Check out the Flexispot E7 desk and C7 chair! Use the exclusive code "BFYTB" for $30 off your E7/E7pro/C7 purchase. You still have a chance to win your order for free. Desk: 🇺🇸 US: bit.ly/3FB0yqq 🇨🇦 CA: bit.ly/3FCmHV4 Chair: 🇺🇸 US: bit.ly/3FXHfrC 🇨🇦 CA: bit.ly/3SyeN73
Browsing thru the website now. I just wanted to price the table shown in your video. Never thought pricing a table could be so complicated. The pricing is just for the frame everything else appears to be add ons. I don't know. I'll have a look at it again tomorrow.
Thanks for the response, yeah I get that part about picking size and material, what I'm failing to understand is whether or not the motor that adjusts the height is included in the standard E7 frame price. From that point, I can pick table tops.@@AccordingtoNicole
One good chef knife. I cook a lot (I'm a middle-aged guy, don't go out much) and I spent something like $150 on a german chef knife. It's one of those things that every time you use it, you're glad you have it.
Honestly, paying someone to cut my grass and take care of my lawn is the best money I spend all year! There’s nothing like coming home Friday night and seeing my grass pristine ❤❤❤❤
Did you pay to go to a gym and work out and pay someone else to work out while they cut your grass? Yes, cutting grass qualifies as a workout. Cut your own, unless you are handicapped.
Hi Nicole and Levi..from Massachusettts. I love all the great info you have. At the age of 70, Im surprised at how much this old lady is learning from you. Ty! :)
My husband bought me a Ninja coffee machine that makes lattes and iced coffees a few years ago. It was about $200, and I thought it was crazy to spend that much. I had a cheap $10 coffee maker before that which I used daily, but would go out to get lattes and iced coffees. Fast forward to today. I haven't set foot in a Starbucks, or the like, since. I used to stop to pick up specialty coffees on the way to visit a friend in the nursing home. Then I started making them at home, putting them in reusable coffee mugs and bringing them with me. I also have a friend of mine over for coffee and can make her whatever she wants. It has saved so much money and I LOVE this thing!
One thing I found on amazon that saves money on bottled water is a water distiller for $120 that makes water the same quality as store bought bottled water.
Distilled water can be harmful. Lack of minerals: Regular consumption may lead to mineral deficiencies over time, as distilled water does not contain beneficial electrolytes. Taste: Some find it flat or tasteless due to the absence of minerals. Possible electrolyte imbalance: In extreme cases, consuming large amounts of distilled water can upset the body’s balance of electrolytes, leading to potential health issues like muscle cramps or fatigue. If you're drinking distilled water regularly, it's a good idea to ensure you're getting essential minerals from your diet or consider drinking water with added minerals.
I splurge on my crocheting craft... GOOD hooks and specific threads or yarn. It saves me money on mental therapy and I don't waste money on cable TV ($200/month) which I don't watch. I can always sell my makes if I want to make money with my craft. My babies (cats) love spending time with me, playing with balls of scraps on occasion. My creations also make great birthday and/or Christmas gifts.
FYI: Blasting the heat in your car doesn't use anymore gas than not using heat at all (Unless you have an electric car). Using the A/C in a gas car will slightly use more gas; using the heat can actually help save slight amounts of gas. ("slight" in terms of using more or less = not enough to matter or even be noticeable).
That’s correct. The heat comes from the water that circulates through the engine to keep it from overheating. That water then passes through the radiator, which dumps the heat into the surrounding air. The heater just diverts part of that hot water into a smaller radiator to heat the air that is blown into the interior of the car. But it’s waste heat either way. Not using the heater doesn’t prevent the heat from being generated. Using the seat heater DOES burn more fuel, because it draws power from the battery. The alternator has to replace that power by recharging the battery, which increases the load on the engine, consuming more fuel.
@@MundaneGray Argh, how could you get the first paragraph 100% correct and then go full retard on the next one?? The battery is used for starting the car. The alternator DOES recharge the battery, but unless the battery is defective only uses a tiny bit to recharge what it used to start the car. The alternator is already being spun by the serpentine belt so whether you are driving during the day or night or listening to the stereo or have the heat on won't affect gas mileage. The A/C is only spun by the serpentine belt when the clutch is engaged for the compressor, which is why the A/C DOES reduce mileage and heat doesn't.
Almost all of us that are frugal have those things in our life that can make no sense. I have horses. Horses can be expensive. But, I also get so much enjoyment out of them that it's worth the money. I'm just now starting to ride again after spending 4 years caring for family members. There were days when going out to care for them was the only thing keeping me sane.
Nicole, I was sure that the first thing worthwhile to splurge on that you'd mention is a house pet (as opposed to a farm pet like a horse) if you can properly afford and care for one adopting one probably does offer the greatest reward (as well as perhaps some heartache/headache).
You don't need to splurge on pets though. I get mine very cheap and second hand. They're just as lovable. It's super rewarding watching them settle in and reveal their personality.
House pets are nice but farm pets are better. I would not change my mule (half donkey) for any dog , even though I like dogs. Yes, keeping equines is expensive and they are hard work but they are worth every penny- as they provide not just companionship. They can be useful in so many ways: my mule is my legs (carrying me when riding), my back (carrying supplies when backpacking/trailing), my guardian (protective and highly intelligent), my garden's supplier of the best fertilizer (horse manure). If I choose to do so, I can make money giving kids rides on him on our beaches or having therapy/walking sessions. Next level: get some chickens (for the eggs and meat and manure) and goats (for milk and meat, also great for management of weeds/invasive plant species).
2:06 I don't drink coffee, but for those who do, don't buy any infomercial crap machine like a Kurege or what ever. If you're gonna invest in a kitchen appliance, make sure it's gonna stand the test of time. Constant replacement will also put you in the hole over the long run.
Mine costed only 8 $, but here we have less of a purchasing power, but it's original italian aluminium and the cofee so resulted it's the best possible !
I have a very vintage Moka Pot...I absolutely love that thing. Got it free from a friend that couldn't be bothered with replacing the rubber seals...bought a set of silicone seals for $3...voila!!!
So cute. What a fun video. Splurge, kindle e books, candle warmer to make house smell good, battery candles to turn on at night. None needed, all loved.
