Christine, you saved us some good money last month. We needed to replace our 20 year old living room furniture so we saved for a year. I asked if they had a cash discount, they did. They threw in free delivery & covered the sales tax too! All because we were paying in cash & asked. We bought a close out floor sample & saved money & time because we didn't have to order anything. They delivered the next day & we had new furniture for Christmas, finally
@@michelleprice5945 People take this because they either just don’t have the money or don’t want to pay interest. Some people I know pay more than minimum and pay it off much earlier.
@catastrophe9150 Every non-essential item. Did all my own house maintenance, which was really hard. I'm a disabled 74 year old. Planning on moving this year so need to save as much as possible for that.
Our no frills Maytag dryer turns 47 this year, it was used when we were given it, and that 47 yrs includes its time with the previous owner. It has needed only one repair in all that time and we used a local handyman, not a service out of a nearby city.
@@azzzonline Wow, that's amazing! Mine is only 22 years old. Spent a lot for it and best of all its washable. Hoping it's the last winter coat I'll ever need.
My husband and I are retired. We sold our 2005 Buick (given to us). We are now a a one truck family (paid off). It took many years to climb out of deep debt but my husband retired at 70 years old. We live frugally but we are happy.
Thank you, Christine, for sharing about your health scare 2 years ago and how much we need to tell those we love what they mean to us. In March of 2024, my cousin's house burned to the ground, her husband, and 4 out of 6 of her children did not survive the fire. Since then, our entire family has taken a whole new approach to everything and is trying to do more together as a big group as opposed to focusing on the material things we have and want. For Christmas, no one did store bought gifts. We just did a big family( about 35 people)outing to see the Lion King and had a family game night.
I have a beautiful young friend, she’s 39, has 4 kids under the age of 15 and was diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer 2 weeks before Christmas. My heart just hurts for her and her family. She’s starting treatment soon and the drs are hoping to get rid of it with chemo and radiation and an implant after the treatment. I’m a 2 time breast cancer survivor and it really brings things into perspective!!!! I felt everything you said while you were talking about it!!!❤❤❤
It's resonating with me as well. My aunt died of breast cancer and I'm still waiting on a mammogram referral. Does anyone know how to get it without one? I have insurance
I had a friend pay off her mortgage years early by putting her income tax return toward the principle on her mortgage rather than blowing it each year on a splurge item.
Ok first- no tearing up like that, now I’m crying!😂. 2nd we are on our debt free journey and a “no/low” spend YEAR for 2025, it’s going to be hard, but so worth it!! Glad you’re ok and thank you for continuing to post helpful tips and tricks!!
in 2013 I lost my lucrative corporate job. After working retail for a year and hating it, we decided to move to a remote location and I continued a nursery business (the nursery business never went anywhere but was fun) BUT we found a place for $200K with 2 acres and dropped our mortgage so I could retire at 63. Its a 1978 single wide, we made improvements on it over the years, and its still going strong. My brother and sister-in-law sold their house and remodeled the 4 bay garage and now pay us 500 per month rent. Win Win. I don't need a fancy house. Then after being retired 8 years, I started a new part time job managing health events for reservists. Way better than retail. Love your tips and videos. Love to home cook and stock up to save.
I will never stop couponing, it’s SO worth it! I have tracked my refunds and rebates for the year of 2024 my total savings for the year was over $1,500! It was so rewarding to see the time I put in was worth it! Can’t wait to see how much I can save in 2025! 🤗
How much time did you spend doing that, in total? Did you save money compared to buying name brands at a lower price, when you could have bought generic to begin with?
I saved thousands with coupons before I went back to cooking from scratch. The majority of the available coupons are for products we no longer use to create meals or small volume packaging that doesn't save us money in the long run. I'd go back to couponing tomorrow if there were coupons for whole foods or fresh ingredients :)
I didn't realize meals could be so simple until i started living abroad. I cook from scratch mostly. And only cook the big meal once a day. There are times when it is breakfast for dinner or rice/ pasta and some sauce. Nothing has to be perfect, just as long as our bellies are full
Every time hubby and I get any extra money, it goes to the principal on our mortgage. Tax return, cheistmas and birthday money, garage sale money etc. We've paid down pur mortgage pretty quickly doing this!
I recently had to take out a loan to buy a new car (and will hopefully never be in that position again!) I'm doing the same thing - added an extra $50 to the autopay so I'm doing extra without even thinking about it, and then I started making a game out of saving money over the month to pay even more extra. I kept my same budget, which was sufficient but not exactly luxurious to start with, because I am comfortable that it's reasonable. But when I think about being able to add extra to that debt, it's nice motivation to skip a lunch out or to hit the library instead of a bookstore or theater. And I put up a photo of the new car with a thermometer thing to fill in and track where I am in paying the loan off compared to just standard payments - it's right next to the computer, to remind me not to order stuff I don't need online! Sometimes I think I do so much better when paying off a debt than I ever manage when I'm "just" saving.
2024 was a scary year for me- 2- breast cancer surgeries,radiation, a massive heart attack- and a defibrillator- busy year! My siblings and I were not brought up not hearing I love you- I’m sure my parents were not either. So with the events of the year- it made me realize that I needed them ( siblings) to know and hear that I love them. I try to tell them that , every time we are together. I could tell that the first time or two they were a little shocked ( pleasantly) but I try to keep it up. They to have started returning the sentiment- genuinely. This year has a bit of a shaky start but thru Gods grace and my incredible family and friends- I will be able to deal with whatever the outcome!!❤
Welcome to the breast cancer survivors club. Remember, you are still the beautiful woman you always were before the surgeries. It's just now you may not have to wear an uncomfortable bra, no old lady druppers someday and almost any style blouse will fit like you were a twenty year old again who still has the breast that haven't drupped from having babies or age and no summertime sweaty cleavage rash issues. I've been dealing with different types of cancers since about 1991 from stage 1 to 4. Dr. William Li's TedX talks and books have helped me during the survivor phase. There are a lot of other professionals doing podcast interviews or have their own channel with helpful advice that seems to work, especially when it comes to unhealthy inflammation, lymphatic blockage and foods, additives, and toxins that feed cancer. Example, sugar, iron, turkey(the amino acid tryptophan,), Greek yogurt because of the high amount of A1 casein protein, etc. Hope you find peace and happiness knowing you are not alone and there is always a way to keep fighting the wicked cancer and there are other health issues that are worse. Please research the tetracycline family of antibiotics especially doxycycline and how it stops the intestinal process for the protein called E.R.M./Merlin which helps the body stop making tumors. Four processing segments further down on that same small intestinal area is the process that is malfunctioning on patients with breast cancer. Some how those five process segments interact with each other. The article that explains it is on either pub med or web md. Look up NF2 / nuerofibermitosus 2 and how tetracycline/doxycycline affects the E.R.M. protein of Merlin and the liver HGS or HRG ( sorry cannot remember the correct liver protein abbreviation that starts with H.)This knowledge was known since 2001 onward but not easily found in published articles. Also please research the microbiome that helps the body fight off cancers. Hope this information is helpful. Prayers and God Bless You.
