You have a life that is happy, simple and enviable . Your priorities are spot on . Too many people live their life to impress others and I ask why? When we moved to our unit in our back yard seven years ago from our house ( so our daughter and grandchildren could live in it ) we gave away so much stuff . We witnessed our elderly mother in law give away tons of stuff too to move from a house to a one bedroom in a nursing home . My priorities is health insurance as we both have health issues . It gives us flexibility to have done things sooner than later . The waiting lists for public hospitals is atrocious . Roof over our heads , family , debt free and our little garden are all blessings . Life is a vapour and it’s short .
Great comment Mary! Thank you!
This is one of your best videos. I love your home, ours is similar. We are very happy. So many people feel the need to update their appliances, floors, and cabinets just to update them. Not in our home. If it is not broken don't fix it.
Thank you so much! Couldn't agree more! Thank you!
I use my Pyrex everyday. Mine are the blue and white.. I’ve forgotten the name.. it was my grandma’s and mothers and now mine and I love it. I have all size plates, and cookware. I gave the teacups and saucers to charity as I use mugs for tea and coffee! Your house is your home and I for one love everything I have seen!
Kim thanks so very much!
Thank you always for sharing your knowledge and helping those around you. We are fortunate to have a healthy salary and are too debt free and looking forward to retiring early (early 40s right now).
You have no one to impress like you say. Home decor is something I love and invest in (frugally it love it). But our priority is our childrens feeedom and success, health, freedom to get away. Take care always!
Thanks so much for sharing!
Hi from the Uk, love your vlogs and your advice and tips really help a lot at this difficult times of fuel costs and food inflation. My priorities are my children and their education and futures, my daughter starts University in September and we are having to sacrifice holidays for the next 3 years but it’s worth it to enable her to get to be where she wants to be. Thanks again 😘
Wonderful! Thanks for sharing Donna!
My husband and I are debt and mortgage free. We paid our mortgage off in our 40's. We are on track to retire by ages 56+58. I have had many people ask how we have managed to pay everything off and save for retirement. Everyone is looking for the secret "trick or hack". Nobody wants to hear that we said no to eating out, no to buying lots of new clothes, no to the latest electronic gadgets, no cable TV and no fancy cars. We did say yes to making saving a priority. We had savings deducted before we spent anything. We do not have the latest or greatest of everything but we live a great life and do not want for anything.
Exactly!! Well said Grayce!
Emmy, you and Paul are so genuine!! What a great video. I am striving to live more simply and frugally and your videos are so helpful. Dixie Belle vis just so adorable on her blanket!!
Susan thanks so very much!
You are awesome! I collect and use Pyrex too! I retired in March at the age of 55. I’m so happy and love my home, because it’s comfortable to me too! Thanks for being honest!
Absolutely!! Thanks for watching Kim!
I like peace and quiet activities! Reading, doing a Puzzle, etc...
Lovely! Thanks for watching!
Favorite part of this video "We live for us"...the home, we are comfortable, warm, for us...I always tell everyone that comes into the house now "If you want to see our house, make an appointment. If you are here to see us? You're welcome anytime!" (I actually got this from a very good friend of mine!) I was concerned about the house....I will feed you, water you, and give you a comfy blanket to lounge with us and fellowship! We live very simply too..when people are going on fancy trips, etc.? We are taking care of debt and and investing in our food (medicine) and what we truly need! That's how WE do it! Loved the video, brutally honest--yes, but I love that! I just love the channel and its content...if we were closer, I'd be bringing you treats! :) Blessings from Dawn @ Rich & Dawn in MN :)
Dawn thank you! I would love you to bring us treats, if you were closer of course LOL!
You are so encouraging! I appreciate it so much. Priority: Small home, Family / grand-kids fun, Plant base eating style - farmers market, and daily rest / walking.
Perfection I'd say!
One of my favorite videos you have done and that's saying a lot as you know I love you and your videos to pieces! Such a good reminder to stay the course and strive for a simple life. It amazes me how easy is it to get caught up in fancy. I'm looking forward to a cozy winter in my fluffy robe watching a lot of of Murder She Wrote reruns, ha #fortygoingoneightyfive
Thanks for all you two do! Love and hugs from Chicago.
"#fortygoingoneightyfive" Oh my gosh I love that!! Thank you!!
It’s important to us to stay cool in the summer and warm enough in the winter, we spend a lot on stamps to send encouraging cards and letters to elderly friends. We spend to help those who are needy.
Love that so much Karen!
OMG I had to chime in about ANYONE commenting on your house looking dated. I LOVE what I have seen of your home. I also live to impress NO ONE. I actually love older, vintage things and eclectic. My mom also bought quality, and truly loved the things she had in her home. Let me tell you, when she passed away I couldn't have been happier to take her "dated" things. I now have her beautiful Ethan Allen desk from the 60s or 70s. I love it! I also have her old beautiful bedroom suite. I don't care if anyone else in the entire world likes the things in my home. I love them!
Love your attitude! Thanks so much for the encouragement!
Our home is also dated! But we're comfortable, like you guys are. I'm not trying to impress anyone. We're simply trying to be frugally comfortable. And we're eclectic, too!
Your second home is perfectly logical. A good vacation would cost as much as it costs you guys to maintain that house. It makes sense to me.
You did encourage us to do what works for us. Everyone's situation is different and not everyone wants to be frugal. They need to do their lives as they see fit. We see fit to be frugal. It works for us and your videos help us do that.