It is a good perspective to not deny oneself those things that improve one’s quality of life but personal one …like with everything, one person’s trash (unnecessary) may be another’s treasure (one’s quality improvements)😊
Definitely do not cheap out on a bed. No you don’t need to get the most expensive but you still need something that is comfortable and will last you. Thank you for the video it’s nice to hear about the other side occasionally!
Great channel Nicole, been enjoying and agreeing with your content. But, you missed a key item that's always in your background, the minimalistic HiFi, music can be an incredible experience, great for the mind and soul, and clearly you enjoy it too. Love the turntable and speakers, very audiophile 💪😎
My workspace for the past 15 years has been a big, comfie armchair. Stuff I need is in a magazine rack on one side and an end table on the other side. I just switched to my wool rug for the floor in front. I use a cotton one for the summer. I'm an armchair general.
I make as much from scratch so similar to what you mentioned about the coffee maker, I recently took advantage of the Black Friday sales and splurged on a grain mill. I had been buying my flours (various grains) and it was getting so expensive, not to mention having to store the bulk sized bags in a small apartment. Now with my grain mill, I purchase the whole grains and milk my own flour as needed. This is not only cheaper, but healthier as well
My Apple MacBook Air 2017 still works perfect. I am about to buy a newer one and give the old one to my granddaughter. I use it everyday and it was money well spent.
With the house deco, a good.thing is to get photos that you have taken (or a friend) that you like and have them.blown up onto canvas and hang those. It personalises the space and lets you enjoy the memories. Whenever I travel I try to buy something that I can use or wear (like jewellery) so I thi k of that place every time.
I have turned many souvenirs into home decor. My cleverest so far was hanging my high-school graduation tassel and a lei of fake shells from a flight to Hawaii on the fixture which used to hold the curtain bars over my bedroom windows. I hated the curtains so I removed them, and took these two monetarily worthless items and prettied up my treatment-less windows again, and I feel prideful towards my personality in them now rather than irritated. A memory can definitely transform a room.
100% agree about the home interior. I just had most of my house on the inside repainted, & decided to pay the money to have pros do it. It was WAY more than if I'd done it myself, but they were in & out in 2 days, & did a way better job than I could have. Also bought some new lamps for the living room & some wall art, all very affordable. And I'm really surprised at how it's positively affected my mental health. I had thought that I didn't care about that stuff, but it really has a big impact
@cj222100 I agree with what you commented and would like to add my comment. About 2 years ago, I was preparing to sell my NYC apartment and move cross country. Besides giving away 70% of my stuff in the year prior, I also hired a painter, who transformed my _"nice"_ small apartment into a *_"stunning, beautiful"_* space. He did a much better job than I would have done as I have less patience and stamina as I get older. Happily, I sold my apartment for 50% more than what I paid for it 10 years prior, and I believe it was largely due to the professional paint job that created a great first impression. (Btw, I kicked myself for not giving *myself* the gift of living in the beautiful apartment I was forced to sell, but the new owners made an offer right after the 1st showing, paid all cash, and promised to take care of the apartment... As I know they will) 😊
Went to the thrift store down the street here in Dundas, Ontario, just to window shop, and they had four used electric can openers. $4 eleven years ago and it still works like a charm! Wicked splurge. Also, my electric kettle. $12 new at Canadian Tire.
I am so glad i found your channel. It came into my life at the right time. I've been TERRIBLE with money until the past couple of years. I now have financial goals, personal goals that relate to my financial goals, and your videos have been keeping me motivated to reach these goals and learn how to live my best life! Thank you for what you do, nicole!
One of our (hubby and I) best value purchases was one of our most expensive: an underground sprinkler/watering system for our garden and lawn. Installed more than 30 years ago, it has only needed one somewhat costly upgrade/repair ($375). Currently it costs about $45 annually to maintain. To date, our savings in time, labor and anxiety? Priceless. We program it at the beginning of the season to comply with our local watering restrictions. It has a rain sensor to refrain from turning on during wet weather. I love gardening (our gardens are a joy to behold and even more beautiful as a stress reliever-keeps me physically toned and mentally tuned. It’s my coffee!
I actually laughed when you got to the last one. I've had a heating / massage pad, in my Amazon shopping cart for a while, and it finally dropped in price for black Friday. It came today, & I was using it for the first time, while watching your video. I don't like using it in my vehicle, because it makes me drowsy sometimes, but I put it on my recliner & love using it when my back is bothering me or when I'm ready for a nap. 😉
A good investment for me is a massage and reiki session once a month. Prevention is key to good health. Since I cut my hair myself and don't use any personal esthetic services, I feel pretty good about that spending.
I do not heat my bedroom, but have a Bed warming under pad, sunbeam to be precise. It is very good at heating up the foot area and graduates going up just slightly the chest zone. I turn it on about 2 hours before bed and off to sleep. It is my most indispensable wintertime article.
It really depends on your lattitude, but for me, living at 48 degrees North, economy means setting the thermostatic device at 19 Celsius, I think that would be about 67 Farenheit !
A sewing machine should be present in every home. It would change the world!!! Out attitude to throwing away clothes, mending, therapy sessions, fullfillment, landfil, repairing, upcycling, being creative it opens doors we would never have thought before. Let alone saving us money from new clothes but also makjng us buy clothes that can easier be repaired as they would be made of better quality fibres and patterns...
A dishwasher. They actually use less water than doing them by hand, per Technology Connections. In my spouses and my opinion, definitely worth the splurge.
Loving the amount of Levi in this weeks video - instant cosyness - one dog!!! But i agree, a couple of plants and one or two pictures. Luckily for me i have genuine artists in the family so i get to hang their art on my walls - stunning!
Love your outlook on things and I share many of your views. Here's a wall art idea/suggestion for some items that caught my eyes in your video: Hang your guitars. They looks great on a wall and they're easily accessible. I have one on each side of my mirror over the couch. As for coffee, I drink black coffee and like good coffee. So my coffee saving strategy is a 10lb green beans purchase at around $110CAD with delivery, I roast them myself and use a good quality hand grinder. That 10lb bag lasts me around 14 months and it's the best coffee!
I splurged on a really good pair of stereo headphones and a vacuum tube audio amplifier. Listening to a little classical music while lying bed helps me sleep.
My little Brevilla espresso machine and milk steamer is worth every penny. Drinking such a well made and tasty coffee means I put less stuff in it. No sugar, no sweetner, no flavors etc. I also find myself often inviting folks over to my house for coffee instead of going out.