I needed the throwaway comment on paying for garage door spring replacement 🤣 ours broke New Year’s Eve & we paid someone to do it … I’ve been annoyed by the expense, so the reassurance is nice
We are doing the 7baby steps Dave Ramsey. We are currently living off of one income and putting the other income towards the mortgage! Every other week I get paid. It all goes to principle!
I will be forever thankful to you, you changed my life I will continue to speak on your behalf for the world to hear that you saved me from huge financial debt with just a little trade, thank you Jihan Wu you're such a life saver
Jihan Wu Services has really set the standard for others to follow, we love him here in Canada 🇨🇦 as he has been really helpful and changed lots of life's
I'm favoured, 90K every week! I can now give back to the locals in my communities and also support God's work and the church. God bless America,, thank you Mr Jihan Wu😊🎉
Christine 😭😭😭😭 I am so thankful you are ok ❤️ My "moment" was when we discovered my husband spinal stenosis. There was a moment he could barely walk and I realized one day he may be paralyzed. We had only been married a couple years at this point. 8 years later and every day I thank God for my husband.
I have the dresser set my parents bought new in 1978. Why buy new? This still works. Also, my Dad bought my boys bunk beds in 2004 -ish. My youngest and l are still using them (apart, of course), 20 years later. The favorite big green chair in our living room came from Goodwill for $50. My kitchen table can seat up to 8 people and it was $25, at a garage sale. Memories and family are everything!!! *Also, l don't own any credit cards. I use cash 99% of the time.
I have the dresser and bureau my parents bought in 1953. Just needs paint. Cheap paint it yourself furniture but made of real wood! Not particleboard 😅
3 things that helped me and literally helped me escape the rat race 1. I stopped watching porn 2. I read books on The forbidden manifestation money codes (for money) 3. Stop drinking
In today’s volatile market, diversify your assets with safe investments like HYSA, REITs, index funds, growth ETFs, and bonds. However, Before making any investment decisions, consider consulting with a financial advisor to tailor a plan to your specific needs and risk tolerance.
Financial advisors can be expensive, but they’re crucial for success in the financial market, especially if you’re on a deadline. I was laid off during the 2022 tech cuts, but I used my savings to invest in the stock market with the help of a financial advisor. After doing some research, I managed to grow my portfolio to over a million dollars in just two years, thanks to my high risk tolerance.
I’m glad I found this conversation. My risk tolerance is high, and I want to take advantage of the upcoming market run. Can you direct me to your advisor?
I've stuck with ''ZAREEN GRACE CHURCH' since the covid-crash of 2020, and her performance has been impressive to date. She’s quite renowned in her field with over two decades of experience, you can simply look her up.
Thanks for the info. I searched for her full name and found her website right away. I reviewed her credentials and did my research before reaching out to her.
The thing that helped me the most: Automate everything. Sit down figure out a realistic budget, then automate it. Every time I get paid, within a day a set amount automatically goes into my IRA and money market account, it also goes into my emergency fund, and fun money savings account. Whatever is left is what I spend on groceries, and fun things. Also, buy what you actually want so you don't have to buy it twice.
I still have my first car. I have it now for 21 years Toyota starlet and every professional mechanic and electrtion tell me to never let go of it until it's completely dead. I do a service and vechile test (have to by law) every year and it still goes I just need to fix some parts maximum once a year and change tyres when they are worn off. Best investment I every did in my life. And my insurance and license just cost 350 euros yearly with road assistant.
Thank you for this video 😊. Started Medicare this year and that's a whole new $$ journey so need to cut other corners. I also had a health scare about 5 years ago after a lung scan showed a shadow that could have been something very bad. I didn't tell my elderly mother or my boyfriend. The stress for my Mom would have been terrible. I kept it to myself for 2 weeks until the scan could be re-read and found to be just a shadow and not cancer. I then told my boyfriend but never told my mother. That 2 weeks really made me do a re -think on what is truly important. Have a blessed day!
I’m doing a no buy January. That doesn’t include paying my bills, of course. I have enough food and toiletries to last for probably two months. I may attempt to stretch it into February, but I would have to buy gas. I’m going to try to make it through January without buying any gas 😬 I’m excited about it and ready to use up some stuff!!
My no buy January started out having to spend $1,498 for a new water heater that was installed 2 days ago right before this huge snow storm hit and is still hitting us here in SW Ohio! Not the way I wanted to start the year out, but had the cash to pay for it. Original estimate from one company was $2,646. Went with another company at $1,648….it was dented (not badly) so they took off another $150 and got it down to the $1,498. We were so happy about that! This is what the emergency fund is for!! Still staying true though to our no-spend January.
@@michaelhammond652 Thank you for the encouragement! And what a roller coaster ride that must have been! I hope you smile every time you use that hot water!
"The stuff does not matter, the people matter." Amen. Currently living my 'second life', post-anaphylaxis shock/4-day coma a few years ago. By God's grace and doctors' skills I'm still here. Love all of your frugal living inspo, thanks for all you share here! ❤
After reading book titled The Elite Society's Money Manifestation, I finally understood why so many people struggle with money. It reveals stuff that most people don’t even know about how money really works. Has anyone else read it?
I’ve been a subscriber since 2020 and I absolutely love your videos, thank you for being vulnerable and all of the inspiration! Blessings to y’all in the new year!
Did not expect you to make my eyes all watery today! But you are TOTALLY right! I keep telling myself whenever someone says "why don't you just pay that" well, I would rather use the money for something else, even if it seems trivial to someone else.
I had a small health scare years ago. I was so thankful for my husband in that moment. While I was starting to freak out, he simply squeezed my hand and told me that we would face whatever it was together. Combine that with cleaning a hoarder’s home and I have quite a detachment from ‘stuff’.
My mother in law got a second job when she needed to replace carpet in most of the house to hard floors. She worked at Taco Bueno for a year & avoided interest on her purchase & install.
Christine, I have been watching your videos for a few years now but never comment. You are my favorite channel! I know you don’t follow a keto diet but have done videos in the past about cost. If you have the time, would you mind doing an updated Keto diet video for 2025 showing what a full week or full month of groceries would/could cost to get started? I understand if your schedule is packed and can’t do it. I appreciate all of your content. Lauren
That's what I do on eBay. I put stuff in watch list and think about it, maybe look for a cheaper one somewhere else. Then I delete it if I don't need it or want it anymore.
I track how often I wear my clothes and I try to get their cost per wear under $0.50. Whenever I end up getting rid of the item, I evaluate if I achieved that and why or why not and what decisions I can make going forward for spending money on clothing (or other purchases)
Nice. Health concerns, new meds, etc, have led to a slow but meaningful weight loss (over 25 lbs). Finally sized down and bought three pairs of jeans at the thrift store for $2.50 each. At full price, they would have been $8. I’ve been doing this for years -socks and underwear are the exceptions to the buy used rule.
I’m trying a low spend year, I’m tired of being out of money at the end of the month! We’ve told our children to give us restaurant cards for gifts, we don’t go out anymore to eat, it’s so outrageous! We’re not giving gifts to each other as a couple, driving our small car instead of our big truck. Looking for all discounts for seniors. Love learning new tricks !
