The other day I baked a whole chicken. Had chicken dinner for two. Used bones and some of the chicken to make soup which was another two servings for two people. Next day used leftovers with mayo on salad for two. Finally the little bit left was used in a pasta salad. With a little creativity you can stretch your food dollars.
Brilliant! I want to do the same. I'm doing meals for 1 Can I keep the chicken for long time or do I have to use it within 4 days. When I've tried before to "stretch" it I'm having to have it morning noon and night! I'm not sure about freezing it..
Well now Jane that is probably the most frank video you have done yet but we all need to hear it. I think just about everyone could do a better job with saying no and cutting back. My husband and I have had some big changes in our life in the past 3 weeks. He became ill and was in hospital for 4 days. Long story short he has been diagnosed with a blood cancer (myeloma). The doctor put him on a low sodium diet because he is having kidney issues as well. Thankfully I had a sinking fund fully stocked with cash for emergency food. We were able to go to the grocery apart from our regular shop and buy the low sodium items I needed to prepare meals at home. The doctor said NO fast food. So we are kind of forced into giving up our weekly fast food. Thank goodness I had a good sinking fund put back for extras. Thank you! You and Mike will never know how much your advice helps.
You will save money by not having that fast food take away! So you will rebuild your emergency fund! Take one of Jayne's other tips on board, though - plan in some meals with minimal cooking and washing up, to give yourself a break. So sorry to hear of the diagnosis, take care.
I love Jane’s hair! Soooo jealous 😁 ! I look better with my hair short. But it’s a nuisance having to get it cut every 7 weeks or so. (It used to be every 5 weeks but … $$$.) I can’t cut it myself because I have two very strong whorls in my hair and I would end up with a couple of impossible-to-manage “cowlicks!” Plus since retirement and C-19; I really dislike leaving the house at all anymore - probably to the point it’s a little unhealthy. But that’s another story.
I love your advice about teacher gifts. Every year when I start to see articles about how to create really cheap teacher gifts, I think, "Oh, those poor teachers." How many apple emblazoned / apple shaped items do they need? I wish teachers would band together and say, "Just give me the $3 you would spend putting together the cheap coffee mug, hot chocolate mix, and peppermint stick and save yourself the trouble." How demoralizing it must be to know you are getting a token based on the cheapest item they could find on Pinterest. We should give teachers respect, support, help, and thanks-not cheap trinkets to clutter their lives-or cash or a gift card they can actually use. ❤️
Here in New Zealand, we don't give teachers a gift, in our culture we see that teachers are paid to teach. ( Be it not very well) Buts just not common practice
As a teacher, we love to get a handwritten card with something meaningful written in it. I have a kept all of mine over the years. I love going back through them and reading them sometimes.
We're finding that "Saturday fridge soup" saves a lot. It's satisfying to use up the veggies and other leftovers in the fridge, and make soup. I put in some spices and it's satisfying. We tend to stay home that day- saves $50 - 100 from flying out of our pocket💸💸. Good luck to us all! ✨😊👍✨
Hi Jane, last weekend my husband an i sat down with our children. We had written down our income and the fixspendings. We did this the first time with the kids. It helped a lot. They aren`t complainig about the food anymore. They even came up with controlling the daily use of water and energy to lower the bill. 😉
I did that with mine, too. My boys are now in their late 30s - not in debt and have savings. Now they are more settled in jobs they are saving for a house deposit each.
@@SandraM4972My sons 34 now. He told me I stopped asking for things because I realised you didn’t have a lot of money. Heart breaking but they understand when they are old enough to
About saying "no"- when you say "no" stop right there. Don"t give reasons or excuses! This simply provides a wedge for people to try to change your mind. Saying a definite no leaves no room for argument! As always, I think your advice is sound- Mrs. G
I have a small group of friends and we get together at each others houses twice a month. We watch movies together, play board games and card games and have a potluck. Its a ton of fun and and a whole lot less expensive than eating out.
As a retired teacher I absolutely agree with the teacher gift thing. Best gift I ever received was an ice cream tub of strawberries from someone's garden but I did receive many expensive gifts that just made me cringe because I felt my salary was payment enough for my job and I felt it was a privilege to have a job where I felt appreciated and well treated as not everyone I'd trained with had been so fortunate. As for the rest of your tips Jane, they are fabulous! I need to watch this video once a week every week until I can trust myself to say no every time I should but since subscribing to your channel I am getting better and have nailed many of them thanks to you. Great video! ❤❤
Thank you, Jane! I am so blessed with two friends who like to meet for walks. As for gifts, one time I received a small, beautiful notebook with my first initial on it. It was useful and meaningful. The key to giving good gifts is listening! People talk about what they like. We eat all our meals at home. This is a huge money saver even with buying quality food.
Your hair looks fantastic by the way!! I’m still working on reducing my food budget without sacrificing quality- but I’ve nailed cooking from home! I’ve done that for many years mostly because I love my own cooking and it’s healthier. But now when I see the cost of meals and drinks out, holy moly, I don’t know how anyone could save money eating takeout.
Great video, Jane! Love your plain speaking! I said NO to Christmas gift giving at the office back around 2008 when I got a bunch of useless junk from coworkers that all went in the trash. I bought a $15 box of tea for the three people I’m close to and my goddaughter will get some cash. I do give my hairdresser a bit extra at Christmas. I’ve been going monthly to her for more than 15 years. I do budget for it.
I agree. I am one of the few colleagues who don't participate in secret santa as it's an extra cost, over cosuption is bad for the environment and like you say, most of the gifts are unwanted.
