The zero waste bulk shop question hits home for me! During my idealistic early 20s, I bought 100% of items that were available to me package free from zero waste sources regardless of price! As I’ve gotten older and had kids I’ve kept most of those practices, until recently when inflation has gotten out of control. I have kept our family’s food and household budget exactly the same by lowering my standards. I used to shop at Whole Foods and bulk shops. Now I shop at Walmart and buy cheap bulk online a lot. It’s a tough pill to swallow but $6 tooth tabs that last 1 month stink in comparison to $1 of toothpaste that also lasts a month! I have done what Hope & Larry suggest here and prioritized. I still buy $14 shampoo bars (gasp!) when they go on sale for ~$10. It’s still a high cost but I love them and don’t want to give them up. You pick and choose and let go of perfection to embrace what’s actually sustainable in your current lifestyle. When you’re a millionaire maybe you can be completely zero-waste with $10 chapstick and $14 cleaning spray. For now, we’ll hit the Dollar Tree and accept that we’re doing the best we can.
Noel, this really hit home! You are really telling so much of my story too!!! I would often shop at Whole Foods ( or people at work would call it Whole Paycheck lol) and we too have have to really decide what is most important, I can't buy as much organics as I would like, I have to stick to basics and DT helps with a lot of stuff! Be Well Friend, we will get through this crazy time!
To all that are really struggling there was a time a lady I knew. She was ready to move into her car with her kids. The kids teacher sat down with her and helped her set up a budget. This lady only had five dollars at the end of the month. She saved that and her income tax and was able to get an emergency fund. She is doing well and you can do this.
As someone who started recently budgeting I think what held me back for so long was the thought of having to come up with a plan. Once I changed my thought process it became easier. I decided I was going to start by just tracking my money. Not coming up with a plan, but just step 1 - tracking. But after I started tracking for a couple months, the plan just kind of happened. I realized how much I was spending on everything and then I started saying to myself, well let me not buy this, and how can I spend less on that, and before I knew it I was planning. The idea of planning was originally scary, but in the end that was easy.
Yes! We love your experience. It was much the same for us. We tracked what we spent for a month or two and it became really clear where our money was going.
In relationships it's also beneficial to try and understand and respect what each person enjoys. One person may want to buy new books and another absolutely loves having drinks with friends. Respecting each other's favorites and working together to still get to enjoy them.
Made tortillas after your video. Had no idea it was so easy and so delicious! Will never go back. Made mine with avocado oil and husband devoured them in 2 days. Now he is going to make them. 😂😂 Thankyou ❤
Thanks for being a strong man open about your own mental health, it helps reduce the significant issue of stigma, especially for men. Huge fan of the channel! -Oliver
My hubby & I discovered a councelor who really 'clicked' with both of us. When it came to our different approaches with finances... after both airing our grievances... The councilor sweetly smiled at my husband and said... 'Fred'... TIGHTEN UP. She then turned to me ... still smiling.. and said Faith... LOOSEN UP.. Best advice we ever got. My hubby soon after agreed to have our house built.. with NO Mortgage. It was hard work.. but we were both committed to seeing it through. That challenge truly brought us closer together.
My favorite meal planning is simply having an easy side and veggie to cook up alongside a marinated protein. Or weekend soup / chili. Meals can be flavorful and healthy without too much work!
I adore watching you both, I wish I had all this advice as a younger adult. We are in New York but food shop mostly in CT it was expensive before covid/inflation an now it is bonkers. We spend most of our budget on food- I always end up going over bc I always forget something and then well, $30 later... it is a serious feeling of shame for me bc we can't really afford it yet I am trying my best w 3 kiddos to keep everyone full. We have changed what we buy and I am constantly baking! Anyhow you two are a lighthouse in a dark time and I just want you to know how much we all appreciate you both! I have so many questions about raising kids, frugal and homeschooling! Would you ever do a video just on those type things? Thank you ,and Larry that toaster is a beaut! I bet your toast tastes amazing!
I loved your answer about what to do with the leftover money in the envelope. We still leave the money in our envelopes. We found that we did not use an envelope then suddenly we are hit with a big need for that money. We never had to use our emergency fund because of our cash envelopes and sinking funds. We also never take from one envelope to use for another envelope. We learned that we had to delay gratification. Spending money from another envelope is not delaying gratification.
When you have store apps, specifically grocery store apps, you can comparison shop right on the spot by opening up an app and seeing who has it cheaper. This came in handy when I was at the Amish bulk store. I was surprised to see how much more expensive the Amish store was compared to my main local grocery store for things like sugar and flour . Just because the Amish has it in bulk doesn't always mean that it is the cheapest, buyer beware
Hello Hope and Larry. Hi and Hello from a wet Great Britain, We love your content. Our 2 suggestion are: 1. Envelope Method for budgeting and base on the physical money you have each month. 2. Emergency Fund. Our rule of thumb is if we have extra or just not been used as much then that extra money goes in the EF. The money then can be used for if you have a Emergency, broken bed, washing machine, hoover, dishwasher, Any essential for your children.
