1000% when my kids were babies they had the most basic toys that they preferred - an old drink bottle filled with dried rice and dried pasta was always a favourite and off cuts of wood that they loved and I bought all my daughter's barbies from the opt shop.
Toys can be good but better spend time with them and for example play boardgames with them or make them learn to play piano or a guitar or learn them something that they will have use of for in the future for example learn to cook food.
Yes!! My mom tried to buy my affection a lot/her loge language is gift giving. I grew up with way too many toys, and it was always overwhelming. I was getting yelled at a lot to pick up my toys but there was no place for the toys. It was terrible.
Love the library and all they do. Lived in Philippines and so missed the library. Lived in Hong Kong and fell in love with them again. Now back in the US donated unused book and going to be a regular customer of visiting and of the e-books. Hoping that the US sets up voting in the library, this is what we did in HK.
I DIY as much as possible. As a result, I can fix almost anything. I can paint, install lighting, install door window and baseboard casings, power wash, re-grout, refinish furniture, grow my own food, etc etc etc. save thousands and thousands by doing it yourself as much as possible. 😘
Thank you for promoting the local library. Libraries are a wealth of resources and the more people utilize them the better us library workers can grow our programs!
Never ever had a streaming subscription, no notifications on my phone, life insurance since 20, I love the library, I scan all my receipts I save on everything
When I became a minimalist years ago I also stopped shopping for things I didn’t need. It’s amazing how much money you can save without buying all the unnecessary stuff.
When I do shop I focus on only what I want. Yesterday I wanted earrings. Went into the mall and got exactly that and walked out with only the earrings.
I just got a gingerbread house Christmas display for free. It’s being turned into a playhouse for my daughter. She is so excited to design it. Saved me $500 on a wood playhouse. Ok I wasn’t planning to buy a $500 playhouse but it still made her happy for free.
#20. So true. My grandparents and my mom were so busy they didn’t have time to sit around bored thinking of things to buy. When they have free time, they enjoyed it.
Pain coach here. Yes! There is so much focus from your brain on pain and managing it that you have to retrain it to remember joy! Do things you love ❤️ Best way back
also if you have a disability or just plain aren't handy and don't want to watch RUclips DIY don't feel guilty or like you are failing at life if you DO have to hire someone, the level at which it reduces my anxiety to HIRE IT DONE...... is so worth it. i have seen my 80-year-old mom darn near hurt herself because of her midwest pull yourself by your bootstraps mentality LIKE MOM please HIRE SOMEONE TO MOW THE LAWN instead of spraining your ankle it's okay if you want to save money but it is also ok if you need to hire assistance too
I had to stop mowing my own lawn when I got migraines, ( and my battery powered mower, which weighs a tonne, the battery died during the years I didn't use it, what a waste! My old fashined reel push mower rusted too much to push anymore. :( ) I found at a discount store an electric cord powered lawn mower that weighs about as much as a vacuum cleaner. It was at Ollies: Good Stuff Cheap and cost about $100 but I had a 20% off coupon and came back for it. It is so much lighter, quieter and easier to navigate. My front yard has a slope and even the lawn service guys have difficulty on it. My overpowered box fan on wheels takes care of it and the only funny thing is dragging a bright yellow heavy-duty cord behind me. OTOH, I have given up on trying to find that plumbing clog. I've gone through 2 augers and the clog is further than I can reach. I don't want to pay the plumber but the cost to buy an engine powered auger, I may as well have them do it and do it right. I'm probably gonna be that 80 year old that can't be convinced to hire someone but your message reminds me I won't be able to DIY everything as I get older, despite that being my upbringing.
Absolutely agree with this. I am a yardwork do it herself person. I reinjured a herniated disc because I was saving money. I then for the first time in 30 years, paid someone to clear my hill.
I've been saving money by doing curbside pick-up for my groceries. It's free, and I don't walk around the store picking up things I don't need. I may not see those clearance deals, but I'm at least not putting extra stuff in my cart. When I do go into the store, I like to bring a drink that I enjoy and is my own little treat while I'm shopping. It's from home, so no extra cost, and it helps with that feeling of wanting to buy extra treats while shopping.
Volunteer. It’s free and you’re helping out your community, plus you feel better afterwards and it keeps you busy vs spending moolah doing something else
As Kristine said, the library comin’ in clutch again. My state’s libraries offer FREE tickets to local museums, zoos & aquariums, botanical gardens & other local attractions. IIRC, the offerings are separated in either 3 parts - Northern state, Central & possibly Southern. Central & Southern might be combined. My county limits 3 tickets (2 people per ticket) per library card per month. The county south of here only allows 2 tickets (2 people per ticket) per library card per month. We tried to go to one of the botanical gardens last weekend just to see the butterflies, but the line was way too long so we left. If we paid $25 per ticket we would’ve had to stand in the sun.
Oh, here’s one for the National Parks & Forests - seniors & veterans can get an annual park / forest pass for free if you get your pass at a ranger station or park entrance. If you do it online then it’s a $10 processing fee. Disabled passes are FREE LIFETIME passes. Enjoy!
Appreciate the library tip. I’ve lived in my home for 30+ years. At the end of last year, we moved my MiL to an independent living community in our town. I started looking for things to do with her. We have 3 events booked there this month: a movie night, an old fashioned radio performance and a performance by someone dressed up as Lucille Ball talking about her life. My MIL is very excited about all 3 and they are FREE!! I’ve never even looked into the library and I’m so glad I found this!
All the comments on crunchy towels from being air dried. I dont have a drier, but occasionally use commercial ones when weve a lot and no breaks in the weather. The crunchy towels dry you far better, with a little free exfoliation!
I tell people all the time that switching to mint mobile was the best thing I ever did. My husband and I pay roughly $350 each once a year and get unlimited data and minutes. You bring your own phone but we buy a new phone every maybe 4 years and use our tax return to do so. It’s also great to not worry about another monthly bill.
It is crazy at the amount of people that still pay $100+ for phone bills. I have used mint before and now currently use boost infinite $25 unlimited plan. Same great service as mint and as Verizon as use that as work provided cell. Have used cricket years ago and no issues with it when used. Anyone paying over $35 a month for phone service needs to check out these companies for service. Also credit cards started offering phone insurance if pay phone bill using that card so check that as a perk instead of paying for ins thru provider.