I'm thankful my father didn't believe in big houses. We grew up in a "small" house soo to me even really small houses are completely comfortable. And if I ever though other wise my sister help me to see the light. She has a really big house, and every 3 months she is making an after cleaning BBQ, soo basically we go and help her clean and later she cooks. 😅
Canner, gardener, seamtress, and baker for years! Today, I canned and made bread while on the road. I use Rakuten and digital coupons along with stacking coupons. Ask yourself before hitting ~~~ buy ~~~ is it a need or want? Before leaving my home to do errands, I take a thermos, snack and a list. Blessings.
Living life is so true. I have always embraced life and told my loved ones that I love them. When my dad died it made me realize that you really need to spend even more time with family. I always made sure my mom would go see my aunts and my dad's siblings. And a family friends 3 kids have always motivated me to live life to the fullest. When my mom passed away i did just what I had to for awhile. I'm better mentally and I'm getting better physically. And they helped a lot. They are like nieces and I don't know what i would do without them. And thank you for posting on you tube. Watching your channel has helped the past few years.
This video is a game-changer! So much helpful information packed into one clip. I personally don't like promoting anything in comments, but I simply have to share with you a book called The Gilded Nexus of Prosperity, that book changed my approach to money, the methods in that book are impressive
Hahaha right when you said excel I was thinking oh yeah freak in the sheets 😂. Hi I’m am accountant I can’t be responsible for my humor either 😂😂😂. When my husband and I got married he wanted to spend so much furnishing our home. I mean he was overthinking even trash cans. Being the killjoy that I am, I sat him down with a spreadsheet of our amortization schedule. That changed his tune a bit. I said if we can be aggressive early on about our mortgage, we can end our payments early and save thousands of dollars… at our current rate it’s like $50,000 in saved interest assuming we never do more than we already are. And 17 payments knocked off of that loan in under 3 years. It’s really wild so much paying aggressively can change the financial outlook!
At 68 yrs young, first I’ve heard info like this, how to maneuver within your means. After dismal financial straights, divorce and now on my OWN with no one to blame or depend on other than myself, I’m finally hearing some common sense solutions! Thank you … will continue to follow Frugal Living ~ Aggressive Paydown!
Christine, I am newly retired at 58 yrs old. My husband just got transferred again for his job and will no longer be receiving a per diem payment. This changes everything! I am bound and determined to change our lifestyle so I don't have to go back to work a 9-5 job. Thanks for your help with that 😊
A book I love is called The Year of Less by Cait Flanders. She talks about only buying items to replace those that are actually broken and worn out, and not buying impulsively. It really opened my eyes.
We do so many of these things including cutting our own hair, about 80% of our own car and home repair, simple dinners, order water at restaurants, use apps, etc, etc! Thanks for all of your great money saving videos!
But also your videos have been life changing! I’m paying off credit card debt and your advice of buying food on super sale so that I don’t need to buy much for a while has saved me so much money without realizing it.
I understand that completely. I had a moment a few years ago where I literally had to say goodbye to my kids. It was so awful. And again, something a physician should not have done/said. Slowly, I moved toward a better life.
I AM doing Christine’s dinner hack this year. Going forward, dinner is going to be a protein and a green vegetable and that’s it! Save on groceries, cleaning and my time. And will be more healthy.
Carbs aren’t evil though. If I’m eating dinner then I need some type of complex carb. It can be a slice of toasted bread to go with the salad. Otherwise I’m not going to stay full enough eating a traditional salad without any pasta or potatoes or grains. Crackers, tortilla chips or croutons are other options though for carbs.
I've exercised all my adult life, I did jazzerice, Step and full body strength training and walking. I turned 74 in December. I'm healthy, on no medications, and walk 5-6 a week (min 3-4 miles) and weights 3 times a week. I have always lost 10 pounds since moving to Texas.
I bought my son a Dave Ramsey book for Xmas. He is so good with money, but he uses a credit card and has loans. He could save so much money if he was not paying interest every month. He is living under his means. But he could do so much better.
Managing money is different from accumulating wealth, and the lack of investment education in schools may explain why people struggle to maintain their financial gains. The examples you provided are relevant, and I personally benefited from the market crisis, as I embrace challenging times while others tend to avoid them. Well, at least my advisor does too, jokingly.
Investors should exercise caution with their exposure and exercise caution when considering new investments, particularly during periods of inflation. It is advisable to seek guidance from a professional or trusted advisor in order to navigate this recession and achieve potential high yields.
This is superb! Information, as a noob it gets quite difficult to handle all of this and staying informed is a major cause, how do you go about this are you a pro investor?
A lot of folks downplay the role of advisors until being burnt by their own emotions. I remember couple summers back, after my lengthy divorce, I needed a good boost to help my business stay afloat, hence I researched for licensed advisors and came across someone of utmost qualifications. She's helped grow my reserve notwithstanding inflation, from $275k to $850k.
Finding financial advisors like Lisa Grace Myer ” who can assist you shape your portfolio would be a very creative option. There will be difficult times ahead, and prudent personal money management will be essential to navigating them.
I have started using the put it in the cart for a couple of days thing and it really does wonders. 90% of the time I do not buy it and if I do I have time to dig around for a coupon or figure out if im getting it at the best price.
I think you hit the nail on the head when you said that the cancer word was a wake up call for you so maybe it’s not that the doctor should not have said it but it’s a gift that he did say it because it kinda pulled you into making those significant changes and sometimes that’s the wake up call we need in order to make those big changes. Very proud of you.
The mortgage suggestion is great, but some banks will apply this extra payment to the next months payment. Let the bank know how this needs to be applied!
@@corinnestratman1428yes, it will as long as it’s applied that way. I’ve been in bank for many years and see many customers want to do this but don’t communicate this and the extra bi weekly payments get applied to monthly payments.
Every year when I find out what my annual salary increase is going to be, before I get the first paycheck where the increase is in place, I go to my retirement acct and increase my percentage by 1%. That way, I still realize a bit of an increase and I never miss that 1% AND I’m putting tax free money into my retirement fund. 😃
The problem with downsizing is it costs, at least where I am about 30 to 50K to move. With realtor fees, transfer taxes, legal fees, then there are the moving truck expenses, utility reconections, mail transfer, and probably other expenses I'm forgetting.
The $1 rule is my favourite. It has stopped me from buying things like an air fryer, which I desperately want, but I KNOW I won't use it 150 times to make it worthwhile. Thank you for these tips!
Thrift it! I just got my air fryer two months ago. $10 at Goodwill. I've already used it more than ten times and I haven't lost interest yet, so I'm counting it a win.
If you want an air fryer you can find them for a lot less than $150. I paid $30 or $35 new for mine on sale. It's probably not as big as some of them but it will serve our needs. We just got it so it hasn't been used yet.
