Are We Prepared For A Financial Breakdown?

[@pamplant3610]

I live below the poverty level here in the States yet I live very well on what I get from Social Security. I even have a savings account I contribute to each month. Right now, I'm saving for a new water heater that died on me over a year ago. I garden in the summer for fresh veggies. Every one of my bills are paid at the beginning of the month including what I put into savings, and I live off what is left. I don't eat out, I don't do take-aways, I don't do fast food, and I don't eat junk, processed, or packaged food. I eat Mediterranean (which is quite reasonable priced), and prepare all my meals at home. I sure don't feel I'm proverty, because I'm completely debt free. I only buy what I need when I need it, and 90% of the time, I get what I need at thrift stores. It can be done if you really want to.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks so much for sharing

[@judimantos904]

In what stat do you live?

[@janetstonerook4552]

I too am retired and almost completely debt free with very low cost of living. So my pension and retirement funds are enough ...if I am frugal. I think I ate out in a restaurant maybe three times last year. I grow a small garden, have fruit trees and berries and can or freeze the surplus. I barter informally with friends and family. I allow one guy to keep honey bees here and he gives me free honey. Another gent makes his own maple syrup and I trade him for a supply of my homemade jams. Another lady and I usually split the cost of a bushel or two of peaches from a commercial orchard and we spend a day visiting and working them up to can, freeze or make jams. Inflation hit hard but there are frugal things we all can do. I eat less meat, often make my own bread, and batch cook and bake. I had a lot of clothes when Covid started and seldom need to buy anything new. My uniform at home wear consists of old shirts, trousers and sneakers. If I get a stain or a rip that I can't repair, well eventually they'll be a cleaning rag or a strip of a braided rag rug!

[@marykeen4462]

My husband and I are the same way and we live in Northern Virginia a very expensive place to live. Debt free is the secret.

[@jimmiepatrum]

While you are saving for a new water heater, how are you managing the need for hot water? I assume you must be boiling water for baths, right? I love your last sentence - "it can be done if you really want to." Diane in NC

[@schrodingerssquirrel6973]

I paid off my mortgage on Monday and now I'm debt free. The frugality will remain my life style. It's served me well and I'm used to it.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Great news on getting rid of the mortgage

[@garygnagey3569]

Congratulations!

[@frugalwendy]

Way to go!

[@sallybell6000]

That is awesome.

[@janeevaboone9278]

CONGRATULATIONS! Great feeling.

[@gwynethgrove772]

At the start of 2023 I started doing 3 money saving things each month. 1) shop every 10 days instead of 7 and spend the same as as a 7 day spend each time. That saves 1 shop each month , then put the amount of the 4th shop into a savings pot. 2) Find 1 item in my home each week that I haven’t used in the last 6 months and sell it. I then put that money into the savings pot to use for emergency items in the future. 3)Stop buying clothes, new household items etc. so far in just 3 months I have £700 saved up.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

That's fantastic! Keep going

[@kenneyg100]

Being frugal and saving is a game to me. I always try to beat my personal best!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You and me both

[@susanwebster9218]

I do the same thing. It's a fun game with great satisfaction!

[@janetstonerook4552]

@@susanwebster9218 I do too and it is usually a fun game. Occasionally I get frustrated and try to focus on something else for a few days. BUT, I stash my purse away so there's no spending going on during that time. 🤗👍

[@schrodingerssquirrel6973]

Frugality is my sport, And my savings is the score card!

[@thefinefrugalline3232]

Gone from our budget in the last couple of years are: 1) postpaid cell phone bill. We went to Verizon prepaid and it saves us A TON. 2) the cleaners : when the kids were teens we had the cleaners come twice a month as we were both working full time. When our youngest moved out we reduced it to once a month and now that inflation has hit so badly, we have cut them out entirely, and guess what, its fine. What was once a NEED had become a WANT and hubby and I are now perfectly content cleaning the house together. 3) a HUGE revamp on the grocery budget, partially thanks to you Jane, we went from $ 600.00 per month to 450.00. Even though prices are going up a lot in our area, we have so far been able to keep it there with careful planning and NO WASTE. And we are not suffering at all :-)) 4) car insurances have been renegotiated, it was worth the time it took, I was able to cut it in half going from State Farm to Progressive, same coverage and deductibles. 5) I used to get pedicures regularly, but now just once in a while, and we are cutting out own hair. 6) we cut our driving down to a minimum. In the summer we take our bicycles whenever we can. 7) the last big thing we had to do was cut cable tv and the last of our subscriptions, except for Netflix. ESPN, AppleTV, Amazon Prime gone! Wish we would have done this much sooner. We don’t miss it at all. We wash on cold, air dry, try to only have the oven going once a week, batch cook, bake our bread, make our yoghurt, turn the heat down and use hot water bottles and a warm sweater. We have a vegetable garden in the summer. So with everything else going up we are STILL able to stick with our pre-inflation budget, we’ll see how long we can keep that going. We are 60 and really don’t want to work more hours, or cut into our retirement to pay bills, so we are super motivated to save. We don’t mind jumping through the hoops to make it work. We are healthy and happy and intend to stay that way. Thank you for your straightforward talk. Someone has to get out there and do that! :-))