I love your thoughtful videos. Hence a Minor technical correction: While Gas is required to run the engine which produces heat. Using the heater does not affect fuel efficiency as opposed to the air conditioner, as the heated outdoor air is simply being redirected and moved into the cabin.
All great recommendations. Part of being frugal is that it allows one to have a few comforts because you’re not wasting on junk. One thing I will not buy on the cheap is my glasses. They are on my face all day. I want quality that looks nice and won’t fall apart. I won’t buy cheap shoes for the same reasons.
Yes! One of my resolutions was that in order to have glasses I love that make me feel confident, I’ll have to splurge on getting multiple styles in prescription. That’s something my parents always modeled against so I had held out.
Even very espensive kitchen appliances can be found for little cost at Yard Sales, or Thrift Stores. Also, puchasing home decor from Estate Sales can be a very good investment, especially if one enjoys it for a while, then sells it at a profit. I like well made often antique items that are unique and increase in value. I love Japanese items, but also have traditional pieces form England. Art, beautiful vintage linens and high quality china can be very pleasing to the eye. Personally, I prefer a compact electric recliner to a couch, a lot more useful, especially if one becomes ill, has surgury or becomes injured. Couches tend to be heavy, take up a lot of room and be difficult to move or dispose of when they wear out. There are times when being a minimalist means living in a very stark environment, house plants and other comforts make a house feel more lke a home. And, sometimes, when we stay home, it keeps us out of the shops and spending money!
Love your videos. So well prepared. Appreciate your love for your dog. The info is spot on. Your presentations are easy to following and interesting. Thanks.
Love the car seat warmer idea - but FYI ... the heater in your car gets its heat from the actual combustion engine .. and whether you blow that heat inside the car or not will not alter the fuel used, beyond the minor cost of powering the alternator to operate the fan itself. The engine gets hot regardless if you use the heat to keep warm.
Hi, Nicole! Having an extra pair of summer, spring/autumn and winter shoes does help save money. Now I always have enough time to find a good deal. Needless to say, I completely got rid of _footwear anxiety_ - the fear of having to go to work barefooted.
Coffee has a lot of side effects but I did buy some pure cocoa powder, the ingredient itself & I'm making my own hot chocolate this winter to help keep me warm & in good spirits. So hard not to spend anything at all. Always some where to improve by repairing this & that & possibly upgrading something that has been bothering you for awhile.
The two splurges that I allowed myself (way back when) as soon as I got a job earning some decent money were quality scissors in multiple places in the house and getting my shoes professionally shined. My latest splurges are hands-free sneakers. I bought one pair of Zibas and one pair of Kizik. Then Skechers came out with their own version and I see that Nike now has one. I have to take my shoes on and off multiple times a day in multiple situations so these are a game changer for me as a senior with difficulty bending down. Their secret is a steel spring in the heel that allows you to slip your foot into each shoe and then springs back up into regular shape. I have not yet worn them to fly yet and I suspect that despite having TSA pre-check, I will need to take off the shoes because of the metal spring. 🤷♂️
Hi Nicole, along the lines of your heating car seat I now can't live without my heating throw, I work from home and I move it around during the day, from my office to my living room to my bedroom at night. I calculated that it costs me less to use this that to blast the heat in the house (i live in Québec and it can get really cold too)
I should splurge more on high quality ingredients, never regret it as I don't eat out. Pre cut and clean items are totally worth it. Ready to eat salads too.
I have an office desk chair my mom bought for me for $20 at a thrift store (it's pretty nice, black pleather, tilts with armrests) and it's now lasted 12 years. But after working 3+ years fully remote in my chair 6-7 hours a day, with an aging 31 year-old body with back problems, I realllllllyyy need a new one! Haha.
For the desk chair, I suggest the “saddle” chair. Frequently found in medical, dental, or tattoo shops. I’m using one and I live the hip position it creates.
A sub woofer. Music can ease my.....something. Robot vac is a game changer!!! heated seat is wonderful!!!! Some comfort items=good. Patience is a great item to get.
Hi Nicole, you lightly mentioned them but, shoes! I'm on my feet all day at work so I buy good quality, supportive shoes with good grip. I'm minimal with my shoes overall and I find it's better for me to have three or four good quality pairs that I wear again and again.
I commented on on one of your videos that I feel that it's well worth investing in the best quality equipment for the kitchen and laundry. The only brand I have is called 'Miele' they do a great job and they last for many years. -Gabriel.
I like the cable management system on that desk. What a great idea. A pet is a ( necessary) splurge too. I’m sitting here petting my dog too. In my life musical instruments are a necessary splurge. I get hours of joy, and frustration, from my piano. Also I use musical instruments to decorate the walls in the music area. I have a handmade mountain dulcimer hanging on the wall and a lovely wood handmade South American flute hanging on the wall.
Over the past 5 years, I have purchased my collection of acoustic guitars. Have bought and sold around a dozen or so to find what I need(like). "They" say a long and "happy" life is lived with a few key things. One of them is music. Music has come and gone in my life over the years. Trying to keep the music in your life is worth everything. (I saw her guitars against her wall.)
Splurging on a really good winter coat, if you live in cold climate is worth it. I bought a Canada Goose coat. The hood is amazing. I can go walking in any weather. Now I love winter.
I'm a female who bought a Land's End man's stadium coat. It is amazing how warm and dry it keeps me. No need to layer. And the pockets in mens clothing are awesome. Watch for sales.
totally agree with the espressomachine, I have one of 500 euro, grinds the beans too, and the beans I buy are the cheapest available, I sometimes seem to offend people by telling them I prefer the cheaper stronger robusta to the nobeler arabica...
You're correct by buying a coffee-maker instead of buying it by the cup. A friend of mine buys his for >$5/cup at SBUX, while I make mine in a machine that probably cost me $100 USD. My Keurig machine has probably last 2 years already. It probably saved me a grand a year.
I honestly do not understand why everyone does not at the very least have a cheap $30 bidet bottle. The price of toilet paper is outrageous and the whole idea of not cleaning is ridiculous. More still, by not flushing utter tons of paper imagine how efficient the sewers would be. It is the weirdest thing of our time.