I’ve actually taken this advice and am attempting to do a no spend (except for normal bills of course) January. I’ve had a few close calls but so far so good 😊
Same here. Gas/electric is high now so I cut back on other budget categories to offset the difference. Even small adjustments across categories 0:41 can make a difference. Sometimes I simply postpone a purchase. The balancing act allows me to consistently build sinking funds (taxes and insurances) and savings, even as I move toward full retirement. I think of it as keeping everything in check.
I'm watching one of your videos EVERYDAY to help stop myself from clicking and buying. Thank you for being so motivational. Also loved the excel joke :D
Christina, i love your new eye makeup. What have you done with your lashes and liner? We are going to give no spend a try in February. Thanks for all your tips.
I just wanted to mention something here, been watching for years!! We have an american express that is paid off every month....I use it for my mortgage payment and groceries....literaly everything. I have it linked to my amazon account, and every month about 3 days after the bill is paid in full the points show up in my amazon account. I use the points to "purchase" things every month and they do roll over never expire in that account. I don't pay a fee for this card and also it is on an app on my phone so I can track what I spend. I figured gonna spend the money anyway so why not get something for it.
That Tommy boy scene is my favorite!!😂😂 so weird my ah ha was October 2023 THE SCARIEST realization and that stinking stomach feeling was indescribable, imagining every moment with you not in it. I don’t wish it for anyone. I’m so happy you are okay too ❤️❤️
Thank you for all those helpful tips, Christine! We are doing a no-spend-quarter (as in- no spending at all from January to march, and our grocery budget is 100 for each month of the quarter). I love to settle into each year attacking our goals and also eating through and rotating pantry and freezer! Praise God we only have mortgage debt left ❤ God bless you and yours! I am looking forward to more financial podcast episodes with your husband!
Happy new year christine ! Good to watch every videos about minimalism , fire , etc Don't forget we can achieve great things even we're alone , i'm 42 years old now , still living in South Of France , imagine my life without problems , wish you the best for you and your family 😊
The way my husband and I paid off our house was to pay every two weeks instead of monthly and rounding up. As we paid it off about 15 years ago, I don't know what prices are now. However, I will give an example that can be adjusted to any payment. If the payment is $900 a month, half is $450 Round to $500 and pay every 2 weeks. For 12 months at $900, you will pay $10,800. For 12 months, paying $500 every 2 weeks, you will pay $13,000. Using this method, we took our 15 year loan down to a 9 year loan.
You are a genius! You have such great ideas! I love the idea about not paying financial fees. I would rather keep my money in my pocket, than 😊give it to those overpriced banks… Keep on posting interesting stuff.❤❤
Happy New Year to you and your family 🎉. It’s none of my business , but I don’t think you should down size. It’s always good to be prepared for the unexpected, especially in these time the economy is very unpredictable and sometimes life can change in an instant. Your home is paid off, I wish I could say that, you and your husband have worked so hard to do that. These days housing is very expensive and hard to get. You’re very fortunate to have a beautiful big house 😊❤
Ditto on the paid in full, pay with check savings at the orthodontist! My 2nd kiddo also got the sibling discount. 🤪 small consolations when you watch all that money go away. I’m thankful we can do this for them, though!! ❤
Downsizing is a no for us at this time since our 5 kids & spouses still come home for holidays & summer visits. There’s room for all & since we are completely decluttered, maintaining the house isn’t that hard to do 😊 Maybe once we’re older!
My in laws have a 5 bedroom house and it’s such a blessing when we visit. Sometimes it’s 13 extra kids and grandkids sleeping under their roof at Christmas.
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Christine, you saved us some good money last month. We needed to replace our 20 year old living room furniture so we saved for a year. I asked if they had a cash discount, they did. They threw in free delivery & covered the sales tax too! All because we were paying in cash & asked. We bought a close out floor sample & saved money & time because we didn't have to order anything. They delivered the next day & we had new furniture for Christmas, finally
So happy for you!! I notice by us the furniture stores have 60 months no interest, why would you want to pay for 60 months??
@michelleprice5945 exactly!
That’s awesome! So glad you were able to get great deals!
@@michelleprice5945
People take this because they either just don’t have the money or don’t want to pay interest. Some people I know pay more than minimum and pay it off much earlier.
wow! what a frugal win!
Starting 2nd year of no spend. Only buying necessities and cut my own hair. In the last 6 months have saved $15,500.
Holy crap that's awesome!!
What did you cut to be able to save that much?!
@catastrophe9150 Every non-essential item. Did all my own house maintenance, which was really hard. I'm a disabled 74 year old. Planning on moving this year so need to save as much as possible for that.
@@gtakween I wish I made enough to spend that much on non essential items. That's awesome though.
That's amazing :) proud of you! ❤
This year my winter coat turns 33 years old. It's still going strong. I paid quite a bit for it.
You get what you pay for. I work on my feet and spend extra on shoes. I’d rather they last vs buying shoes every 6 months
Our no frills Maytag dryer turns 47 this year, it was used when we were given it, and that 47 yrs includes its time with the previous owner. It has needed only one repair in all that time and we used a local handyman, not a service out of a nearby city.
I have the same one for 20 years and it was given to me. It still looks good.
@@azzzonline Wow, that's amazing! Mine is only 22 years old. Spent a lot for it and best of all its washable. Hoping it's the last winter coat I'll ever need.
correct👍🏻
My husband and I are retired. We sold our 2005 Buick (given to us). We are now a a one truck family (paid off). It took many years to climb out of deep debt but my husband retired at 70 years old. We live frugally but we are happy.
@@PerryWyche Living frugally is the way to go!! The young folks don't get it. They want to make tons of money and live the flashy life.
Thank you, Christine, for sharing about your health scare 2 years ago and how much we need to tell those we love what they mean to us. In March of 2024, my cousin's house burned to the ground, her husband, and 4 out of 6 of her children did not survive the fire. Since then, our entire family has taken a whole new approach to everything and is trying to do more together as a big group as opposed to focusing on the material things we have and want. For Christmas, no one did store bought gifts. We just did a big family( about 35 people)outing to see the Lion King and had a family game night.
Oh my goodness, what a tragedy - big hugs to that family!
My condolences to your family, such a horrific tragedy.
Wow! That's awful. That poor lady. I can't imagine
So sorry that happened to your family! Big hugs ❤️
I have a beautiful young friend, she’s 39, has 4 kids under the age of 15 and was diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer 2 weeks before Christmas. My heart just hurts for her and her family. She’s starting treatment soon and the drs are hoping to get rid of it with chemo and radiation and an implant after the treatment. I’m a 2 time breast cancer survivor and it really brings things into perspective!!!! I felt everything you said while you were talking about it!!!❤❤❤
Maybe stressing about things and work caused it. Stress is the major cause of these diseases.
Read Mark Hyman books. He talks a lot about cancer and other diseases. He eats meat but focuses on vegetables.
It's resonating with me as well. My aunt died of breast cancer and I'm still waiting on a mammogram referral. Does anyone know how to get it without one? I have insurance
Didn’t know paying mortgage every two weeks could shave 8 years off my 30 year mortgage! I always learn something on your channel ❤
How can anyone afford this?! I spend half my check on my mortgage payment. If I spent the other half I would have to live on air.