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching and commenting

[@thefinefrugalline3232]

And oh yeah, gone is the fitness club monthly membership. I bought a punch card, so I just pay for the occasional exercise class I still like to do for variety and social reasons, much much more affordable. Otherwise we hike, ride our bicycles in the summer and ski a lot in the winter. I am a ski instructor, so we are lucky to have free ski passes that we would never have been able to afford otherwise.

[@preppernut]

Well done!

[@andersonomo597]

Pedicures - can you DIY them? I only ever had them as a treat but I wasn't happy with the last one - and now they're charging even more, so I can't justify it BUT now I do my own, far more regularly, always at the end of the day, with dinner in the oven, and a glass of wine - bliss! I'm not a flexible as I used to be so painting my nails isn't worth the effort but getting all the barnacles off and giving everything a really deep clean makes my feet feel fantastic - better than at the salon. I bought a couple of tools for a few dollars that make it easier. It's such a silly thing but it costs pennies and makes me feel SO good that I make sure I do it. Hope this gives you food for thought - Cheers!!

[@maryettabeck1967]

I guess I just was not as mindful with the STUFF and being reminded to look at the needs against wants and what stuff is really being utilized is a great reminder. great job

[@joannahalford5672]

YOU and your videos have literally changed my life. I watch other frugal vloggers too but you are the ones who I’ve learnt the most from AND have helped me turn things around. I have never been a budgeter or saver and over the years money has just trickled through my fingers- mainly on groceries and holidays. Oooh I’ll bang that on my CC!!! Never again, if I can’t pay upfront, I won’t go. Over the last year since watching your video I’ve cleared all my cc’s and PayPal credit (using savings from redundancy) I have saved for the first time in my life a £2k emergency fund. The sense of pride I get from knowing I’ve conscious saved that is something I just can’t put into words. Thank you Jane and Mike from the bottom of my heart - letting those ads role is the least I can do for what you’ve done for me. I just want to give you a big hug! 🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You’ve made my day. So happy that you’re saving.

[@charlettenitzsche1895]

This is a very well-done presentation. As I was listening to you speak, I could hear myself saying the same thing. So many people (young and older) have no clue. It looks like the next years are going to be worse than the 60s and 70s when I grew up in the US. Another part of preparation is the development of skills. Many people do not have simple skills to repair items rather than replace them. Before I retired from teaching, students (and staff) would bring me their coats that needed a button sewn on, a pair of pants that needed a patch, etc. so that they wouldn't have to "throw it in the trash". My entire school received free lunches so the students did not come from families with excess money to waste. I taught classes in basic cooking, sewing and horticulture.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

It’s worrying. If everyone wasted nothing, repaired everything, ate all meals from food at home, pegged out their laundry, they’d be in a better situation

[@preppernut]

Skills are more valuable than most people realize.

[@bookmagicroe9553]

@Charlette: I used to work an afterschool program called Kids Club. One day I decided to teach the kids how to sew on buttons. We got squares of felt and a huge bowl of buttons. They made a button banner by sewing the felt squares together. That way they learned a basic stitch. One parent was incensed that we were teaching her son to sew on buttons. She said her son will be rich enough to pay others to do that kind of work. Really.

[@amywoodard2852]

I was taught to sew a button and grow a plant in kindergarten! Times have changed. Now what is taught...

[@luba-healthywithluba6866]

@@amywoodard2852 Almost nothing is taught, sadly.

[@jerrychetty2524]

Don't forget to smash the 👍button for auntie Jane who is always giving us awesome content!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You're the best!

[@9FatraBbits]

Thanks for a very thoughtful look at reality. “This is not a drill!” I’m only in my early 60’s but I’ve never seen times like these. I’m semi retired and budgeting and frugal living are essential. I really appreciate all your practical ideas!🐇

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

This is absolutely not a drill. I’ve never seen people so poor and so desperate in modern countries and with so little hope.

[@nancisailormoy9135]

I have really been concentrating on cutting back to bare bones since inflation has become so bad. I have come to realize how much money I waste by going to the grocery store whenever I want something. I am now shopping once a month and then only go to the store for emergency items. I make a list on the first of the month of what food I have and how many days it has to last. It really is a change of mindset that I have to be focused on daily.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing

[@cathymillar9900]

I am just dry canning rice over my lunch break. I am always amazed how people do not seem worried. I just try to put food up so that we can eat nutritiously. Thank you for such level headed advice.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

It's un fathomable!