I sooo agreed with you , being careful with the way we spend our hard earn money is so important, and so much stress to want to make more and more more more more money for what? To spend it again 🥲
Love love love you guys and your helpful practical videos!! I watch expectantly for each new one that comes out and I’m never disappointed. I think of you two as my friends. Thank you guys! 💙
I would recommend keeping some cash on hand at all times because we don't know when some disrupting event will occur. Even if it's only $200-300. I've started doing savings challenges to build my stash back up. I've also referenced The Provident Prepper regarding putting together an Emergency binder.
Hi Hope & Larry thank you for another wonderful video I adore your channel and I have learned so much from you both. Your videos are always fun and informative. Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom with us so regularly. I always look forward to your videos xxx
I love your videos. My Dr recommended a vegetarian diet for me and I have lived trying your recipes. The carrot dogs are really good & I have learned to love lentils. Hugs & blessings to you!
Your videos are invaluable because none of my friends are as without on money as me.Your videos and other viewers keep me from being alone and discouraged. With inflation I'm just treading financially.
One suggestion I'm working on is .. paying attention to global trends. Although most have no 'crystal ball' to tap into... if we LISTEN to trends in the news... we can make some EDUCATED speculations about what will likely become more expensive and harder to come by in the near future. Example: When I first heard about Trade issues with China I was able to buy a new car. BEFORE the steel prices and chip problems hit. Paying attention to global trends is the next best thing to a crystal ball. As for Professional Counceling... Absolutely. I can safely say... it saved my life. When we find ourselves stuck in a negative situation... often a different perspective, or some positive support, can make ALL the difference.
Totally agree. One of the mistakes that some Americans make is only paying attention to what is happening within our own borders. One thing that having this channel has taught me is that when we listen to those who don't live in our own country, we gain a very important perspective.
We LOVE our pet insurance. We pay a monthly price and if there is an unexpected issue they pay 90% of the bill once we hit our deductible. In 15 months of having our puppy he has needed a neck surgery and allergy testing- he is a mix street dog we adopted. Insurance has paid for itself (over $2,000) towards these unexpected costs. His neck surgery was over $1,000 we paid $100 out of pocket.
'22 started out flush, became "tight" as we struggled to stay within our means among a number of mandatory expenses and inflation, and ended pretty lean as we took care of some Jan '23 things ahead of schedule. As we entered the second week of Jan '23, we were on plan 3 for the first quarter to half of '23. The big difference is we are preparing for potential income disruptions due to the debt ceiling fracus and toward that end, we are in the process of paying through June on a couple of mandatory and pretty mandatory budget line items. And then it will be through Sept '23. Our why is because we're pretty partial to running water and electricity despite what happens to our income stream. We are working on rebuilding the cushion in two of our accounts which we are more firm about maintaining in '23. And we have an all but needed diy project to do this year. Certainly for the first part of 2023 we will not be spending willy nilly, we will be setting some money aside, and we will be purposefully spending with minimal traditional savings to stay within our means during the year.
On and off in my life I have done a lot of batch cooking and freely used the refrigerator freezer. I must confess it began out of my dis-like for pots n pans in my young adult life borne from my only so deprived childhood truama of pot-n-pans chore duty. As I got busier and also more frugal, I have grown to cook most main meals with planned left overs. When we were most busy, when things were cooked a portion got set aside before serving for putting into the freezer. I often have a major cooking day for things like making spaghetti sauce in the largest stock pot I own, baking a larger roast, making stock, or doing succession baking (one item after another); and then freely utilizing the refrigerator freezer and/ or another freezer. I generally haven't made freezer meals to cook later outside of unbaked cookies; I freeze raw dough on cookie sheets then package it for later baking. I do freeze foods ready for thawing/ reheating and things like spaghetti sauce, taco meat, pulled pork, roasted or crockpot meat, broths and stocks, etc...cooked and ready for use. I have also spent some of my busiest times prepping my own, from scratch quick bread, seasoning, seasoning packet, and salad dressing mixes. I find a recipie I like, gather 6 containers, line the containers up on the counter, then measure one ingredient at a time down the row of containers, seal thecontainers, put away the ingredients, then put away the containers. When I do this, I often do one per night at least a couple of times per week for a grand total of 15 to 30 minutes per session or item. Almost always I chop, dice, mince, slice, and shred extra veggies when ever I'm doing then store in the fridge for the next use(s).
