It's a shame that there are those who are so vocally critical of something they obviously are so ignorant of. Your committed philosophy to Live Simple Live Free has NEVER waivered. I hate it that you felt compelled to explain yourself, however like always, I'm impressed with your restraint and professionalism in your diplomatic response. A lesson for all. God bless you both✝️
Thanks. This video is not so much about explaining or justifying ourselves as it is to try to continue to educate people about this BETTER way of life. 😊 To many, it is a totally foreign concept.
Enjoyed. I live extremely frugal. I have no cable, no loans, no credit card debt, owe nothing except monthly living expenses but I also live on SSI and after bills are paid I have less then 50.00 a month left but I survive. Im blessed because I can pay my bills. God bless you both.
When first married I went from an affluent lifestyle to bringing home food from the mess hall - so I have lived both ends of the spectrum. Now widowed I will continue to live well below my means - for no other reason than to live secure.
The yrs that I have watched your channel, you have not changed. It's nobody's business how much money that you make. You're planting veg garden and fruit trees to help in the future. Stay the way you are. Prayers for Pop.
I’m 34 come from parents that never grasp the theory of living below their means was use to seeing them get loans on their titles, early pay day places etc. I thought that was the “norm” I met my husband who is from Mexico and grew up very poor so he learned how to save up for a rainy day . His life was simple by default and if they had something beside beans it was truly a feast ! I’m so grateful for him because he taught me what life is all about ! We have 4 children and try to show them the blessing of living a simplistic lifestyle . We don’t owe for anything own our home and vehicles are paid off all we pay is our monthly bills and extra curricular activities for our kids. Some people poke fun at our lifestyle but I wouldn’t change it for the world ! Y’all have become the parents I never had to guide me in all things simple ! Your financial advice ,godly examples and your marriage is such a blessing and example to us . Thank you for sharing all you do ❤️
Whoever is poking fun at you, well, they are probably wishing they could do the same. Sounds like your doing a good job and your husband has some good common sense. You can't take it with you when you go anyway.
Bill & Elizabeth, I cannot believe you had to explain this. 🙄 I am so sorry. But here we are... As always, you are gracious and provide helpful information. Thank you. God bless. ✝️
It`s a great life been debt free. We own our 700sq ft. home & have no debt or credit cards .The Lords tenth + is the most important of all. God Bless you folks!
When Our children were small and we lived on one income- bought a house, never had credit cards- owned all of our cars- I remember starting my kids in school and they sent home a paper showing eligiablity for the "free lunch program" and how much income was considered living in poverty ...our income fell within that range - at the time I was so imbarresed - yet confused because we had a good simple life and had plenty!!
I live in HUD subsidized independent senior housing. Several neighbors have either passed or moved to nursing homes. 3 of them had hoarded so much stuff, mostly in boxes or crammed in the closets, it took days for the family to empty their apartments. One family got most stuff out, but from nally gave up and let the owners call in the 800 got junk to finish cleaning the place out . I'm determined not to leave a bunch of stuff for my kids to throw away.
We go to estate sales, I sell online, the couple have passed or gone into nursing homes. Some of these homes are 3,000+ sq ft and packed with stuff accumulated over the years.
We lived in a trailer for years while saving money to build our dream house.We were able to do it this last year debt free.We have no mortgage we owe nothing but our normal monthly bills.When we tell people we don't owe anything on the house they look at us like we are crazy.It feels wonderful to have our nice little house and know that it's all paid for.
I have a "friend" who once introduced me as her"poor friend, she doesn't have as much as we do". It was a head shaker moment because I am debt free, own my home (900 sq ft), have two older vehicles and I have money in the bank. I don't have the $1M she does but I have enough to cover any emergency repairs, I have a large stockpile of food and yes, T.P., and if needed I can heat my house with my kerosene heaters. I am blessed. And you do sleep better at night knowing that the basics are paid for and you owe no one. Your video has great advice.
I lost everything in 2008 also. I found a job 1 year and 5 months later, 1 year later they were in trouble and laid me off. four months later I found an awesome job (but they were on shaky ground, so I bought a house cheap, they went bankrupt shortly after I bought it), So I fixed it sold it and bailed myself out. Now I live below my means in a tiny apartment in Manchester, NH..
I am a retiree and have seen how everything increases except my income. I am making progress in eliminating income leaks and paying off debt. Hopefully can be out of debt in 2 to 3 years
My daughter and son-in-law use the Dave Ramsey method for the last 10 years and the only debt is there mortgage and that will be paid off in 5 years. They get ridiculed by their friends, but that's ok with them because they'll be debt free in 5 years. Good advice live below your means, it's cold comfort with material stuff when things go bad. Blessings to all 😊🇺🇸
We built a log home inch by inch with money we'd saved and sweat equity ;). I was devastated after getting the run-around from the banks initially, but it was the best thing that ever happened to us. God closed that door so he could provide the means, and we wouldn't be slaves to a lender. We are so grateful to be debt-free. The stress relief Elizabeth mentioned is HUGE! Like climbing a mountain: so very hard & times you want to quit, but once you're at the top, what others said about the view just doesn't cut it, cuz it's something you need to see and do for yourself. Praise God!
YES!!! TAKING THE STRESS OUT OF IT!!!!!!! That is it Elizabeth, exactly! I live on my own land in an RV and own my car. That is my "simple" life. I love you both ❤️❤️🤗.
Great that you still have one another. So many your age are having to make it on their own after losing a spouse or partner. That’s when life gets really tough and completely changes. Blessings to you and your channel.
I live Simple and Free also...I want to buy things, I save up for it and pay cash. No stress due to debt. I watch your channel for extra ideas. Be safe and thanks a whole bunch!
