How to Live Frugally Without the Neighbors Knowing!

Have you ever heard the saying "You can scrimp in the kitchen, but not in the yard?" Whether or not you agree with that statement, the reality is, many of us Americans are feeling the crunch of the economy. The money doesn't seem to flow in as fast as our bills do.

Your pride might be taking a bit of a hit, your neighbors seem to be living up the lifestyle, and you're feeling that you're the one on the block that seems to be struggling. Here are some tips that can help you keep up with the Jones' without them knowing your ready for the poorhouse.

1. Landscaping and yard work. The main goal here is to not let the neighbors know you can't afford to live. Normally your beautiful yard is an eye-catcher. This year though, you know the funds won't be there for all the annuals you normally plant. Think herbs instead, if anyone asks, you're going organic. There are many herbs that are perennials, and lavender puts off a beautiful scent and can add that touch of color. Or, you could just not plant anything, and let your neighbors know you're such a hard worker, that you just don't have time to spend in the yard!

2. Vinegar. It's the mother of all cleansers. Non-toxic, although I wouldn't recommend drinking it and testing that theory out. Put some in a spray bottle, and mist your shower and tub, toilet or anything else that might need some cleaning. It will loosen up the grime and make it easy to wipe. Don't worry; the smell doesn't take too long to dissipate! You can also use it as an excellent rinse detergent in your washing machine or dishwasher.

3. Homemade laundry soap. This is something I discovered that actually works better than the store bought brands. 3 cups borax, 3 cups washing soda and a grated bar of Fels Naptha soap or Zote and you're ready to tackle the laundry pile. Only needing two tablespoons per load, as opposed to a cup of the commercial detergent, I've decreased my per load usage from about twenty-seven cents to about two cents. The Fels Naptha is the secret ingredient that makes your whites whiter and takes out some of the toughest stains.

4. Bake, cook and bake some more. There is nothing more economical in the kitchen then making your own food. Not to mention, the benefits of having basically preservative-free meals. Trust me on this one, after a few months of eating "homemade," you'll be able to taste how horrible commercially made food is. I laughed when I was told this, now I'm biting my tongue. There are wonderful, frugal recipes all over the internet, one of my favorite sites, www.hillbillyhousewife.com provides recipes for just about everything you can imagine. Try the family bread, you won't be disappointed. Bread is wonderful filler, and can stretch your meals longer. That casserole you made, that normally doesn't quite fill up the family can possibly be stretched into leftovers with the addition of homemade bread.

5. Don't drive. Yeah, right. Ok, so we have to get to work and that's certainly understandable. Unless, you're lucky enough to work from home, but if that's the case, there are still children to play taxi to, groceries to pick up and medical appointments to attend. Try to combine trips as much as you can, or even throw on the sneakers and get some exercise if you're close enough to make walking a non-fatal sport.

6. Turn down the heat. Throw on the extra sweatshirt, turn the heat down. You'll be amazed on what you can save on yearly heating costs but turning the thermostat down even a few degrees. High electric costs have you down? Check out this site for some great cost savings tips. http://michaelbluejay.com/electricity/

7. Garden. Obviously this is a seasonal sport. The cost to grow your own vegetables, as opposed to buying them isn't worth the argument. Not to mention the better taste, and lack of preservatives. If you're good at gardening and/or canning, you can grow enough vegetables through the summer to last you into the next gardening season. I'm still working on this one myself!

It can be done. Simple changes in your lifestyle can save you hundreds, possibly even thousands of dollars a year. While it's more time consuming, it reaps the benefits of a healthier lifestyle while saving your checkbook. I've lived this article, and even if I were to have a winning lottery ticket dropped at my door in a hand basket, I won't go back to the "old way." I feel better, and I'm living a more responsible life.

There are plenty of resources online for frugal living, don't delay and start today! You'll be glad you did!