9:17 about gas usage - quite the opposite. If you have combustion engine, not EV using heat from your engine is free, as it tries to get rid of excessive heat anyways, and connecting electric heat you additionally load the alternator which causes increased engine resistance, just like turning on the air conditioning in the summer, which results in increased fuel consumption.
I have wanted a robot vacuum for years. Maybe one day I’ll finally get one. I have a cat and between hair and litter that vacuum would make my life so much better.
Good quality wireless headphones! Was always iffy with saving up for one because i like wired earphones (and theyre cheaper). But since getting good noise cancelling headphones, im able to listen to podcasts/music/lectures easily while doing stuff at home and not disturb others in the house. Plus its been really helpful for exercising and meditating and not have to worry about cords. (also it reduces risk of ear infection since it’s over-ear; it is not fun having one lol)
i've tried expensive home espresso machines and i keep returning to my $50 wal mart Mr coffee machine that looks very similar to yours. spending more on something doesn't mean it's better, i've had this espresso machine for about 10 years and made 10s of thousands of cups of espresso with it and it still works great. little luxuries for me is air conditioning. since i live in florida, it may seem like this is a common thing but not all cars have working air conditioning. same goes for ice makers in your fridge, i have a tabletop ice maker so we always have ice available to cool off with.
I ordered the Breville. When I awake, I am immediately glad for two things: I am alive, and now I get to drink coffee. 😜 The vet adjusted my Milo's Vetmedin by ordering one dose daily and working up to two doses daily. He seems to be tolerating the med using this approach. Fingers crossed.
You can make an AMAZING coffee with a $200 machine by buying good beans and grinding fresh, with practise you can get a flavour that rivals many coffee shops. You can make great ice coffees by adding sugar to your poured shot, stir and disolve then add three ice cubes and milk.
Levi 💙. Taking care of fur kids is the best money spent. I’m a recent subscriber and loving your channel. Looking forward to see what you do for holiday decor!
Except for my standing desk all my quality of life splurges are in my kitchen. Pressure cooker, high speed blender, high quality cookware and appliances like my fridge and oven. They’re not luxury branded, but they all received rave reviews when I got them 15-20 years ago and have not let me down. I figure my annual average cost for these items is the same as buying the cheap versions of these things, and there’s significantly less in a landfill because of that.
I am extremely frugal but I do have a couple of splurges. My favorite splurge was a freeze dryer, I grow a lot of my own food and having one helps me preserve my harvest long term. I also made enough selling freeze dried candy to get my initial cost back. I use it to save my extra eggs from the chickens and if I find a good price on meat I use it to preserve that as well.
Sometimes the splurge is a replacement. I absolutely love Lazy Boy living room furniture, but can no longer afford it. I have an electric rocker recliner that hasn't worked in probably 5 years; I believe the motor is kaput. I did many things to try to resolve the problem short of paying for a replacement/repair. To be fair, I purchased a floor model that had probably been used to excess. But it was pissing me off! So this year I purchased a replacement (cheaper brand) during Cyber Monday; it was a heck of a deal. I need the electric recliner because my shoulders are always in pain.
100% on making own coffee at home.. I rarely buy coffee at a starbucks or convenience stores because I've become a coffee snob. We have a Cuisinart grind n brew, had a couple different models over the last 18 years or so. It grinds whole beans and brews it right away and it smells so good. If I get starbucks it's either because I have a giftcard, or like the other night when I was tired and we had a long night ahead, my daughter's friend picked up Starbucks and used his employee discount. I wasn't going to but I was like oh hell why not get me one. I am considering getting a Roomba for my mom. I've been doing her vacuuming among other things because she's had some health issues. Shes walking better so I'm not as worried about her tripping over it. As for her cat's reaction well that should be interesting 😅
Check out the Flexispot E7 desk and C7 chair!
Use the exclusive code "BFYTB" for $30 off your E7/E7pro/C7 purchase. You still have a chance to win your order for free.
Desk:
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Chair:
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Browsing thru the website now. I just wanted to price the table shown in your video. Never thought pricing a table could be so complicated. The pricing is just for the frame everything else appears to be add ons. I don't know. I'll have a look at it again tomorrow.
@@MrFirstone23 Click the E7 frame and then you can pick your desk top. The price changes based on the size and material of the top.
Thanks for the response, yeah I get that part about picking size and material, what I'm failing to understand is whether or not the motor that adjusts the height is included in the standard E7 frame price. From that point, I can pick table tops.@@AccordingtoNicole
@@MrFirstone23 Yes, the motor is part of the frame
Cool, that clears things up, Thank you for the reply.@@AccordingtoNicole
One good chef knife. I cook a lot (I'm a middle-aged guy, don't go out much) and I spent something like $150 on a german chef knife. It's one of those things that every time you use it, you're glad you have it.
Honestly, paying someone to cut my grass and take care of my lawn is the best money I spend all year! There’s nothing like coming home Friday night and seeing my grass pristine ❤❤❤❤
And you employ someone spreading the money thru the economy.
That's how you know you made it. 😊
Did you pay to go to a gym and work out and pay someone else to work out while they cut your grass? Yes, cutting grass qualifies as a workout. Cut your own, unless you are handicapped.
@@petermartin9494 Screw that! I used to cut my grass but now that I have money I'll pay someone and do something more interesting with my time!
@@paul_domici Like going to the gym?
Hi Nicole and Levi..from Massachusettts. I love all the great info you have. At the age of 70, Im surprised at how much this old lady is learning from you. Ty! :)
A good pair of shoes. 😊 I work in manufacturing on my feet all day and a cheap pair just won't do. I love them.
My husband bought me a Ninja coffee machine that makes lattes and iced coffees a few years ago. It was about $200, and I thought it was crazy to spend that much. I had a cheap $10 coffee maker before that which I used daily, but would go out to get lattes and iced coffees.
Fast forward to today. I haven't set foot in a Starbucks, or the like, since. I used to stop to pick up specialty coffees on the way to visit a friend in the nursing home. Then I started making them at home, putting them in reusable coffee mugs and bringing them with me.
I also have a friend of mine over for coffee and can make her whatever she wants.
It has saved so much money and I LOVE this thing!
Exactly!
Amen!
One thing I found on amazon that saves money on bottled water is a water distiller for $120 that makes water the same quality as store bought bottled water.
That is a great idea! I’m going to see if I can find a good Black Friday deal on one : )
Distilled water can be harmful.
