I’m single, live alone and use public transit. I started ordering groceries during lockdown and very rarely go into the grocery stores now. There are four services I use, I can price check and get the best prices, and ordering done in less time and stress than one in store experience. I spend less on snacks and make more at home meals.
I’ve switched from delivering from Insta to pickup directly from grocery store vendors. It’s still convenient but WAY less expensive. The markup was considerable as well the produce and meat picked seem to better quality.
When I had my first kid, I knew I wanted more. So I was conscious about saving all the baby things and each age got a storage tote and I packed it all away as my baby outgrew it. Whenever friends or family got pregnant, I offered to loan my totes. I’m on my third baby now and all of the clothes and gear she’s using was used by both her older siblings, two cousins, and three babies of our friends. And everyone who borrows it adds whatever they accumulated, too. So the older, worn stuff gets donated or thrown out and the newer stuff gets kept. It’s been fantastic. When we’re done having kids I hope to find a family just starting to have kids and pass it all along for their own use.
Very sweet and considerate of you to be so generous! My husband and I had our child 11 1/2 years into our marriage and had nothing for our child. We borrowed a beautiful crib and used it until she was ready for a toddler bed and we gave the crib back to the family we borrowed from! It worked splendidly and we were very grateful to have the use of the crib.
When she said this it reminded me of the Sex In The City episode where a toddler was ruining Samantha’s lunch and she said something to the mother. The child ending up throwing pasta at Samantha. Fine dining is not meant for babies and toddlers.
So true. I’m sad we wasted so much money and it took so long to realize it. My kids got pickier over time and would take a few bites and not eat the left overs. They don’t even finish McDonalds!
Guess what I learned! You don’t actually have to dry clean all clothes with that label. Check out Patric Richardson, aka the “Laundry Evangelist,” and his advice for cleaning apparel with “Dry Clean Only”. His tips are SO helpful! m.ruclips.net/video/NMNdY8Umkzw/видео.html
I would have KILLED for grocery pick up when my kids were little! As it was, I would go to the store at oh-dark-thirty when it wasn't busy so that I could shop in peace during the magical "window between nursings".
An idea for grandparents… buy an experience- a trip to a zoo , an activity park As a mom of 5 grown kids- i did the same thing - set expectations before going into the store, ( loved your idea about taking a picture of the ‘want’) if there was something my kids wanted -asking if they brought their money is so smart and gives the kids autonomy and respect to choose and they were more respectful of the item they bought themselves
yes to the experiences!...we have been requesting that since our girl was born from all family as we have more than we need from hand me downs and the items we thrift. The memories and experiences are sometimes a bit harder on the pocket book so it's nice to get some assistance on items that are harder to gain on the cheap.
That's such a great idea about birthdays! There's so much pressure to invite everyone under the sun and on top of that, goodie bags that will end up being extra clutter
Yes! It’s just me and my daughter who is now 17 and I WISH I had done something like this. Thankfully our townhouse has a pool & her birthday is in the Summer but, I swear we have at least two parties a year…. One for family and one for a bunch of giggling girls to sleep over 😂
I'm 63 and had four kids. I can look back on kids' parties we attended and it was like you didn't even realize a year had gone by and the NEXT giant party for the SAME kid was happening. We did the same thing you guys do: one kid party and one teen party with family birthdays in between. But...is anyone else tired of taking presents (or money) to the SAME KID every year, yet they never reciprocate? It's just dumb.
We plan to do a big family party every 4-5 years (we did at 1 year old and 5 year old so far) and in between we have, so far, just experience/trips - at 4 we went to niagara falls and stayed in her first hotel, at 6 just passed we took a train to Toronto and did 2 nights at a hotel and the big aquarium. In the future the inbetween years will likely include a friend or two and more local outings like bowling or trampoline park or amusement park - Though she asked last week if we can take a plane to Mexico so that's one to start budgeting for lol
to anyone who might not be able to afford a new coffee machine, but already owns a keurig -- reuseable pods are pretty easy to get; that way you can can the benefits of just buying the grounds (cheaper) and bettering for the environment, without having to invest in a whole new machine. (also, used coffee grounds are great for plants!)
also as someone who works a side job doing online pick up at a super market: you are not lazy you are keeping me employed and it's actually a fun job (when the manager who treats us like human beings is working)
Love your editing: the memes, the words, the extra shots that I'm pretty sure you created and aren't just random stock images, and your humor. Well done. Great list too, 100% agree.
I am 72 and long past having little ones at home but I still get value from your videos. I am trying to simply my life, I don't want extra work so I don't buy clothes that need ironing or dry cleaning. As for trendy clothes, at my age it is more about comfort for me. As for purses, I used to have bunches, now I am down to 3 or 4.
Three foot Christmas tree and some garland. Best Christmas ever. I was decorating and found myself putting Christmas away before Christmas. The clutter had a negative effect on me! Best trends are no trends. Be happy with what you enjoy not what someone tells you to enjoy. 👍🏻
I have two purses: one tan (for spring and summer) and one black (for fall and winter). My work bag is reversible (black on one side, tan on the other). Changing them seasonally is enough of a change that I don't get bored, but not so many that it's overwhelming.
I go with big purse and small purse. The necessities like tampons and pens are in both always, so I really only have to move my wallet and one small inner organizer pouch when I switch.
We are 6 siblings and our parents never bought us toys. Legitimately the amount of toys we got as gifts from relatives was more than enough! Our parents used to only get us sports things and so ob, but never just plastic toys. And i am so glad they taught us this
Online grocery shopping is the best!! I agree, I spend less, I don't buy as much expensive low-nutrient food, and I save at least an hour of my time. It costs me a dollar to have someone else run around finding things and best of all, they know if there is more "in the back". I had to start doing this during Pandemic and since I have tried in person groceries a few times and did not enjoy! Good for you for discovering a way to use your valuable time in a better way! And there is nothing wrong with used baby equipment, so long as it meets safety standards and is good and clean. It is the best way to do it!