I had a friend pay off her mortgage years early by putting her income tax return toward the principle on her mortgage rather than blowing it each year on a splurge item.
Ok first- no tearing up like that, now I’m crying!😂. 2nd we are on our debt free journey and a “no/low” spend YEAR for 2025, it’s going to be hard, but so worth it!! Glad you’re ok and thank you for continuing to post helpful tips and tricks!!
Good for you! Being debt free is amazing. We paid off our house 10 years ago and life has been a breeze. You will be amazing at this!
Financial freedom. Top of my wish list!
in 2013 I lost my lucrative corporate job. After working retail for a year and hating it, we decided to move to a remote location and I continued a nursery business (the nursery business never went anywhere but was fun) BUT we found a place for $200K with 2 acres and dropped our mortgage so I could retire at 63. Its a 1978 single wide, we made improvements on it over the years, and its still going strong. My brother and sister-in-law sold their house and remodeled the 4 bay garage and now pay us 500 per month rent. Win Win. I don't need a fancy house. Then after being retired 8 years, I started a new part time job managing health events for reservists. Way better than retail. Love your tips and videos. Love to home cook and stock up to save.
“Not this dawn. The minimal mom dawn”😂😂Love that. Dawn is an awesome lady and so are you for making videos like these♥️🙏🏼
I will never stop couponing, it’s SO worth it! I have tracked my refunds and rebates for the year of 2024 my total savings for the year was over $1,500! It was so rewarding to see the time I put in was worth it! Can’t wait to see how much I can save in 2025! 🤗
😂
How much time did you spend doing that, in total? Did you save money compared to buying name brands at a lower price, when you could have bought generic to begin with?
@@ConserveMore you can get name brands items for free or dirt cheap because majority of the coupons are from the name brand manufacturers
I saved thousands with coupons before I went back to cooking from scratch. The majority of the available coupons are for products we no longer use to create meals or small volume packaging that doesn't save us money in the long run. I'd go back to couponing tomorrow if there were coupons for whole foods or fresh ingredients :)
Where can I get the coupons??
I didn't realize meals could be so simple until i started living abroad. I cook from scratch mostly. And only cook the big meal once a day. There are times when it is breakfast for dinner or rice/ pasta and some sauce. Nothing has to be perfect, just as long as our bellies are full
Sucks doing this with my family.i will eat many things that my picky family members won't..
Gotta drag them kicking And screaming.
I don't like beans.
But I want 🐔 chicken....
Mooooooooom
Thank you Christine for being so genuine and open:) I don't just come here for the food, I come here for the knowledge.
Every time hubby and I get any extra money, it goes to the principal on our mortgage. Tax return, cheistmas and birthday money, garage sale money etc. We've paid down pur mortgage pretty quickly doing this!
I recently had to take out a loan to buy a new car (and will hopefully never be in that position again!) I'm doing the same thing - added an extra $50 to the autopay so I'm doing extra without even thinking about it, and then I started making a game out of saving money over the month to pay even more extra. I kept my same budget, which was sufficient but not exactly luxurious to start with, because I am comfortable that it's reasonable. But when I think about being able to add extra to that debt, it's nice motivation to skip a lunch out or to hit the library instead of a bookstore or theater. And I put up a photo of the new car with a thermometer thing to fill in and track where I am in paying the loan off compared to just standard payments - it's right next to the computer, to remind me not to order stuff I don't need online!
Sometimes I think I do so much better when paying off a debt than I ever manage when I'm "just" saving.
2024 was a scary year for me- 2- breast cancer surgeries,radiation, a massive heart attack- and a defibrillator- busy year! My siblings and I were not brought up not hearing I love you- I’m sure my parents were not either. So with the events of the year- it made me realize that I needed them ( siblings) to know and hear that I love them. I try to tell them that , every time we are together. I could tell that the first time or two they were a little shocked ( pleasantly) but I try to keep it up. They to have started returning the sentiment- genuinely. This year has a bit of a shaky start but thru Gods grace and my incredible family and friends- I will be able to deal with whatever the outcome!!❤
Welcome to the breast cancer survivors club. Remember, you are still the beautiful woman you always were before the surgeries. It's just now you may not have to wear an uncomfortable bra, no old lady druppers someday and almost any style blouse will fit like you were a twenty year old again who still has the breast that haven't drupped from having babies or age and no summertime sweaty cleavage rash issues. I've been dealing with different types of cancers since about 1991 from stage 1 to 4. Dr. William Li's TedX talks and books have helped me during the survivor phase. There are a lot of other professionals doing podcast interviews or have their own channel with helpful advice that seems to work, especially when it comes to unhealthy inflammation, lymphatic blockage and foods, additives, and toxins that feed cancer. Example, sugar, iron, turkey(the amino acid tryptophan,), Greek yogurt because of the high amount of A1 casein protein, etc. Hope you find peace and happiness knowing you are not alone and there is always a way to keep fighting the wicked cancer and there are other health issues that are worse. Please research the tetracycline family of antibiotics especially doxycycline and how it stops the intestinal process for the protein called E.R.M./Merlin which helps the body stop making tumors. Four processing segments further down on that same small intestinal area is the process that is malfunctioning on patients with breast cancer. Some how those five process segments interact with each other. The article that explains it is on either pub med or web md. Look up NF2 / nuerofibermitosus 2 and how tetracycline/doxycycline affects the E.R.M. protein of Merlin and the liver HGS or HRG ( sorry cannot remember the correct liver protein abbreviation that starts with H.)This knowledge was known since 2001 onward but not easily found in published articles. Also please research the microbiome that helps the body fight off cancers. Hope this information is helpful. Prayers and God Bless You.
I keep trying to teach my girl the stuff doesnt matter. Thank you for sharing your life with us.
I needed the throwaway comment on paying for garage door spring replacement 🤣 ours broke New Year’s Eve & we paid someone to do it … I’ve been annoyed by the expense, so the reassurance is nice
We are doing the 7baby steps Dave Ramsey. We are currently living off of one income and putting the other income towards the mortgage! Every other week I get paid. It all goes to principle!
Hit 240k today Appreciate you for all the knowledge and nuggets you had thrown my way over the last months. Started with 24k in September 2024
I would really love to know how much work you did put in to get to this stage
I will be forever thankful to you, you changed my life I will continue to speak on your behalf for the world to hear that you saved me from huge financial debt with just a little trade, thank you Jihan Wu you're such a life saver
Jihan Wu Services has really set the standard for others to follow, we love him here in Canada 🇨🇦 as he has been really helpful and changed lots of life's
His instructions allowed me to reorganize my retirement plan, resulting in an estimated $700k more by the time I retire.
I'm favoured, 90K every week! I can now give back to the locals in my communities and also support God's work and the church. God bless America,, thank you Mr Jihan Wu😊🎉
Christine 😭😭😭😭 I am so thankful you are ok ❤️
My "moment" was when we discovered my husband spinal stenosis. There was a moment he could barely walk and I realized one day he may be paralyzed. We had only been married a couple years at this point. 8 years later and every day I thank God for my husband.
Thanks for sharing!!