Just when I think you have given your audience your best video ever you come up with another one. You never stop teaching Jane and I thank you for that. Give those fur babies Dolly and Mary a hug from me. ❤❤
Sorry, for another comment, Jane! I appreciate that you realize not everyone has the time, facilities, or inclination to cook everything from scratch. As you say, a frozen pizza at home is still cheaper than take out. I just absolutely loved your recent video about helping the viewer who had issues stretching her food budget to the entire month.
I agree it's hard cooking dinner from scratch after a working day. When I was working (now retired) I used to cook a lot of staples at the weekend and keep them in individual servings in the freezer. Pasta sauces, stews and curries, quiches, homemade bread, etc. It made life so easy. If I didn't do it I would always be tempted to buy takeaways on the way home.
Same - I am gluten free and it has meant that I have had to learn to cook properly and make more things from scratch. I meal prep / batch cook on Sunday so there’s always something in the freezer if I get home late from work or the gym and don’t feel like cooking. Ordering in food or takeaway is something I just don’t do. There are a couple of places I like to eat out at occasionally but when I do I use my EatClub app and always get at least 15% off.
I totally agree with you, especially about teachers. My daughter, who is a teacher of very small children, says she would much rather have an imperfect, hand-made card from the children than any of the chocolates or other things their parents buy her at Christmas. And yes, she has tried to tell them!
I don't miss the constant collections at work. I began contributing selectively as they were for anything and everything. Thankfully that no longer happens since retiring. I have a smaller circle of friends now which works out fine for me financially. We are of a similar mindset and meet up as and when. Your hair looks nice Jane. Like the long layers. 😃👌🥰
Jane, I’m right with you on all of what you discussed today. Especially with respect to careful usage of sales at my local food stores..it’s like a fun puzzle to solve weekly! Also, Hope from Under the Median gave you a shout out in her last video. I hope it sends some more people here. All the best to you, Mike and the pups❤
My family don't do gifts but we instead give each household / each other a single Christmas tree ornament. It means so much more, and you have the reminders to come out every year. I do needle felring and people love small personalised felted gifts - the felted tree decorations are welcone too.
Hi Jane and Mike, I wanted to let you know I've been watching TH-cam on my TV recently and i don't know how to like and comment there. So I'm at my computer and will be liking and commenting on videos your system may not show I've watched. I think you've been making some of your most important videos ever. I actually did like all the advice in this one, especially that people have to act like adults if they want to make financial progress. I have experienced myself and/or witnessed in some ppl close to me the damage created by impulse spending, "i want it NOW" and "i deserve". Your videos are so helpful. Thank you as always. And congrats on reaching 35K!
I have a tradition with one of my best friends, we always have a theme dinner at home at Halloween, i do deserts, she does the appetizers or vice versa, this years we cooked the main dish together and it was so much fun 😊
I couldn’t agree more. I had a colleague/friend who always complained of being broke but she would buy the most extravagant gifts as thank yous for the smallest things you did for her. She probably thought me a miser but I inherited my father’s money sense (even though I like to splurge at times). My being retired now means that I have to be even more careful with money, and I can say that I generally live within my means.
I worked out that my SIL was spending around £50 not taking a packed lunch to work. I challenged him to take one and he agreed at the end of a month that it had saved him at least £200 and the food was in the house anyway as our family had always taken packed food to work. Love your hair!
Saying “no” is hard. So ease into it. I say “yes” twice and then a “no”. They never catch on….they are grateful I say “yes” and understand when I say “no”. When I gained more confidence I change the ratio to more “no” and less “yes”. It gives me control of how I want to spend my time and money. Good job Jane.
I won’t shop without a list. I have trained myself not to impulse buy . I can’t afford to stockpile. I have one in use one in storage. So I don’t run out of. It works. When I open my one in storage the item goes on the list . If it’s not on the list it doesn’t get bought. Good video ❤
Absolutely love the new hair style! My daughter and I go over our monthly budgets together. Since we live in the same house she knows what the utility bills are and helps with lowering those costs if possible. We have always used drying racks for about 3/4 of the laundry and now it will be 100% as our 4 year old new dryer bit the dust and is not worth repairing (they make them so cheap now a days). If we have to dry something really bulky we will go to the laundromat and pay the $2 to dry a load.
When my children were in school, I always gave their teachers gifts, but they were very thoughtful, useful gifts, I knew they would want and use. For my young adult children over the last several years, they mostly want cash or gift cards that I get for free from my credit card points each year. For my siblings, we decided years ago to not exchange gifts. So I only buy for my children, a neighbor and a close friend. I recently gave up our Direct TV which was $124.99 a month. We have free tv with a lot of channels from an antenna. We do host Christmas at our home, and love it. I start buying for it months in advance. Have a lovely day !
After 15 years of going to the Christmas meal at work I said no thanks the first year my colleagues were ‘why aren’t you coming etc’ 5 years on they all just except I don’t go no problem and I am very happy to stay later so they can all get away to go and iam very happy to hear how their evening went, this change came about when I decided to cut back on everything so I could cut back on my working hours it’s amazing how much I saved and I don’t feel that I am missing out on anything if anything I am much happier I don’t feel the pressure anymore to say yes when I would rather say no.thanks Jane and Mike
I agree. Living in Dubai it is astonishing how much money people fritter all.the.time. Being gluten-free has forced my hand to learn how to properly cook. We have a nominal takeaway amount. Our friends and peers can't believe we dont drop money on a daily coffee or weekly brunch. I am happy to say no but suggest an alternative - a picnic at the beach or a hike in the mountains or a desert sunset bbq. All possible. All very low cost. Also, as a teacher, I totally agree about the trinkets. A nice email, a thoughtful card or a postcard sent from a student on a gap year, those matter most. The trinkets are kind and appreciated but the words mean more. I've just turned 40 and I feel like when I look in the mirror, I have more confidence to speak my mind and not rollover with things I dont like or want to do. I'm not a child. I'm a full-adult. I decide, we decide as a couple and family. Thank you for the straight words, they are always appreciated
My daughter always used to make gifts for her teachers. One of my good friends was a teacher all her life until COVID retired her, and she said that the home made gifts were the most special to her because the students were showcasing what they have learnt throughout the year. If the kids enjoyed being in their class, they would want to make something for them, if they didn't enjoy their time, then a gift is not needed.