Your comment about taking your kids out to eat literally made me laugh out loud! We have taken our 3 year old out maybe 4 times to have food (or any store for that matter, it just isn't worth it). I am so glad someone else feels the same way about just lighting my money on fire. 😂😂 Thank you for that!!!
Agreed! I think with our first kid, us parents can be a bit delusional sometimes, haha. Like we'll expect them to sit still and eat at a restaurant or watch an entire movie with us... when that's just not where the child is developmentally. We'd do well to adjust our expectations and cherish them being little while they still are - blow some bubbles with them or something - and wait with the restaurant food until they're older and actually enjoy it.
That's why I use a few individual organized pouches, or one medium sized purse organizer for my purse. I don't switch out my purse often, but when I do, it takes 5 minutes at the most. Quick & easy, and no forgotten items to worry about. 😊
Instant coffee and a microwave. I was at work 6 to 7 days a week, 10 to 12 hours a day during the so-called pandemic, I worked government transportation and never had a desk job. It was awesome going to the grocery store, with only the employees and very few customers inside, after work, no lines. Lots of thumbs up given out by me.
You are so right about so much of this! As a mom who went from 1 child to 4 in 11 months (adoption ages 9,7,11 months and newborn), I relate to the second hand equipment, toys, and even clothing. Ordering on line is probably the greatest invention since the spoon! I save so much! Even now that they are grown and parents themselves, they share maternity clothing, toys, clothes and equipment with friends and in "freecycle" groups. I'm sharing this video with all five kids and their spouses (two more newborns and an 8 year old joined us over the next 6 years).
Absolutely love your idea of limiting how many big birthdays each kid gets. We went to a 5yo birthday party this weekend where the parents must have dropped over $600. All I could think was there's no way I want to go all out like that every single year for my 3 kids' birthdays. Thank you!
With our older kids, we never did big birthday parties. Sometimes we celebrated their birthdays with friends and family in my husband’s home country but they are the ones who threw the big parties for them. Now that we have a family activity business, our younger daughter can invite as many friends as she wants but the decorations and the cake are still simple. This year, because she is turning 10, she can have a themed birthday elsewhere but she is limited to inviting only 10 friends. That’s tough for a child who is a social butterfly.
You have permission NOT to follow the crowd!!! It's not the kids who care, it's the adults. Kids are happy with a birthday cake at home and a couple games.
Absolutely agree with you about purses! In fact when I’m in diaper bag season I throw my wallet in that. Who wants to carry anything extra, not me too busy.
Agree 100%! I had soooo many bags! Got rid of the whole lot and got one bag that goes with everything and has a wallet built in. You would not believe the difference it’s made. No switching bags constantly and then realising I’ve left something behind. I also used the diaper bag for years too 😂👍
I am currently pregnant with my first. I am the last daughter of the extended family of step siblings to have a baby and I am SO excited about all the hand-me-downs and all the money I hopefully won't have to spend! I think a travel system (car seat, stroller etc.) and a baby monitoring system are about the only things I intend to buy fully new - but the rest.. I just know we'll get gifted so many items!
I'm a 67 year mature woman. You are so smart and wise with your boundaries. Valuing peace and sanity during the many times stressful and exhausting season while you're mothering you little children is necessary. Your children having a less stressful mom is more important than a whole lot of things. I applaud you 👏.
I grind my own beans, have a stainless steel coffee pot to make coffee on the stove, fill my insulated cup and refrigerate the rest, heating up on the stove or microwave at work as I want it. A little more work, but saves a ton of $$$.
Omg!!!! I was agreeing with your out loud on so many things. But the two that stuck out the most were talking kids to a nice restaurant (I avoided it at all costs lol) and ordering groceries online. You are 100% correct about saving money. Every single time I go into a store, I leave with extras. Every time!!! Loved this video!!! Thanks for sharing ❤❤
I appreciate your line, "Be kind to yourself . . ." When I'm feeling down, I'll watch one of your videos just for that. Oh, and your kids are cute, too. I just thought, if you want to teach your kids about restaurants, have a "restaurant night" at home. Maybe order some take out from your favorite store, set the table a little fancy, and teach them about the place setting arrangement. A lot of this can be found online if you're not sure yourself. It can be a learning experience for all and not as expensive as a restaurant cost.
Oh my. I saw your sons Siesta Key shirt. We go there every other summer for a month. Our kids, spouses and grandkids for a week right on the beach. 21 of us now.
I do that too - “take a photo” of a thing a child wants while shopping at the store. I also discuss how it’s a fun choice for their birthday / Christmas to acknowledge the novelty and “coolness” of it which helps them to hear “yes” instead of “no” all the time from me. Yes, let’s look at that for Christmas/Birthday (whichever is closer in time). They get to shop as much as they want for the list. It really is a game changer.
The Christmas thing, my 13 month old was biting all the Christmas ornaments at my mom’s house so I made an orange garland and got a wood bead garland and that’s it. I got so many compliments and it was so easy! And my kids at half of the dried oranges off the bottom of my tree 😂
I love these types of videos❤ I seriously enjoy finding ways to save money. I know that may be odd, but makes me feel like I’m beating the drain you dry economy we live in. Great video!
Loved the things you don’t buy as a mom of 3. We’ve never done coffee pods. I’m weaning myself off ironing t shirts, bedding etc…… I don’t really like going out to meals - the last one was a pre-theatre one in Stratford upon Avon and honestly, I wish I’d taken a sandwich! I have one ‘child’ - she’s 28 and we’re retired and life’s too short to spend time in a restaurant! Thanks for your vlog.