[@leedezern6862]

Such good advice. Unfortunately I have 2 family members that for various reasons find themselves in a budgetary pickle. They don’t want to listen to reason and now it’s getting very tough. More people need to be like you. Keep up the good work

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching and commenting. People are pretending everything is ok, it’s not great and getting worse.

[@heatherj3030]

My husband and I had our wake up call in 2015-2018. It was too much fast food and kids activities. Work slowed down to almost nothing and we weren't in a good spot for that at all, but it lit a fire under us to pay off our mortgage and debt after we caught up on our mortgage. It's amazing what can be accomplished when you cut everything out. Watching your videos keeps me focused on living below our means, so we don't start up bad habits again. I never want to feel that stress again. Thanks so much Jane! You are awesome!❤️

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@sandrashowalter6322]

I have family members and friends who just won’t acknowledge how bad the economy is and are doing nothing to prepare. They think I’m nuts! I am slowly but steadily stocking up on food and necessities, paying off debt and learning to be more frugal. I enjoy your videos and am learning a lot! Thank you!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Well said! I'm right behind you, cheering you on!

[@patmartin9727]

I see family members who are busy talking about all inclusive holidays in summer. They also appear to be moaning about the price rises but don’t want to cut anything out. They still dry the washing in the tumble dryer and still buying all their treats and wine. Then looking for the government hand outs to pay essential bills

[@KittyKat-vb1nd]

Everyone won't make it. Take care of you and yours.

[@donnabowman245]

Thanks, Jane and Mike. Your videos are always so well thought out and done. I look forward to your content and consider you my cheerleader, keeping us going on this "game" of frugal living and saving. Whenever I get tempted to buy something that I really don't need, I say to myself, What would Jane do?

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Our pleasure!

[@alegna4132]

Same kind of thing- My husband always says to me - what would Frugal Queen say to you!

[@andrea_w13]

Being inspired by your videos, I did only once a week grocery shopping in january and did a no spend week in february. I felt unusual at first, but I'm surprised that it actually works. Kind of like I'm diciplining myself.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

That is awesome!

[@maryettabeck1967]

I am trying to only go to the grocery once every 3 weeks. Making a list on the fridge and it is working well.

[@janiec3915]

This is excellent information. I think a lot of people are definitely in denial and spending as if nothing is going on!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

So true!

[@elainearchbold259]

Thanks for being there Jane and Mike, dont feel so scared when i hear from you. We will all get through this together x

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Elaine

[@madeleine7729]

PS Jane, my electricity bill for the summer just came in (I'm in Australia). Our usage has gone down 7.1% (hooray!) but the bill has increased by just over 20%. We've gone from AUD $310.93 to AUD $388.81 whilst using 7.1% less electricity. If that doesn't say tighten the belt more I don't know what does!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@nurseallie]

2007-2008 financial crisis really kicked my husband and I in the pants, we got serious about our money and paid off debt! We vowed to never get in debt again! Now we’re debt free, mortgage and all and loving life! Budgeting every single cent and living off of one income even though we both work. I think Dave Ramsey is right when he says you have to be sick and tired of being sick and tired, that’s when things change and maybe people aren’t there yet, I know we were and here we are today! We have an emergency fund and other savings to fall back on so I’m hoping we’ll be ok but I’m worried about what the future holds of course because it’s always the unknown that you just never know about!! I really love your channel, keep up the great work! Love tuning in every Wednesday to listen and watch

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching and commenting

[@MrPaddy924]

Interesting video. You hit upon a concept called 'normalcy bias' which describes the mental condition wherein people find it difficult to imagine anything other than the 'normal' lives they have lived to date, despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary. There is so much evidence that we are heading towards financial breakdown, but you wouldn't think this was the case when you observe people's behaviour. My wife and I moved to SW France after reading Deep Adaptation. We are anticipating the near-term collapse of society due to economic and climate-related factors caused by human overshoot of our planetary boundaries. Even thought we are careful with our fact checking and can point to many many academic papers supporting our view, we have great difficulty convincing others to make the necessary preparations. They generally just think we're a little crazy. We are working towards self-sufficiency much like you, and are also living on an extremely tight budget, but we were determined not to continue contributing to a society which seemed hell bent on its own destruction. Sorry for this cheery post, but I found your video really interesting and just wanted to share my thoughts with you.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks

[@janetstonerook4552]

It cannot be business as usual when it comes to thoughtless spending. I so agree. No sleepwalking through it! 😑💤 I got sloppy last week and didn't write down my grocery purchases once I got home from the stores. This morning I went back over my budget and realized I hadn't included one stop. So as of today, March 8th, I've now spent ALL my food budget for this month. So it's my personal challenge now NOT to buy a single food item for the next 3 1/2 weeks! I'm pretty well stocked up but will just have to eat frozen and canned when my fresh items are gone. Or I'll barter with my brother next door and will share an entree if he'll give me a salad! Do I have the money available if I needed to buy food? Yes, but that's not the point! It's being accountable to myself and my intentions!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Exactly! That's not the point.