Lack of minerals: Regular consumption may lead to mineral deficiencies over time, as distilled water does not contain beneficial electrolytes.
Taste: Some find it flat or tasteless due to the absence of minerals.
Possible electrolyte imbalance: In extreme cases, consuming large amounts of distilled water can upset the body’s balance of electrolytes, leading to potential health issues like muscle cramps or fatigue.
If you're drinking distilled water regularly, it's a good idea to ensure you're getting essential minerals from your diet or consider drinking water with added minerals.
Every year, I splurge on international travel. It doesn't clutter my home & the memories and new friendships are priceless.
I splurge on my crocheting craft... GOOD hooks and specific threads or yarn. It saves me money on mental therapy and I don't waste money on cable TV ($200/month) which I don't watch. I can always sell my makes if I want to make money with my craft. My babies (cats) love spending time with me, playing with balls of scraps on occasion. My creations also make great birthday and/or Christmas gifts.
FYI: Blasting the heat in your car doesn't use anymore gas than not using heat at all (Unless you have an electric car). Using the A/C in a gas car will slightly use more gas; using the heat can actually help save slight amounts of gas. ("slight" in terms of using more or less = not enough to matter or even be noticeable).
That’s correct. The heat comes from the water that circulates through the engine to keep it from overheating. That water then passes through the radiator, which dumps the heat into the surrounding air. The heater just diverts part of that hot water into a smaller radiator to heat the air that is blown into the interior of the car. But it’s waste heat either way. Not using the heater doesn’t prevent the heat from being generated.
Using the seat heater DOES burn more fuel, because it draws power from the battery. The alternator has to replace that power by recharging the battery, which increases the load on the engine, consuming more fuel.
@@MundaneGray Argh, how could you get the first paragraph 100% correct and then go full retard on the next one?? The battery is used for starting the car. The alternator DOES recharge the battery, but unless the battery is defective only uses a tiny bit to recharge what it used to start the car. The alternator is already being spun by the serpentine belt so whether you are driving during the day or night or listening to the stereo or have the heat on won't affect gas mileage. The A/C is only spun by the serpentine belt when the clutch is engaged for the compressor, which is why the A/C DOES reduce mileage and heat doesn't.
Almost all of us that are frugal have those things in our life that can make no sense.
I have horses. Horses can be expensive. But, I also get so much enjoyment out of them that it's worth the money.
I'm just now starting to ride again after spending 4 years caring for family members. There were days when going out to care for them was the only thing keeping me sane.
Knowing what keeps you sane is the key to a good life.
Nicole, I was sure that the first thing worthwhile to splurge on that you'd mention is a house pet (as opposed to a farm pet like a horse) if you can properly afford and care for one adopting one probably does offer the greatest reward (as well as perhaps some heartache/headache).
He’s not a house pet. He’s my son.
I have several dust bunnies. Do they count?
You don't need to splurge on pets though. I get mine very cheap and second hand. They're just as lovable. It's super rewarding watching them settle in and reveal their personality.
@Draggonny I totally agree! All of my dogs were secondhand in some way or another. Best secondhand things that I ever bought/ took care of ❤❤ ❤❤❤❤❤
House pets are nice but farm pets are better. I would not change my mule (half donkey) for any dog , even though I like dogs. Yes, keeping equines is expensive and they are hard work but they are worth every penny- as they provide not just companionship. They can be useful in so many ways: my mule is my legs (carrying me when riding), my back (carrying supplies when backpacking/trailing), my guardian (protective and highly intelligent), my garden's supplier of the best fertilizer (horse manure). If I choose to do so, I can make money giving kids rides on him on our beaches or having therapy/walking sessions. Next level: get some chickens (for the eggs and meat and manure) and goats (for milk and meat, also great for management of weeds/invasive plant species).
The ergonomic standing desk E7 and the ergonomic chair C7 are the preferred choices for the home office/long office hours.
2:06 I don't drink coffee, but for those who do, don't buy any infomercial crap machine like a Kurege or what ever. If you're gonna invest in a kitchen appliance, make sure it's gonna stand the test of time. Constant replacement will also put you in the hole over the long run.
I have a moka pot. It was £10 from a charity shop and works perfectly. Completely agree with you on not buying fancy coffee drinks.
Mine costed only 8 $, but here we have less of a purchasing power, but it's original italian aluminium and the cofee so resulted it's the best possible !
Yes, Love the Moka pot from Ikea and use when my FREE gravity filtered coffee is not ready. I use a small battery powered grinder for my coffee beans.
I have a very vintage Moka Pot...I absolutely love that thing. Got it free from a friend that couldn't be bothered with replacing the rubber seals...bought a set of silicone seals for $3...voila!!!
So cute. What a fun video. Splurge, kindle e books, candle warmer to make house smell good, battery candles to turn on at night. None needed, all loved.
Yes, loving being at home is so important!
It is a good perspective to not deny oneself those things that improve one’s quality of life but personal one …like with everything, one person’s trash (unnecessary) may be another’s treasure (one’s quality improvements)😊
Definitely do not cheap out on a bed. No you don’t need to get the most expensive but you still need something that is comfortable and will last you. Thank you for the video it’s nice to hear about the other side occasionally!
Great channel Nicole, been enjoying and agreeing with your content. But, you missed a key item that's always in your background, the minimalistic HiFi, music can be an incredible experience, great for the mind and soul, and clearly you enjoy it too. Love the turntable and speakers, very audiophile 💪😎
My workspace for the past 15 years has been a big, comfie armchair. Stuff I need is in a magazine rack on one side and an end table on the other side. I just switched to my wool rug for the floor in front. I use a cotton one for the summer. I'm an armchair general.
I make as much from scratch so similar to what you mentioned about the coffee maker, I recently took advantage of the Black Friday sales and splurged on a grain mill. I had been buying my flours (various grains) and it was getting so expensive, not to mention having to store the bulk sized bags in a small apartment. Now with my grain mill, I purchase the whole grains and milk my own flour as needed. This is not only cheaper, but healthier as well
We splurged on a good and large custom made bed and mattress. Never looked back. Air fryer. Desk set up. High quality shoes and winter clothes.
My Apple MacBook Air 2017 still works perfect. I am about to buy a newer one and give the old one to my granddaughter. I use it everyday and it was money well spent.