@@FrugalQueeninFrancemy friend was a special education teacher, she spoke from the heart, my daughter was mainstream but loved making her teachers gifts if she enjoyed the year with them. My friend was not her teacher.
I couldn’t finish my pickling jalapeños because I didn’t have enough garlic. I did 4 jars and have enough for 2 more. I’ll pick up some fresh garlic on my way home from work tomorrow. In the southern US it’s like the peppers know winter is coming and they start making like crazy at the end of the season. I agree and understand everything you said. It’s all about priorities and unfortunately most people want their cake and eat it too. Most are not willing to be disciplined enough to sacrifice in one area to gain advantage in another. Just this morning my husband and I were discussing Christmas. All your advice today was perfect timing for me!
I subscribed because of this video Jane. Thank you for such a frank and absolutely direct video. It is refreshing, especially in a day and age where direct talk is considered mean. I appreciate this. Your hair is gorgeous as well.
Wow! I have been watching your videos for quite a long while and love them all but this one is outstanding! I love the way you look at the camera and talk. It is really as if we are in the same room and you are talking to me personally. I found myself smiling, nodding in agreeance and taking in everything that you are saying. Well done! I have decided to watch this video every morning as my "wake up" call. Thank you for being you, honest, to the point and relatable.
My gosh, the hair!! So lovely. Re: your point about not eating out. I very rarely eat out and have not eaten in my college cafeteria for years, because it is exorbitant. Yesterday, due to a few miscalculations, I arrived at school hungry, went to said cafeteria, and got two eggs, about a cup of potato covered in seasoned salt, and a cup of coffee. This meal cost 15 dollars. Fifteen. Dollars.A brutal reminder not to grab 'n go!
As a former teacher, I agree. There is so many little junkie gifts that are disposed of. I liked a letter or a note in a Christmas card to express appreciation for teaching their child. One thing I did like was a Visa gift card. I use them for items for my class. I have stopped gifts except for the 6 immediate family members. I have cut way back on mailing Christmas cards, too. No new decorations either. Reusing what we have.
A very good way to enjoy cooking at home is to think about all the corners you have to cut to be able to afford to buy food, then just imagine the corners restaurants and fast food places cut to be able to afford that same food and rent and staff, etc.... it makes me shudder to think of the quality of that food.
I think the part about you being responsible for your own budget is really vital. If everyone would understand that no one SHOULD care more about your own money than YOU - not a business, not a therapist or financial advisor, etc. Also saying no. It is so unpopular in this day and age to not be a "team player" that people feel like they have no control - and thus the first part - where you are responsible for your own spending, etc is vital to remember and tell yourself daily.
As a person living on my own who doesn't (shouldn't) eat that much, I now tend to buy good, well prepared ready-made meals to which I add extra frozen veg and fruit. I hate the waste of fresh food going bad because I cannot eat it fast enough.
Great video! When I think how much stuff I bought in the past because I did'nt say no😢. Since some years now I do say no🎉. For example, there is a new book I really would love to read, but it costs 30 Euros🙈, that is crazy. In the past I would bought it without thinking. Now I am waiting to borrow it in the library. The library costs me 20 Euros a year.
Oh I just love your frugal brain! Nodding in agreement to EVERY word you said! I give a couple of practical and well thought out holiday gifts to my two children and their significant others - period. My elderly parents get a couple of home cooked meals for their freezer - they don't need anything that I could ever afford to buy them. I don't buy gifts for people I work with, the postman, siblings, friends, etc. My best friend and I get together for a lovely lunch at one of our homes every Christmas season and exchange homemade treats. I don't go out to eat but maybe 2x a year - I like it to be a special treat, and as a vegan, it's not worth the hassle or the money to do it more often. Another thing I don't do - someone's child is always selling something for their school fundraiser, etc. and the parents bring the order sheets to work. I NEVER buy this overpriced stuff - from anyone. By never purchasing it from anyone, I am treating everyone the same. I never brought the order sheets to work when my kids were in school, so I don't feel like I "owe" anyone who bought from my kids - because nobody did.
Every two year old discovers that no is a very powerful word, and then we somehow forget. It took me a few decades, 😂, but its a great and powerful word again, used thoughtfully to make my life fit with my true goals. 😊
I like home cooked food so much more than eating out and we live 15 miles from a take away outlet. So, we spend three days, twice a year staying in a little hotel belonging to friends. Their food is home cooked, delicious and for six days a year, I don't cook or wash dishes. Luxu ry! As a teacher, the things I kept were the little cards, or more usually the folded piece of paper, with a picture and , often funny little message the child had drawn by themselves. Ten years after retiring, I still have lots of them!
You may have thought it bordered on inappropriate to comment on what you would do financially if one of you passed away, but believe me it's THE most important thing you should plan for. My husband and I both took early retirement, had/have good pensions, savings and paid off mortgage early. That said, when he died very suddenly and unexpectedly 4 years ago it still has major impact on my income going forwards. One blessing was that we ( or rather my late husband) had planned for such an event and I don't have to move from our home or struggle to pay the bills.