Using store apps as well as utilizing clearance racks at grocery stores. I have found 'repackaged' lemons, apples, Romaine for a dollar but also things that can be great gifts - most recent was a beautiful breakfast gift basket (pancake mix, ham, honey, pecan syrup, apple butter and another maple syrup all from a quality place in NC) that was $7.90 instead of $79! Likely a post holiday basket but it has no indication of 'holiday'. Individually purchased, these items would have totaled about $50. Found a Christmas tree bag for $1.07!
When my husband was in the army in early 70’s and no money we both carried a small note pad and wrote down everything even a pack of gum. We would then go through it to see where we were wasting our money. We have had a budget for 48 of our 50 yrs of marriage.
Just in case anyone is watching this and looking for additional resources for Mental Health Services... If you are a veteran please enroll at the VA and use their counseling services and groups that they offer. You served, you deserve. Also checkout online resources for online counseling especially if you are without insurance. If you do treatments, ask for and do your homework. If you have consistently failed medications look into TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulaton) as an option. -Sincerely a MH struggler and advocate!
Always, but especially in these tough times there are owners looking to rehome thier pets through thier vet's office. Usually there is no cost, no shelter trauma, and minimal guarantees outside of the posted information. Sometimes vet staff can/ will give additional information and most often the vet history is available. This is just another option. Many individual Humane Societies (by brick and mortar location) are sponsoring a Home to Home listing in which owner looking to rehome list and potential adopters look then adopt. The purpose of the Home to Homemprkgrammismto keep pets out of overcrowded/ crowding shelter beds. No one nor pet is vetted in any manner. Folks who list in this area tend to be caring owners who must relinquish due to changed circumstances.
Hi Larry and Hope. I just subscribed about a month ago and have been binge-watching/listening to your videos. I used to live in Illinois almost 20 years ago. I love the videos. Thank you.
Hi, Hope and Larry... I wasn´t able to make it to the "live" show, but I am watching it now. I am really enjoying the Budget questions and answers. Keep up the great work. Izzy from Portugal.
Hi Larry & Hope🙋🏻♀️ Love your channel & your COMMON SENSE approach to things👍 Just a tip for your subscriber who was asking about the high cost of Mental Health therapy. They can check out COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS in their area - they can be an AMAZING resource! Most ( if not all) offer counciling and also accept patients on a sliding scale fee. I was unemployed for a period of time a few years ago, had NO insurance and was able to set up “ self pay” monthly payments of 10$!👍
One thing I struggle with in the current inflationary economy/supply chain issues situation is delaying buying something. When I retired I started gardening during the growing season & watching YT videos about gardening through the winter. I liked the idea of cattle panel greenhouses (actually high tunnels, since most aren't heated...but I digress) but they were $32 each (plus the base structure, plus the plastic, plus the door, etc.) and I'm on a fixed income, so I waited...and ended up paying $40 each...yup at 25% increase, because I waited 6-8 months. I was also pleased because my growing reduced my grocery spending by 20%...initially. Then grocery prices rose and my gardening just stopped my food costs from going higher than they had been, no reduction any more. Now, even though I've tripled my growing space and learned a lot more about gardening & preserving & cooking from scratch, my food budget is right back up where it had been when I was working fulltime + overtime and buying a lot of processed foods...and I eat organic, so those processed foods cost a fortune. How do I manage if this keeps up?!
Maybe extreme changes in other areas than food? I use Orgainic .. that's the correct way to spell the product that is sold at Walmart for $21 to get essential vitamins and minerals that I can't afford to get some food.
There's another issue if there is some "extra" at the end of the month. If your budget is based on payment by month, rather than every two weeks, sometimes there are five weeks, not just four weeks. For example those of us using social security as part of the budget, that comes to our house on the "third Wednesday," means that sometimes we have five Wednesdays - that's when we need the extra.
Thank you for answering my question Hope and Larry. I loved your "I don't know what I was thinking budget category" story. Thank you for your great ideas - for me and others. I appreciate you both so much. I'm a Kate Kaden fan too. Looking forward to your collab. PS. I suspect my over-spends come down to "trying to fill a God sized hole" (through retail therapy). Perhaps I could make that a special budget category. Just kidding!
I've been making savoury oat pancakes with Indian spices egg and water. I made the oat flour from blitzed rolled oats. Spices are garum masala, cumin, paprika, onion, chili, (all powdered). Oats are great for the heat. Healthy and frugal recipes 😋 win. Oh typing is sprinkle of ginger and honey.
"Cowgirl" - re: feeding your family for $75/wk. Type that in the search bar. There are several people who have shown how to do that ( including Hope & Larry!). As far as getting lots of fresh produce, it is hard. But adding frozen veggies to meals is one way to include those nutrients.
Try thrive market for vegan items. They do have sales and I think price match. I order many things and find many cheaper than the store. I usually put items in the cart until I am ready to order. Sometimes it's every couple of months.