Your message was very clear. You have worked very hard to reach the point where you are today and you kindly share your experiences with us so that we too can "Live Simple, Live Free." You two are very inspirational.
I also stepped out of the "mind control" of all the commercials and talks about being a consumer. Enough - I did not have a choice to stop using my credit cards - when you have no job to make payments - there was nothing I could do. I offered to work for the bank - nope I was too old and that was years ago. So I learned how to save I began with the envelope system. Put $10.00 every month in an envelope for auto repairs/oil changes, $10.00 for vet bills, $10.00 for hair cuts, $20.00 for laundry etc. It grew - soon I turned in the 10's for 100.00 and if I needed some for something else I could borrow from myself. Worked great for me. You are wise folks - and since the kids are grown I found I just don't need much for myself anymore.
Oh my goodness people get so jealous of other people. Just makes me ill, how people begrudge other people. Read the Ten Commandments people, especially the covetousness part. Blessings Bill and Elizabeth! I absolutely agree with this video!
You hit the nail on the head Elizabeth God has blessed me.Tithing first. I haven't had a credit card since 1995. I don't get loans, dont borrow from friends and family, dont pay interest on anything. God has blessed me . I'm retired on social security. I live with my son and family. No collectors after me. Thanks to God I have no debt to anyone. God has blessed me to be a blessing to others. I can't imagine the crushing debt so many people live under. Hats off to you both. God is so good. Yes I'm working on next Christmas and birthdays a little each month and I have life insurance now. By the Grace of God I no live simple and live free. 🌝🌹🙏🤝👆
There's nothing like being free of debt I live the same way but my husband died I downsized to a 14x40 little mobile home I paid it off I own my cars and I'm very content with what I have I don't need more than that and yes the Lord is good and kind and loving and without him I would have nothing but yeah I live beneath my means because now that the pandemic is going I see people struggling and I just I'm so blessed that I don't have to struggle and more than anything I also praise the Lord that I have my health and I love the way you guys are living so awesome to see people that do that and the people nowadays can't ..they have to be like the Joneses and keep buying new phones and computers and big houses and what they don't realize it. What they're getting themselves into. I think with the people are missing is God because without God they have no wisdom or knowledge to whatever is going on around their world right now I pray that they find him.
Love it! I live in a mobile home I bought for $500 and it's all mine! Been fixing it up as I go. Most people couldn't live the simple and free life, but the feeling you get when your not tied down to anyone; is wonderful. As a society we have gotten more and spoiled and relying on others for our needs. Life could all come to a very different change someday and could we get by without all the improvements seen in the last 100 years?
Our story is so similar to yours. Loss of job, huge new house and lots of debt, plus four kids getting ready for college! Bankruptcy-fast forward 20 years. We have been SO blessed to be debt free since our last mortgage payment in May 2020. We lost our business because of Covid, but have saved for retirement and are so happy we have NO debt! It is so freeing to not have the worry of debt!
My wife and I own our small farm and have zero debt. I drive a truck with 300,000 miles and while, like you, we are not minimalists we try not to "keep up with the Jones'". We are retired and the good Lord has blessed us in life. It it not so easy for a young couple but that should be everyone's goal. It is quite liberating!!
Your message is a pure golden treasure chest of wisdom. It is gloriously wonderful and possible to be debt free plus own a car, a home and have an emergency fund!
May God continually bless you, I am trying to become debt free and God is blessing me more and more each day. I am 72 and it is so freeing each time i pay a bill off.
Blessings to you both!!! My husband and I are elderly and we live below our means. No debt!! We have a comfortable old mobile home and food to eat. We pay our bills. We have money put away for emergencies. Your advice is sound and biblically based!!!
You are so right about living within your means. You don't have to explain yourselves or your lifestyle to those who can't or just won't understand the concept. They'll never get it and will pay the consequences. Love your vlogs. Please don't change a thing.
Thanks. This video is not so much about explaining or justifying ourselves as it is to try to continue to educate people about this BETTER way of life. 😊 To many, it is a totally foreign concept.
@@LiveSimpleLiveFree I agree and it made me think that the simplest reason most get in debt from every day purchase online or in stores etc, it the use of a plastic card, be it debit or credit, because back in the day before most people even had a credit card you lived on what was in your wallet!! when the cash was gone, so was your spending.
Live simple live free means living within your means! I have no debt ,and I make sure that every penny I make ,I pay myself first! Having an emergency fund is SOO important because you never know what life will throw at you .Look at the pandemic that came out of nowhere . Who could have thought ! I have followed you since the first days of your living in that tiny house and you appeared happy then and happy now ! To be content is so important.
I am following your system. Just started in December. We will be out of debt in 9 years. We also save for medical/college/IRA/Reg. Savings so much goes right into these accts from paycheck.
If it takes a long time to save for something you have time to decide if you really want it. I have good credit, but like you it doesn’t matter because we have no debt. I worked for a mega bank and got to see what credit card debt can do to people and it can be horrible. We have been debt free for decades and you are right, debt free is stress free. The bad thing about the debt free mantra is the pain you get when you see someone heading down the wrong financial path. Keep preaching the debt free life, if you save one family it will be not only your joy but your ‘good works’. Great episode.
Good morning, guys! I can't say enough how much I love watching you. Both. Whether it be tea with Jesus, a box opening, or cooking with your prepping foods. Always just an absolute pleasure. (and you guys are such a great, cute couple). Please, never change! Have a great day and God bless.