I haven't put up a Christmas tree in years. Best decision I ever made. I don't decorate for holidays. I know many people that do and love it, it's just not my thing and I'm ok with that.
Yes! 100% on the same page with you on everything especially the throw pillows! I have a few blankets on the livingroom and picking those up all day is enough for me.
Her advice about kids at restaurants is exactly what candance owens says, which I agree with. When my kids were toddlers I did not take them out to nice restaurants. Nobody wants to hear whiny, rambunctious, loud kids while you're out trying to have a good time. My youngest is now eight and we love going out now that they are more behaved and quiet in public.
We also only do big birthdays at 5 and 10, probably 15. It started when hubby was deployed during our 1st 1st birthday. Didn't want to do anything big with hubby gone, hence the tradition began. It is so easy now😊
Mum of 3 under four here and I couldn’t agree more. Please more of this type of content! (I understand that selling Amazon gadgets is how RUclips influencers make money but this is what we need to hear.) yes to all of these - especially buying everything for baby #1. Now I ask myself a few qs before buying, can I afford this? Is this tomorrow’s clutter? What do I already own that would serve this purpose? And then I put it on a Wishlist and review once a month. Amazing how many impulse buys this has stopped.❤
YES! Taking a picture of the thing a child wants has been the no. 1 best tip I've ever been given. My 5 year old blindly accepts it. He has his birthday in January, so in February I'll be like "oh, you want that? let's take a picture of it so we remember it for... err, Christmas" and he sees absolutely nothing wrong with that statement.
As a Mom of 6 (all 10 and under)I find myself buying toys that I want. My playroom looks like a toy store. I’m okay with it, my husband is not. Haha. Amen to eating out in general. I wanted to order pizza and saw that when I added enough pizza to the cart for my family, it cost $75. I couldn’t even imagine what a sit down place would cost us. I iron everything it is kinda my “alone time,” because the family steers clear of it. Gives good time to think and accomplish. I agree with the big birthday thing. I let me kids choose a few presents, but we started doing “birthday experiences” instead, and we LOVE it!
👏👏👏👏I agree and love your delivery on this topic! Last Christmas my family decided to skip the tree and presents and just do a few small decorations and it felt so much lighter. It was simply easier to get through the holidays that way. Less to manage!
i had a big birthday party for both my sons turning 1... games, prizes, matching outfits, decor decor decor & all... hes turning 3 in march & the other 2 in july & ive decided to ask what he wants (spaghetti & meat(steak)) lol & it will just be our little family, my brother & grandma/grandpa.. just the main people we see on the daily & whom he is very close with
I love being able to invite the kids' friends for a birthday party each year, but I completely agree that the extravagance of those has gotten really out of hand since I was a kid myself. Back in the 90's when I grew up my parents and everyone around us just invited a bunch of kids, gave us some cake and time to play - and that was it! No fancy balloon decorations or bouncy castles, and the cake was a simple supermarket one. Whereas now, birthdays have gotten so out of proportion for kids that what was fine back then might not even be socially acceptable anymore... no wonder people opt out of a fun kids party altogether.
This is the first time I’ve seen your channel and I’m so excited to have found a similar mom! I have 3 kids too and so many RUclipsrs are unrelatable. Thank you so much for the permission to get rid of the dang throw pillows!!!! They are the bane of my existence.
LOVE this video! Thank you for being honest and real!! We truly cant do it all as parents, and knowing others choose not to do/buy/have certain things that seem essential lessens the guilt and feelings of inadequacy.
Awesome, thanks for sharing!! We had a similar experience with coffee. Ten years ago we splurged and bought a machine that grinds the beans and makes one cup of coffee/espresso/americano or whatever you want for one person. And it’s always ready for having a cup anytime of day, not needing to make an entire pot of coffee or constantly but pods. While it was an investment at the beginning, for over 10 years we’ve only had to buy coffee beans - it’s so delicious and we never want to buy coffee out anymore, we’d rather bring one from home. Saved so much money and love it!
Agree with everything especially although I love xmas its overwhelming and as of yesturday I was still taking down decorations I want to keep it simple for me
My birthday parties growing up were having a strawberry heart shaped cake (I’m a Valentine baby), ice cream, and a few of the neighborhood kids over to eat cake and play. When I became a mom, 50 years ago, the 1st birthday was always a big family party, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins! After that, it was parties like I had had. Each one of my 3 kids got to have a McDonald’s birthday party one time. That was it!
Kallie you are not lazy for ordering your groceries online🌻That's your system that's what works for you. Over the years I've enjoyed the benefits of drive thru banking, pharmacies, had my groceries loaded for me etc as a Mom whose husband was frequently away I did what was best for me and my family❤Life is busy enough.
One of the happiest days for me was about 6 months ago when our Walmart started doing home deliveries. It was the next best progression from just picking up my orders. I have a truly dreadful back, and walking the stores literally hurts me. So ordering online, having deliveries - it's essential for many people. Busy, pain - there are reasons!
Fully agree and support you on that! And I am so glad you´ve made this video. I felt myself often a weirdo for not spending money on all of these things. A lot of my friends or other parents were rounding eyes at me for not making big parties on my kids birthdays, or for not having a pantry packed with million snacks or a nursery stuffed from top to bottom with bulky toys. But I am getting very easily overwhelmed with excessive inventory that I have to manage, and what is even more important - I've noticed, that my children too. So our mental health and peace at home are so much more important than someone's opinion.
One of my best parents tricks. I always carried sticker sheets I got from cvs or the dollar store. It’s usually at checkout or when I need to focus and I needed to keep my little one occupied in a crunch. The rule was she could put them on herself she could put them on me, but not on anything else. She did a good job, the only sticker I could never get off was on a rain coat. But oh well. lol
Thanks for the realistic video. And yes! There’s so much excess of baby items. I’m part of a local fb group where we sell/ give baby items and clothes. It’s great!
