Frugal Living Tips

Frugal Living

Tawra Kellam Living On a Dime

Below is a link to Tawra Kellam's first special for the year 2010. I am from Kansas, where Tawra lives, and I saw tools like these put into action as a kid. They are timeless examples of wise use of resources and good choices for the family.

Living and Dining on a Dime-2010

Not sure about you guys, but we are doing some serious looking at expenses in our household.

I remember way back when the Tightwad Gazette first came out and Amy Dacynzyn (hope I spelled her name correctly) was talking about couponing and doing it so incredibly well, but I was single then, and did not stock up on much other than pork chops so all the work she put into it did not seem worthwhile to me.

After all, how many tubes of toothpaste does one guy need to stock up, or tooth brushes, or electric frying pans for example, you do remember electric frying pans. don't you?

However, I did and still do use book clubs, and have saved thousands of dollars over the years by getting free books.

However, I am worried right now that we as a family are no where near as sustainable as we need to be. If the insurance companies fail, or the automobile makers, of the construction folks, somehow we are still vulnerable, because we do not know what they own besides insurance policies, for example, so I am taking a hard look at what we can do to become less vulnerable, and more sustainable.

Gather Information

I have set up some Google Alerts which are turning me onto many very interesting frugal websites.

Some of the 'frugal' sites are about couponing, rebates, and shopping systems, for example.

There are home schooling sites, and Christian sites too.

Others are more of the DIY type, where you can learn a recipe for your own dishwasher or laundry detergent or window cleaner, for example. Then you can make those items in bulk, and save on the shipping and product container cost.

Almost all of them offer a forum or a web 2.0 kind of experience where you can share hints and updates about sales or rebates, ect.

And then there is the "Mother Earth" kinds of sites, where you can learn to convert most anything into something more sustainable. I am guessing that on Mother Earth, you can find directions to convert even your old cold war bomb shelter into a condo fueled by a corn pellet heater, and I mean no disrespect when I say that.

So far though, what I have appreciated the most in my search for more information is the sites where the authors have compiled e-books. They are a great place for me to start.

I have found three thus far, and I am sure there are many more, that have provided excellent information in my search for organizing and sustainability.

Saving $18,000.00 Couponing

You probably think she is talking about some nickel and dime process that takes far more time than it is worth.

The actual number is $18,000.00 (The price for the e-book? $12.95).

That is a lot of mortgage payments for us. We can use that.

Save $18,000.00 on Groceries? Coupons? I can do this.

Pay Off Mortgage on an Income of $20,000.00?

And she did pay off a mortgage on that income, plus deal with some other health issues.

Her best bargain is the set of 12 e-books for about $49.00.

Living on a Dime

$14.95 for 100 Ways to Save Money and 2 Bonus E-Books

Out of 100 ways to save money, there has got to be one that makes the price of the e-book worthwhile, right? Take a look at what she offers, and I think you will be amazed.

Curious about wind and solar power? Real Goods has been a leader in this field since the days of the Whole Earth Catalog, just a couple of decades ago.

Ever heard of affiliate marketing? You can participate in the Real Goods affiliate program, actually the affiliate programs of all the programs on this page, and make income while spreading the green word.

Real Goods Outlet Sale. Save up to 75% off instantly.

Gaiam is another company which offers a chance to earn income while making a significant contribution to the frugal and green lifestyle. Gaiam products are made from recycled goods, and buying them completes the recycling circle.

Join the affiliate program, spread the word, and enjoy the income.

Recycled Products

Cyber Monday at Buy.com-Low Prices, Shipped to Your Door

Would You Share Something That You Are Grateful For?

When I was beginning my personal growth journey, a wise person told me that when I was feeling resentful or afraid or sad, that I should remember the phrase "gratitude is the attitude" when I was ready to feel better. That phrase has helped me feel better tens of thousands of times.

Would you share what you are most grateful for? Your story could be just what another person is searching for to renew themselves? Thanks.


Have a question and want to talk with a therapist? Call 815-316-2621 for Julie Logan, LCSW, RN. 7121 Windsor Lake Parkway, Loves Park, Illinois 61111 jlogan7264@myway.com