I have used MINT mobile for 2 years! It's a huge money saver and no brainer. I tell everyone I know to switch to MINT. It is available everywhere now. Like $15 a month and up! ❤
I'm asking my husband to look into it. I looked at Amazon which sells 3 month subscriptions. The info about it was like Greek to me. Or, tech gobblygook!
This is where I have a problem!! I'm disabled, so I need to shop on line -they deliver!!! I have my neighbor bring it in, and maybe cook dinner for him and I to enjoy!!😅
@@rubymones8933 unfortunately it’s too wet and cold to hang dry most of the year here. I hang my sweaters in the living room but they take over a day to dry indoors!
As a nurse and part-time real estate agent with $330k saved, I'm keen to invest in the stock market to combat low bank returns and guard against inflation. How can I build a solid portfolio?
A healthy portfolio has 3 things, at the bare minimum: Exposure to ETFs for increased diversification, Exposure to assets that generate cash flow like dividend stocks, Exposure to market-leading tech.
With your idea of hanging clothes, might I suggest using the "Quick" cycle on your washing machine. Still gets the clothes clean, but the cycle is half the time of the regular cycle.
I check out library books, movies, magazines on my Kindle from home. 120 days to read before return! Frugal! Saves gas, tires and oil . Less clutter too. You have a fun personality and great doable tips. Thanks.
I don't own an electric clothes dryer, so I always use a drying rack for everything I wash. I also use free streaming apps to watch TV and movies on my phone and I don't own a TV so no cable/satellite bills either. I rarely eat out, so cooking at home is my norm.
Oldest son was born 8/9 and my youngest 8/3. We always had one party with two separate cakes that I made. We would have a cookout at the state park. Everyone had a blast and it wasn't too expensive.
@aq8799 Nah, I always made each a special cake. One year I made a full sized hockey stick and pucks for the youngest, and a baseball glove and balls for the oldest. Took me forever. Lol. But I would do it all over again.
I literally just avoid going to Target all together now. I always spent more than I could afford, and often regretted those extra purchases. I also make sure that I have water and some sort of snack in my car (and even in a coat pocket!). This has saved me money more times than I can count. Since I have ADHD, dopamine shopping 🛍️ is a battle. So now I let myself put whatever I want in the online cart. But I wait as long as possible to see if I lose interest or remember that it’s not in the budget, etc. Thanks for all the great tips!
I have ADHD and always stick things in my cart - or take a photo and see if I remember it later. Works for kids too - “oh we can’t get that today, but let’s take a picture”
I get it. I do the same with my Amazon shopping list. I call it window shopping, lol. I rarely ever actually buy the thing until I actually NEED it. Mostly home improvement stuff.
Hi Kristin, I love your channel and share your views on living frugal! My hubby and I retired a 1.5yr ago at 58/59 and getting busy traveling. I am flying to Italy from DFW for $5.60 per person 1 way and cruising back at an 87% discount by choosing to cruise on a ship that’s repositioning back to the USA via NY port. You wouldn’t believe the cost of a whole month on the ship visiting Italy, Greece, France, Spain, Portugal… frugal vacation shopping pays off!!!
How did you find the info on the discount cruise repositioning back to the US? I'm assuming your plane tkt cost is because of cc points. I'm always looking for ways to travel inexpensively.
Man the birthday parties... we have done hot dogs and chips, baked the cake, played old school games like Duck Duck Goose and the kids had a blast. For the tweenagers? Make your own pizza party complete with homemade pizza dough I prepped in advance.
I love the library! One thing I have learned from watching booktube is that reading books and buying books are 2 separate hobbies. I also recently learned that even though I live in the suburbs, I can get a city library card to my closest major city. It is mind blowing. I am talking 9 month waitlists to 2 week waitlists on ebooks between the suburban library and the city library. AMAZING!
I so understand about the finger tip injury😩 I’ve had breast cancer and surgery with it and radiation and of course my children, chronic back issues, BUT recently I had surgery for a arthritis cyst on the end of my finger. I was like no big deal 🤷🏻♀️NOT a it’s finally healing but I was shocked ( as a retired nurse) of the pain and healing involved. So glad your healing and yes nerve pain is the worse in my opinion.
a lot of people want to avoid yard work and that's where God gives you the blessings, mowing the lawn is good for you and bending down and planting gives you health
1:47 I live in Santa Cruz County, CA which has a ton of state parks (think redwoods) and state beaches. So my library has, get this, state park day parking PASSES you can check out for three WEEKS for free! Keep in mind, our state parks charge TEN DOLLARS to park! Speaking of parks, some of our parks have street parking close by that allow you to walk in at no charge! Plus, we have plenty of city and county parks you can use for free. Also, I have a disabled parking placard which I can use to park in nearby Mt. Madonna for free. It's in Santa Clara County, which does charge for parking.
DVDS are a lifesaver. Streaming is only as good as the company decides to load it, not censor, and your TV is working. I can watch them on my computer. Libraries are a freebie GOD send❤
Yup. I got a travel DVD player, brand new-in the box, for $5 on Marketplace. Plugs into either my vehicle or my portable power station. Hit the library on my way out of town camping. Perfect!
You’re right about streaming services and saving money.. we made the choice not to get WiFi or any tv channels until after we paid off our debts. People thought it was weird but we didn’t miss what we had never had! We nailed our goals and now live a little more comfortably 😊
Praise be on your finger injury is finally getting there!!!! I work for a hand surgeon and it's amazing how many people don't realize how vital even 1 finger being injured can be to your overall health - especially mentally!!! So glad you are getting back to normal Christine - whatever normal is, right? ;)
Have a sunroom that gets very hot April through October. Hang my clothes from the rafters, they are dry within an hour. Also, hike and walk a lot. From my home, I can hike over the ridge to the beach for a nice 8 miles round trip hike. Only have to use my van every couple of weeks for bulk shopping. Work is a 3 mile walk each way. I like eating so I don't mind the extra walking. So far, have only spent $1,800 dollars through the first three months of the year. Home is paid off and no debts, so expenses are low. Oh yeah. GO to Costco!! I work for them. 😉 Almost 37 years.