I have the dresser set my parents bought new in 1978. Why buy new? This still works. Also, my Dad bought my boys bunk beds in 2004 -ish. My youngest and l are still using them (apart, of course), 20 years later. The favorite big green chair in our living room came from Goodwill for $50. My kitchen table can seat up to 8 people and it was $25, at a garage sale. Memories and family are everything!!! *Also, l don't own any credit cards. I use cash 99% of the time.
I have the dresser and bureau my parents bought in 1953. Just needs paint. Cheap paint it yourself furniture but made of real wood! Not particleboard 😅
I also am still using the bedroom set my parents bought for me when I was 15 years old. I am now 85!,
@vivianblossom2536 That's awesome! Old stuff was built better than new stuff.
Cash is cheaper. Let someone else pay interest that makes purchase a mistake .
3 things that helped me and literally helped me escape the rat race
1. I stopped watching porn
2. I read books on The forbidden manifestation money codes (for money)
3. Stop drinking
I’m 34, have $200,000 in savings, and want to invest for safe growth over the next 5 years to buy a home. What should I invest in?
In today’s volatile market, diversify your assets with safe investments like HYSA, REITs, index funds, growth ETFs, and bonds. However, Before making any investment decisions, consider consulting with a financial advisor to tailor a plan to your specific needs and risk tolerance.
Financial advisors can be expensive, but they’re crucial for success in the financial market, especially if you’re on a deadline. I was laid off during the 2022 tech cuts, but I used my savings to invest in the stock market with the help of a financial advisor. After doing some research, I managed to grow my portfolio to over a million dollars in just two years, thanks to my high risk tolerance.
I’m glad I found this conversation. My risk tolerance is high, and I want to take advantage of the upcoming market run. Can you direct me to your advisor?
I've stuck with ''ZAREEN GRACE CHURCH' since the covid-crash of 2020, and her performance has been impressive to date. She’s quite renowned in her field with over two decades of experience, you can simply look her up.
Thanks for the info. I searched for her full name and found her website right away. I reviewed her credentials and did my research before reaching out to her.
The thing that helped me the most: Automate everything. Sit down figure out a realistic budget, then automate it. Every time I get paid, within a day a set amount automatically goes into my IRA and money market account, it also goes into my emergency fund, and fun money savings account. Whatever is left is what I spend on groceries, and fun things. Also, buy what you actually want so you don't have to buy it twice.
Last month, I read an article about a no spend 3 months. So, I started that goal for my 2025 resolution. 😸
I still have my first car. I have it now for 21 years Toyota starlet and every professional mechanic and electrtion tell me to never let go of it until it's completely dead. I do a service and vechile test (have to by law) every year and it still goes I just need to fix some parts maximum once a year and change tyres when they are worn off. Best investment I every did in my life. And my insurance and license just cost 350 euros yearly with road assistant.
I have my vw for 20 years and it has low miles and good gas mileage.
Thank you for this video 😊. Started Medicare this year and that's a whole new $$ journey so need to cut other corners. I also had a health scare about 5 years ago after a lung scan showed a shadow that could have been something very bad. I didn't tell my elderly mother or my boyfriend. The stress for my Mom would have been terrible. I kept it to myself for 2 weeks until the scan could be re-read and found to be just a shadow and not cancer. I then told my boyfriend but never told my mother. That 2 weeks really made me do a re -think on what is truly important. Have a blessed day!
Christine, you look so pretty today!!!❤❤❤
I’m doing a no buy January. That doesn’t include paying my bills, of course. I have enough food and toiletries to last for probably two months. I may attempt to stretch it into February, but I would have to buy gas. I’m going to try to make it through January without buying any gas 😬 I’m excited about it and ready to use up some stuff!!
High five! I'm doing the same only I'm shooting for 6 weeks and am allowing myself to buy only lettuce, and half & half... cuz ya know, coffee.
My no buy January started out having to spend $1,498 for a new water heater that was installed 2 days ago right before this huge snow storm hit and is still hitting us here in SW Ohio! Not the way I wanted to start the year out, but had the cash to pay for it. Original estimate from one company was $2,646. Went with another company at $1,648….it was dented (not badly) so they took off another $150 and got it down to the $1,498. We were so happy about that! This is what the emergency fund is for!! Still staying true though to our no-spend January.
@@michaelhammond652 Thank you for the encouragement! And what a roller coaster ride that must have been! I hope you smile every time you use that hot water!
"The stuff does not matter, the people matter." Amen. Currently living my 'second life', post-anaphylaxis shock/4-day coma a few years ago. By God's grace and doctors' skills I'm still here. Love all of your frugal living inspo, thanks for all you share here! ❤
I did get the cancer diagnosis in 2024. Stage 4 bc. But still living for the long run.
May you find strength and grace to fight this battle! Prayers and blessings to you
Prayerfully you will beat this gross disease. God bless you!!
Prayers to you to beat this.
Sending you best wishes!!!
After reading book titled The Elite Society's Money Manifestation, I finally understood why so many people struggle with money. It reveals stuff that most people don’t even know about how money really works. Has anyone else read it?
Where can I find it?
@@sofondadavis5028 goo gle it
I did a search for it and didn't find it. Is it possible that it's a different title? Also, who is the author? Thank you.
I was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2020. I totally understand the second life concept! Thank you for all you do!
Your hair looks AMAZING! ❤
I agree!! I am going to show her pic to my stylist at my appt Mon bc I have similar face shape and hair texture!!
I’ve been a subscriber since 2020 and I absolutely love your videos, thank you for being vulnerable and all of the inspiration! Blessings to y’all in the new year!
Thank you so much! 🙏
One person in my life that I admire for their frugality is my mother in law. Her and her husband paid off their mortgage in 17 years
Did not expect you to make my eyes all watery today! But you are TOTALLY right! I keep telling myself whenever someone says "why don't you just pay that" well, I would rather use the money for something else, even if it seems trivial to someone else.
I had a small health scare years ago. I was so thankful for my husband in that moment. While I was starting to freak out, he simply squeezed my hand and told me that we would face whatever it was together. Combine that with cleaning a hoarder’s home and I have quite a detachment from ‘stuff’.
My mother in law got a second job when she needed to replace carpet in most of the house to hard floors. She worked at Taco Bueno for a year & avoided interest on her purchase & install.
Christine, I have been watching your videos for a few years now but never comment. You are my favorite channel! I know you don’t follow a keto diet but have done videos in the past about cost. If you have the time, would you mind doing an updated Keto diet video for 2025 showing what a full week or full month of groceries would/could cost to get started? I understand if your schedule is packed and can’t do it. I appreciate all of your content. Lauren
That's what I do on eBay. I put stuff in watch list and think about it, maybe look for a cheaper one somewhere else. Then I delete it if I don't need it or want it anymore.
I track how often I wear my clothes and I try to get their cost per wear under $0.50. Whenever I end up getting rid of the item, I evaluate if I achieved that and why or why not and what decisions I can make going forward for spending money on clothing (or other purchases)
Nice. Health concerns, new meds, etc, have led to a slow but meaningful weight loss (over 25 lbs). Finally sized down and bought three pairs of jeans at the thrift store for $2.50 each. At full price, they would have been $8. I’ve been doing this for years -socks and underwear are the exceptions to the buy used rule.
