Ways To Save Money by Me

Don't eat at restaurants. Learn how to cook the restaurant meals you like. Tons of recipes on the internet.

Ride a bike or walk. Most people jump into their cars too often.

Besides books at the library, get the movie you like on DVD from your library. You may have to wait, but it is free.

For free entertainment, look at the grand openings of stores and attend them. You usually get some free stuff there or some nice refreshments. If you live in a big town, you have more chances.

Follow the local events page in your newspaper. Often free events are held. I went to a great wild cat show put on by our local library that way. Got to see a lynx, mountain lion and other cats up close.

On clothes, go to yard sales and thrift stores. You can get good stuff there. Just keep looking.

Same with household goods - lots of bargains at yard sales and thrift stores.

If you buy brand new, at least compare prices from different stores.

To save on groceries, go early. Look for mark downs. I'm not a meat eater, but our butchers usually discount the meats in the morning and you can get some good bargains. The produce people usually do the same. Well, you know what they say about the early bird. Also, start cooking more. Make up big pots of stuff. You can then have leftovers and it is much healthier than convenience foods.

Think about less being more. You really don't need that much "stuff" around your place. Just more things to dust. (Take it from an ex pack rat - me. I still have areas to improve on this!)

Sometimes a card is just fine to give to someone especially if you are struggling financially. And if you do feel you just have to give a gift, you can still find some nice things for under $10.00. If you have lots of computer paper, you can wrap gifts in that too and just draw cute designs on the paper. Saves money on wrapping paper. And it is the thought that counts. I think people like it when you are more real and don't use your last money on a gift for them. So really now after living to age 50 I can agree a card is fine to give. If you have some flowers growing in your yard, make it a card and flowers.

Have a yard sale and there is a way to get rid of excess stuff and make some money,too. Have a friend do the sale with you and you both win.

Turn down the thermostat and put on a sweater or even a jacket in the winter. We all have to save money on our heating bills lately. In hot weather, get the morning cool air in and then shut the windows to save the cool air. Well, it never gets that hot here, so I think those of you in real hot climates have to use the air conditioner.

That is all I can think of for now. If you have any pointers, feel free to post them.