I also stopped going to nail salons - watched the process and noted the products. I do my own pedicures with a foot bath, liquid callous remover, other tools, etc. You can't tell the difference if you do it correctly. Most recently, I stopped getting permanent French manicures, stopped an at-home LED gel polish. I was inspired by Sarah Jessica Parker who keeps natural nails. I bought some nice products to keep a nice looking natural nail (Manicurist products), and am happy to not have to spend $2,000 a year on manicures/pedicures.
Yes, library! Also on places for a party: some fire departments will rent out a community room, idk if thats just a regional thing or nationwide, and senior centers! We use senior centers a lot in my family, they're typically large, cheap, come with a variety of seating, tables and chairs, and usually a kitchen!
Glad your finger is healing, I completely know about nerve pain. When I went through chemotherapy 11 years ago I was taken by surprise one night waking up with what I can only describe as my feet being cut off! They called it toxic neuropathy, and then became worse by the heavy doses of steroids during my treatment that made my blood sugar go haywire! Not a fun time in my life! And although I still am fighting this pain that at times every step is like walking on broken glass, I’m alive and no more cancer! 😁🎉 I pray your healing continues. Thanks for all the great videos! ❤
I’m with you girl! We decided over about a year ago to stop paying the man. Anything we can do ourselves, we do. From cooking at home, repurposing items, growing our own vegs anything we can think of to save money. I’m also working on a few side hustles so we have passive income coming in.
My friend lives in the country and is a hunter. During deer hunting season he can get enough venison to supply his needs for a year. He does pay a processing plant to butcher the deer, grind some of the meat and package it. All his neighbors do the same
Myself and my husband are both hunters and provide most of our meat that way, it’s expensive to hunt when you first start out, also fuel, licensing, ammo, ect, we grind our own, only process specialties meat, in the long run it’s better meat.
So glad your finger is healing! Love all of your tips! My local Senior Center is a wonderful place to go for free activities and they serve a healthy breakfast and lunch for cheaper than you can buy the ingredients to make it. You can also sign up for free meals! I know you aren't a senior but many of your viewers are - especially since 55 is the age you qualify for most senior centers. They have travel clubs, raised gardens, ceramics, painting, dance and exercise classes, sooo many activities! Most businesses offer something for seniors like one day a week for seniors to get a discount, free coffee for seniors or special menu for seniors. Also, when I turned 66 (awhile back, LOL!), I got a Silver Sneakers card and can go to almost ANY gym free!!! There are special exercise programs at most of the gyms for the Silver Sneaker folks! If you weren't frugal before, being on a fixed income will get you watching all the good RUclipsrs! You are my fav! Thanks for all the amazing content!
I have nerve pain in my legs. I pulled something in my back by lifting a feed bag for my chickens. Going to doctor next week for some help. Yes nerve pain isnt fun. Glad your finger is doing better.
Chicken feed bags are heavy! I use a wheelbarrow to move bag where it needs to go. Scoop what I need into a bucket and then carry it!! Best wishes! Arnica is a good pain gel that has helped me a lot in my past.
Why not workout outdoors while your child plays near you with yoga mat, etc... I bought toys for my children, blocks, and simple instruments (musical) little hammer and work bench, leggos, there are large ones as well as the more evolved ones, my old clothes for dress up, but mainly my children played outside! We bought a trampoline, (instead of amusement park that year) a swing set, my husband built a fort and a playhouse. It was a wonderland for my children, grandchildren, and their friends! And we visited the library quite a bit!
Your energy at the end of the video is contagoius. It remembers me to start walking again after an injury. That injury is permanent unfortunately, but I can still enjoy my walking as good as it gets.
Appreciate all your points. I live much the same way. Appreciate your de-stigmatizing being frugal. We do it so we can afford the important things like health care, college, & financial freedom.
Store pick up might save you by not loading a cart of unnecessary BUT it has been researched by market groups that pick up costs more by not giving the sale prices or added value on selected items, plus coupons can't be used. Store pick-ups have some gray areas that can cost you and ruin a frugal plan!
We go to Costco for the packages of romane lettuce and tomato boxes because we eat salad daily. My husband was told that he needed more fiber in Jan and he really likes salad.
HALLELUJAH! Nerve pain is a tough battle! I've dealt with it for 30+ years. You can't let it dictate your life or you won't have one. Yours can take 1-2 years to completely heal. Give it time and hang in there!
im getting new carpet where i live so i had to put things other places in my house. well it caused me to get rid of what i dont need and keep what i did.
Glad your healing. My husband got his thumb smashed it a truck door a few weeks ago pain and doctor emergency for infection 2 antibiotics just terrible healing will be slow plus he will loose thumb nail.
Would love to know how you treat your plantar fasciitis (shoes, therapy etc). I have it in both feet. So glad your finger is healing and you can do what you love! Thanks 😊
Help for plantar fasciitis and help to prevent it: When you climb up a curb or stairs, always hang your heel off the step for extra stretching of your Achilles’ tendon. You can also extend your leg backward on a flat surface and put your foot flat behind you to get a good stretch of your Achilles’ tendon, then switch legs.
100 percent on food pickup over going in store! You can see your total as you shop. I challenge myself to pay the least amount and only get needed items every time I shop. And one bag of dried beans equals 7 cans. Freeze them after soaking.
Woo Hoo for your finger healing and doing what you love! You go girl! Doing my daily stairs (46 flights) as I'm listening to you. My husband just did a free online exercise program in our basement. There is never a weather issue😅. Thanks for the reminder to look for reduced meat at our local store. You're the best Christine! Enjoy the sunshine and being active. 🌞
I never knew how Costco really held me bad I've been moved away where there isn't one and I don't think about shopping to compete anymore 😮 you enlightened my brain
I’m starting to do better at being frugal. Started reading The Tightwad gazette. We don’t do streaming services. My downfall is just buying what I want versus what I need. 🤷♀️🤦🏼♀️
Amy's granola recipe is very good and far less cost than store bought. She also has other dupe recipe's that are great. I read the Gazette about 25+ yr's ago when my husband's workplace shuttered while feeding growing kids and had just bought a house. Still use a lot of her other tips to this day.
I'm so happy your finger is feeling better!!!! I messaged you a while back about having MS and taking a face plant on my concrete sidewalk 🤦♀️... My road rash has healed and I'm happy your finger has healed also!!!!