I’m trying a low spend year, I’m tired of being out of money at the end of the month! We’ve told our children to give us restaurant cards for gifts, we don’t go out anymore to eat, it’s so outrageous! We’re not giving gifts to each other as a couple, driving our small car instead of our big truck. Looking for all discounts for seniors. Love learning new tricks !
If I eat out (rarely) I order water with lemon, add sweetener and bam I have lemonade and save money!
I'm thankful my father didn't believe in big houses. We grew up in a "small" house soo to me even really small houses are completely comfortable. And if I ever though other wise my sister help me to see the light. She has a really big house, and every 3 months she is making an after cleaning BBQ, soo basically we go and help her clean and later she cooks. 😅
Christine you are the best. Youve been helping us for years!
Canner, gardener, seamtress, and baker for years! Today, I canned and made bread while on the road. I use Rakuten and digital coupons along with stacking coupons. Ask yourself before hitting ~~~ buy ~~~ is it a need or
want? Before leaving my home to do errands, I take a thermos, snack and a list. Blessings.
I find instead of putting Amazon items in my cart and leave it, I put it in a wish list where it is even more out of sight.
Living life is so true. I have always embraced life and told my loved ones that I love them. When my dad died it made me realize that you really need to spend even more time with family. I always made sure my mom would go see my aunts and my dad's siblings. And a family friends 3 kids have always motivated me to live life to the fullest. When my mom passed away i did just what I had to for awhile. I'm better mentally and I'm getting better physically. And they helped a lot. They are like nieces and I don't know what i would do without them. And thank you for posting on you tube. Watching your channel has helped the past few years.
This video is a game-changer! So much helpful information packed into one clip. I personally don't like promoting anything in comments, but I simply have to share with you a book called The Gilded Nexus of Prosperity, that book changed my approach to money, the methods in that book are impressive
I used some techniques from that book to make money, and I can truly say I'm earning more now
I'll buy you dinner for this recommendation
I know about that book, my father told me about it
Who is the author? Tks
Appreciate all your videos Christine! I enjoy your honesty and great advice! You have helped our family so much! ♥️
Hahaha right when you said excel I was thinking oh yeah freak in the sheets 😂. Hi I’m am accountant I can’t be responsible for my humor either 😂😂😂. When my husband and I got married he wanted to spend so much furnishing our home. I mean he was overthinking even trash cans. Being the killjoy that I am, I sat him down with a spreadsheet of our amortization schedule. That changed his tune a bit. I said if we can be aggressive early on about our mortgage, we can end our payments early and save thousands of dollars… at our current rate it’s like $50,000 in saved interest assuming we never do more than we already are. And 17 payments knocked off of that loan in under 3 years. It’s really wild so much paying aggressively can change the financial outlook!
At 68 yrs young, first I’ve heard info like this, how to maneuver within your means. After dismal financial straights, divorce and now on my OWN with no one to blame or depend on other than myself, I’m finally hearing some common sense solutions!
Thank you … will continue to follow Frugal Living ~ Aggressive Paydown!
Well said. There's so much freedom in saving and paying off early!
When I have extra money, I put towards my mortgage principle.
Christine, I am newly retired at 58 yrs old. My husband just got transferred again for his job and will no longer be receiving a per diem payment. This changes everything! I am bound and determined to change our lifestyle so I don't have to go back to work a 9-5 job. Thanks for your help with that 😊
Thank you for your heart felt words on your "second life"! You're so right! People are the joy of life! ❤❤❤
A book I love is called The Year of Less by Cait Flanders. She talks about only buying items to replace those that are actually broken and worn out, and not buying impulsively. It really opened my eyes.
I buy store brands as well and try to coupon as much as possible.
love the thought of the $1 rule and the $20 rule as well.
We do so many of these things including cutting our own hair, about 80% of our own car and home repair, simple dinners, order water at restaurants, use apps, etc, etc! Thanks for all of your great money saving videos!
But also your videos have been life changing! I’m paying off credit card debt and your advice of buying food on super sale so that I don’t need to buy much for a while has saved me so much money without realizing it.
I understand that completely. I had a moment a few years ago where I literally had to say goodbye to my kids. It was so awful. And again, something a physician should not have done/said. Slowly, I moved toward a better life.
"Don't go to Taco Bell three times a day" Ma'am, please don't call me out like that!! 😅 hahhaa
Right, I felt that.
I felt that ouch too 😂😂
Oh yes! Dropped that habit once I made a Mexican pizza at home! Wow,even tastes better! 😮❤
I AM doing Christine’s dinner hack this year. Going forward, dinner is going to be a protein and a green vegetable and that’s it! Save on groceries, cleaning and my time. And will be more healthy.
Carbs aren’t evil though. If I’m eating dinner then I need some type of complex carb. It can be a slice of toasted bread to go with the salad. Otherwise I’m not going to stay full enough eating a traditional salad without any pasta or potatoes or grains. Crackers, tortilla chips or croutons are other options though for carbs.
I've exercised all my adult life, I did jazzerice, Step and full body strength training and walking. I turned 74 in December. I'm healthy, on no medications, and walk 5-6 a week (min 3-4 miles) and weights 3 times a week. I have always lost 10 pounds since moving to Texas.
Nothing beats making your own ice coffee ☕️ ~> I utilize freeze dried coffee and store brand creamers Mmmm 😋 😊
Aw, Christine, you had me tearing up! So glad everything worked out and you’re doing well!❤
I bought my son a Dave Ramsey book for Xmas. He is so good with money, but he uses a credit card and has loans. He could save so much money if he was not paying interest every month. He is living under his means. But he could do so much better.
Managing money is different from accumulating wealth, and the lack of investment education in schools may explain why people struggle to maintain their financial gains. The examples you provided are relevant, and I personally benefited from the market crisis, as I embrace challenging times while others tend to avoid them. Well, at least my advisor does too, jokingly.
Investors should exercise caution with their exposure and exercise caution when considering new investments, particularly during periods of inflation. It is advisable to seek guidance from a professional or trusted advisor in order to navigate this recession and achieve potential high yields.
This is superb! Information, as a noob it gets quite difficult to handle all of this and staying informed is a major cause, how do you go about this are you a pro investor?
A lot of folks downplay the role of advisors until being burnt by their own emotions. I remember couple summers back, after my lengthy divorce, I needed a good boost to help my business stay afloat, hence I researched for licensed advisors and came across someone of utmost qualifications. She's helped grow my reserve notwithstanding inflation, from $275k to $850k.
wow ,that’s stirring! Do you mind connecting me to your advisor please. I desperately need one to diversified my portfolio.
Finding financial advisors like Lisa Grace Myer ” who can assist you shape your portfolio would be a very creative option. There will be difficult times ahead, and prudent personal money management will be essential to navigating them.
I have started using the put it in the cart for a couple of days thing and it really does wonders. 90% of the time I do not buy it and if I do I have time to dig around for a coupon or figure out if im getting it at the best price.