I really love you guys. You’re a voice of reason when the world is trying to convince me that we need “more, more, more”. I’ve been an RN for 13 years, my husband is a teacher. I am now a SAHM to our young children. That’s a big income to sacrifice, but it’s better than the alternative of missing out on raising my own children. We are fortunate to be able to live with my father, tighten our belts, and skim the fat off the budget. It works. It’s not fancy, but it works. We’ll be buying this house in a couple of years and we’ll be able to make sure my dad always has his home. Life is better when it’s simple.
Kudos to you guys. Been watching you guys for several years. So happy for you. We did Dave Ramsey's plan several years ago. We NOW have no debt and I was able to retire a year early. My husband is older and retired several years before I was able to. There were many sleepless nights with a house payment and two car payments. We've had a lot and we've had very little. We are NOW able to Live Simple, Live Free and we are truly living our best life. GOD BLESS YOU BOTH
My husband and I have no debt. Things are tight but the stress free life is worth it. I so appreciate your perspective and look up to you guys. My husband says we are “rich poor” because although we don’t have all the bells and whistles we are secure in the knowledge that our small home and vehicle are paid for and we have no credit card payments.
Learned from my parents to just buy what you need, not what you want and not use a credit card. Most important is our character. It is the only thing we can bring.... Thanks to both of you...
Such a great Christian couple setting an example of how God does supply your needs . Hopefully you're still able to minimize your collection around you now. I have started last year being indoors I to go through keep and throw piles. Given things away , when my brother passed mostly his sons took out what their Mom wanted in her smaller condo. Things gone through and heartbroken as the dumpster got the rest. His wife had to have things around that some she had no idea what was in toats. Old saying you never see a haul behind the hearse. How true. Have a BLESSED AND SAFE WEEK ! Ruth VA
I think that people have the mindset that you have to have "things" to make us happy. That kind of thinking keeps us out of each others life. You need to depend on each other to get you through life, not things. Well, FIRST depend on the Lord then on each other.
It is no one's business if you are rolling in money ! You have a very wise husband ! He does know how to earn money ! He is a very good salesman ! You put all of your money ahead because he earned it ! You are so blessed because he is there and you love each other !
Good morning Elizabeth and Bill i can honestly tell you that because of following your method for the passed 3 years... at the age of now 67 i am living my life depth free. Yes you inspire me in so many ways. And yes its a goood feeling. Be blessed.
I love that you give all Glory to Our Heavenly Father. Thankfully, I was taught tithing as a child and can testify that you can never out give God. No matter what my income after tithing there was always enough to pay all my bills and a bit extra to save or to use to bless someone else. Like you I have lived Simple and doing that I was able to pay off my mortgage in 1998 and have lived Free since. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and hopefully inspiring others to Live Simple, Live Free..
Everything you said is absolutely true. Sometimes one has to be older and wiser or go thru the School of Hard Knocks to understand. You have a great way of explaining it all. I hope most of your followers take your advice. God Bless!
All we see day in and day out is excess. It boggles the mind that anyone would choose to live "simply" and most probably assume you do it out of necessity not choice. Your homes have always been filled with comforts and warmth. A quote that I love and live by "The best things in life aren't things".
We live simple and free. Having no debt is an incredible feeling. Our newest vehicle is10 years old and all three vehicles run perfectly, because we take care of them. But I want to commend you on paying tithing. Miracles happen when you pay the Lord first and the world second. God bless you for sharing the right way to live with everyone. :)
I love the idea of saving up for the holidays! You just inspired me to do the same. It makes total sense ... rather than stress out two months before the holidays, I’m going to start NOW! So simple; well, better late than never. It’s never too late to learn 😊
I shop all year long, catch the sales and get good prices on gifts. I am always done by October. Makes the holidays stress free and no bill in January.
I’ve made some bad decisions in my life but overspending and living behind my means hasn’t been one of them. My husband and I live in the top 5% income bracket after both growing up poor. When people come by our house, I know they think “what do they do with all their money” as we live in a small ranch that’s been paid for for over 10 years. I always offer “we love the freedom that comes with living below our means.” I drive an old Subaru and my husband has a jazzy car that he paid for in cash. We are not slaves to the debt system that was created for the wealthy to keep us impoverished. I’m so grateful for that. My other motto is “it’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it,”. Keep educating people about the material wealth lie and the plandemic lie.
I love that you live within your means. Simple life means not having crushing debt and the stress thereof. Keep up the good work. Your sister in Christ
I've watched your videos and I agree with you basic ideas of living within your means. It seems like an idea that's lost on so many. I'm an old guy, my parents grew up in the great depression, and passed on frugal living to me, and even when I've faced hard times, I've lived through it because of the values learned. Hopefully people will learn this from your channel.
It would be nice for you to expand your kitchen. House improvement isn't wasting money. You two have been through the hard times and now enjoying the better times. I give you credit for that. My husband and I have had our times but didn't learn our lesson like you did. Now we are older and not sure if we'll ever be out of debt. You both are an inspiration. Your simple joy is contagious. How is Pop? I hope he is doing better.
Blessing in a life... ♡ within God's Kingdom ♡ being healthy & fit ♡ graced with each other to love Sharing your wisdom with the world makes ~us~ happy too.. Thank You Live Simple, Live Free friends.
Ya'll are wise with your money. Our car and truck are paid for and so is our house and it does feels good. They're not new but we're happy. Thanks for your videos.