Thank you so much for all of the incredible tips! I have neuropathy from my ears down my entire body to my toes. It is an absolute nightmare some days. So sorry you had to go through that pain. Movement is 100% the best remedy in my opinion. For the body and the mind!
Congratulations!!! Sooo proud of you getting back out there. The only thing worse than nerve pain is thinking you can’t do anything because of it!!! Challenge accepted and conquered!
Christmas gift idea...I bought snack items for my husband that we never buy throughout the year, but I know he likes. They last 3-6 months pending how often he gets one of them from the shelf lol. You get so much more stuff that the person likes if looking at food and drinks.
As someone who also cut their fingertip down to the bone with a knife and had it stitched back together in the ER, I feel this. After 2 years it feels like about 75% of my nerves in my finger have come back on board. It used to be tingly and numb on the best days, but painful and stretchy feeling on the worst.. Nerve pain is awful, tylenol or aspirin doesn't help...and combine it with joint pain from not being able to stretch your fingers, and the fact that the tip of our fingers has like 800 million nerve endings is next level. I hope your finger heals much faster!
TYSM! I didn't know that youtube had free movies. I have been rotating my subscriptions for a good six months now, I love that you included it. My new favorite is to simply write down everything I spend and tally everything up once a week. It really helps.
With my fibromyalgia I suffer from nerve pain every day and it sucks. However, when I did the same thing as you... I almost collapsed from the pain. All I can say is, it's made my day to day pain so much more manageable because I know what that felt like. ❤❤ Glad you're healing.
I suffer from diabetic nerve pain in my feet. It keeps me awake most nights. My sweet husband doesn’t understand. It’s very painful. Getting massages helps, but it’s expensive. I’m happy you are healing.
Try B vitamins if you aren't already. Also, have you tried capcaisin (sp?) cream? Both help my husband (this is Harriet, not Earl, LOL) with his neuropathy. Blessings!
Grocery pick up is the best for budgeters. I’ve been doing it for many years, even when it was only food delivery for a fee. It was well worth it. It keeps you to your list and it keeps you on track financially because you can see your cart total as you go. Smart, easy, done✅
I usually buy my foods in bulk. So far as exercise is concerned, walking and isometric exercises. CONGRATULATIONS! When I was working in physical therapy we doubled as the burn and wound care department. The nerves in your fingers are probably the most sensitive nerves in your body so you may stil get a twinge every now and then but I am glad he is cutting you loose and encouraging you to go ahead and live you life to the best of your ability. Like I said, you may still get a twinge every now and again but these are just reminders. Take care.
Get the dupe cup that keeps it cold for 8hrs or 16hrs what ever fits your work shift. You will still have ice all day when you might not be able to get any. No one needs 48hrs. The shape is great for the car.
“Kids don’t need a lot of toys. It stresses them out”. I 100% agree!
1000% when my kids were babies they had the most basic toys that they preferred - an old drink bottle filled with dried rice and dried pasta was always a favourite and off cuts of wood that they loved and I bought all my daughter's barbies from the opt shop.
The one year old got nothing for Christmas or her birthday. She has three older siblings, and she won’t notice the difference.
Yes! We were broke! My child colored and sketched. Read. Played with friends. She developed real skills to entertain herself as an adult.!
Toys can be good but better spend time with them and for example play boardgames with them or make them learn to play piano or a guitar or learn them something that they will have use of for in the future for example learn to cook food.
Yes!! My mom tried to buy my affection a lot/her loge language is gift giving. I grew up with way too many toys, and it was always overwhelming. I was getting yelled at a lot to pick up my toys but there was no place for the toys. It was terrible.
As a public librarian, I LOVE that you support and encourage library use!!!! Thank you!
I LOVE my library
.0yl
I want to be a librarian so badly, but it's SOOO much school! I'd never survive! ;A;
My mother took me and my siblings to the library every Sunday afternoon. She really instilled the love of reading in all of us!
Yes! Love our library.
As a librarian for 50 years, I love your library recommendations!
We love our local library!! 📚 and have an awesome librarian. Wow 50 years! God bless you.
Love the library and all they do. Lived in Philippines and so missed the library. Lived in Hong Kong and fell in love with them again. Now back in the US donated unused book and going to be a regular customer of visiting and of the e-books. Hoping that the US sets up voting in the library, this is what we did in HK.
We love our library
I would just add that your library is not free, you are paying for that with your tax dollars. Be sure to get your money's worth!
@@TH-eb5ro we vote at our local library 👍🏻
I’ve worked out for YEARS using just the outdoors, RUclips, a yoga mat, and some dumbbells.
I do enjoy planet fitness and it's only 11 a month. So much variety
I DIY as much as possible. As a result, I can fix almost anything. I can paint, install lighting, install door window and baseboard casings, power wash, re-grout, refinish furniture, grow my own food, etc etc etc. save thousands and thousands by doing it yourself as much as possible. 😘
The library is such an undetutilized resource. People are often unaware of what's available so I love that you help spread the word!
As a former librarian now retired, I was glad to hear you promote the public library. It is the best deal in town.
Thank you for promoting the local library. Libraries are a wealth of resources and the more people utilize them the better us library workers can grow our programs!
Never ever had a streaming subscription, no notifications on my phone, life insurance since 20, I love the library, I scan all my receipts I save on everything
As a rural librarian I appreciate your promotion of library!!! 😊
When I became a minimalist years ago I also stopped shopping for things I didn’t need. It’s amazing how much money you can save without buying all the unnecessary stuff.
When I do shop I focus on only what I want. Yesterday I wanted earrings. Went into the mall and got exactly that and walked out with only the earrings.
I just got a gingerbread house Christmas display for free. It’s being turned into a playhouse for my daughter. She is so excited to design it. Saved me $500 on a wood playhouse. Ok I wasn’t planning to buy a $500 playhouse but it still made her happy for free.
Custom playhouses are about 4-5 times that amount! You did awesome!
Plus she gets the creative joy of designing it herself. Awesome
Shows you can live a quality life beyond your means. 🎉🎉🎉
When she gets tired of it she can eat it!
Counting our blessings that tornadoes didn't touch down yesterday. God is good. Saves us fixing roof, car, and any other damage.