I live about two and a half hours south of you. Our population is about 39,000. We don't have ethnic markets. We have several farmers' markets in the summer, but the prices aren't lower than the grocery stores. They're actually higher. I am a major bargain shopper. I am thankful for Aldis. HyVee can run some good sales from time to time. However, I'm not seeing any discount produce or food stores near us. I have used the website you shared in another video. I do garden. However, if anyone has other suggestions, I'm open to your thoughts.
I prefer Allocated Funds to Sinking.. I have had an elegance of sufficiency with Sinking ... Typically I buy my fresh produce at smaller stores. Our grocery stores are exorbitant...
You're focused on getting cash, but it's important to pay attention to the other side as well. I'm encountering more and more providers of various things who refuse to take cash.
Hi there Yes Absolutely 💯 Please Keep This Coming 🙏 I AM Dedicated To SAVING Money For My Emergency Funds And Did A No Spend January And Doing A No Spend February I Want To GET My Cost Of Living Down To
I try to only use cash now, my debit way too easy to use and overspend. Last yr a major internet cell provider crashed, cells didnt work, interact didnt work you could only use cash at grocery store, gas stations and it was madness. I had no cash. My teen daughter did I had to borrow cash from her and I think she charged me like 50% interest. Lol and I got a 20 min lecture on being prepared. The same lecture I've given her lol It messed alot of people up. Now I try to use only cash and have cash in my house. Lol
Sometimes the feeling that one needs counselling, it needs to be more honestly done, targeted. Alanon, AA, dietician, Gamblers Annon.....these are free more or less...dieticians not only thru hospitals but also thru grocery stores, pharmacies. And yes, groups at churches. If not available, be the one to advocate with a business. BE THE CHANGE.
We've all got to stop worshipping consumer psychology and wasting money on things we don't really need. It's not profiting the heart and spirit. Blessings Can you suggest frugal recipes from us and do an episode of cooking. Like very much Kates work too Maria ❤
How do you deal with the constant increases in the cost of insurance, property taxes, groceries, etc. when you use the envelope system based on your budget and income? I find that my car insurance increased by $50 since I paid it 6 months ago. I budget and put money aside each month to cover what I thought was my insurance payment and now find out it wasn't enough. We're on a fixed income! You can't juggle these expenses when there isn't enough money coming in to cover all the increases. The 2023 social security increase doesn't even cover these increases. How does one prioritize and proceed?
I have a relationship problem with my 26 year old daughter who lives at home she over powers me but when she stays with her fiance God bless her I am so happy stress free peace of mind she getting married in may it's probably my pay back for enjoying my day and night on my own
The zero waste bulk shop question hits home for me! During my idealistic early 20s, I bought 100% of items that were available to me package free from zero waste sources regardless of price! As I’ve gotten older and had kids I’ve kept most of those practices, until recently when inflation has gotten out of control. I have kept our family’s food and household budget exactly the same by lowering my standards. I used to shop at Whole Foods and bulk shops. Now I shop at Walmart and buy cheap bulk online a lot. It’s a tough pill to swallow but $6 tooth tabs that last 1 month stink in comparison to $1 of toothpaste that also lasts a month! I have done what Hope & Larry suggest here and prioritized. I still buy $14 shampoo bars (gasp!) when they go on sale for ~$10. It’s still a high cost but I love them and don’t want to give them up. You pick and choose and let go of perfection to embrace what’s actually sustainable in your current lifestyle. When you’re a millionaire maybe you can be completely zero-waste with $10 chapstick and $14 cleaning spray. For now, we’ll hit the Dollar Tree and accept that we’re doing the best we can.
Noel, this really hit home! You are really telling so much of my story too!!! I would often shop at Whole Foods ( or people at work would call it Whole Paycheck lol) and we too have have to really decide what is most important, I can't buy as much organics as I would like, I have to stick to basics and DT helps with a lot of stuff! Be Well Friend, we will get through this crazy time!
That dollar toothpaste probably has fluoride which will rot your teeth and makes one docile
@@NE0Nwhip That’s nonsense and you are spreading misinformation. I will flag this comment as spam but want to be clear for anyone who sees it.
Same here. You've already done more than many.
To all that are really struggling there was a time a lady I knew. She was ready to move into her car with her kids. The kids teacher sat down with her and helped her set up a budget. This lady only had five dollars at the end of the month. She saved that and her income tax and was able to get an emergency fund. She is doing well and you can do this.
As someone who started recently budgeting I think what held me back for so long was the thought of having to come up with a plan. Once I changed my thought process it became easier. I decided I was going to start by just tracking my money. Not coming up with a plan, but just step 1 - tracking. But after I started tracking for a couple months, the plan just kind of happened. I realized how much I was spending on everything and then I started saying to myself, well let me not buy this, and how can I spend less on that, and before I knew it I was planning. The idea of planning was originally scary, but in the end that was easy.