My kids love listening to toy declutterring videos in the car. The bits about how much happier kids are with less toys, how much easier it is to clean, which toys to get rid of (broken, obnoxious, toys they haven’t played with since Christmas). It motivates them to get rid of toys!
I'm pretty sure that the video about toys was flimed at your old house but I noticed that a thin plastic bin will fit perfectly under the play kitchen 😉
this was so refreshing! the non-stop talking it out in your own humorous but absolutely real way is just the best! i will literally use a purse until it falls apart. most things, until they fall apart. save that money honey!
My kids are grown now. Yet I still applaud your 'clothes have to iron or dry clean' comment. Life is too short. And purses- who needs to change out all your stuff? I would have loved online grocery orders when they were little. It was such a struggle to just do shopping.
Groceries… totally agree. I order pick up. Saves me so much money. So easy to live within my budget. And random items and sale items I can quickly pop in and get out. Love it!
A lot of these are reminiscent of a parent with very young kids (like the throw pillow thing! Lol!). And I’m not in that stage anymore but I really LOVE the freedom of mind in choosing not to do things or buy things “just because”. Letting go of expectations is a huge game changer in personal happiness I think.
I just love you. Thank you-I’m with you on all of these. Never thought of ditching the throw pillows, but they are filthy dog hair magnets that are always on the floor. Lol. It’s not lazy to order your groceries online as a busy mom-it’s a game changer. Grocery shopping was so stressful when I had my first as a newborn. So grateful for online pickup now that I have a toddler and one on the way!
Love this video! Haven't seen this vibe from you in a while and I'm stoked that it's back. LOVE videos like this - subject wise and your advice - you have a brilliant sense of humour haha!
Yup I can relate to so many of these and feel so similar! Thanks for sharing your take on the things that are not worth buying! Loved this list! It’s just being more mindful about what works in your home and what doesn’t.
7:30 the best thing is to just NEVER START buying small children stuff everytime you go to the store. If you don't teach them to expect it, they won't expect it, simple as that. Let them help you pick a fruit, a shape of pasta, etc.
When our kid comes across something she wants, either from a tv commercial, or in a store, I tell her to remember when we write our christmas/birthday list - whatever comes next. She never ever remembers these items when it's list writing time, and in actuality never asks about them again even in the moment because she is happy with the idea of putting it on the list because it makes sense and we've talked about toys in and toys out and cheap toys vs. investment toys. We also go to the thrift store often and before we go in the toy aisle we review the rules: 1. can play with anything not in a package 2. return everything to the shelf when done playing 3. no toy will be purchased unless mom approves, no asking twice 4. when it's time to go, it's time to go. This has worked for the past 3 years (she is now 6). The thrift store is nice because she can play with something new for a short amount of time, even if it's a cheap toy we would never buy for ourselves. We have also just started toy swapping with her cousin where they trade a game or lego set etc. for a week or two and then return.
Great tips!! Weve been using the photos for years, really works. I used to buy a 99 cent balloon to keep very littles occupied while I shopped... I'm all on board for saving money shopping online. I think some of the items cost more than in store but I still save money not getting extra and save time not walking around with my calculator. Love your posts!
![[DOKKAN BATTLE] Worldwide Campaign Announcement Video Part 2!](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/JpT5Voak6WA/mqdefault.jpg)
“I still can’t figure out what kind of shoes I’m supposed to wear with my straight pants.” You’ve finally put my thoughts into a coherent sentence.
I’m single, live alone and use public transit. I started ordering groceries during lockdown and very rarely go into the grocery stores now. There are four services I use, I can price check and get the best prices, and ordering done in less time and stress than one in store experience. I spend less on snacks and make more at home meals.
Same here! I love online grocery shopping.
Yes! I love ordering groceries online!!! So many savings!
Yes to online grocery shopping!😊
I’ve switched from delivering from Insta to pickup directly from grocery store vendors. It’s still convenient but WAY less expensive. The markup was considerable as well the produce and meat picked seem to better quality.
Same including single part! I hate going into grocery store now. 😂
When I had my first kid, I knew I wanted more. So I was conscious about saving all the baby things and each age got a storage tote and I packed it all away as my baby outgrew it. Whenever friends or family got pregnant, I offered to loan my totes. I’m on my third baby now and all of the clothes and gear she’s using was used by both her older siblings, two cousins, and three babies of our friends. And everyone who borrows it adds whatever they accumulated, too. So the older, worn stuff gets donated or thrown out and the newer stuff gets kept. It’s been fantastic. When we’re done having kids I hope to find a family just starting to have kids and pass it all along for their own use.
Great idea!
Very sweet and considerate of you to be so generous! My husband and I had our child 11 1/2 years into our marriage and had nothing for our child. We borrowed a beautiful crib and used it until she was ready for a toddler bed and we gave the crib back to the family we borrowed from! It worked splendidly and we were very grateful to have the use of the crib.
I did something similar and didn’t need to buy hardly anything with my first baby.
To a toddler/kid a throw pillow is a THROW pillow. They never stay on the couch.
My thoughts exactly.
Yes! I have a 2 year old and I went from having 8 throw pillow in our living room to only have 2 now for this reason. lol
As a mom who had 4 kids in 3 years ( set of twins) YESSS to all your points. Especially the eating out, get a babysitter and enjoy an adult meal!!
When she said this it reminded me of the Sex In The City episode where a toddler was ruining Samantha’s lunch and she said something to the mother. The child ending up throwing pasta at Samantha. Fine dining is not meant for babies and toddlers.
So true. I’m sad we wasted so much money and it took so long to realize it. My kids got pickier over time and would take a few bites and not eat the left overs. They don’t even finish McDonalds!