Bill and Elizabeth ... you two are the most loving and beautifully connected couple and it is sad there are a few nay-sayers lurking that feel a need to say the things they say. Thumpers Mom was right when she told him “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say nuthin’ at all.” Advice a lot of people need to follow. I love your videos, love learning from you and always look forward to seeing what your next video will be. Hugs to you both. 💕
my stuff makes me happy, it really does, we own our stuff, cars, almost our house in a few months, cash is king, but know that emergencies happen, most of us have kids, so let's say everyone is different , we're all learning everyday
If you live below your means you can pay all your bills. You don't have to worry about that. Whether you are a minimalist, a frugalist to the point you choose, simplicity helps. Now everyone is telling us to have side hustles. This helps our lives. This also allows us to help people and animal shelters and tithing as much as we can. You are okay to be simple and free. You have experience about what you are saying. Like you Elizabeth I can't rest if even a bill is not paid. I can't do otherwise. I fully agree with your budgeting system. You are both right.
Your channel name has always meant a mindset or a metaphor to me. Live below our means is our motto as well. And yes, it took us years to get there because we have always been a single income family with children. It was hard but we are glad to be in that "free" zone now. Only buy what you can pay for and "cash on the barrel" as Pa Ingles in the LHOTP would say! Have a good week, Bill and Elizabeth!
You two deserve all the blessings you have. I'm so happy that you are feeling more financially comfortable these days. My husband and I also lost everything in the 2008 crash and our construction company. We're financially well again but this time we are totally debt free. It's a whole new mind set. Really, truly there is no greater freedom than living without being leveraged by debt. We will never go back to being slaves to the banks and the credit card companies. Never.
sounds a lot like the Dave Ramsey program baby steps. Being debt free is a wonderful wonderful thing. I could just hug you two for sharing these practical principles. God bless you.
🎶‘Tis a gift to be simple, ‘tis a gift to be free; ‘tis a gift to come ‘round where we ought to be. And when you find yourself in the place just right, ‘twill be in the valley of love and delight” 🎶 Great song .... You two exemplify this!! Hugs and Encouragement always in all ways - Brother and sister-in Christ.
I just lost my oldest brother who told me many years ago, “When your outgo exceeds your income, your upkeep becomes your downfall.” Loved his simple wisdom ...
Very good advice. Everyone has a different approach. We have stayed in our little house for 27 1/2 years. Because of that, we are able to live below our means. Our house is paid off. Our car philosophy is a little different for us. For years we had used cars and could never get ahead because the constant money poured into them to keep them running was killing us. I absolutely hate the uncertainty of an unreliable car. We have a zero interest on our car loan and it’s almost paid off. Although I’m in no hurry to pay it off. The money is making money in savings and investments while I’m paying no interest. Works better for us. I’m 60 and my husband is 64. I quit my job this summer and my husband was laid off in December. We are currently living off severance. Our biggest concern is healthcare. That runs out soon and we aren’t old enough for Medicare. We are looking into a Christian medical sharing plan. We have two children that are both married with children. They live the frugal life and both have better houses than we do. They are able to afford their homes because they live within their means. I’m so glad that they have bigger homes than we do, they each have more children than we did. I always wanted a bigger home and now the thought of cleaning a bigger house doesn’t interest me. Your videos have gotten me through this last year of uncertainty. I believe that our faithful payment of tithing has been our biggest blessing. My husband always prays that we will do well enough through retirement to be able to be a little generous to others. Life is good and God is good!
Thank you SO MUCH for making this video! 💚 This brings me so much hope for my own future. I am a minimalist. I have just what I need and nothing more. Currently working on paying off past debt that's on my credit history. I LOVE your videos. They bring me so much joy, peace and happiness. It's nice seeing you both thriving and staying healthy in your environment taking care of Pops. 😏 God Bless and much love. I'll continue watching future videos you post. Thank you for the advice you offer. It's priceless! 🥰
Great video great advice I have lived this way myself for 40 years and it is such a relief not to have to worry about a bill that I can’t pay hanging over my head
We as a family live a life of if we can’t afford it we save up for it and usually when we finally save that money we find we really don’t need that item our son saved up for his car and paid cash for it, it maybe not brand new but he has no debt I think you are amazing couple love your videos. Beautiful blessings from Scotland 🏴💕
"Live Below your Means" is Something my Youngest brother Stresses the importance of! I wish he'd start Teaching other people how to Live Below their means 😊
It's a shame that there are those who are so vocally critical of something they obviously are so ignorant of. Your committed philosophy to Live Simple Live Free has NEVER waivered. I hate it that you felt compelled to explain yourself, however like always, I'm impressed with your restraint and professionalism in your diplomatic response. A lesson for all. God bless you both✝️
Thanks. This video is not so much about explaining or justifying ourselves as it is to try to continue to educate people about this BETTER way of life. 😊 To many, it is a totally foreign concept.
Enjoyed. I live extremely frugal. I have no cable, no loans, no credit card debt, owe nothing except monthly living expenses but I also live on SSI and after bills are paid I have less then 50.00 a month left but I survive. Im blessed because I can pay my bills. God bless you both.
When first married I went from an affluent lifestyle to bringing home food from the mess hall - so I have lived both ends of the spectrum. Now widowed I will continue to live well below my means - for no other reason than to live secure.
For me, as long as my bills are paid, I have gas in my car and food in the cupboard I consider myself rich.
The yrs that I have watched your channel, you have not changed. It's nobody's business how much money that you make.
You're planting veg garden and fruit trees to help in the future.
Stay the way you are.
Prayers for Pop.
Freedom to me means no debt! Yea- we finally made that goal!!
I am super happy for you!!!!
@@sj6728 me too...
Congratulations!
@@sj6728 Thanks!
@@MiscMitz Thanks!
My mother gave me two bits of advice, don’t live above your means and don’t let your possessions possess you.