We have cut down eating out by 80 - 90% (the 2 or 3 places that really deserve it remain on our list- mom and pop places). Avoids the "tipping culture" of staff wanting 25 - 30%. We'll tip ourselves with our savings. Good luck to us all! ✨😊👍✨
Dear Jane, maybe you have talked about this subject before but I have missed it… Would it be possible for you to make a video regarding how to ”think different” when you have small kids. I have a 4 year old and would love your feedback in a video on how to save more and be creative to keep the costs down and spend less. I think that we are many who would love some tips and inspiration from your own life and what you used to do when your children was younger/small. Love from Sweden.
Your content is spot on. Thank you🙂 Totally agree. Decide on the goal, make the sacrifices if that means getting ahead financially. People act like they are so hard up. While this may be true for some, in reality, we all have items in our budgets that are not necessities. (certain foods, streaming services, whatever…..)
Thanks so much for your words of wisdom! I am constantly approached at my work to give money/gifts for folks I don’t know and I always feel pressured. I’m going to stop now!
The work part is hard because it’s mixing professional with personal. I think maybe setting a budget for these is a good idea. Maybe keep $120 in cash in a drawer and put in $10 when someone comes around asking?
Do all the things mentioned and yes i have a friend like you said. Quotes i hear often is " if you cant decide get both!", " i dont know how you do it im always broke", and "well i just dont think that way".
Nice hair! I lived like that all my life. Not happy with this situation but that is the way my life is. Once I have made peace with this it became actually nice.
Just wanted to say that I absolutely agree, and the affirmation that personally I like to think I’m assertive and confident enough to say ‘No’ when I feel the need! Caring, kindness and empathy is one thing, but in this world of consumerism and over indulgence, it really isn’t necessary to overspend to our financial detriment, - and to hell with what anyone else thinks! 😉
You will be proud of me, i cancelled Sky! Kept the broadband and have had soooo many calls from Sky offering deals. My answer? "Only a deal if I want the service, no thank you' 😂
I started doing all this at 30, now 67. Can live on $600/mo as had to when became disabled, now on SS living same and banking the difference. Live in US and is scary
That felt very honest. Too many frugality advocates out there saying "eat homemade food, except when you don't feel like it". Want to save? Make tough choices. Will be worth it when you're financially free and your restaurant loving friends still have to get up at 6am to commute 1.5hrs into the office. Maybe they love it, but I dont.
![สาวเมืองเพชร - ธีเดช ทองอภิชาติ [Official MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kEt7F9PvO3I/mqdefault.jpg)
The other day I baked a whole chicken. Had chicken dinner for two. Used bones and some of the chicken to make soup which
was another two servings for two people. Next day used leftovers with mayo on salad for two. Finally the little bit left was used in a pasta salad. With a little creativity you can stretch your food dollars.
😀😀
Hi bookmagicroe- yes, it's amazing, isn't it. Great idea! Thanks for the reminder. 😊
Totally! I eat the same way.
Brilliant! I want to do the same. I'm doing meals for 1
Can I keep the chicken for long time or do I have to use it within 4 days. When I've tried before to "stretch" it I'm having to have it morning noon and night! I'm not sure about freezing it..
Well now Jane that is probably the most frank video you have done yet but we all need to hear it. I think just about everyone could do a better job with saying no and cutting back. My husband and I have had some big changes in our life in the past 3 weeks. He became ill and was in hospital for 4 days. Long story short he has been diagnosed with a blood cancer (myeloma). The doctor put him on a low sodium diet because he is having kidney issues as well. Thankfully I had a sinking fund fully stocked with cash for emergency food. We were able to go to the grocery apart from our regular shop and buy the low sodium items I needed to prepare meals at home. The doctor said NO fast food. So we are kind of forced into giving up our weekly fast food. Thank goodness I had a good sinking fund put back for extras. Thank you! You and Mike will never know how much your advice helps.
Thanks for watching
You will save money by not having that fast food take away! So you will rebuild your emergency fund! Take one of Jayne's other tips on board, though - plan in some meals with minimal cooking and washing up, to give yourself a break. So sorry to hear of the diagnosis, take care.
@@susanjacks8830 I am so sorry about your husband's diagnosis, I hope you all pull through this. All the best.
Jane your hair looks fabulous, I love it parted on the side too ❤❤❤
Thanks so much
This video was so on point for these frugal times. Jane your hair looks amazing!
Oh thank you!
I love Jane’s hair! Soooo jealous 😁 !
I look better with my hair short. But it’s a nuisance having to get it cut every 7 weeks or so. (It used to be every 5 weeks but … $$$.)
I can’t cut it myself because I have two very strong whorls in my hair and I would end up with a couple of impossible-to-manage “cowlicks!”
Plus since retirement and C-19; I really dislike leaving the house at all anymore - probably to the point it’s a little unhealthy. But that’s another story.
French hairdressers are the best!
As a teacher I totally agree with no gifts I have a box full of cards made by the kids and love that.
Jane, I actually think this was your best chat ever. FULL of honesty, truth and humour.
Thanks 😊
Thanks 😊
I love your advice about teacher gifts. Every year when I start to see articles about how to create really cheap teacher gifts, I think, "Oh, those poor teachers." How many apple emblazoned / apple shaped items do they need? I wish teachers would band together and say, "Just give me the $3 you would spend putting together the cheap coffee mug, hot chocolate mix, and peppermint stick and save yourself the trouble." How demoralizing it must be to know you are getting a token based on the cheapest item they could find on Pinterest. We should give teachers respect, support, help, and thanks-not cheap trinkets to clutter their lives-or cash or a gift card they can actually use. ❤️
It's mostly junk that gets thrown away
Here in New Zealand, we don't give teachers a gift, in our culture we see that teachers are paid to teach. ( Be it not very well) Buts just not common practice
Yes! Junk gifts are a burden to the recipient! It's just filling the landfills.