With the house deco, a good.thing is to get photos that you have taken (or a friend) that you like and have them.blown up onto canvas and hang those. It personalises the space and lets you enjoy the memories. Whenever I travel I try to buy something that I can use or wear (like jewellery) so I thi k of that place every time.
I have turned many souvenirs into home decor. My cleverest so far was hanging my high-school graduation tassel and a lei of fake shells from a flight to Hawaii on the fixture which used to hold the curtain bars over my bedroom windows. I hated the curtains so I removed them, and took these two monetarily worthless items and prettied up my treatment-less windows again, and I feel prideful towards my personality in them now rather than irritated. A memory can definitely transform a room.
100% agree about the home interior. I just had most of my house on the inside repainted, & decided to pay the money to have pros do it. It was WAY more than if I'd done it myself, but they were in & out in 2 days, & did a way better job than I could have. Also bought some new lamps for the living room & some wall art, all very affordable. And I'm really surprised at how it's positively affected my mental health. I had thought that I didn't care about that stuff, but it really has a big impact
@cj222100 I agree with what you commented and would like to add my comment. About 2 years ago, I was preparing to sell my NYC apartment and move cross country. Besides giving away 70% of my stuff in the year prior, I also hired a painter, who transformed my _"nice"_ small apartment into a *_"stunning, beautiful"_* space. He did a much better job than I would have done as I have less patience and stamina as I get older. Happily, I sold my apartment for 50% more than what I paid for it 10 years prior, and I believe it was largely due to the professional paint job that created a great first impression. (Btw, I kicked myself for not giving *myself* the gift of living in the beautiful apartment I was forced to sell, but the new owners made an offer right after the 1st showing, paid all cash, and promised to take care of the apartment... As I know they will)
😊
Went to the thrift store down the street here in Dundas, Ontario, just to window shop, and they had four used electric can openers. $4 eleven years ago and it still works like a charm! Wicked splurge. Also, my electric kettle. $12 new at Canadian Tire.
DUNDAS
I am so glad i found your channel. It came into my life at the right time. I've been TERRIBLE with money until the past couple of years. I now have financial goals, personal goals that relate to my financial goals, and your videos have been keeping me motivated to reach these goals and learn how to live my best life! Thank you for what you do, nicole!
One of our (hubby and I) best value purchases was one of our most expensive: an underground sprinkler/watering system for our garden and lawn. Installed more than 30 years ago, it has only needed one somewhat costly upgrade/repair ($375). Currently it costs about $45 annually to maintain. To date, our savings in time, labor and anxiety? Priceless. We program it at the beginning of the season to comply with our local watering restrictions. It has a rain sensor to refrain from turning on during wet weather. I love gardening (our gardens are a joy to behold and even more beautiful as a stress reliever-keeps me physically toned and mentally tuned. It’s my coffee!
I actually laughed when you got to the last one. I've had a heating / massage pad, in my Amazon shopping cart for a while, and it finally dropped in price for black Friday. It came today, & I was using it for the first time, while watching your video. I don't like using it in my vehicle, because it makes me drowsy sometimes, but I put it on my recliner & love using it when my back is bothering me or when I'm ready for a nap. 😉
A good investment for me is a massage and reiki session once a month. Prevention is key to good health. Since I cut my hair myself and don't use any personal esthetic services, I feel pretty good about that spending.
I do not heat my bedroom, but have a Bed warming under pad, sunbeam to be precise. It is very good at heating up the foot area and graduates going up just slightly the chest zone. I turn it on about 2 hours before bed and off to sleep. It is my most indispensable wintertime article.
That warming pad sounds amazing! I've heard a lot of people in Korea use them during the winter.
I use an electric blanket to warm the bed for me then one of my huskies lies on top of me so I'm super toasty.
I have both a warming underpad and an electric blanket. Heat rises so I now use only the underpad. The blanket serves as an ordinary one.
It really depends on your lattitude, but for me, living at 48 degrees North, economy means setting the thermostatic device at 19 Celsius, I think that would be about 67 Farenheit !
@@victormarian7889 Me at 45. With the door open it doesn't get much below 17 degrees 15 when it is -30 or less outside.
A sewing machine should be present in every home. It would change the world!!! Out attitude to throwing away clothes, mending, therapy sessions, fullfillment, landfil, repairing, upcycling, being creative it opens doors we would never have thought before. Let alone saving us money from new clothes but also makjng us buy clothes that can easier be repaired as they would be made of better quality fibres and patterns...
Not only don't we MIND but we love seeing the pup!
I got an electric blanket for Christmas and it has become one of my favorite things in the world.
It's probably not a splurge because they aren't really that expensive.
A dishwasher. They actually use less water than doing them by hand, per Technology Connections. In my spouses and my opinion, definitely worth the splurge.
Yes! Dishwasher for the win. A mod-con I lived without for years, without realising how con they truly are.
Loving the amount of Levi in this weeks video - instant cosyness - one dog!!! But i agree, a couple of plants and one or two pictures. Luckily for me i have genuine artists in the family so i get to hang their art on my walls - stunning!
Totally agree with you about the coffee machine. I have one similar and I drink several cups of coffee a day, so it has more than paid for itself.
Love your outlook on things and I share many of your views.
Here's a wall art idea/suggestion for some items that caught my eyes in your video: Hang your guitars. They looks great on a wall and they're easily accessible. I have one on each side of my mirror over the couch.
As for coffee, I drink black coffee and like good coffee. So my coffee saving strategy is a 10lb green beans purchase at around $110CAD with delivery, I roast them myself and use a good quality hand grinder. That 10lb bag lasts me around 14 months and it's the best coffee!
your views and things are just so spot on, your a kool person and thanks for the videos and ideas and help etc.
I splurged on a really good pair of stereo headphones and a vacuum tube audio amplifier. Listening to a little classical music while lying bed helps me sleep.
My little Brevilla espresso machine and milk steamer is worth every penny.
Drinking such a well made and tasty coffee means I put less stuff in it. No sugar, no sweetner, no flavors etc.
I also find myself often inviting folks over to my house for coffee instead of going out.
I love your thoughtful videos. Hence a Minor technical correction:
While Gas is required to run the engine which produces heat. Using the heater does not affect fuel efficiency as opposed to the air conditioner, as the heated outdoor air is simply being redirected and moved into the cabin.
