- Grow your own vegetables (some fruits are also possible; though with fruit trees; make sure you plant a few, so they can actually pollinate (you know; the whole "male/female" thing).
- Consider going to a farm that cuts their own beef/pork. Many times it's cheaper and much better quality. Buy in bulk and freeze the rest (use those sealer machines to keep longer).
- Do your own car/bike repairs. If you don't know how; there are plenty of books and online help. Even doing just simple repairs can save you lots of cash, especially in labor costs.
- When doing home repairs, or looking for some additional furniture; drive around your neighborhood to see if there's anything that can be used. A little elbow grease, some paint or sandpaper and stain; and you can have a nice new piece of furniture at little to no cost. Check out building supply companies for scraps that may be useful in smaller projects; they sell them off cheap to get rid of them.
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DO LESS EATING OUT!
- As Pagan mentioned; walk or bicycle when you can. Saves on gas; and future medical bills do to lack of exercise.
- Insulate your home well in the winter. It will save you a good amount of cash by running your heater less. In the cold months; leave your shades/blinders open, the sun will help heat that room during the day.
- Consider some herbal remedies. For burns; keep an Aloe plant in the house. It works better/faster than most "over the counter" remedies, it looks nice in your house, and it's cheaper. After getting a bad sunburn, spray the burned area with vinegar from a spray bottle. It smells bad, but takes the burn away fast.
- Do more reading, and less watching TV or computer activity. It saves on electricity, and you might learn something.
- Forget that expensive trip to that theme park. Head out to some National (or State) Parks; pack a picnic lunch (instead of buying food on the road), bring the dog and a frisbee with you (don't forget the family). Enjoy nature, and get some Vitamin D in the process (though not too much).
-Keith