"A life does not need much stuff in it to bring you joy!" ❤👍
I’m 34 come from parents that never grasp the theory of living below their means was use to seeing them get loans on their titles, early pay day places etc. I thought that was the “norm” I met my husband who is from Mexico and grew up very poor so he learned how to save up for a rainy day . His life was simple by default and if they had something beside beans it was truly a feast ! I’m so grateful for him because he taught me what life is all about ! We have 4 children and try to show them the blessing of living a simplistic lifestyle . We don’t owe for anything own our home and vehicles are paid off all we pay is our monthly bills and extra curricular activities for our kids. Some people poke fun at our lifestyle but I wouldn’t change it for the world ! Y’all have become the parents I never had to guide me in all things simple ! Your financial advice ,godly examples and your marriage is such a blessing and example to us . Thank you for sharing all you do ❤️
Whoever is poking fun at you, well, they are probably wishing they could do the same. Sounds like your doing a good job and your husband has some good common sense. You can't take it with you when you go anyway.
@@sunniertimer598 thank you so much ❤️
So well shared & said
Bill & Elizabeth, I cannot believe you had to explain this. 🙄 I am so sorry. But here we are...
As always, you are gracious and provide helpful information.
Thank you. God bless. ✝️
My thoughts exactly!
It`s a great life been debt free. We own our 700sq ft. home & have no debt or credit cards .The Lords tenth + is the most important of all. God Bless you folks!
We love living free from Debt the Dave Ramsey way !! Such Peace!!!
Patricia & Daniel
I just paid the last payment on my vehicle! Now living debt free!!! It’s very freeing from stress and worrying over payments!
When Our children were small and we lived on one income- bought a house, never had credit cards- owned all of our cars- I remember starting my kids in school and they sent home a paper showing eligiablity for the "free lunch program" and how much income was considered living in poverty ...our income fell within that range - at the time I was so imbarresed - yet confused because we had a good simple life and had plenty!!
I live in HUD subsidized independent senior housing. Several neighbors have either passed or moved to nursing homes. 3 of them had hoarded so much stuff, mostly in boxes or crammed in the closets, it took days for the family to empty their apartments. One family got most stuff out, but from nally gave up and let the owners call in the 800 got junk to finish cleaning the place out .
I'm determined not to leave a bunch of stuff for my kids to throw away.
We go to estate sales, I sell online, the couple have passed or gone into nursing homes. Some of these homes are 3,000+ sq ft and packed with stuff accumulated over the years.
We lived in a trailer for years while saving money to build our dream house.We were able to do it this last year debt free.We have no mortgage we owe nothing but our normal monthly bills.When we tell people we don't owe anything on the house they look at us like we are crazy.It feels wonderful to have our nice little house and know that it's all paid for.
I have a "friend" who once introduced me as her"poor friend, she doesn't have as much as we do". It was a head shaker moment because I am debt free, own my home (900 sq ft), have two older vehicles and I have money in the bank. I don't have the $1M she does but I have enough to cover any emergency repairs, I have a large stockpile of food and yes, T.P., and if needed I can heat my house with my kerosene heaters. I am blessed. And you do sleep better at night knowing that the basics are paid for and you owe no one. Your video has great advice.
I lost everything in 2008 also. I found a job 1 year and 5 months later, 1 year later they were in trouble and laid me off. four months later I found an awesome job (but they were on shaky ground, so I bought a house cheap, they went bankrupt shortly after I bought it), So I fixed it sold it and bailed myself out. Now I live below my means in a tiny apartment in Manchester, NH..
born and brought up in manchester, now in Hillsboro, my kids are in manchester
I am a retiree and have seen how everything increases except my income. I am making progress in eliminating income leaks and paying off debt. Hopefully can be out of debt in 2 to 3 years
My daughter and son-in-law use the Dave Ramsey method for the last 10 years and the only debt is there mortgage and that will be paid off in 5 years. They get ridiculed by their friends, but that's ok with them because they'll be debt free in 5 years. Good advice live below your means, it's cold comfort with material stuff when things go bad. Blessings to all 😊🇺🇸
Elizabeth your lipstick looks wonderful and you look beautiful!
Thank you 😊
We built a log home inch by inch with money we'd saved and sweat equity ;). I was devastated after getting the run-around from the banks initially, but it was the best thing that ever happened to us. God closed that door so he could provide the means, and we wouldn't be slaves to a lender. We are so grateful to be debt-free. The stress relief Elizabeth mentioned is HUGE! Like climbing a mountain: so very hard & times you want to quit, but once you're at the top, what others said about the view just doesn't cut it, cuz it's something you need to see and do for yourself. Praise God!
How's Pop? He's been in my prayers.
I just want a big old hug and tea/chat with Elizabeth. Such a sweet soul.
I’d love that! 🥰
For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
YES!!! TAKING THE STRESS OUT OF IT!!!!!!! That is it Elizabeth, exactly! I live on my own land in an RV and own my car. That is my "simple" life. I love you both ❤️❤️🤗.
Great that you still have one another. So many your age are having to make it on their own after losing a spouse or partner. That’s when life gets really tough and completely changes. Blessings to you and your channel.
I live Simple and Free also...I want to buy things, I save up for it and pay cash. No stress due to debt. I watch your channel for extra ideas. Be safe and thanks a whole bunch!
One of my favorite sayings: "What you own owns you" It is SO true!
Your message was very clear. You have worked very hard to reach the point where you are today and you kindly share your experiences with us so that we too can "Live Simple, Live Free." You two are very inspirational.
I also stepped out of the "mind control" of all the commercials and talks about being a consumer. Enough - I did not have a choice to stop using my credit cards - when you have no job to make payments - there was nothing I could do. I offered to work for the bank - nope I was too old and that was years ago. So I learned how to save I began with the envelope system. Put $10.00 every month in an envelope for auto repairs/oil changes, $10.00 for vet bills, $10.00 for hair cuts, $20.00 for laundry etc. It grew - soon I turned in the 10's for 100.00 and if I needed some for something else I could borrow from myself. Worked great for me. You are wise folks - and since the kids are grown I found I just don't need much for myself anymore.