Yes! We love your experience. It was much the same for us. We tracked what we spent for a month or two and it became really clear where our money was going.
In relationships it's also beneficial to try and understand and respect what each person enjoys. One person may want to buy new books and another absolutely loves having drinks with friends. Respecting each other's favorites and working together to still get to enjoy them.
I adore you guys so helpful and full of love and joy you guys are amazing you truly know how to speak to people so kind
Awe, thank you, Lori! So sweet.
I love how respectful you guys are to one another. Give and take. Real teamwork is beautiful!
Made tortillas after your video. Had no idea it was so easy and so delicious! Will never go back. Made mine with avocado oil and husband devoured them in 2 days. Now he is going to make them. 😂😂 Thankyou ❤
Thanks for being a strong man open about your own mental health, it helps reduce the significant issue of stigma, especially for men. Huge fan of the channel!
-Oliver
My hubby & I discovered a councelor who really 'clicked' with both of us. When it came to our different approaches with finances... after both airing our grievances... The councilor sweetly smiled at my husband and said... 'Fred'... TIGHTEN UP. She then turned to me ... still smiling.. and said Faith... LOOSEN UP.. Best advice we ever got.
My hubby soon after agreed to have our house built.. with NO Mortgage. It was hard work.. but we were both committed to seeing it through. That challenge truly brought us closer together.
My favorite meal planning is simply having an easy side and veggie to cook up alongside a marinated protein. Or weekend soup / chili. Meals can be flavorful and healthy without too much work!
I adore watching you both, I wish I had all this advice as a younger adult. We are in New York but food shop mostly in CT it was expensive before covid/inflation an now it is bonkers. We spend most of our budget on food- I always end up going over bc I always forget something and then well, $30 later... it is a serious feeling of shame for me bc we can't really afford it yet I am trying my best w 3 kiddos to keep everyone full. We have changed what we buy and I am constantly baking! Anyhow you two are a lighthouse in a dark time and I just want you to know how much we all appreciate you both! I have so many questions about raising kids, frugal and homeschooling! Would you ever do a video just on those type things? Thank you ,and Larry that toaster is a beaut! I bet your toast tastes amazing!
I loved your answer about what to do with the leftover money in the envelope. We still leave the money in our envelopes. We found that we did not use an envelope then suddenly we are hit with a big need for that money. We never had to use our emergency fund because of our cash envelopes and sinking funds. We also never take from one envelope to use for another envelope. We learned that we had to delay gratification. Spending money from another envelope is not delaying gratification.
When you have store apps, specifically grocery store apps, you can comparison shop right on the spot by opening up an app and seeing who has it cheaper. This came in handy when I was at the Amish bulk store. I was surprised to see how much more expensive the Amish store was compared to my main local grocery store for things like sugar and flour . Just because the Amish has it in bulk doesn't always mean that it is the cheapest, buyer beware
Hello Hope and Larry.
Hi and Hello from a wet Great Britain, We love your content. Our 2 suggestion are:
1. Envelope Method for budgeting and base on the physical money you have each month.
2. Emergency Fund. Our rule of thumb is if we have extra or just not been used as much then that extra money goes in the EF. The money then can be used for if you have a Emergency, broken bed, washing machine, hoover, dishwasher, Any essential for your children.
Frugality is so much easier than worrying about having enough. It is a way of learning self control with money
I sooo agreed with you , being careful with the way we spend our hard earn money is so important, and so much stress to want to make more and more more more more money for what? To spend it again 🥲
Love love love you guys and your helpful practical videos!! I watch expectantly for each new one that comes out and I’m never disappointed. I think of you two as my friends. Thank you guys! 💙
I love this show.
Love your content, Larry reminds us of a dear friend we lost couple years ago, feel like we already know him. Keep up the great work!
I would recommend keeping some cash on hand at all times because we don't know when some disrupting event will occur. Even if it's only $200-300. I've started doing savings challenges to build my stash back up. I've also referenced The Provident Prepper regarding putting together an Emergency binder.
Hi Hope & Larry thank you for another wonderful video I adore your channel and I have learned so much from you both. Your videos are always fun and informative. Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom with us so regularly. I always look forward to your videos xxx
Question #1, I’d recommend double the recipe. Freeze extras or eat twice that week. Cook once eat twice.
I love your videos. My Dr recommended a vegetarian diet for me and I have lived trying your recipes. The carrot dogs are really good & I have learned to love lentils. Hugs & blessings to you!
Thank you you two you smart wise kind thank you for openning your home and conversations it's like being with friends xx
Your videos are invaluable because none of my friends are as without on money as me.Your videos and other viewers keep me from being alone and discouraged. With inflation I'm just treading financially.