@@joannawhite1441
Motherhood is a journey and we all learn as we go😊
We love taking our kids and they love it too! but depends on the kids
Anyone else think she's just so gorgeous?! And her facial beauty marks are soooo pretty 😍😍😍
Yes, I too have always thought that she is very beautiful!
You had me at clothes you have to iron or dry clean! I say this all the time, I don’t do them!!
Guess what I learned! You don’t actually have to dry clean all clothes with that label. Check out Patric Richardson, aka the “Laundry Evangelist,” and his advice for cleaning apparel with “Dry Clean Only”. His tips are SO helpful!
m.ruclips.net/video/NMNdY8Umkzw/видео.html
I would have KILLED for grocery pick up when my kids were little! As it was, I would go to the store at oh-dark-thirty when it wasn't busy so that I could shop in peace during the magical "window between nursings".
That’s funny. Oh dark thirty !
An idea for grandparents… buy an experience- a trip to a zoo , an activity park
As a mom of 5 grown kids- i did the same thing - set expectations before going into the store, ( loved your idea about taking a picture of the ‘want’) if there was something my kids wanted -asking if they brought their money is so smart and gives the kids autonomy and respect to choose and they were more respectful of the item they bought themselves
yes to the experiences!...we have been requesting that since our girl was born from all family as we have more than we need from hand me downs and the items we thrift. The memories and experiences are sometimes a bit harder on the pocket book so it's nice to get some assistance on items that are harder to gain on the cheap.
That's such a great idea about birthdays! There's so much pressure to invite everyone under the sun and on top of that, goodie bags that will end up being extra clutter
Yes! It’s just me and my daughter who is now 17 and I WISH I had done something like this. Thankfully our townhouse has a pool & her birthday is in the Summer but, I swear we have at least two parties a year…. One for family and one for a bunch of giggling girls to sleep over 😂
Yea, but what about 15 or 16? It distressed me that they wouldn't get the really big one. 😅
I think her oldest is 4. @@RickyARacoon1
I'm 63 and had four kids. I can look back on kids' parties we attended and it was like you didn't even realize a year had gone by and the NEXT giant party for the SAME kid was happening. We did the same thing you guys do: one kid party and one teen party with family birthdays in between. But...is anyone else tired of taking presents (or money) to the SAME KID every year, yet they never reciprocate? It's just dumb.
We plan to do a big family party every 4-5 years (we did at 1 year old and 5 year old so far) and in between we have, so far, just experience/trips - at 4 we went to niagara falls and stayed in her first hotel, at 6 just passed we took a train to Toronto and did 2 nights at a hotel and the big aquarium. In the future the inbetween years will likely include a friend or two and more local outings like bowling or trampoline park or amusement park - Though she asked last week if we can take a plane to Mexico so that's one to start budgeting for lol
to anyone who might not be able to afford a new coffee machine, but already owns a keurig -- reuseable pods are pretty easy to get; that way you can can the benefits of just buying the grounds (cheaper) and bettering for the environment, without having to invest in a whole new machine. (also, used coffee grounds are great for plants!)
That's what we do. Used Keurig with reusable pods. We also love that the Keurig provides hot water on demand for tea or instant oatmeal.
also as someone who works a side job doing online pick up at a super market: you are not lazy you are keeping me employed and it's actually a fun job (when the manager who treats us like human beings is working)
Love your editing: the memes, the words, the extra shots that I'm pretty sure you created and aren't just random stock images, and your humor. Well done. Great list too, 100% agree.
I 100% agree with your comment. I liked the list and I thought the video was pretty entertaining.
I am 72 and long past having little ones at home but I still get value from your videos. I am trying to simply my life, I don't want extra work so I don't buy clothes that need ironing or dry cleaning. As for trendy clothes, at my age it is more about comfort for me. As for purses, I used to have bunches, now I am down to 3 or 4.
Three foot Christmas tree and some garland. Best Christmas ever. I was decorating and found myself putting Christmas away before Christmas. The clutter had a negative effect on me! Best trends are no trends. Be happy with what you enjoy not what someone tells you to enjoy. 👍🏻
I have two purses: one tan (for spring and summer) and one black (for fall and winter). My work bag is reversible (black on one side, tan on the other). Changing them seasonally is enough of a change that I don't get bored, but not so many that it's overwhelming.
I have only two, one for formal purposes (church, parties, etc) and one for other times (parks, stores, etc) they stay the same year round 😅
I go with big purse and small purse. The necessities like tampons and pens are in both always, so I really only have to move my wallet and one small inner organizer pouch when I switch.
As far as clothes go, I only buy what I like or need. Usually, I don't like what's in style
We are 6 siblings and our parents never bought us toys. Legitimately the amount of toys we got as gifts from relatives was more than enough! Our parents used to only get us sports things and so ob, but never just plastic toys. And i am so glad they taught us this
Emotional support pen!😂😂😂 Absolutely!!!!
And post-it notes!
Online grocery shopping is the best!! I agree, I spend less, I don't buy as much expensive low-nutrient food, and I save at least an hour of my time. It costs me a dollar to have someone else run around finding things and best of all, they know if there is more "in the back". I had to start doing this during Pandemic and since I have tried in person groceries a few times and did not enjoy! Good for you for discovering a way to use your valuable time in a better way!
And there is nothing wrong with used baby equipment, so long as it meets safety standards and is good and clean.
It is the best way to do it!
It takes me so long to get satisfied with how I use a purse- after I finally find one I actually like. I’m going to use that dude till it falls apart!
A very practical list of things not to buy! Thank you so very much ❤. I should tell you I am 71 years old, but again just perfect!
Your comment about taking your kids out to eat literally made me laugh out loud! We have taken our 3 year old out maybe 4 times to have food (or any store for that matter, it just isn't worth it). I am so glad someone else feels the same way about just lighting my money on fire. 😂😂 Thank you for that!!!