As a teacher, we love to get a handwritten card with something meaningful written in it. I have a kept all of mine over the years. I love going back through them and reading them sometimes.
@ I'm retired and I still have every handwritten note and card from pupils and parents.
We're finding that "Saturday fridge soup" saves a lot. It's satisfying to use up the veggies and other leftovers in the fridge, and make soup. I put in some spices and it's satisfying. We tend to stay home that day- saves $50 - 100 from flying out of our pocket💸💸. Good luck to us all! ✨😊👍✨
I love your candid comments......how true. Sometimes we just need reminders. Great video.
spot on Jane, but the first thing I noticed... 35000 subscribers!!! - another amazing milestone - well done both, on one of the best channels on YT 🙂
Yes! Thank you!
I wish more people would tell people the truth and how it works in the real world. Thank you Jane and Mike. Bless you both.
Thanks for your reply
It is especially important in today’s economy to be very frugal .
Hi Jane, last weekend my husband an i sat down with our children. We had written down our income and the fixspendings. We did this the first time with the kids. It helped a lot. They aren`t complainig about the food anymore. They even came up with controlling the daily use of water and energy to lower the bill. 😉
I did that with mine, too. My boys are now in their late 30s - not in debt and have savings. Now they are more settled in jobs they are saving for a house deposit each.
That is awesome!
@@SandraM4972My sons 34 now. He told me I stopped asking for things because I realised you didn’t have a lot of money.
Heart breaking but they understand when they are old enough to
What wonderful young people you and your husband are growing. They will do well in all aspects of their lives.
What ages are they?
About saying "no"- when you say "no" stop right there. Don"t give reasons or excuses! This simply provides a wedge for people to try to change your mind. Saying a definite no leaves no room for argument! As always, I think your advice is sound- Mrs. G
Well said!
💯 “No” is a complete sentence
I have a small group of friends and we get together at each others houses twice a month. We watch movies together, play board games and card games and have a potluck. Its a ton of fun and and a whole lot less expensive than eating out.
Great video! Even when we are already frugal it helps to hear these words again. It keeps us on track. Love you hair too!
@@connietroxell1575 thank you for watching
As a teacher, a hand written note from a student would bring me joy! ❤ Please, no trinkets. They only end up in the bin.
@@farmerwife8412 We used to pick dandelions for our teacher.
As a retired teacher I absolutely agree with the teacher gift thing. Best gift I ever received was an ice cream tub of strawberries from someone's garden but I did receive many expensive gifts that just made me cringe because I felt my salary was payment enough for my job and I felt it was a privilege to have a job where I felt appreciated and well treated as not everyone I'd trained with had been so fortunate. As for the rest of your tips Jane, they are fabulous! I need to watch this video once a week every week until I can trust myself to say no every time I should but since subscribing to your channel I am getting better and have nailed many of them thanks to you. Great video! ❤❤
@@Vera-y8m thanks for watching
Thank you, Jane!
I am so blessed with two friends who like to meet for walks.
As for gifts, one time I received a small, beautiful notebook with my first initial on it. It was useful and meaningful. The key to giving good gifts is listening! People talk about what they like.
We eat all our meals at home. This is a huge money saver even with buying quality food.
Wonderful!
Brilliant chat Jane and Mike. Thanks for the real talk.
Your hair looks fantastic by the way!! I’m still working on reducing my food budget without sacrificing quality- but I’ve nailed cooking from home! I’ve done that for many years mostly because I love my own cooking and it’s healthier. But now when I see the cost of meals and drinks out, holy moly, I don’t know how anyone could save money eating takeout.
You can do it!
I only gift to my close friends, and sometimes it's a used book or some of my nice jewelry since I'm 73.
Great video, Jane! Love your plain speaking! I said NO to Christmas gift giving at the office back around 2008 when I got a bunch of useless junk from coworkers that all went in the trash. I bought a $15 box of tea for the three people I’m close to and my goddaughter will get some cash. I do give my hairdresser a bit extra at Christmas. I’ve been going monthly to her for more than 15 years. I do budget for it.
I agree. I am one of the few colleagues who don't participate in secret santa as it's an extra cost, over cosuption is bad for the environment and like you say, most of the gifts are unwanted.
Love that!
Just when I think you have given your audience your best video ever you come up with another one. You never stop teaching Jane and I thank you for that. Give those fur babies Dolly and Mary a hug from me. ❤❤
Wow, thank you!
Sorry, for another comment, Jane! I appreciate that you realize not everyone has the time, facilities, or inclination to cook everything from scratch. As you say, a frozen pizza at home is still cheaper than take out. I just absolutely loved your recent video about helping the viewer who had issues stretching her food budget to the entire month.
Thanks for your feedback
I agree it's hard cooking dinner from scratch after a working day. When I was working (now retired) I used to cook a lot of staples at the weekend and keep them in individual servings in the freezer. Pasta sauces, stews and curries, quiches, homemade bread, etc. It made life so easy. If I didn't do it I would always be tempted to buy takeaways on the way home.
Same - I am gluten free and it has meant that I have had to learn to cook properly and make more things from scratch. I meal prep / batch cook on Sunday so there’s always something in the freezer if I get home late from work or the gym and don’t feel like cooking. Ordering in food or takeaway is something I just don’t do. There are a couple of places I like to eat out at occasionally but when I do I use my EatClub app and always get at least 15% off.