You both remind me so much of me and my husband. Too funny. LOVE the what was I thinking category. Thanks for the video.
One suggestion I'm working on is .. paying attention to global trends. Although most have no 'crystal ball' to tap into... if we LISTEN to trends in the news... we can make some EDUCATED speculations about what will likely become more expensive and harder to come by in the near future.
Example: When I first heard about Trade issues with China I was able to buy a new car. BEFORE the steel prices and chip problems hit. Paying attention to global trends is the next best thing to a crystal ball.
As for Professional Counceling... Absolutely. I can safely say... it saved my life. When we find ourselves stuck in a negative situation... often a different perspective, or some positive support, can make ALL the difference.
Totally agree. One of the mistakes that some Americans make is only paying attention to what is happening within our own borders. One thing that having this channel has taught me is that when we listen to those who don't live in our own country, we gain a very important perspective.
We LOVE our pet insurance. We pay a monthly price and if there is an unexpected issue they pay 90% of the bill once we hit our deductible. In 15 months of having our puppy he has needed a neck surgery and allergy testing- he is a mix street dog we adopted. Insurance has paid for itself (over $2,000) towards these unexpected costs. His neck surgery was over $1,000 we paid $100 out of pocket.
Bivvy was suggested to me for pet insurance.
Those were really nice gifts !! unique and thoughtful from Mary !! too bad they lost her address !!
You both are so sensible about moving to digital currency. Thanks for not panicking us. You both are so kind! Your channel is very helpful. Thanks!! ❤
'22 started out flush, became "tight" as we struggled to stay within our means among a number of mandatory expenses and inflation, and ended pretty lean as we took care of some Jan '23 things ahead of schedule. As we entered the second week of Jan '23, we were on plan 3 for the first quarter to half of '23. The big difference is we are preparing for potential income disruptions due to the debt ceiling fracus and toward that end, we are in the process of paying through June on a couple of mandatory and pretty mandatory budget line items. And then it will be through Sept '23. Our why is because we're pretty partial to running water and electricity despite what happens to our income stream. We are working on rebuilding the cushion in two of our accounts which we are more firm about maintaining in '23. And we have an all but needed diy project to do this year. Certainly for the first part of 2023 we will not be spending willy nilly, we will be setting some money aside, and we will be purposefully spending with minimal traditional savings to stay within our means during the year.
On and off in my life I have done a lot of batch cooking and freely used the refrigerator freezer. I must confess it began out of my dis-like for pots n pans in my young adult life borne from my only so deprived childhood truama of pot-n-pans chore duty. As I got busier and also more frugal, I have grown to cook most main meals with planned left overs. When we were most busy, when things were cooked a portion got set aside before serving for putting into the freezer. I often have a major cooking day for things like making spaghetti sauce in the largest stock pot I own, baking a larger roast, making stock, or doing succession baking (one item after another); and then freely utilizing the refrigerator freezer and/ or another freezer. I generally haven't made freezer meals to cook later outside of unbaked cookies; I freeze raw dough on cookie sheets then package it for later baking. I do freeze foods ready for thawing/ reheating and things like spaghetti sauce, taco meat, pulled pork, roasted or crockpot meat, broths and stocks, etc...cooked and ready for use. I have also spent some of my busiest times prepping my own, from scratch quick bread, seasoning, seasoning packet, and salad dressing mixes. I find a recipie I like, gather 6 containers, line the containers up on the counter, then measure one ingredient at a time down the row of containers, seal thecontainers, put away the ingredients, then put away the containers. When I do this, I often do one per night at least a couple of times per week for a grand total of 15 to 30 minutes per session or item. Almost always I chop, dice, mince, slice, and shred extra veggies when ever I'm doing then store in the fridge for the next use(s).
I use Iams food too for my cat! It makes his fur super shiny when I give him the wet food!
Thanks for your detailed advice I’m learning from your experiences ❤
Thank you guys you've been really helpful for me, we are here in Bend Oregon 🥰💜❤
Thank you, @Secrea!
Using store apps as well as utilizing clearance racks at grocery stores. I have found 'repackaged' lemons, apples, Romaine for a dollar but also things that can be great gifts - most recent was a beautiful breakfast gift basket (pancake mix, ham, honey, pecan syrup, apple butter and another maple syrup all from a quality place in NC) that was $7.90 instead of $79! Likely a post holiday basket but it has no indication of 'holiday'. Individually purchased, these items would have totaled about $50. Found a Christmas tree bag for $1.07!
When my husband was in the army in early 70’s and no money we both carried a small note pad and wrote down everything even a pack of gum. We would then go through it to see where we were wasting our money. We have had a budget for 48 of our 50 yrs of marriage.