Agreed! I think with our first kid, us parents can be a bit delusional sometimes, haha. Like we'll expect them to sit still and eat at a restaurant or watch an entire movie with us... when that's just not where the child is developmentally. We'd do well to adjust our expectations and cherish them being little while they still are - blow some bubbles with them or something - and wait with the restaurant food until they're older and actually enjoy it.
That's why I use a few individual organized pouches, or one medium sized purse organizer for my purse. I don't switch out my purse often, but when I do, it takes 5 minutes at the most. Quick & easy, and no forgotten items to worry about. 😊
Instant coffee and a microwave. I was at work 6 to 7 days a week, 10 to 12 hours a day during the so-called pandemic, I worked government transportation and never had a desk job. It was awesome going to the grocery store, with only the employees and very few customers inside, after work, no lines. Lots of thumbs up given out by me.
I love minimal holiday decor. Its okay to focus on spending time with your family during the holidays.
The throw pillow thing? Same for dog moms. One of my dogs thinks she's an interior decorator, I find throw pillows everywhere but on the sofa.
Emotional support pen…😂😂😂!!! Freaking hilarious!
Loved that. Now I know why my hubby always has a pen in his pocket. He is retired but still wants his pen and paper when we leave the house.
You are so right about so much of this! As a mom who went from 1 child to 4 in 11 months (adoption ages 9,7,11 months and newborn), I relate to the second hand equipment, toys, and even clothing. Ordering on line is probably the greatest invention since the spoon! I save so much! Even now that they are grown and parents themselves, they share maternity clothing, toys, clothes and equipment with friends and in "freecycle" groups. I'm sharing this video with all five kids and their spouses (two more newborns and an 8 year old joined us over the next 6 years).
The dogs popping into the scream as you talked about Christmas decor sent me 🤣 🤣 I just had to acknowledge the 🤌🏻 sense of humor!
The restaurant one had me laughing. So true
Absolutely love your idea of limiting how many big birthdays each kid gets. We went to a 5yo birthday party this weekend where the parents must have dropped over $600. All I could think was there's no way I want to go all out like that every single year for my 3 kids' birthdays. Thank you!
I remind myself….36K for birthdays….nah
With our older kids, we never did big birthday parties. Sometimes we celebrated their birthdays with friends and family in my husband’s home country but they are the ones who threw the big parties for them. Now that we have a family activity business, our younger daughter can invite as many friends as she wants but the decorations and the cake are still simple. This year, because she is turning 10, she can have a themed birthday elsewhere but she is limited to inviting only 10 friends. That’s tough for a child who is a social butterfly.
You have permission NOT to follow the crowd!!! It's not the kids who care, it's the adults. Kids are happy with a birthday cake at home and a couple games.
Absolutely agree with you about purses! In fact when I’m in diaper bag season I throw my wallet in that. Who wants to carry anything extra, not me too busy.
Agree 100%! I had soooo many bags! Got rid of the whole lot and got one bag that goes with everything and has a wallet built in. You would not believe the difference it’s made. No switching bags constantly and then realising I’ve left something behind. I also used the diaper bag for years too 😂👍
I've been doing the take a photo thing for YEARS. It's fantastic to give to family for gift ideas.
I am currently pregnant with my first. I am the last daughter of the extended family of step siblings to have a baby and I am SO excited about all the hand-me-downs and all the money I hopefully won't have to spend! I think a travel system (car seat, stroller etc.) and a baby monitoring system are about the only things I intend to buy fully new - but the rest.. I just know we'll get gifted so many items!
I'm a 67 year mature woman. You are so smart and wise with your boundaries. Valuing peace and sanity during the many times stressful and exhausting season while you're mothering you little children is necessary. Your children having a less stressful mom is more important than a whole lot of things. I applaud you 👏.
I grind my own beans, have a stainless steel coffee pot to make coffee on the stove, fill my insulated cup and refrigerate the rest, heating up on the stove or microwave at work as I want it. A little more work, but saves a ton of $$$.
Omg!!!! I was agreeing with your out loud on so many things. But the two that stuck out the most were talking kids to a nice restaurant (I avoided it at all costs lol) and ordering groceries online. You are 100% correct about saving money. Every single time I go into a store, I leave with extras. Every time!!!
Loved this video!!! Thanks for sharing ❤❤
I love when you say”Holy guacamole!” makes me laugh every time!🤣
I appreciate your line, "Be kind to yourself . . ." When I'm feeling down, I'll watch one of your videos just for that. Oh, and your kids are cute, too.
I just thought, if you want to teach your kids about restaurants, have a "restaurant night" at home. Maybe order some take out from your favorite store, set the table a little fancy, and teach them about the place setting arrangement. A lot of this can be found online if you're not sure yourself. It can be a learning experience for all and not as expensive as a restaurant cost.
Oh my. I saw your sons Siesta Key shirt. We go there every other summer for a month. Our kids, spouses and grandkids for a week right on the beach. 21 of us now.
Totally agree with simple Christmas decorations. Who likes holiday hand towels anyway?!
I have never used the one time coffee pods. I just bought the reusable ones, grind my own beans, and we have used a set for several years.
I do that too - “take a photo” of a thing a child wants while shopping at the store. I also discuss how it’s a fun choice for their birthday / Christmas to acknowledge the novelty and “coolness” of it which helps them to hear “yes” instead of “no” all the time from me. Yes, let’s look at that for Christmas/Birthday (whichever is closer in time). They get to shop as much as they want for the list. It really is a game changer.
Hahaha you’ve gotten salty with three! I love it ❤
I LOVE your opinions !! I enjoy following you as married gal with no children yet you make feel like I can conquer anything someday lol
The Christmas thing, my 13 month old was biting all the Christmas ornaments at my mom’s house so I made an orange garland and got a wood bead garland and that’s it. I got so many compliments and it was so easy! And my kids at half of the dried oranges off the bottom of my tree 😂
Spot on! Especially the throw pillows😂
I love these types of videos❤ I seriously enjoy finding ways to save money. I know that may be odd, but makes me feel like I’m beating the drain you dry economy we live in. Great video!