All great recommendations. Part of being frugal is that it allows one to have a few comforts because you’re not wasting on junk. One thing I will not buy on the cheap is my glasses. They are on my face all day. I want quality that looks nice and won’t fall apart. I won’t buy cheap shoes for the same reasons.
Yes! One of my resolutions was that in order to have glasses I love that make me feel confident, I’ll have to splurge on getting multiple styles in prescription. That’s something my parents always modeled against so I had held out.
Even very espensive kitchen appliances can be found for little cost at Yard Sales, or Thrift Stores. Also, puchasing home decor from Estate Sales can be a very good investment, especially if one enjoys it for a while, then sells it at a profit. I like well made often antique items that are unique and increase in value. I love Japanese items, but also have traditional pieces form England. Art, beautiful vintage linens and high quality china can be very pleasing to the eye. Personally, I prefer a compact electric recliner to a couch, a lot more useful, especially if one becomes ill, has surgury or becomes injured. Couches tend to be heavy, take up a lot of room and be difficult to move or dispose of when they wear out. There are times when being a minimalist means living in a very stark environment, house plants and other comforts make a house feel more lke a home. And, sometimes, when we stay home, it keeps us out of the shops and spending money!
Love your videos. So well prepared. Appreciate your love for your dog. The info is spot on. Your presentations are easy to following and interesting. Thanks.
"Balls to the walls" I love it 😂😂
Awesome 😎. Sticky lint rollers, I have cats, yes I have the kind that are not the sticky rollies but in rush times I use them.
Happy Sunday, Nicole! Always look forward to your videos!
Thanks!
i love your videos! more Levi! lol
Yayyy🎉 our Sunday video!! 😊😊
Love the car seat warmer idea - but FYI ... the heater in your car gets its heat from the actual combustion engine .. and whether you blow that heat inside the car or not will not alter the fuel used, beyond the minor cost of powering the alternator to operate the fan itself. The engine gets hot regardless if you use the heat to keep warm.
Hi, Nicole! Having an extra pair of summer, spring/autumn and winter shoes does help save money. Now I always have enough time to find a good deal. Needless to say, I completely got rid of _footwear anxiety_ - the fear of having to go to work barefooted.
Coffee has a lot of side effects but I did buy some pure cocoa powder, the ingredient itself & I'm making my own hot chocolate this winter to help keep me warm & in good spirits. So hard not to spend anything at all. Always some where to improve by repairing this & that & possibly upgrading something that has been bothering you for awhile.
Have been binge watching , love the channel. I followed a similar path and retired at 36 almost 8 years ago.
#goals
The two splurges that I allowed myself (way back when) as soon as I got a job earning some decent money were quality scissors in multiple places in the house and getting my shoes professionally shined. My latest splurges are hands-free sneakers. I bought one pair of Zibas and one pair of Kizik. Then Skechers came out with their own version and I see that Nike now has one. I have to take my shoes on and off multiple times a day in multiple situations so these are a game changer for me as a senior with difficulty bending down. Their secret is a steel spring in the heel that allows you to slip your foot into each shoe and then springs back up into regular shape. I have not yet worn them to fly yet and I suspect that despite having TSA pre-check, I will need to take off the shoes because of the metal spring. 🤷♂️
Hi Nicole, along the lines of your heating car seat I now can't live without my heating throw, I work from home and I move it around during the day, from my office to my living room to my bedroom at night. I calculated that it costs me less to use this that to blast the heat in the house (i live in Québec and it can get really cold too)
I should splurge more on high quality ingredients, never regret it as I don't eat out. Pre cut and clean items are totally worth it. Ready to eat salads too.
I love that you love grey too! I’m super boring with colours but you’re helping me see I’m not the only one lol
Grey is happy colour 😌
I have an office desk chair my mom bought for me for $20 at a thrift store (it's pretty nice, black pleather, tilts with armrests) and it's now lasted 12 years. But after working 3+ years fully remote in my chair 6-7 hours a day, with an aging 31 year-old body with back problems, I realllllllyyy need a new one! Haha.
I didn’t even know what I was missing haha
I was like “lumbar support?! What am I? A surgeon?!” 😂😂
For the desk chair, I suggest the “saddle” chair. Frequently found in medical, dental, or tattoo shops. I’m using one and I live the hip position it creates.
Your videos are entertaining and very informative. I have suchvs battle with myself over when to spurdge but you lay it out so well. TY
A sub woofer. Music can ease my.....something. Robot vac is a game changer!!! heated seat is wonderful!!!! Some comfort items=good. Patience is a great item to get.
Hi Nicole, you lightly mentioned them but, shoes! I'm on my feet all day at work so I buy good quality, supportive shoes with good grip. I'm minimal with my shoes overall and I find it's better for me to have three or four good quality pairs that I wear again and again.
I commented on on one of your videos that I feel that it's well worth investing in the best quality equipment for the kitchen and laundry. The only brand I have is called 'Miele' they do a great job and they last for many years. -Gabriel.
We replaced a Whirlpool DW with a Miele. Best decision ever.
I'm in Norway, here they come from Germany, not sure what their world wide distribution network looks like.
Miele is very expensive, I ' ve bought an Ariston 15 years ago and it still works very nice !
I like the cable management system on that desk. What a great idea. A pet is a ( necessary) splurge too. I’m sitting here petting my dog too. In my life musical instruments are a necessary splurge. I get hours of joy, and frustration, from my piano. Also I use musical instruments to decorate the walls in the music area. I have a handmade mountain dulcimer hanging on the wall and a lovely wood handmade South American flute hanging on the wall.
Over the past 5 years, I have purchased my collection of acoustic guitars. Have bought and sold around a dozen or so to find what I need(like). "They" say a long and "happy" life is lived with a few key things. One of them is music. Music has come and gone in my life over the years. Trying to keep the music in your life is worth everything. (I saw her guitars against her wall.)
@@danherrick5785 I noticed that too. If it was me I think I’d hang it up on a wall as part of my decor
You're right!
Love your videos. Thank you.
Thanks Nicole.
Your place is so clean and cool! Enjoy your content as well-Alina
Splurging on a really good winter coat, if you live in cold climate is worth it. I bought a Canada Goose coat. The hood is amazing. I can go walking in any weather. Now I love winter.
Ok Cruella
I'm a female who bought a Land's End man's stadium coat. It is amazing how warm and dry it keeps me. No need to layer. And the pockets in mens clothing are awesome. Watch for sales.