Your videos have gotten me through some of the saddest seasons of my life ,i truly love you thank you Christine
#20. So true. My grandparents and my mom were so busy they didn’t have time to sit around bored thinking of things to buy. When they have free time, they enjoyed it.
Procrastinating cleaning saves on cleaning supplies. 😂😂😂
Well, that's just facts ;)
😅😂
Oh.... so that's what I'm doing.
That's my strategy!! 😂
Agree. Vacuum cleaning is also not necessary these days. Very 1990’s. no need to buy a vacuum cleaner
I am Canadian, I am glad Target failed here since impulse shopping is a thing.
Pain coach here. Yes! There is so much focus from your brain on pain and managing it that you have to retrain it to remember joy! Do things you love ❤️ Best way back
also if you have a disability or just plain aren't handy and don't want to watch RUclips DIY don't feel guilty or like you are failing at life if you DO have to hire someone, the level at which it reduces my anxiety to HIRE IT DONE...... is so worth it. i have seen my 80-year-old mom darn near hurt herself because of her midwest pull yourself by your bootstraps mentality LIKE MOM please HIRE SOMEONE TO MOW THE LAWN instead of spraining your ankle it's okay if you want to save money but it is also ok if you need to hire assistance too
All very true, there's a time and place for all of it!
@@FrugalFitMom i love you been watching you for years I LOVE YOU I LOVE YOU I LOVE YOU
I had to stop mowing my own lawn when I got migraines, ( and my battery powered mower, which weighs a tonne, the battery died during the years I didn't use it, what a waste! My old fashined reel push mower rusted too much to push anymore. :( ) I found at a discount store an electric cord powered lawn mower that weighs about as much as a vacuum cleaner. It was at Ollies: Good Stuff Cheap and cost about $100 but I had a 20% off coupon and came back for it. It is so much lighter, quieter and easier to navigate. My front yard has a slope and even the lawn service guys have difficulty on it. My overpowered box fan on wheels takes care of it and the only funny thing is dragging a bright yellow heavy-duty cord behind me.
OTOH, I have given up on trying to find that plumbing clog. I've gone through 2 augers and the clog is further than I can reach. I don't want to pay the plumber but the cost to buy an engine powered auger, I may as well have them do it and do it right.
I'm probably gonna be that 80 year old that can't be convinced to hire someone but your message reminds me I won't be able to DIY everything as I get older, despite that being my upbringing.
Hey, Damian! I’m pretty sure I know you from Grand Rapids. How could I forget that name? Lol. I used to work at Bombay Cuisine. Small world 🌎 😊
Absolutely agree with this. I am a yardwork do it herself person. I reinjured a herniated disc because I was saving money. I then for the first time in 30 years, paid someone to clear my hill.
I've been saving money by doing curbside pick-up for my groceries. It's free, and I don't walk around the store picking up things I don't need. I may not see those clearance deals, but I'm at least not putting extra stuff in my cart. When I do go into the store, I like to bring a drink that I enjoy and is my own little treat while I'm shopping. It's from home, so no extra cost, and it helps with that feeling of wanting to buy extra treats while shopping.
Agree. I'm able to stay on budget by ordering online.
Volunteer. It’s free and you’re helping out your community, plus you feel better afterwards and it keeps you busy vs spending moolah doing something else
Agreed! And depending on what you volunteer doing, such as park maintenance, it can double as a free workout.
As Kristine said, the library comin’ in clutch again.
My state’s libraries offer FREE tickets to local museums, zoos & aquariums, botanical gardens & other local attractions. IIRC, the offerings are separated in either 3 parts - Northern state, Central & possibly Southern. Central & Southern might be combined. My county limits 3 tickets (2 people per ticket) per library card per month. The county south of here only allows 2 tickets (2 people per ticket) per library card per month.
We tried to go to one of the botanical gardens last weekend just to see the butterflies, but the line was way too long so we left. If we paid $25 per ticket we would’ve had to stand in the sun.
Oh, here’s one for the National Parks & Forests - seniors & veterans can get an annual park / forest pass for free if you get your pass at a ranger station or park entrance. If you do it online then it’s a $10 processing fee. Disabled passes are FREE LIFETIME passes. Enjoy!
Appreciate the library tip. I’ve lived in my home for 30+ years. At the end of last year, we moved my MiL to an independent living community in our town. I started looking for things to do with her. We have 3 events booked there this month: a movie night, an old fashioned radio performance and a performance by someone dressed up as Lucille Ball talking about her life. My MIL is very excited about all 3 and they are FREE!! I’ve never even looked into the library and I’m so glad I found this!
All the comments on crunchy towels from being air dried. I dont have a drier, but occasionally use commercial ones when weve a lot and no breaks in the weather. The crunchy towels dry you far better, with a little free exfoliation!
I love a crunchy towel, I feel like soft towels don't get enough traction and get you dry they just sort of slip over the surface.
Cerunchy towel improve circulation. Many do it on purpose.
I tell people all the time that switching to mint mobile was the best thing I ever did. My husband and I pay roughly $350 each once a year and get unlimited data and minutes. You bring your own phone but we buy a new phone every maybe 4 years and use our tax return to do so. It’s also great to not worry about another monthly bill.
It is crazy at the amount of people that still pay $100+ for phone bills. I have used mint before and now currently use boost infinite $25 unlimited plan. Same great service as mint and as Verizon as use that as work provided cell. Have used cricket years ago and no issues with it when used. Anyone paying over $35 a month for phone service needs to check out these companies for service. Also credit cards started offering phone insurance if pay phone bill using that card so check that as a perk instead of paying for ins thru provider.
It it available everywhere?
@@karlamoody8047yes I've had no troubles throughout the US. I think there's a phone coverage map. Mints been great
I have used MINT mobile for 2 years! It's a huge money saver and no brainer. I tell everyone I know to switch to MINT. It is available everywhere now. Like $15 a month and up! ❤
I'm asking my husband to look into it. I looked at Amazon which sells 3 month subscriptions. The info about it was like Greek to me. Or, tech gobblygook!
This is where I have a problem!! I'm disabled, so I need to shop on line -they deliver!!! I have my neighbor bring it in, and maybe cook dinner for him and I to enjoy!!😅
I swear your personality is EVERYTHING!!