Oh my goodness people get so jealous of other people. Just makes me ill, how people begrudge other people. Read the Ten Commandments people, especially the covetousness part. Blessings Bill and Elizabeth! I absolutely agree with this video!
You hit the nail on the head Elizabeth God has blessed me.Tithing first. I haven't had a credit card since 1995. I don't get loans, dont borrow from friends and family, dont pay interest on anything. God has blessed me . I'm retired on social security. I live with my son and family. No collectors after me. Thanks to God I have no debt to anyone. God has blessed me to be a blessing to others. I can't imagine the crushing debt so many people live under. Hats off to you both. God is so good. Yes I'm working on next Christmas and birthdays a little each month and I have life insurance now. By the Grace of God I no live simple and live free. 🌝🌹🙏🤝👆
There's nothing like being free of debt I live the same way but my husband died I downsized to a 14x40 little mobile home I paid it off I own my cars and I'm very content with what I have I don't need more than that and yes the Lord is good and kind and loving and without him I would have nothing but yeah I live beneath my means because now that the pandemic is going I see people struggling and I just I'm so blessed that I don't have to struggle and more than anything I also praise the Lord that I have my health and I love the way you guys are living so awesome to see people that do that and the people nowadays can't ..they have to be like the Joneses and keep buying new phones and computers and big houses and what they don't realize it. What they're getting themselves into. I think with the people are missing is God because without God they have no wisdom or knowledge to whatever is going on around their world right now I pray that they find him.
Love it! I live in a mobile home I bought for $500 and it's all mine! Been fixing it up as I go. Most people couldn't live the simple and free life, but the feeling you get when your not tied down to anyone; is wonderful. As a society we have gotten more and spoiled and relying on others for our needs. Life could all come to a very different change someday and could we get by without all the improvements seen in the last 100 years?
I must say this one of my favorite videos so far, well said. Stay safe and warm. Sending love and light.
Our story is so similar to yours. Loss of job, huge new house and lots of debt, plus four kids getting ready for college! Bankruptcy-fast forward 20 years. We have been SO blessed to be debt free since our last mortgage payment in May 2020. We lost our business because of Covid, but have saved for retirement and are so happy we have NO debt! It is so freeing to not have the worry of debt!
My wife and I own our small farm and have zero debt. I drive a truck with 300,000 miles and while, like you, we are not minimalists we try not to "keep up with the Jones'". We are retired and the good Lord has blessed us in life. It it not so easy for a young couple but that should be everyone's goal. It is quite liberating!!
Your message is a pure golden treasure chest of wisdom. It is gloriously wonderful and possible to be debt free plus own a car, a home and have an emergency fund!
Elizabeth your the best friend, sister, cousin, neighbor, anyone would love to have!
You are so right...you can't outgive the Lord! He is faithful! We believe in and practice tithing. He has supplied our needs.
May God continually bless you, I am trying to become debt free and God is blessing me more and more each day. I am 72 and it is so freeing each time i pay a bill off.
You can do it!
Blessings to you both!!! My husband and I are elderly and we live below our means. No debt!! We have a comfortable old mobile home and food to eat. We pay our bills. We have money put away for emergencies. Your advice is sound and biblically based!!!
You are so right about living within your means. You don't have to explain yourselves or your lifestyle to those who can't or just won't understand the concept. They'll never get it and will pay the consequences. Love your vlogs. Please don't change a thing.
Thanks. This video is not so much about explaining or justifying ourselves as it is to try to continue to educate people about this BETTER way of life. 😊 To many, it is a totally foreign concept.
@@LiveSimpleLiveFree I agree and it made me think that the simplest reason most get in debt from every day purchase online or in stores etc, it the use of a plastic card, be it debit or credit, because back in the day before most people even had a credit card you lived on what was in your wallet!! when the cash was gone, so was your spending.
Thanks you for the wise words of encouragement. I want to make a sign that says, "Be Free of the Bondage of Debt". Amen
That is where we are at. Thank you.
Live simple live free means living within your means! I have no debt ,and I make sure that every penny I make ,I pay myself first! Having an emergency fund is SOO important because you never know what life will throw at you .Look at the pandemic that came out of nowhere . Who could have thought ! I have followed you since the first days of your living in that tiny house and you appeared happy then and happy now ! To be content is so important.
Some people are going to find fault no matter what. I respect and appreciate everything you do and share. You are a blessing.
You two are an inspiration. Thank you for your videos. 🤗
I am following your system. Just started in December. We will be out of debt in 9 years. We also save for medical/college/IRA/Reg. Savings so much goes right into these accts from paycheck.
If it takes a long time to save for something you have time to decide if you really want it. I have good credit, but like you it doesn’t matter because we have no debt. I worked for a mega bank and got to see what credit card debt can do to people and it can be horrible. We have been debt free for decades and you are right, debt free is stress free. The bad thing about the debt free mantra is the pain you get when you see someone heading down the wrong financial path. Keep preaching the debt free life, if you save one family it will be not only your joy but your ‘good works’. Great episode.
Good morning, guys! I can't say enough how much I love watching you. Both. Whether it be tea with Jesus, a box opening, or cooking with your prepping foods. Always just an absolute pleasure. (and you guys are such a great, cute couple). Please, never change! Have a great day and God bless.
Oh, and that cinder block rocket stove... THE BEST. That information was priceless. Thank you so very much for that as well.
@@lbroolz thats how I found these two jewels.