The main thing we prioritize is having internet service. My husband has very limited mobility so we keep the internet service to be able to stream tv shows and movies. He reads a lot but he deserves to be able to watch tv. And I want him to have a wide variety. We don't do vacations or have regular tv service and I work hard to make sure we're well fed but not expensively. We have an old car, but I maintain it well. We shop at thrift stores for a lot of things. The internet service is our main splurge.
You're a lovely person, Emmy. Don't ever change. 😍
Barbara what a great comment! Thanks so much for sharing!
I always think how beautifully kept your home is !
Thanks Jules! We feel the same!
That was a great video. I personally love your home. It is so snuggly and homely.
We agree Samantha! Thank you!
Great advice.
Thanks!
Love this! You guys are so right!
Thanks so much Judy!
I live in a house that I am told by others is way too big for me living alone. It is the home where I raised my 3 children and because it has such special memories I will stay here as long as I can. I am retired and living alone so home is very important to me. Yes upkeep is expensive for a 4 bedroom 2 story house but the value in equity has grown tremendously since I first bought it. To me it is not only a home but an investment. My neighbours are like family.
Thank you so much. You are so inspiring and gracious:)
Thanks so very much Tamara!
I love your videos and can't wait to watch them. You are absolutely the best❤
Thank you so much Susan!!
My priority is joy. I refuse to deal with people that jeopardize my joy. Much love from Arizona. 🏳️🌈✌🏾
So so smart!! Love that Mr. Gregory!
You make me so happy when I watch your videos!! Thanks for the encouragement.
YAY! Thanks Marcia!
I love your decor Emmy! You have me where when I go thrifting I look for vintage pieces and I did not do that before your videos 😂
Yes! So fun and frugal right!
Heartfelt video! Thanks for sharing With your viewers. 😄
Absolutely!
Love your channel!!!!
Thanks so much Kathy!
We love your videos.
Thanks so much Steve!
I learn so much from you. Thank you for sharing
Thank you Nikita!
We are also debt free and mortgage free. We have two vehicles, a 4WD SUV (2006) and a midsize sedan (2012). Our little car was brand new when we bought it in 2012, trading in a 16 year old Cutlass for it and paying it off as fast as we could. Hubby draws social security and has Medicare and supplemental insurance. I just qualified for Medicare this year, thank goodness. I’m still working part time, self employed and my insurance premium was nearly $1K per month for decent coverage through the marketplace. Now I also have Medicare and a supplement. We just had a new roof and siding put on the house, and did tap into savings to pay cash. In the last two years we had a new HVAC installed, replaced the well pump, and replaced our stove that went kaput. Cash for everything. We still have retirement funds we don’t touch. We are getting big home improvements done now, while I’m still working. At the same time we are socking as much into savings as possible. We are positioning ourselves so that if anything happens to one of us, the other can afford to live on our social security and savings/investment income. That’s our priority. Like you, we eat simple meals and enjoy inexpensive entertainments while living within our means.
Well said Miz G! Thanks so much for taking the time to share!
We appreciate you!
Thanks Raul!
Thank you for your video.
I think your home and lifestyle is just wonderful and you are beautiful in the way you encourage and explain things.
I couldn’t give up my car and would tighten the belt in other areas in order to keep it.
Like you I always try to pay for things outright.
Blessings and hugs from England xx
Blessings and hugs right back Karen!
Great great video ! Very smart thank u
Thank you for watching Claudia!
Hi Emmy and Paul - I recently discovered your channel and am enjoying getting to know you and the community. I like coming here while working around the house because it feels like having like-minded friends in the room keeping me company.
When you mentioned Caldor you brought on a flood of memories. My first job was also at Caldor - I started on the front registers and moved to the domestics department. That was a great opportunity in several ways, most importantly because we sold fabric and regularly had sales of 40% off. Once during my lunch hour I walked up the plaza to a clothing store and saw a cotton skirt for $20. This was in 1977 when $20 was serious money, a third of my weekly paycheck. I realized I could make the same skirt for about $4 and off I went. Since then I have sewn clothes for myself and my children, doll outfits, drapes and curtains, quilts, etc, etc. I look around my home and note every room has something I have created in it and that is a very satisfying feeling.
I grew up in Wappingers Falls and the Caldor I worked at was on Route 9 in Wappingers. Of course, it is long gone - I believe a Kohl's is now in that space. The Hudson Valley is a lovely area and I enjoy visiting from Vermont, where we moved 33 years ago. Perhaps I will see you at the Stormville Flea Market one of these weekends.
Oh how fun!! Yes! Our Caldors here in Westchester County is a Kohls too! Can't wait for the flea market to open again lol!
I really admire your priorities. Youre an inspiration to me.
That is so wonderful to hear Stacia!
Our vacations are going to our daughte and son-in-laws in Florida, to visit with them and see our grandaughter and soon to be grandson. We are blessed that they let us stay with them and they live steps away from the beach.
That is awesome!
Well spoken. I love your true, humble lifestyles. Shared also.
So kind...thank you!
I absolutely love this video you’ve shared ❤️ Thank you 🙏
So many people I’ve known over the years have wondered how I achieved what I have on one income as a single mum. I lived below my means. I saved on the things I could so I could afford the things we needed and wanted.
Wonderful! Good for you! Thanks for sharing!
We retired early also and have no debt. I took my social security as soon as possible and my husband waited. My priority is comfort and that means peace and tranquility and warmth and lack of stress which this lifestyle affords us. You guys are great. Some people are nosey…..maybe?
LOL! Maybe!