In the summer, I hang dry EVERYTHING! Pop it in the dryer for 10 - 20 minutes and jeans and towels won’t have the crunch
THANK YOU I can start hang drying towels now! I stopped because they were to rough.
Adding white vinegar to the rinse cycle helps to keep the towels soft as well.
5 min in the dryer and they won’t have the crunch!
I live in Australia I don't own a dryer lol. I do struggle a little bit on winter but still manageable.
@@rubymones8933 unfortunately it’s too wet and cold to hang dry most of the year here. I hang my sweaters in the living room but they take over a day to dry indoors!
Give the jeans and towels and massive shake out before hang drying. Free workout, removes crunchiness and saves on the dryer
As a nurse and part-time real estate agent with $330k saved, I'm keen to invest in the stock market to combat low bank returns and guard against inflation. How can I build a solid portfolio?
A healthy portfolio has 3 things, at the bare minimum: Exposure to ETFs for increased diversification, Exposure to assets that generate cash flow like dividend stocks, Exposure to market-leading tech.
With your idea of hanging clothes, might I suggest using the "Quick" cycle on your washing machine. Still gets the clothes clean, but the cycle is half the time of the regular cycle.
I check out library books, movies, magazines on my Kindle from home. 120 days to read before return! Frugal! Saves gas, tires and oil . Less clutter too.
You have a fun personality and great doable tips. Thanks.
I don't own an electric clothes dryer, so I always use a drying rack for everything I wash. I also use free streaming apps to watch TV and movies on my phone and I don't own a TV so no cable/satellite bills either. I rarely eat out, so cooking at home is my norm.
Oldest son was born 8/9 and my youngest 8/3. We always had one party with two separate cakes that I made. We would have a cookout at the state park. Everyone had a blast and it wasn't too expensive.
My mom would do the same and later on in life i feel like i was robbed of a bday party lol .
@aq8799 Nah, I always made each a special cake. One year I made a full sized hockey stick and pucks for the youngest, and a baseball glove and balls for the oldest. Took me forever. Lol. But I would do it all over again.
We LOVE our library...we go everyday!!
I literally just avoid going to Target all together now. I always spent more than I could afford, and often regretted those extra purchases. I also make sure that I have water and some sort of snack in my car (and even in a coat pocket!). This has saved me money more times than I can count. Since I have ADHD, dopamine shopping 🛍️ is a battle. So now I let myself put whatever I want in the online cart. But I wait as long as possible to see if I lose interest or remember that it’s not in the budget, etc.
Thanks for all the great tips!
I always have snacks too and anytime I think I won't be gone long and don't need a snack and water I'm very sorry!!!
Same I wrote in my journal STOP GOING TO WINNERS, the funniest thing is I wrote it two times on accident😂 every day not going I ✅
I have ADHD and always stick things in my cart - or take a photo and see if I remember it later. Works for kids too - “oh we can’t get that today, but let’s take a picture”
I get it. I do the same with my Amazon shopping list. I call it window shopping, lol. I rarely ever actually buy the thing until I actually NEED it. Mostly home improvement stuff.
I stopped going when they changed their bathroom policy several years ago.
Hi Kristin, I love your channel and share your views on living frugal! My hubby and I retired a 1.5yr ago at 58/59 and getting busy traveling. I am flying to Italy from DFW for $5.60 per person 1 way and cruising back at an 87% discount by choosing to cruise on a ship that’s repositioning back to the USA via NY port. You wouldn’t believe the cost of a whole month on the ship visiting Italy, Greece, France, Spain, Portugal… frugal vacation shopping pays off!!!
How did you find the info on the discount cruise repositioning back to the US? I'm assuming your plane tkt cost is because of cc points. I'm always looking for ways to travel inexpensively.
Man the birthday parties... we have done hot dogs and chips, baked the cake, played old school games like Duck Duck Goose and the kids had a blast. For the tweenagers? Make your own pizza party complete with homemade pizza dough I prepped in advance.
I was shocked to read a few years ago that some parents spend $1,000s of dollars on birthday parties.
I love the library! One thing I have learned from watching booktube is that reading books and buying books are 2 separate hobbies. I also recently learned that even though I live in the suburbs, I can get a city library card to my closest major city. It is mind blowing. I am talking 9 month waitlists to 2 week waitlists on ebooks between the suburban library and the city library. AMAZING!
THIS! 🎉 (About reading vs buying)
I so understand about the finger tip injury😩 I’ve had breast cancer and surgery with it and radiation and of course my children, chronic back issues, BUT recently I had surgery for a arthritis cyst on the end of my finger. I was like no big deal 🤷🏻♀️NOT a it’s finally healing but I was shocked ( as a retired nurse) of the pain and healing involved. So glad your healing and yes nerve pain is the worse in my opinion.
so sorry about your breast cancer
a lot of people want to avoid yard work and that's where God gives you the blessings, mowing the lawn is good for you and bending down and planting gives you health
I agree. My mom went down in a hurry when the Dr told her to stop doing yard work 😢
@@dianasimplifies I'm sorry you had to go through that
I totally agree 💯 percent 😊
1:47 I live in Santa Cruz County, CA which has a ton of state parks (think redwoods) and state beaches. So my library has, get this, state park day parking PASSES you can check out for three WEEKS for free! Keep in mind, our state parks charge TEN DOLLARS to park! Speaking of parks, some of our parks have street parking close by that allow you to walk in at no charge! Plus, we have plenty of city and county parks you can use for free. Also, I have a disabled parking placard which I can use to park in nearby Mt. Madonna for free. It's in Santa Clara County, which does charge for parking.
DVDS are a lifesaver.
Streaming is only as good as the company decides to load it, not censor, and your TV is working. I can watch them on my computer. Libraries are a freebie GOD send❤
Yup. I got a travel DVD player, brand new-in the box, for $5 on Marketplace. Plugs into either my vehicle or my portable power station. Hit the library on my way out of town camping. Perfect!
You’re right about streaming services and saving money.. we made the choice not to get WiFi or any tv channels until after we paid off our debts. People thought it was weird but we didn’t miss what we had never had! We nailed our goals and now live a little more comfortably 😊
I would sooo love to give up cable! Utube has everything 😮
Great library tips. I’m a person that needs to stay out of stores. Too much stress.
Love 💕 and Hugs.