I totally agree with you, especially about teachers. My daughter, who is a teacher of very small children, says she would much rather have an imperfect, hand-made card from the children than any of the chocolates or other things their parents buy her at Christmas. And yes, she has tried to tell them!
Thanks
I don't miss the constant collections at work. I began contributing selectively as they were for anything and everything. Thankfully that no longer happens since retiring. I have a smaller circle of friends now which works out fine for me financially. We are of a similar mindset and meet up as and when. Your hair looks nice Jane. Like the long layers. 😃👌🥰
Thanks
Very well explained, you are responsible for your own financial path, no one else to blame, end of story. A very hard truth for some people.
😀
Very good tips especially saying no. Once you say no a few times it gets easier. Also your hair is lovely.
Thank you so much!
Love your new haircut xx
Thank you!!
Jane, I’m right with you on all of what you discussed today. Especially with respect to careful usage of sales at my local food stores..it’s like a fun puzzle to solve weekly! Also, Hope from Under the Median gave you a shout out in her last video. I hope it sends some more people here. All the best to you, Mike and the pups❤
Thanks 😊
My family don't do gifts but we instead give each household / each other a single Christmas tree ornament. It means so much more, and you have the reminders to come out every year.
I do needle felring and people love small personalised felted gifts - the felted tree decorations are welcone too.
PS I forgot - get the tree decorations in post- Xmas sales for the next year !
That's meaningful
What a wonderful idea ,
Thanks for sharing
All around awesome tips and I don’t have a problem with any of them!
Hi Jane and Mike, I wanted to let you know I've been watching TH-cam on my TV recently and i don't know how to like and comment there. So I'm at my computer and will be liking and commenting on videos your system may not show I've watched. I think you've been making some of your most important videos ever. I actually did like all the advice in this one, especially that people have to act like adults if they want to make financial progress. I have experienced myself and/or witnessed in some ppl close to me the damage created by impulse spending, "i want it NOW" and "i deserve". Your videos are so helpful. Thank you as always. And congrats on reaching 35K!
Thank you so much
I have a tradition with one of my best friends, we always have a theme dinner at home at Halloween, i do deserts, she does the appetizers or vice versa, this years we cooked the main dish together and it was so much fun 😊
I like and appreciate your straight forwardness! 😊💜
You're welcome
I couldn’t agree more. I had a colleague/friend who always complained of being broke but she would buy the most extravagant gifts as thank yous for the smallest things you did for her. She probably thought me a miser but I inherited my father’s money sense (even though I like to splurge at times). My being retired now means that I have to be even more careful with money, and I can say that I generally live within my means.
Like I said, gift giving is a selfish act to make the giver feel good
I worked out that my SIL was spending around £50 not taking a packed lunch to work. I challenged him to take one and he agreed at the end of a month that it had saved him at least £200 and the food was in the house anyway as our family had always taken packed food to work. Love your hair!
It really adds up
Saying “no” is hard. So ease into it. I say “yes” twice and then a “no”. They never catch on….they are grateful I say “yes” and understand when I say “no”. When I gained more confidence I change the ratio to more “no” and less “yes”. It gives me control of how I want to spend my time and money. Good job Jane.
You'll get there
Sometimes you need a bump on the road to see clear, well said.
I won’t shop without a list.
I have trained myself not to impulse buy . I can’t afford to stockpile. I have one in use one in storage. So I don’t run out of. It works. When I open my one in storage the item goes on the list . If it’s not on the list it doesn’t get bought. Good video ❤
Thank you for your great tips and insight.
This is just the advice I needed to hear at just the right time. Thanks!
You're so welcome!
Very good that you at times “take us by the ear” and remind us what responsible adult behaviour is. Sound suggestions as always❤
Thanks for the reply
Excellent! I'm pretty much doing all of this now.
Love your ombré hair, it looks amazing. 🥰
You can do it!
You can do it!
Absolutely love the new hair style! My daughter and I go over our monthly budgets together. Since we live in the same house she knows what the utility bills are and helps with lowering those costs if possible. We have always used drying racks for about 3/4 of the laundry and now it will be 100% as our 4 year old new dryer bit the dust and is not worth repairing (they make them so cheap now a days). If we have to dry something really bulky we will go to the laundromat and pay the $2 to dry a load.
Great idea!!
When my children were in school, I always gave their teachers gifts, but they were very thoughtful, useful gifts, I knew they would want and use. For my young adult children over the last several years, they mostly want cash or gift cards that I get for free from my credit card points each year. For my siblings, we decided years ago to not exchange gifts. So I only buy for my children, a neighbor and a close friend. I recently gave up our Direct TV which was $124.99 a month. We have free tv with a lot of channels from an antenna. We do host Christmas at our home, and love it. I start buying for it months in advance. Have a lovely day !
Thanks for watching
After 15 years of going to the Christmas meal at work I said no thanks the first year my colleagues were ‘why aren’t you coming etc’ 5 years on they all just except I don’t go no problem and I am very happy to stay later so they can all get away to go and iam very happy to hear how their evening went, this change came about when I decided to cut back on everything so I could cut back on my working hours it’s amazing how much I saved and I don’t feel that I am missing out on anything if anything I am much happier I don’t feel the pressure anymore to say yes when I would rather say no.thanks Jane and Mike
🥰
I agree. Living in Dubai it is astonishing how much money people fritter all.the.time. Being gluten-free has forced my hand to learn how to properly cook. We have a nominal takeaway amount. Our friends and peers can't believe we dont drop money on a daily coffee or weekly brunch. I am happy to say no but suggest an alternative - a picnic at the beach or a hike in the mountains or a desert sunset bbq. All possible. All very low cost. Also, as a teacher, I totally agree about the trinkets. A nice email, a thoughtful card or a postcard sent from a student on a gap year, those matter most. The trinkets are kind and appreciated but the words mean more. I've just turned 40 and I feel like when I look in the mirror, I have more confidence to speak my mind and not rollover with things I dont like or want to do. I'm not a child. I'm a full-adult. I decide, we decide as a couple and family. Thank you for the straight words, they are always appreciated
Thank you
Loving the pep talk 😂 Most of it I agree. Looking forward to more 😂
My daughter always used to make gifts for her teachers. One of my good friends was a teacher all her life until COVID retired her, and she said that the home made gifts were the most special to her because the students were showcasing what they have learnt throughout the year. If the kids enjoyed being in their class, they would want to make something for them, if they didn't enjoy their time, then a gift is not needed.