It is a great way to avoid impulse purchases!
I’m currently doing my first no spend month and it’s been riveting and challenging. But exciting!
I think you hit the nail on the head when you said that the cancer word was a wake up call for you so maybe it’s not that the doctor should not have said it but it’s a gift that he did say it because it kinda pulled you into making those significant changes and sometimes that’s the wake up call we need in order to make those big changes. Very proud of you.
I hope you have a happy and safe new year and I love your videos
I have done and will do a no spend month or two this year. Mine generally involves not grabbing breakfast at McDonald’s 5 days a week.
Oof. Give your liver some love, it probably needs it
The mortgage suggestion is great, but some banks will apply this extra payment to the next months payment. Let the bank know how this needs to be applied!
It is called a principle only payment. It will lower the principle. It will save you a lot, you will pay less in interest.
@@corinnestratman1428yes, it will as long as it’s applied that way. I’ve been in bank for many years and see many customers want to do this but don’t communicate this and the extra bi weekly payments get applied to monthly payments.
Yes a fair amount of health can be luck and hereditary. I'm so glad you are healthy! That's awesome! Never take it for granted!
As a person with poor heredity from autoimmune diseases staying living in USA would have bankrupted me in no time.
Every year when I find out what my annual salary increase is going to be, before I get the first paycheck where the increase is in place, I go to my retirement acct and increase my percentage by 1%. That way, I still realize a bit of an increase and I never miss that 1% AND I’m putting tax free money into my retirement fund. 😃
The problem with downsizing is it costs, at least where I am about 30 to 50K to move. With realtor fees, transfer taxes, legal fees, then there are the moving truck expenses, utility reconections, mail transfer, and probably other expenses I'm forgetting.
The $1 rule is my favourite. It has stopped me from buying things like an air fryer, which I desperately want, but I KNOW I won't use it 150 times to make it worthwhile. Thank you for these tips!
Thrift it! I just got my air fryer two months ago. $10 at Goodwill. I've already used it more than ten times and I haven't lost interest yet, so I'm counting it a win.
If you want an air fryer you can find them for a lot less than $150. I paid $30 or $35 new for mine on sale. It's probably not as big as some of them but it will serve our needs. We just got it so it hasn't been used yet.
I’ve actually taken this advice and am attempting to do a no spend (except for normal bills of course) January. I’ve had a few close calls but so far so good 😊
When I meet friends for coffee I bring my own cofffee. The Starbucks employees don’t get paid enough to care. That has saved me $40-50 a month.
I love this!!!!! ❤😊
Coffee is so crazy expensive at the coffee shops!
Controlling monthly Costs is a huge benefit for us
Same here. Gas/electric is high now so I cut back on other budget categories to offset the difference. Even small adjustments across categories 0:41 can make a difference. Sometimes I simply postpone a purchase. The balancing act allows me to consistently build sinking funds (taxes and insurances) and savings, even as I move toward full retirement. I think of it as keeping everything in check.
I'm watching one of your videos EVERYDAY to help stop myself from clicking and buying. Thank you for being so motivational. Also loved the excel joke :D
Christina, i love your new eye makeup. What have you done with your lashes and liner? We are going to give no spend a try in February. Thanks for all your tips.
I love Dawn! She’s amazing and so are you
Thumbs down to dawn- she's a fraud!
@@peggypeters6676what makes her a fraud?
Oh you are my new favorite! And you made me cry in a good way! Thank you for all of your knowledge!
Thanks for sharing you really have a gift for doing these videos! ❤
I just wanted to mention something here, been watching for years!! We have an american express that is paid off every month....I use it for my mortgage payment and groceries....literaly everything. I have it linked to my amazon account, and every month about 3 days after the bill is paid in full the points show up in my amazon account. I use the points to "purchase" things every month and they do roll over never expire in that account. I don't pay a fee for this card and also it is on an app on my phone so I can track what I spend. I figured gonna spend the money anyway so why not get something for it.
We love our Amex. Used the points to buy Christmas this year. I didn’t know you could pay your mortgage on cc!!
That Tommy boy scene is my favorite!!😂😂 so weird my ah ha was October 2023 THE SCARIEST realization and that stinking stomach feeling was indescribable, imagining every moment with you not in it. I don’t wish it for anyone. I’m so happy you are okay too ❤️❤️
Thank you for all those helpful tips, Christine!
We are doing a no-spend-quarter (as in- no spending at all from January to march, and our grocery budget is 100 for each month of the quarter). I love to settle into each year attacking our goals and also eating through and rotating pantry and freezer! Praise God we only have mortgage debt left ❤ God bless you and yours! I am looking forward to more financial podcast episodes with your husband!
Happy new year christine ! Good to watch every videos about minimalism , fire , etc
Don't forget we can achieve great things even we're alone , i'm 42 years old now , still living in South Of France , imagine my life without problems , wish you the best for you and your family 😊
The way my husband and I paid off our house was to pay every two weeks instead of monthly and rounding up. As we paid it off about 15 years ago, I don't know what prices are now. However, I will give an example that can be adjusted to any payment. If the payment is $900 a month, half is $450 Round to $500 and pay every 2 weeks. For 12 months at $900, you will pay $10,800. For 12 months, paying $500 every 2 weeks, you will pay $13,000. Using this method, we took our 15 year loan down to a 9 year loan.
You are a genius! You have such great ideas! I love the idea about not paying financial fees. I would rather keep my money in my pocket, than 😊give it to those overpriced banks… Keep on posting interesting stuff.❤❤
I dont understand why people pay fees. I havent in over 45 years
Thank you, Christine. I'm so grateful for you and all you share❤
her essence and soul in one video❤️
Thank you, Christine, for all your wisdom & light.
Also here to say I missed hearing the words "Doobly Doo" more than I knew possible.
Happy New Year to you and your family 🎉. It’s none of my business , but I don’t think you should down size. It’s always good to be prepared for the unexpected, especially in these time the economy is very unpredictable and sometimes life can change in an instant. Your home is paid off, I wish I could say that, you and your husband have worked so hard to do that. These days housing is very expensive and hard to get. You’re very fortunate to have a beautiful big house 😊❤
Ditto on the paid in full, pay with check savings at the orthodontist! My 2nd kiddo also got the sibling discount. 🤪 small consolations when you watch all that money go away. I’m thankful we can do this for them, though!! ❤
Downsizing is a no for us at this time since our 5 kids & spouses still come home for holidays & summer visits. There’s room for all & since we are completely decluttered, maintaining the house isn’t that hard to do 😊 Maybe once we’re older!
My in laws have a 5 bedroom house and it’s such a blessing when we visit. Sometimes it’s 13 extra kids and grandkids sleeping under their roof at Christmas.
Happy new year Christine 🎉 love this .... .dawn is awesome. I learnt so much last year from you both ❤
it's really crazy how nobody is talking about the book the hidden path to manifesting financial power
Where can I find it?
Scam. Advertise on your own site.
Great advice! I've been following you for a years now! now!❤ Happy New Year!🎉