I really enjoy watching your videos, thanks for sharing with us your thoughts and life 😊
You make a lot of sense Nicole!
totally agree with the espressomachine, I have one of 500 euro, grinds the beans too, and the beans I buy are the cheapest available, I sometimes seem to offend people by telling them I prefer the cheaper stronger robusta to the nobeler arabica...
Agree with all of them!
You're correct by buying a coffee-maker instead of buying it by the cup. A friend of mine buys his for >$5/cup at SBUX, while I make mine in a machine that probably cost me $100 USD. My Keurig machine has probably last 2 years already. It probably saved me a grand a year.
A Bidet.....or the portable one,you can attach to your existing toilet.You can even get the one that dries you off.
I honestly do not understand why everyone does not at the very least have a cheap $30 bidet bottle. The price of toilet paper is outrageous and the whole idea of not cleaning is ridiculous. More still, by not flushing utter tons of paper imagine how efficient the sewers would be. It is the weirdest thing of our time.
Love your new couch!! 🙌. And I’m sure Dallas would get a kick out of being selected for your minimal home decor. 🙂🎵🎶
9:17 about gas usage - quite the opposite. If you have combustion engine, not EV using heat from your engine is free, as it tries to get rid of excessive heat anyways, and connecting electric heat you additionally load the alternator which causes increased engine resistance, just like turning on the air conditioning in the summer, which results in increased fuel consumption.
well, unless you have webasto heater, or Zaporozec, where there was heating by separate fuel furnace.
Definitely my Roomba vacuum!
Levy is the cutest part of your decor!
I’m a kitchen gadget/thing. Love my air fryer oven, Instant pot, sewing machine to name a few.
Your not getting old. You look so young. Thank you so much 😊
Ah Levi - love that little fella! 🐶❤️
I have wanted a robot vacuum for years. Maybe one day I’ll finally get one. I have a cat and between hair and litter that vacuum would make my life so much better.
Good quality wireless headphones! Was always iffy with saving up for one because i like wired earphones (and theyre cheaper). But since getting good noise cancelling headphones, im able to listen to podcasts/music/lectures easily while doing stuff at home and not disturb others in the house. Plus its been really helpful for exercising and meditating and not have to worry about cords. (also it reduces risk of ear infection since it’s over-ear; it is not fun having one lol)
i've tried expensive home espresso machines and i keep returning to my $50 wal mart Mr coffee machine that looks very similar to yours. spending more on something doesn't mean it's better, i've had this espresso machine for about 10 years and made 10s of thousands of cups of espresso with it and it still works great.
little luxuries for me is air conditioning. since i live in florida, it may seem like this is a common thing but not all cars have working air conditioning. same goes for ice makers in your fridge, i have a tabletop ice maker so we always have ice available to cool off with.
I ordered the Breville. When I awake, I am immediately glad for two things: I am alive, and now I get to drink coffee. 😜 The vet adjusted my Milo's Vetmedin by ordering one dose daily and working up to two doses daily. He seems to be tolerating the med using this approach. Fingers crossed.
Hugs to Milo. Levi recently got a bump up from 3.75mg per day to 5mg per day. No adverse effects. Wishing the same for your boy.
@@AccordingtoNicole Thank you
I splurged on their toaster oven. Money well spent as I use it almost everyday and still working well 10 years later.
You can make an AMAZING coffee with a $200 machine by buying good beans and grinding fresh, with practise you can get a flavour that rivals many coffee shops. You can make great ice coffees by adding sugar to your poured shot, stir and disolve then add three ice cubes and milk.
Thanks for sharing a great video
I used to think back pain = getting old. No it's just not stretching and exercising enough. Worked for me and I'm slightly older than ya
Back pain = lazy.
Levi 💙. Taking care of fur kids is the best money spent. I’m a recent subscriber and loving your channel. Looking forward to see what you do for holiday decor!
Except for my standing desk all my quality of life splurges are in my kitchen.
Pressure cooker, high speed blender, high quality cookware and appliances like my fridge and oven. They’re not luxury branded, but they all received rave reviews when I got them 15-20 years ago and have not let me down.
I figure my annual average cost for these items is the same as buying the cheap versions of these things, and there’s significantly less in a landfill because of that.
I am extremely frugal but I do have a couple of splurges. My favorite splurge was a freeze dryer, I grow a lot of my own food and having one helps me preserve my harvest long term. I also made enough selling freeze dried candy to get my initial cost back. I use it to save my extra eggs from the chickens and if I find a good price on meat I use it to preserve that as well.
Sometimes the splurge is a replacement. I absolutely love Lazy Boy living room furniture, but can no longer afford it. I have an electric rocker recliner that hasn't worked in probably 5 years; I believe the motor is kaput. I did many things to try to resolve the problem short of paying for a replacement/repair. To be fair, I purchased a floor model that had probably been used to excess. But it was pissing me off! So this year I purchased a replacement (cheaper brand) during Cyber Monday; it was a heck of a deal. I need the electric recliner because my shoulders are always in pain.
There are 'needs' and then there's 'quality of life'. Bravo
Thank you sooooo much for the car seat thing!!! I have thought of getting a new car because I don’t have heated seats: did not know those existed!!!
I've been thinking about getting a vacuum cleaner robot thingy for the last couple of months. I guess this is a sign. Great video! ✌️
I've had a Roomba for about 10 years now and love it!
Does it make any noise? Would the apartment below hear it back and forth crossing the floor (hard flooring)? Thanks!@@1whitecottagelife770
I was gifted one 2 months ago and totally great to have especially with a pet. It doesnt get everything but great for not letting things build up.
100% on making own coffee at home.. I rarely buy coffee at a starbucks or convenience stores because I've become a coffee snob. We have a Cuisinart grind n brew, had a couple different models over the last 18 years or so. It grinds whole beans and brews it right away and it smells so good. If I get starbucks it's either because I have a giftcard, or like the other night when I was tired and we had a long night ahead, my daughter's friend picked up Starbucks and used his employee discount. I wasn't going to but I was like oh hell why not get me one.
I am considering getting a Roomba for my mom. I've been doing her vacuuming among other things because she's had some health issues. Shes walking better so I'm not as worried about her tripping over it. As for her cat's reaction well that should be interesting 😅
You are one of my favorite youtubers :,)