I can promise you, as a teacher, we wouldn’t say anything else……..even if it ended up in the bin.
@@FrugalQueeninFrancemy friend was a special education teacher, she spoke from the heart, my daughter was mainstream but loved making her teachers gifts if she enjoyed the year with them. My friend was not her teacher.
I couldn’t finish my pickling jalapeños because I didn’t have enough garlic. I did 4 jars and have enough for 2 more. I’ll pick up some fresh garlic on my way home from work tomorrow. In the southern US it’s like the peppers know winter is coming and they start making like crazy at the end of the season. I agree and understand everything you said. It’s all about priorities and unfortunately most people want their cake and eat it too. Most are not willing to be disciplined enough to sacrifice in one area to gain advantage in another. Just this morning my husband and I were discussing Christmas. All your advice today was perfect timing for me!
Happy pickling
Don't use the garlic with the peppers...they'll be fine. Save time and money by using what you have on hand and not going out to get more.
I subscribed because of this video Jane. Thank you for such a frank and absolutely direct video. It is refreshing, especially in a day and age where direct talk is considered mean. I appreciate this. Your hair is gorgeous as well.
Thanks for subbing!
@FrugalQueeninFrance You're welcome.
Wow! I have been watching your videos for quite a long while and love them all but this one is outstanding! I love the way you look at the camera and talk. It is really as if we are in the same room and you are talking to me personally. I found myself smiling, nodding in agreeance and taking in everything that you are saying. Well done! I have decided to watch this video every morning as my "wake up" call. Thank you for being you, honest, to the point and relatable.
Glad you like them!
Yesterday I made lentils with farro using homemade bone broth, leftover lamb broth and also used some leftover pasta sauce
Sounds yummy!
What is farro?
Hi Jane, ur hair looks terrific. Hi to all including Mike n the puppies. I always shop then cook at home. 😊🤗🙏🏻🇺🇸
Thanks so much
My gosh, the hair!! So lovely. Re: your point about not eating out. I very rarely eat out and have not eaten in my college cafeteria for years, because it is exorbitant. Yesterday, due to a few miscalculations, I arrived at school hungry, went to said cafeteria, and got two eggs, about a cup of potato covered in seasoned salt, and a cup of coffee. This meal cost 15 dollars. Fifteen. Dollars.A brutal reminder not to grab 'n go!
Exactly!!
That's crazy! My son is head chef at a college Cafe and they are all you can eat for $7.
As a former teacher, I agree. There is so many little junkie gifts that are disposed of. I liked a letter or a note in a Christmas card to express appreciation for teaching their child. One thing I did like was a Visa gift card. I use them for items for my class.
I have stopped gifts except for the 6 immediate family members. I have cut way back on mailing Christmas cards, too. No new decorations either. Reusing what we have.
Well said
Well said
You're right - that was tough, but necessary. The always lovely Fluff Girls at the end did much to soften the message. ❤️🐾❤️🐾😉
Thanks so much
A very good way to enjoy cooking at home is to think about all the corners you have to cut to be able to afford to buy food, then just imagine the corners restaurants and fast food places cut to be able to afford that same food and rent and staff, etc.... it makes me shudder to think of the quality of that food.
Yes, you are right
Thank you Jane! Excellent information
Bravo Jane👏
Great points and lots of common sense, you are a breath of fresh air.
Thanks for these reminders and all the videos you make😊
You are so welcome!
Another great video Jane and Mike!
Glad you enjoyed it
❤ another great video as usual. You hair looks amazing BTW.😊
Thank you so much!!
I think the part about you being responsible for your own budget is really vital. If everyone would understand that no one SHOULD care more about your own money than YOU - not a business, not a therapist or financial advisor, etc. Also saying no. It is so unpopular in this day and age to not be a "team player" that people feel like they have no control - and thus the first part - where you are responsible for your own spending, etc is vital to remember and tell yourself daily.
Well said
Your hair is so pretty! Love the cut. Not giving presents and getting organized are difficult ones for me.
You can do it!
I feel very frugal now- I had no idea people gave so many gifts! Ive only ever given to close friends and family.
As a person living on my own who doesn't (shouldn't) eat that much, I now tend to buy good, well prepared ready-made meals to which I add extra frozen veg and fruit. I hate the waste of fresh food going bad because I cannot eat it fast enough.
Oh I've made the potato cheese and bacon bake every day the last 5 days. It's so nice 🎉
Great stuff! Thanks for the reality check!
Our pleasure!
Hi Jane and Mike...great video as always.
Thanks so much
Great video! When I think how much stuff I bought in the past because I did'nt say no😢. Since some years now I do say no🎉. For example, there is a new book I really would love to read, but it costs 30 Euros🙈, that is crazy. In the past I would bought it without thinking. Now I am waiting to borrow it in the library. The library costs me 20 Euros a year.
