How To Frugally Live Through Lifestyle Changes

by Nicole Humphrey | More from this Blogger

22 Oct 2007 03:01 PM

There are dozens of ways that our lives change daily, but sometimes major events occur and our lifestyle changes drastically. This can really put a damper on our budget if we have been living that way for awhile. There are ways to help conquer the problems that we face and help us continue to live more frugally.

Recently I found myself a homeschooling parent again. I absolutely love homeschooling, so while it is a major life change, it is not something I regret at all. It did however, require some altering in our budget and our spending habits, to ensure that we have enough leftover for homeschooling expenses.

Homeschooling really does not have to be expensive, but starting up sometimes dips a little into the budget and you have to find ways around that. This can be said for car repairs, major appliance loss, medical bills and other unexpected expenses that might not have been budgeted for.

Much like anything else in my life, I look for the most frugal way to do it. Homeschooling on a shoestring is easy, and if I get the opportunity I will share some of my ideas on the Homeschooling blog eventually. In the meantime, I want to share with you how we were able to a lot for a little more money each month to make ends meet.

First thing we did was cut out all eating out. We practiced this for a couple of weeks so we could use that savings to fund our project. This would work for a medical bill, car repair or anything else as well.

When I went grocery shopping I made sure that my meal plans were set for the week, I purchased in bulk where I could (mostly meat), we substituted foods that are more frugal period (like potatoes), and bought store brand when we could. I also attempted several freezer cooking sessions to get me through the first few weeks of homeschooling and to save some money there as well.

We made efforts to cut down our monthly bills, especially electricity, and the good news is that we have not had to turn our heater on yet, so we use our windows during the day, and then close them slightly at night. Not only does this reduce the electrical or gas bill, it also airs out the house and helps keep the illness out. Not bad, when you look at the overall picture.

In addition to the previous cutbacks, I also spent about a week scouring our frugal living articles right here on families.com to remind myself of other ways to save. This was one of the best things I did, because I was reminded of quick ways to get cash, and other frugal ways to do things.

What do you do when you have to cut into your budget for an unplanned expense?

Learn more about Nicole Humphrey

Nicole Humphrey is a freelance writer, consultant for CTMH and a Sr. Blogger for families.com. She resides in St. Charles, Missouri with Mike and their five children and two furbabies.

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