Just in case anyone is watching this and looking for additional resources for Mental Health Services... If you are a veteran please enroll at the VA and use their counseling services and groups that they offer. You served, you deserve.
Also checkout online resources for online counseling especially if you are without insurance. If you do treatments, ask for and do your homework.
If you have consistently failed medications look into TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulaton) as an option.
-Sincerely a MH struggler and advocate!
Thank you SO much for those additional tips. They are greatly appreciated.
Always, but especially in these tough times there are owners looking to rehome thier pets through thier vet's office. Usually there is no cost, no shelter trauma, and minimal guarantees outside of the posted information. Sometimes vet staff can/ will give additional information and most often the vet history is available. This is just another option.
Many individual Humane Societies (by brick and mortar location) are sponsoring a Home to Home listing in which owner looking to rehome list and potential adopters look then adopt. The purpose of the Home to Homemprkgrammismto keep pets out of overcrowded/ crowding shelter beds. No one nor pet is vetted in any manner. Folks who list in this area tend to be caring owners who must relinquish due to changed circumstances.
Pets: "Just spend the money!" Lol! Every loving pet owner comments that way. You should see my Loki's toy box! Lol!
Amazing , informative video as always Hope & Larry, thank you! X
I feed Iams to our 3 house cats. The hairball formula for older cats & works great. Enjoy you video. Lorraine
Really enjoyed this! Thank you for sharing and for being so open.
Hi Larry and Hope. I just subscribed about a month ago and have been binge-watching/listening to your videos. I used to live in Illinois almost 20 years ago. I love the videos. Thank you.
Thank you for what is a very private experience. Blessings.
Hi, Hope and Larry... I wasn´t able to make it to the "live" show, but I am watching it now. I am really enjoying the Budget questions and answers. Keep up the great work. Izzy from Portugal.
I love the envelope system !!!
Hi Larry & Hope🙋🏻♀️ Love your channel & your COMMON SENSE approach to things👍 Just a tip for your subscriber who was asking about the high cost of Mental Health therapy. They can check out COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTERS in their area - they can be an AMAZING resource! Most ( if not all) offer counciling and also accept patients on a sliding scale fee. I was unemployed for a period of time a few years ago, had NO insurance and was able to set up “ self pay” monthly payments of 10$!👍
Ooh, rooibos tea is my favorite. What a thoughtful gift.
One thing I struggle with in the current inflationary economy/supply chain issues situation is delaying buying something. When I retired I started gardening during the growing season & watching YT videos about gardening through the winter. I liked the idea of cattle panel greenhouses (actually high tunnels, since most aren't heated...but I digress) but they were $32 each (plus the base structure, plus the plastic, plus the door, etc.) and I'm on a fixed income, so I waited...and ended up paying $40 each...yup at 25% increase, because I waited 6-8 months. I was also pleased because my growing reduced my grocery spending by 20%...initially. Then grocery prices rose and my gardening just stopped my food costs from going higher than they had been, no reduction any more. Now, even though I've tripled my growing space and learned a lot more about gardening & preserving & cooking from scratch, my food budget is right back up where it had been when I was working fulltime + overtime and buying a lot of processed foods...and I eat organic, so those processed foods cost a fortune. How do I manage if this keeps up?!
Maybe extreme changes in other areas than food? I use Orgainic .. that's the correct way to spell the product that is sold at Walmart for $21 to get essential vitamins and minerals that I can't afford to get some food.
Can you go to a food bank?
I love these kind of videos! Larry, loving the new haircut!
Yes like the new haircut
There's another issue if there is some "extra" at the end of the month. If your budget is based on payment by month, rather than every two weeks, sometimes there are five weeks, not just four weeks. For example those of us using social security as part of the budget, that comes to our house on the "third Wednesday," means that sometimes we have five Wednesdays - that's when we need the extra.
You guys are great and make such a great couple! Keep up the good work!
This video is pure gold! Thank you Larry & Hope!
Thank you for answering my question Hope and Larry. I loved your "I don't know what I was thinking budget category" story. Thank you for your great ideas - for me and others. I appreciate you both so much. I'm a Kate Kaden fan too. Looking forward to your collab. PS. I suspect my over-spends come down to "trying to fill a God sized hole" (through retail therapy). Perhaps I could make that a special budget category. Just kidding!
😃💜😃
This video made me laugh out loud more than once!
I still have Larry Burkett's books. I also have Dave Ramsey's books.
I've been making savoury oat pancakes with Indian spices egg and water. I made the oat flour from blitzed rolled oats. Spices are garum masala, cumin, paprika, onion, chili, (all powdered). Oats are great for the heat.
Healthy and frugal recipes 😋 win. Oh typing is sprinkle of ginger and honey.
Great idea I did not know you could make oat flour from rolled oats
Great post H & L, really good tips. Looking forward to your collab with Kate.