Thanks for sharing!!
Oh I just love your frugal brain! Nodding in agreement to EVERY word you said! I give a couple of practical and well thought out holiday gifts to my two children and their significant others - period. My elderly parents get a couple of home cooked meals for their freezer - they don't need anything that I could ever afford to buy them. I don't buy gifts for people I work with, the postman, siblings, friends, etc. My best friend and I get together for a lovely lunch at one of our homes every Christmas season and exchange homemade treats.
I don't go out to eat but maybe 2x a year - I like it to be a special treat, and as a vegan, it's not worth the hassle or the money to do it more often.
Another thing I don't do - someone's child is always selling something for their school fundraiser, etc. and the parents bring the order sheets to work. I NEVER buy this overpriced stuff - from anyone. By never purchasing it from anyone, I am treating everyone the same. I never brought the order sheets to work when my kids were in school, so I don't feel like I "owe" anyone who bought from my kids - because nobody did.
Every two year old discovers that no is a very powerful word, and then we somehow forget. It took me a few decades, 😂, but its a great and powerful word again, used thoughtfully to make my life fit with my true goals. 😊
Love that!
I like home cooked food so much more than eating out and we live 15 miles from a take away outlet. So, we spend three days, twice a year staying in a little hotel belonging to friends. Their food is home cooked, delicious and for six days a year, I don't cook or wash dishes. Luxu ry!
As a teacher, the things I kept were the little cards, or more usually the folded piece of paper, with a picture and , often funny little message the child had drawn by themselves. Ten years after retiring, I still have lots of them!
Exactly, I can still remember the phone calls, letters and cards saying thank you
Wonderful no b.s video-Thanks!! ❤
You may have thought it bordered on inappropriate to comment on what you would do financially if one of you passed away, but believe me it's THE most important thing you should plan for. My husband and I both took early retirement, had/have good pensions, savings and paid off mortgage early. That said, when he died very suddenly and unexpectedly 4 years ago it still has major impact on my income going forwards. One blessing was that we ( or rather my late husband) had planned for such an event and I don't have to move from our home or struggle to pay the bills.
We have cut down eating out by 80 - 90% (the 2 or 3 places that really deserve it remain on our list- mom and pop places). Avoids the "tipping culture" of staff wanting 25 - 30%. We'll tip ourselves with our savings. Good luck to us all! ✨😊👍✨
That is awesome!
You are truly honest..thank you ❤
Excellent advice and reminders!
Glad it was helpful!
Dear Jane, maybe you have talked about this subject before but I have missed it…
Would it be possible for you to make a video regarding how to ”think different” when you have small kids. I have a 4 year old and would love your feedback in a video on how to save more and be creative to keep the costs down and spend less. I think that we are many who would love some tips and inspiration from your own life and what you used to do when your children was younger/small. Love from Sweden.
Great suggestion!
Great suggestion and teens too!
I appreciate your saying the hard truths!
Thanks
Loved this video! I just smiled the whole time. 😊
So glad!
Your content is spot on. Thank you🙂
Totally agree. Decide on the goal, make the sacrifices if that means getting ahead financially.
People act like they are so hard up. While this may be true for some, in reality, we all have items in our budgets that are not necessities. (certain foods, streaming services, whatever…..)
Absolutely!
Thanks so much for your words of wisdom! I am constantly approached at my work to give money/gifts for folks I don’t know and I always feel pressured. I’m going to stop now!
Absolutely!!
The work part is hard because it’s mixing professional with personal. I think maybe setting a budget for these is a good idea. Maybe keep $120 in cash in a drawer and put in $10 when someone comes around asking?
@@kelleyspears1218 absolutely just say no. It's work. If you drop down dead at work they'll replace you.
Jane, you are so beautiful. Thank you for these tips. We eat from home most of the time.
You are so welcome!
You are so welcome!
Do all the things mentioned and yes i have a friend like you said. Quotes i hear often is " if you cant decide get both!", " i dont know how you do it im always broke", and "well i just dont think that way".
They walk amongst us
Nice hair! I lived like that all my life. Not happy with this situation but that is the way my life is. Once I have made peace with this it became actually nice.
Thanks
Excellent video, thank you so much and God Bless your common sense advice xx
@@kaelaleedaley thank you
These were the best money saving tips ive ever heard. I especially like the "do the adult thing" tip. I needed to hear that 😅
Sound advice. Love your hair
Just wanted to say that I absolutely agree, and the affirmation that personally I like to think I’m assertive and confident enough to say ‘No’ when I feel the need!
Caring, kindness and empathy is one thing, but in this world of consumerism and over indulgence, it really isn’t necessary to overspend to our financial detriment, - and to hell with what anyone else thinks! 😉
Thanks for your reply
Very good video with very useful advices. Thank you!!
@@renestern1821 thank you for watching
Great reminders!
You will be proud of me, i cancelled Sky! Kept the broadband and have had soooo many calls from Sky offering deals.
My answer? "Only a deal if I want the service, no thank you'
😂
Good job!
I started doing all this at 30, now 67. Can live on $600/mo as had to when became disabled, now on SS living same and banking the difference. Live in US and is scary
That felt very honest. Too many frugality advocates out there saying "eat homemade food, except when you don't feel like it". Want to save? Make tough choices. Will be worth it when you're financially free and your restaurant loving friends still have to get up at 6am to commute 1.5hrs into the office. Maybe they love it, but I dont.
@@HM-gl5jq thanks for watching
Excellent reminders. They work 🙌
Your hair looks great!!
👍 The adult thing is what I need to remember 😌 Thank you and much love from Vienna ❤
Thanks so best