I really love you guys. You’re a voice of reason when the world is trying to convince me that we need “more, more, more”. I’ve been an RN for 13 years, my husband is a teacher. I am now a SAHM to our young children. That’s a big income to sacrifice, but it’s better than the alternative of missing out on raising my own children. We are fortunate to be able to live with my father, tighten our belts, and skim the fat off the budget. It works. It’s not fancy, but it works. We’ll be buying this house in a couple of years and we’ll be able to make sure my dad always has his home. Life is better when it’s simple.
You’re living in freedom and in peace! 😊💞
Kudos to you guys. Been watching you guys for several years. So happy for you. We did Dave Ramsey's plan several years ago. We NOW have no debt and I was able to retire a year early. My husband is older and retired several years before I was able to. There were many sleepless nights with a house payment and two car payments. We've had a lot and we've had very little. We are NOW able to Live Simple, Live Free and we are truly living our best life. GOD BLESS YOU BOTH
Less is truly more. You are a wonderful example🌹
I so admire how you two have accomplished your financial recovery. Thank you for sharing the advice for the rest of us.
Oh. And Yes, tithing always comes first. We are BIG in tithing and giving. Amen!!
My husband and I have no debt. Things are tight but the stress free life is worth it. I so appreciate your perspective and look up to you guys. My husband says we are “rich poor” because although we don’t have all the bells and whistles we are secure in the knowledge that our small home and vehicle are paid for and we have no credit card payments.
Learned from my parents to just buy what you need, not what you want and not use a credit card. Most important is our character. It is the only thing we can bring.... Thanks to both of you...
Such a great Christian couple setting an example of how God does supply your needs . Hopefully you're still able to minimize your collection around you now. I have started last year being indoors I to go through keep and throw piles. Given things away , when my brother passed mostly his sons took out what their Mom wanted in her smaller condo. Things gone through and heartbroken as the dumpster got the rest. His wife had to have things around that some she had no idea what was in toats. Old saying you never see a haul behind the hearse. How true. Have a BLESSED AND SAFE WEEK ! Ruth VA
I understand what you mean live within your pocket not live out of your means and remember to always stay comfortable love and wishes
Hi Bill and Elisabth! So nice to see you again! Glad to see God is blessing you faithful servants so bountifully!
I think that people have the mindset that you have to have "things" to make us happy. That kind of thinking keeps us out of each others life. You need to depend on each other to get you through life, not things. Well, FIRST depend on the Lord then on each other.
It is no one's business if you are rolling in money ! You have a very wise husband ! He does know how to earn money ! He is a very good salesman ! You put all of your money ahead because he earned it ! You are so blessed because he is there and you love each other !
Good morning Elizabeth and Bill i can honestly tell you that because of following your method for the passed 3 years... at the age of now 67 i am living my life depth free. Yes you inspire me in so many ways. And yes its a goood feeling. Be blessed.
Great job! 😊
I love that you give all Glory to Our Heavenly Father. Thankfully, I was taught tithing as a child and can testify that you can never out give God. No matter what my income after tithing there was always enough to pay all my bills and a bit extra to save or to use to bless someone else. Like you I have lived Simple and doing that I was able to pay off my mortgage in 1998 and have lived Free since. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and hopefully inspiring others to Live Simple, Live Free..
Everything you said is absolutely true. Sometimes one has to be older and wiser or go thru the School of Hard Knocks to understand. You have a great way of explaining it all. I hope most of your followers take your advice. God Bless!
All we see day in and day out is excess. It boggles the mind that anyone would choose to live "simply" and most probably assume you do it out of necessity not choice. Your homes have always been filled with comforts and warmth. A quote that I love and live by "The best things in life aren't things".
We live simple and free. Having no debt is an incredible feeling. Our newest vehicle is10 years old and all three vehicles run perfectly, because we take care of them. But I want to commend you on paying tithing. Miracles happen when you pay the Lord first and the world second. God bless you for sharing the right way to live with everyone. :)
I love the idea of saving up for the holidays! You just inspired me to do the same. It makes total sense ... rather than stress out two months before the holidays, I’m going to start NOW! So simple; well, better late than never. It’s never too late to learn 😊
I shop all year long, catch the sales and get good prices on gifts. I am always done by October. Makes the holidays stress free and no bill in January.
I certainly appreciate your wise council! God bless you & please keep teaching us to be better stewards of God’s provision.
I like your budget videos. I'm still struggling with debt, but slowly progressing toward less debt & cabin in the woods.
God bless you both! We'll soon be with our beloved Saviour Jesus Christ! 🙏
I’ve made some bad decisions in my life but overspending and living behind my means hasn’t been one of them. My husband and I live in the top 5% income bracket after both growing up poor. When people come by our house, I know they think “what do they do with all their money” as we live in a small ranch that’s been paid for for over 10 years. I always offer “we love the freedom that comes with living below our means.” I drive an old Subaru and my husband has a jazzy car that he paid for in cash. We are not slaves to the debt system that was created for the wealthy to keep us impoverished. I’m so grateful for that. My other motto is “it’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it,”. Keep educating people about the material wealth lie and the plandemic lie.
I love that you live within your means. Simple life means not having crushing debt and the stress thereof. Keep up the good work. Your sister in Christ
I just love you two !!!
Thank you for your kindness in sharing the lessons you have learned 🌻
Pop is in my prayers. Thank you for all you do. Love your videos! Credit cards are very evil! I so agree with all you said in this video. 💕🙏
I've watched your videos and I agree with you basic ideas of living within your means. It seems like an idea that's lost on so many. I'm an old guy, my parents grew up in the great depression, and passed on frugal living to me, and even when I've faced hard times, I've lived through it because of the values learned. Hopefully people will learn this from your channel.