"Cowgirl" - re: feeding your family for $75/wk. Type that in the search bar. There are several people who have shown how to do that ( including Hope & Larry!). As far as getting lots of fresh produce, it is hard. But adding frozen veggies to meals is one way to include those nutrients.
Thank you for saying it's "OK".
I loved Larry Burkett
Yes! Love @katekaden !
Oh my gosh I love Kate so excited about this collad!
Yes you are helping me
Try thrive market for vegan items. They do have sales and I think price match. I order many things and find many cheaper than the store. I usually put items in the cart until I am ready to order. Sometimes it's every couple of months.
This is so extremely helpful, thank you!
I use the dirty dozen and clean 15 lists to priortize what I nuy organic
This is one of your most interesting videos thank you
I love Kate and I found out about her from you. I will definitely watch your collaboration.
Watching old videos while waiting 😌
Love Kate she is so amazing 😘
I never seen a round toaster before. That is different and unique.
I live about two and a half hours south of you. Our population is about 39,000. We don't have ethnic markets. We have several farmers' markets in the summer, but the prices aren't lower than the grocery stores. They're actually higher. I am a major bargain shopper. I am thankful for Aldis. HyVee can run some good sales from time to time. However, I'm not seeing any discount produce or food stores near us. I have used the website you shared in another video. I do garden. However, if anyone has other suggestions, I'm open to your thoughts.
Love your videos, thank so much!
Loooovvee the q & a's
HELLO FROM CALIF EVERYONE
I prefer Allocated Funds to Sinking.. I have had an elegance of sufficiency with Sinking ...
Typically I buy my fresh produce at smaller stores. Our grocery stores are exorbitant...
You're focused on getting cash, but it's important to pay attention to the other side as well. I'm encountering more and more providers of various things who refuse to take cash.
What do they take?
@@KC-dr3cg Cards only.
Love you guys
I especially would appreciate a gift like that as I am also plant-basedand vegan Mayo is really hard to get
Tbf that toaster rocks though
Looking forward to the corraboration either Kate!
*with
❤
Hi there Yes Absolutely 💯 Please Keep This Coming 🙏 I AM Dedicated To SAVING Money For My Emergency Funds And Did A No Spend January And Doing A No Spend February I Want To GET My Cost Of Living Down To
Sinking fund question? Do you keep all sinking fund Monroe’s together in one account. Checking or savings?
I try to only use cash now, my debit way too easy to use and overspend. Last yr a major internet cell provider crashed, cells didnt work, interact didnt work you could only use cash at grocery store, gas stations and it was madness. I had no cash. My teen daughter did I had to borrow cash from her and I think she charged me like 50% interest. Lol and I got a 20 min lecture on being prepared. The same lecture I've given her lol It messed alot of people up. Now I try to use only cash and have cash in my house. Lol
Great gift package!
I really enjoy these videos! Thanks for sharing. By the way, I have a pit/lab named Shelby. 😄
We love that you have a Shelby, too!
I remember Larry Burkett!
Sometimes the feeling that one needs counselling, it needs to be more honestly done, targeted. Alanon, AA, dietician, Gamblers Annon.....these are free more or less...dieticians not only thru hospitals but also thru grocery stores, pharmacies. And yes, groups at churches. If not available, be the one to advocate with a business. BE THE CHANGE.
We've all got to stop worshipping consumer psychology and wasting money on things we don't really need. It's not profiting the heart and spirit. Blessings
Can you suggest frugal recipes from us and do an episode of cooking. Like very much Kates work too Maria ❤
I don’t think I could have resisted buying that toaster either.
Admittedly, it is a fun piece and the art deco look is perfect in our 1950s kitchen.
How do you deal with the constant increases in the cost of insurance, property taxes, groceries, etc. when you use the envelope system based on your budget and income? I find that my car insurance increased by $50 since I paid it 6 months ago. I budget and put money aside each month to cover what I thought was my insurance payment and now find out it wasn't enough. We're on a fixed income! You can't juggle these expenses when there isn't enough money coming in to cover all the increases. The 2023 social security increase doesn't even cover these increases. How does one prioritize and proceed?
I have a relationship problem with my 26 year old daughter who lives at home she over powers me but when she stays with her fiance God bless her I am so happy stress free peace of mind she getting married in may it's probably my pay back for enjoying my day and night on my own
This was the most positive rant I’ve ever heard! Thank you for looking out for everyone and coaching us all! Many blessings!!!
I love Kate! Great idea :^)
Thanks so much for this video Larry and Hope. It's going to be very helpful.
My no one is frugual queen of france but do like Kate
Was working and waiting for the zing prioritise bell
Be careful with putting the cold crock in the pot. It can break. My mom has broken quite a few like this.
On the pet expenses, our local high school has a yearly extreme low cost vaccinations day.