Loved the things you don’t buy as a mom of 3. We’ve never done coffee pods. I’m weaning myself off ironing t shirts, bedding etc…… I don’t really like going out to meals - the last one was a pre-theatre one in Stratford upon Avon and honestly, I wish I’d taken a sandwich! I have one ‘child’ - she’s 28 and we’re retired and life’s too short to spend time in a restaurant! Thanks for your vlog.
I haven't put up a Christmas tree in years. Best decision I ever made. I don't decorate for holidays. I know many people that do and love it, it's just not my thing and I'm ok with that.
Yes! 100% on the same page with you on everything especially the throw pillows! I have a few blankets on the livingroom and picking those up all day is enough for me.
Her advice about kids at restaurants is exactly what candance owens says, which I agree with. When my kids were toddlers I did not take them out to nice restaurants. Nobody wants to hear whiny, rambunctious, loud kids while you're out trying to have a good time. My youngest is now eight and we love going out now that they are more behaved and quiet in public.
We also only do big birthdays at 5 and 10, probably 15. It started when hubby was deployed during our 1st 1st birthday. Didn't want to do anything big with hubby gone, hence the tradition began. It is so easy now😊
oh girl! u r so wise! i'm a grandmother and i'm just figuring all this out. i love ur insights and ur perspective ❤
Mum of 3 under four here and I couldn’t agree more. Please more of this type of content! (I understand that selling Amazon gadgets is how RUclips influencers make money but this is what we need to hear.) yes to all of these - especially buying everything for baby #1. Now I ask myself a few qs before buying, can I afford this? Is this tomorrow’s clutter? What do I already own that would serve this purpose? And then I put it on a Wishlist and review once a month. Amazing how many impulse buys this has stopped.❤
YES! Taking a picture of the thing a child wants has been the no. 1 best tip I've ever been given. My 5 year old blindly accepts it. He has his birthday in January, so in February I'll be like "oh, you want that? let's take a picture of it so we remember it for... err, Christmas" and he sees absolutely nothing wrong with that statement.
I love everything you said. Yes! We are a consumer society. We don't need all these things. Thank you for verbalizing and inspiring.
As a Mom of 6 (all 10 and under)I find myself buying toys that I want. My playroom looks like a toy store. I’m okay with it, my husband is not. Haha. Amen to eating out in general. I wanted to order pizza and saw that when I added enough pizza to the cart for my family, it cost $75. I couldn’t even imagine what a sit down place would cost us. I iron everything it is kinda my “alone time,” because the family steers clear of it. Gives good time to think and accomplish. I agree with the big birthday thing. I let me kids choose a few presents, but we started doing “birthday experiences” instead, and we LOVE it!
👏👏👏👏I agree and love your delivery on this topic! Last Christmas my family decided to skip the tree and presents and just do a few small decorations and it felt so much lighter. It was simply easier to get through the holidays that way. Less to manage!
Your birthday party tip was exactly what I needed to hear. We have been stressing over our first childs first birthday.
i had a big birthday party for both my sons turning 1... games, prizes, matching outfits, decor decor decor & all... hes turning 3 in march & the other 2 in july & ive decided to ask what he wants (spaghetti & meat(steak)) lol & it will just be our little family, my brother & grandma/grandpa.. just the main people we see on the daily & whom he is very close with
I love being able to invite the kids' friends for a birthday party each year, but I completely agree that the extravagance of those has gotten really out of hand since I was a kid myself. Back in the 90's when I grew up my parents and everyone around us just invited a bunch of kids, gave us some cake and time to play - and that was it! No fancy balloon decorations or bouncy castles, and the cake was a simple supermarket one. Whereas now, birthdays have gotten so out of proportion for kids that what was fine back then might not even be socially acceptable anymore... no wonder people opt out of a fun kids party altogether.
Emotional Support Pen!!!!! The BEST!!! 😂❤
As a mom of 7 I Absolutely agree with all of these❤
This is the first time I’ve seen your channel and I’m so excited to have found a similar mom! I have 3 kids too and so many RUclipsrs are unrelatable.
Thank you so much for the permission to get rid of the dang throw pillows!!!! They are the bane of my existence.
I love the "let's take a picture of it" method so much. I even use it for myself, to avoid buying things at Costco. 😆
LOVE this video! Thank you for being honest and real!! We truly cant do it all as parents, and knowing others choose not to do/buy/have certain things that seem essential lessens the guilt and feelings of inadequacy.
Love the energy you have while speaking about throwpillows 😄
Yes to everything you said 100%!!!🙌 (Other than the throw pillows b/c I need those for my back.)
I too, only did the tree and stockings this year and it was MAGICAL for my mental situation. MAGICAL.
Awesome, thanks for sharing!! We had a similar experience with coffee. Ten years ago we splurged and bought a machine that grinds the beans and makes one cup of coffee/espresso/americano or whatever you want for one person. And it’s always ready for having a cup anytime of day, not needing to make an entire pot of coffee or constantly but pods. While it was an investment at the beginning, for over 10 years we’ve only had to buy coffee beans - it’s so delicious and we never want to buy coffee out anymore, we’d rather bring one from home. Saved so much money and love it!
Agree with everything especially although I love xmas its overwhelming and as of yesturday I was still taking down decorations I want to keep it simple for me
My birthday parties growing up were having a strawberry heart shaped cake (I’m a Valentine baby), ice cream, and a few of the neighborhood kids over to eat cake and play. When I became a mom, 50 years ago, the 1st birthday was always a big family party, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins! After that, it was parties like I had had. Each one of my 3 kids got to have a McDonald’s birthday party one time. That was it!