It would be nice for you to expand your kitchen. House improvement isn't wasting money. You two have been through the hard times and now enjoying the better times. I give you credit for that. My husband and I have had our times but didn't learn our lesson like you did. Now we are older and not sure if we'll ever be out of debt. You both are an inspiration. Your simple joy is contagious. How is Pop? I hope he is doing better.
Blessing in a life...
♡ within God's Kingdom
♡ being healthy & fit
♡ graced with each other to love
Sharing your wisdom with the world makes ~us~ happy too.. Thank You
Live Simple, Live Free friends.
Ya'll are wise with your money. Our car and truck are paid for and so is our house and it does feels good. They're not new but we're happy. Thanks for your videos.
You both are so inspiring and a blessing. Praying for you and your family.
Bill and Elizabeth ... you two are the most loving and beautifully connected couple and it is sad there are a few nay-sayers lurking that feel a need to say the things they say. Thumpers Mom was right when she told him “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say nuthin’ at all.” Advice a lot of people need to follow. I love your videos, love learning from you and always look forward to seeing what your next video will be. Hugs to you both. 💕
my stuff makes me happy, it really does, we own our stuff, cars, almost our house in a few months, cash is king, but know that emergencies happen, most of us have kids, so let's say everyone is different , we're all learning everyday
Been working on debt free getting close. I loved your video. So encouraging for all.
If you live below your means you can pay all your bills. You don't have to
worry about that. Whether you are a minimalist, a frugalist to the point you choose, simplicity helps. Now everyone is telling us to have side hustles. This helps our lives. This also allows us to help people and animal shelters and tithing as much as we can. You are okay to be simple and free. You have experience about what you are
saying. Like you Elizabeth I can't rest if even a bill is not paid. I can't do otherwise. I fully agree with your budgeting system. You are both right.
Your channel name has always meant a mindset or a metaphor to me. Live below our means is our motto as well. And yes, it took us years to get there because we have always been a single income family with children. It was hard but we are glad to be in that "free" zone now. Only buy what you can pay for and "cash on the barrel" as Pa Ingles in the LHOTP would say! Have a good week, Bill and Elizabeth!
You two deserve all the blessings you have. I'm so happy that you are feeling more financially comfortable these days. My husband and I also lost everything in the 2008 crash and our construction company. We're financially well again but this time we are totally debt free. It's a whole new mind set. Really, truly there is no greater freedom than living without being leveraged by debt. We will never go back to being slaves to the banks and the credit card companies. Never.
God Bless u both! My husband and I are on Social security and are following your debt elimination and I'd working very well!! Thank you both!!😊
I'm so glad. You can do it!
sounds a lot like the Dave Ramsey program baby steps. Being debt free is a wonderful wonderful thing. I could just hug you two for sharing these practical principles. God bless you.
🎶‘Tis a gift to be simple, ‘tis a gift to be free; ‘tis a gift to come ‘round where we ought to be. And when you find yourself in the place just right, ‘twill be in the valley of love and delight” 🎶 Great song .... You two exemplify this!! Hugs and Encouragement always in all ways - Brother and sister-in Christ.
I just lost my oldest brother who told me many years ago, “When your outgo exceeds your income, your upkeep becomes your downfall.” Loved his simple wisdom ...
So sorry for your loss. He sounds like a wise man.
@@LiveSimpleLiveFree - Thank you.
Very good advice. Everyone has a different approach. We have stayed in our little house for 27 1/2 years. Because of that, we are able to live below our means. Our house is paid off. Our car philosophy is a little different for us. For years we had used cars and could never get ahead because the constant money poured into them to keep them running was killing us. I absolutely hate the uncertainty of an unreliable car. We have a zero interest on our car loan and it’s almost paid off. Although I’m in no hurry to pay it off. The money is making money in savings and investments while I’m paying no interest. Works better for us. I’m 60 and my husband is 64. I quit my job this summer and my husband was laid off in December. We are currently living off severance. Our biggest concern is healthcare. That runs out soon and we aren’t old enough for Medicare. We are looking into a Christian medical sharing plan. We have two children that are both married with children. They live the frugal life and both have better houses than we do. They are able to afford their homes because they live within their means. I’m so glad that they have bigger homes than we do, they each have more children than we did. I always wanted a bigger home and now the thought of cleaning a bigger house doesn’t interest me. Your videos have gotten me through this last year of uncertainty. I believe that our faithful payment of tithing has been our biggest blessing. My husband always prays that we will do well enough through retirement to be able to be a little generous to others. Life is good and God is good!
So happy for you!
Thanks for the advise. It truly helps.
Be blessed!
Puerto Rico U S A
Thank you SO MUCH for making this video! 💚 This brings me so much hope for my own future. I am a minimalist. I have just what I need and nothing more. Currently working on paying off past debt that's on my credit history.
I LOVE your videos. They bring me so much joy, peace and happiness. It's nice seeing you both thriving and staying healthy in your environment taking care of Pops. 😏 God Bless and much love. I'll continue watching future videos you post. Thank you for the advice you offer. It's priceless! 🥰
Great video great advice I have lived this way myself for 40 years and it is such a relief not to have to worry about a bill that I can’t pay hanging over my head
You were just trying to help some people to make money in the times were in. Thank you for care for your fellow person.
We as a family live a life of if we can’t afford it we save up for it and usually when we finally save that money we find we really don’t need that item our son saved up for his car and paid cash for it, it maybe not brand new but he has no debt I think you are amazing couple love your videos.
Beautiful blessings from Scotland 🏴💕
"Live Below your Means" is
Something my Youngest brother
Stresses the importance of! I wish he'd start Teaching other people how to Live Below their means 😊