As the most frugal person I know, there is not much anyone can tell me how to save more money. But if anyone could, it’s Christine!
Praise be on your finger injury is finally getting there!!!! I work for a hand surgeon and it's amazing how many people don't realize how vital even 1 finger being injured can be to your overall health - especially mentally!!! So glad you are getting back to normal Christine - whatever normal is, right? ;)
I am so glad your finger is doing better. Its a long healing process. I am so glad you can do the things you love again!❤
Have a sunroom that gets very hot April through October. Hang my clothes from the rafters, they are dry within an hour. Also, hike and walk a lot. From my home, I can hike over the ridge to the beach for a nice 8 miles round trip hike. Only have to use my van every couple of weeks for bulk shopping. Work is a 3 mile walk each way. I like eating so I don't mind the extra walking. So far, have only spent $1,800 dollars through the first three months of the year. Home is paid off and no debts, so expenses are low.
Oh yeah. GO to Costco!! I work for them. 😉 Almost 37 years.
I also stopped going to nail salons - watched the process and noted the products. I do my own pedicures with a foot bath, liquid callous remover, other tools, etc. You can't tell the difference if you do it correctly. Most recently, I stopped getting permanent French manicures, stopped an at-home LED gel polish. I was inspired by Sarah Jessica Parker who keeps natural nails. I bought some nice products to keep a nice looking natural nail (Manicurist products), and am happy to not have to spend $2,000 a year on manicures/pedicures.
Yes, library!
Also on places for a party: some fire departments will rent out a community room, idk if thats just a regional thing or nationwide, and senior centers! We use senior centers a lot in my family, they're typically large, cheap, come with a variety of seating, tables and chairs, and usually a kitchen!
It is so rare for me to find somebody who cracks me up a little bit. You’re good you’re good right up my alley.😂
Glad your finger is healing, I completely know about nerve pain. When I went through chemotherapy 11 years ago I was taken by surprise one night waking up with what I can only describe as my feet being cut off! They called it toxic neuropathy, and then became worse by the heavy doses of steroids during my treatment that made my blood sugar go haywire! Not a fun time in my life! And although I still am fighting this pain that at times every step is like walking on broken glass, I’m alive and no more cancer! 😁🎉 I pray your healing continues. Thanks for all the great videos! ❤
I’m with you girl! We decided over about a year ago to stop paying the man. Anything we can do ourselves, we do. From cooking at home, repurposing items, growing our own vegs anything we can think of to save money. I’m also working on a few side hustles so we have passive income coming in.
My friend lives in the country and is a hunter. During deer hunting season he can get enough venison to supply his needs for a year. He does pay a processing plant to butcher the deer, grind some of the meat and package it. All his neighbors do the same
Myself and my husband are both hunters and provide most of our meat that way, it’s expensive to hunt when you first start out, also fuel, licensing, ammo, ect, we grind our own, only process specialties meat, in the long run it’s better meat.
So glad your finger is healing! Love all of your tips! My local Senior Center is a wonderful place to go for free activities and they serve a healthy breakfast and lunch for cheaper than you can buy the ingredients to make it. You can also sign up for free meals! I know you aren't a senior but many of your viewers are - especially since 55 is the age you qualify for most senior centers. They have travel clubs, raised gardens, ceramics, painting, dance and exercise classes, sooo many activities! Most businesses offer something for seniors like one day a week for seniors to get a discount, free coffee for seniors or special menu for seniors. Also, when I turned 66 (awhile back, LOL!), I got a Silver Sneakers card and can go to almost ANY gym free!!! There are special exercise programs at most of the gyms for the Silver Sneaker folks! If you weren't frugal before, being on a fixed income will get you watching all the good RUclipsrs! You are my fav! Thanks for all the amazing content!
I have nerve pain in my legs. I pulled something in my back by lifting a feed bag for my chickens. Going to doctor next week for some help. Yes nerve pain isnt fun. Glad your finger is doing better.
Chicken feed bags are heavy! I use a wheelbarrow to move bag where it needs to go. Scoop what I need into a bucket and then carry it!! Best wishes! Arnica is a good pain gel that has helped me a lot in my past.
Why not workout outdoors while your child plays near you with yoga mat, etc... I bought toys for my children, blocks, and simple instruments (musical) little hammer and work bench, leggos, there are large ones as well as the more evolved ones, my old clothes for dress up, but mainly my children played outside! We bought a trampoline, (instead of amusement park that year) a swing set, my husband built a fort and a playhouse. It was a wonderland for my children, grandchildren, and their friends! And we visited the library quite a bit!
Your energy at the end of the video is contagoius. It remembers me to start walking again after an injury. That injury is permanent unfortunately, but I can still enjoy my walking as good as it gets.
I had a similar injury last year. I'm so happy that it is finally getting better, and that u don't have to cancel the trip
Appreciate all your points. I live much the same way. Appreciate your de-stigmatizing being frugal. We do it so we can afford the important things like health care, college, & financial freedom.
Store pick up might save you by not loading a cart of unnecessary BUT it has been researched by market groups that pick up costs more by not giving the sale prices or added value on selected items, plus coupons can't be used. Store pick-ups have some gray areas that can cost you and ruin a frugal plan!
My goal when I go to Costco is to keep it around $100 each visit. 👍
Editing to add: congrats on the finger healing! 🎉🎉
The library is such a good resource, we've just started to explore what they offer!
We go to Costco for the packages of romane lettuce and tomato boxes because we eat salad daily. My husband was told that he needed more fiber in Jan and he really likes salad.
That is awesome! Great job at staying at two items!
Recommended All Bran cereal buds for hubs.
Have neuropathy and I feel like I could die sometimes from the pain. So I am glad you are healing
HALLELUJAH! Nerve pain is a tough battle! I've dealt with it for 30+ years. You can't let it dictate your life or you won't have one. Yours can take 1-2 years to completely heal. Give it time and hang in there!
yes, youtube car and house repair videos have saved me money for sure.
I LOVE going to whole foods, sprouts , HEB and checking for clearance stickers ❤
My 2 teens use Mint. We pay 60$every 3 months. Plus it's limited data to prevent overuse with the kids!!! There are also very cheap unlimited plans😊
im getting new carpet where i live so i had to put things other places in my house. well it caused me to get rid of what i dont need and keep what i did.