When I used to take my kids shopping, I'd tell them that we were going to the library afterwards to pick out books. That worked like a charm.😊
Kallie you are not lazy for ordering your groceries online🌻That's your system that's what works for you. Over the years I've enjoyed the benefits of drive thru banking, pharmacies, had my groceries loaded for me etc as a Mom whose husband was frequently away I did what was best for me and my family❤Life is busy enough.
One of the happiest days for me was about 6 months ago when our Walmart started doing home deliveries. It was the next best progression from just picking up my orders. I have a truly dreadful back, and walking the stores literally hurts me. So ordering online, having deliveries - it's essential for many people. Busy, pain - there are reasons!
A great gift idea is contributing to the kids college fund (:
Fully agree and support you on that! And I am so glad you´ve made this video. I felt myself often a weirdo for not spending money on all of these things. A lot of my friends or other parents were rounding eyes at me for not making big parties on my kids birthdays, or for not having a pantry packed with million snacks or a nursery stuffed from top to bottom with bulky toys. But I am getting very easily overwhelmed with excessive inventory that I have to manage, and what is even more important - I've noticed, that my children too. So our mental health and peace at home are so much more important than someone's opinion.
The thing with bulk food is, you spend a lot on it. It only saves money if you plan and make an effort to use it all.
One of my best parents tricks. I always carried sticker sheets I got from cvs or the dollar store. It’s usually at checkout or when I need to focus and I needed to keep my little one occupied in a crunch. The rule was she could put them on herself she could put them on me, but not on anything else. She did a good job, the only sticker I could never get off was on a rain coat. But oh well. lol
Thanks for the realistic video. And yes! There’s so much excess of baby items. I’m part of a local fb group where we sell/ give baby items and clothes. It’s great!
I LOVE ordering my food and picking it up. It saves me both time and money. My husband and I are both retired and on a fixed income
Some great thoughts here even if you are not a parent.
My kids love listening to toy declutterring videos in the car. The bits about how much happier kids are with less toys, how much easier it is to clean, which toys to get rid of (broken, obnoxious, toys they haven’t played with since Christmas). It motivates them to get rid of toys!
I'm pretty sure that the video about toys was flimed at your old house but I noticed that a thin plastic bin will fit perfectly under the play kitchen 😉
The taking picture of the toy or item the kids want is GOLD they end up forgetting about it anyway lol
order pickup is a GAME CHANGER
i DO NOT browse the websites/apps. i search for something we need, and i add to cart. and yes. im not impulse buying!
A- straight jeans are classic. stick with em. shoes to wear with them = platform sneakers or lug sole loafers. I see a good mama in you
this was so refreshing! the non-stop talking it out in your own humorous but absolutely real way is just the best! i will literally use a purse until it falls apart. most things, until they fall apart. save that money honey!
My kids are grown now. Yet I still applaud your 'clothes have to iron or dry clean' comment. Life is too short. And purses- who needs to change out all your stuff? I would have loved online grocery orders when they were little. It was such a struggle to just do shopping.
I love your videos! You have such a great personality. Thank you for sharing.
Groceries… totally agree. I order pick up. Saves me so much money. So easy to live within my budget. And random items and sale items I can quickly pop in and get out. Love it!
A lot of these are reminiscent of a parent with very young kids (like the throw pillow thing! Lol!). And I’m not in that stage anymore but I really LOVE the freedom of mind in choosing not to do things or buy things “just because”. Letting go of expectations is a huge game changer in personal happiness I think.
I just love you. Thank you-I’m with you on all of these. Never thought of ditching the throw pillows, but they are filthy dog hair magnets that are always on the floor. Lol. It’s not lazy to order your groceries online as a busy mom-it’s a game changer. Grocery shopping was so stressful when I had my first as a newborn. So grateful for online pickup now that I have a toddler and one on the way!
Omg you are a breath of fresh air!!!!!!! And funny!!! My son's family didnot put up a tree this year. It was fine!!!!
Love this video! Haven't seen this vibe from you in a while and I'm stoked that it's back. LOVE videos like this - subject wise and your advice - you have a brilliant sense of humour haha!
Yup I can relate to so many of these and feel so similar! Thanks for sharing your take on the things that are not worth buying! Loved this list! It’s just being more mindful about what works in your home and what doesn’t.
7:30 the best thing is to just NEVER START buying small children stuff everytime you go to the store. If you don't teach them to expect it, they won't expect it, simple as that. Let them help you pick a fruit, a shape of pasta, etc.
How wise you are at such a young age! From this grandma, I offer the biggest kudos to you! Well done! You’ve chosen your priorities well! 🌟🌟🌟
When our kid comes across something she wants, either from a tv commercial, or in a store, I tell her to remember when we write our christmas/birthday list - whatever comes next. She never ever remembers these items when it's list writing time, and in actuality never asks about them again even in the moment because she is happy with the idea of putting it on the list because it makes sense and we've talked about toys in and toys out and cheap toys vs. investment toys. We also go to the thrift store often and before we go in the toy aisle we review the rules: 1. can play with anything not in a package 2. return everything to the shelf when done playing 3. no toy will be purchased unless mom approves, no asking twice 4. when it's time to go, it's time to go. This has worked for the past 3 years (she is now 6). The thrift store is nice because she can play with something new for a short amount of time, even if it's a cheap toy we would never buy for ourselves. We have also just started toy swapping with her cousin where they trade a game or lego set etc. for a week or two and then return.
Great tips!! Weve been using the photos for years, really works. I used to buy a 99 cent balloon to keep very littles occupied while I shopped... I'm all on board for saving money shopping online. I think some of the items cost more than in store but I still save money not getting extra and save time not walking around with my calculator. Love your posts!