Glad your healing. My husband got his thumb smashed it a truck door a few weeks ago pain and doctor emergency for infection 2 antibiotics just terrible healing will be slow plus he will loose thumb nail.
Would love to know how you treat your plantar fasciitis (shoes, therapy etc). I have it in both feet. So glad your finger is healing and you can do what you love! Thanks 😊
Orthotics custom made for you! Don't waste yr money on the cheap ones in a store. I wouldn't be able to cope without mine
Help for plantar fasciitis and help to prevent it: When you climb up a curb or stairs, always hang your heel off the step for extra stretching of your Achilles’ tendon. You can also extend your leg backward on a flat surface and put your foot flat behind you to get a good stretch of your Achilles’ tendon, then switch legs.
"The power is in the work." I love this! So true and good to remember throughout the day. I'm glad to hear you are healing!!
HOORAY!! So glad to hear that your healing so well!! Congrats!! Looking forward to your next video. 😊😊
100 percent on food pickup over going in store! You can see your total as you shop. I challenge myself to pay the least amount and only get needed items every time I shop.
And one bag of dried beans equals 7 cans. Freeze them after soaking.
Hallelujah! Glad your injury is healing so well!
Thanks for another awesome video!
Woo Hoo for your finger healing and doing what you love! You go girl! Doing my daily stairs (46 flights) as I'm listening to you. My husband just did a free online exercise program in our basement. There is never a weather issue😅. Thanks for the reminder to look for reduced meat at our local store. You're the best Christine! Enjoy the sunshine and being active. 🌞
I will hang dry jeans and towels then throw in dryer for only 10 minutes. This softens them back up.
Great tip!
I never knew how Costco really held me bad I've been moved away where there isn't one and I don't think about shopping to compete anymore 😮 you enlightened my brain
I’m starting to do better at being frugal. Started reading The Tightwad gazette. We don’t do streaming services. My downfall is just buying what I want versus what I need. 🤷♀️🤦🏼♀️
Amy's granola recipe is very good and far less cost than store bought. She also has other dupe recipe's that are great. I read the Gazette about 25+ yr's ago when my husband's workplace shuttered while feeding growing kids and had just bought a house. Still use a lot of her other tips to this day.
Love her!
Hallelujah🙏 So glad you’re able to resume doing the things you love
I so wish we had a discount grocery store. They look awesome!
The Stanley I have hurts my wrist every time I try to open it, and it’s out of style now, to be fair it was a gift. Totally agree w these tips! ❤
I'm so happy your finger is feeling better!!!! I messaged you a while back about having MS and taking a face plant on my concrete sidewalk 🤦♀️... My road rash has healed and I'm happy your finger has healed also!!!!
soo sorry about your ms😭
Thank you so much for all of the incredible tips! I have neuropathy from my ears down my entire body to my toes. It is an absolute nightmare some days. So sorry you had to go through that pain. Movement is 100% the best remedy in my opinion. For the body and the mind!
Congratulations!!! Sooo proud of you getting back out there. The only thing worse than nerve pain is thinking you can’t do anything because of it!!! Challenge accepted and conquered!
Christmas gift idea...I bought snack items for my husband that we never buy throughout the year, but I know he likes. They last 3-6 months pending how often he gets one of them from the shelf lol. You get so much more stuff that the person likes if looking at food and drinks.
As someone who also cut their fingertip down to the bone with a knife and had it stitched back together in the ER, I feel this. After 2 years it feels like about 75% of my nerves in my finger have come back on board. It used to be tingly and numb on the best days, but painful and stretchy feeling on the worst.. Nerve pain is awful, tylenol or aspirin doesn't help...and combine it with joint pain from not being able to stretch your fingers, and the fact that the tip of our fingers has like 800 million nerve endings is next level. I hope your finger heals much faster!
TYSM! I didn't know that youtube had free movies. I have been rotating my subscriptions for a good six months now, I love that you included it. My new favorite is to simply write down everything I spend and tally everything up once a week. It really helps.
Congratulations on your healing 🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉
Thank you!
@@FrugalFitMom your most welcome 🙏
With my fibromyalgia I suffer from nerve pain every day and it sucks. However, when I did the same thing as you... I almost collapsed from the pain. All I can say is, it's made my day to day pain so much more manageable because I know what that felt like. ❤❤ Glad you're healing.
I suffer from diabetic nerve pain in my feet. It keeps me awake most nights. My sweet husband doesn’t understand. It’s very painful. Getting massages helps, but it’s expensive. I’m happy you are healing.
My Dad takes meds for his diabetic nerve pain in his feet. I’m pretty sure it’s not expensive or he wouldn’t be taking it.
Try B vitamins if you aren't already. Also, have you tried capcaisin (sp?) cream? Both help my husband (this is Harriet, not Earl, LOL) with his neuropathy. Blessings!
Alpha Lipoic supplements help with nerve pain as well.
We bought an estim for my mom's feet. It really helps with things like that!
You might have b12 deficiency? If so the nerve pain is treatable. B12 injections twice a week minimum
I used the Christmas tips you gave and it made for a much smoother Christmas season!!!
Our library even has special cake pans to borrow!
Grocery pick up is the best for budgeters. I’ve been doing it for many years, even when it was only food delivery for a fee. It was well worth it. It keeps you to your list and it keeps you on track financially because you can see your cart total as you go. Smart, easy, done✅
RUclips is free. watching youtube - can watch anything
I usually buy my foods in bulk.
So far as exercise is concerned, walking and isometric exercises.
CONGRATULATIONS! When I was working in physical therapy we doubled as the burn and wound care department. The nerves in your fingers are probably the most sensitive nerves in your body so you may stil get a twinge every now and then but I am glad he is cutting you loose and encouraging you to go ahead and live you life to the best of your ability. Like I said, you may still get a twinge every now and again but these are just reminders.
Take care.
I don't have a DVD player anymore, but I do watch Tubi, which is free
Get the dupe cup that keeps it cold for 8hrs or 16hrs what ever fits your work shift. You will still have ice all day when you might not be able to get any. No one needs 48hrs. The shape is great for the car.
Yep I'm gone all day and need the ice but I can get water. I have a cheap huge tumbler from WM. I would never pay that much just to keep some ice. 😮