[@jimmiepatrum]

You should be very proud of yourself for biting the bullet and making do, using it up, and doing without! Diane

[@schrodingerssquirrel6973]

Wow! Now THAT is discipline!

[@janetstonerook4552]

@@schrodingerssquirrel6973 Well, I'll let You know by month's end. 😋 I have a pantry and upright freezer full up. I won't starve but I may get a little bored! Jane's words from a previous video about it not really being a budget if one doesn't stick with it has inspired me.

[@suzanneoconnell9625]

As always, superb advice. I started a budget this year with your help and it’s just been fantastic!! I urge your followers to follow your budgeting advice if they haven’t already.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

So glad!

[@zarty8121]

This presentation is absolutely gold, you won't get this kind of advice from mainstream media, thank you Frugal Queen.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@colleenwood8220]

Thank you! This is what we all need to hear right now. I actually paused, went through the refrigerator and labeled and froze food about to go bad. My husband and I are sitting down and discussing our finances this weekend. He’s a chronic spender and I’m thrifty. It’s been 33 years of doing it his way and I’m over it. He retired last January and has a good pension and took a job that pays double his pension and keeps buying things on his “wish list”. He told me yesterday there was no way we could pay off our debt in three years! I was floored and said this has to stop. We can and will pay it off. He’s a great person but loves to spend. It’s going to be a tough weekend!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Sorry to hear you have debt. I hope things work out for you.

[@TPayne-fm8ie]

I'm in the same boat-literally. My husband is a spender and I'm the saver. We've been married 40 years. He's 69 and still working and still spending. Last year he mortgaged our paid off home to buy a very expensive boat. Now we have a $2,000/mo boat payment. It almost caused a divorce. Maybe we need to form a support group. Good luck this weekend.

[@asavannah7439]

Force him to watch Frugality videos on a loop on KZbin!😆

[@asavannah7439]

​@T. Payne That is shocking with the mortgaging of the house to pay for a boat. Dave Ramsay would call that Financial Infidelity!

[@TPayne-fm8ie]

@@asavannah7439 I know! I tried to bring that into the argument but it didn't work. Our kids thought he was losing it.

[@asavannah7439]

Most people in the tropics where I live have their a/c running 24/7 all year long throughout the entire house. We only use it about 6 months a year in the room we're in for a few hours a day, never in the bedroom when we sleep. Our electricity is a fourth of the average bill where we live.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing. We get 38-45° summers in Europe and air con isn't common

[@frugalautie]

💯 agree that paying down debt is so important - my spouse & I are working hard on becoming debt free. Last year we had 43k in debt. This year we only have 8k 🎉💪❤️ we still have a long way to go but I feel energized and encouraged by your videos & your frugal community here (people in my offline life are not frugal). Thank you for your tips & advice. I appreciate you & your husband Jane❤

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You got this!

[@barbararoberts4471]

Kudos Jane and Michael on reaching your 25k subscribers mark! Well done! Enjoyed your video today as always, thank you for the reminder of why we need to be frugal and save what we can. It really hits home in these difficult times. My heart goes out to the younger generation trying to put food on the table for their families.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@madeleine7729]

Thanks Jane and Mike, another inspiring and encouraging video. Here in Australia we've just had our 10th interest rate rise and many still aren't waking up. I am lucky to be mortgage-free, but this was a good reminder to me to still be careful as it looks like things won't get easier any time soon.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

That's not good to hear

[@jeannie2853]

Martin Lewis advises listing all your credit, finance and store card debt by the annual interest rate. Then paying as much as you can off the one with the highest interest rate and just above the minimum on the rest. Once the highest one has been repaid you apply the same technique to the next highest debt and repeat until you are debt free.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

The debt avalanche works well. The main point is getting out of debt and never getting into debt again.

[@sheilahughes3561]

Thanks Jane! I do hope you didn’t mind me asking about the long term savings and sinking funds! We have many discussions in this house about how much to have in emergency fund and long term savings etc!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

No problem.

[@suematile9078]

LIving in a northern US climate heating is on for at least seven out of twelve months is a necessity, but we are doing what we can to save on expenses. This month I have been on the phone talking with suppliers to reduce things like our cable and our internet bills. I had to change our yearly house insurance company to save money. Eggs are coming down in price. Meat is not. I needed a backing for a new quilt top. I am piecing material together and hope it looks okay. I am thinking about piecing the batting.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing. Many families are now just heating one room or not at all in countries like the UK and not eating three meals a day.

[@emmalouise7837]

In May I'm going to be moving in with my sister and her family. I only get dla so I'm planning on saving 70% of that money (I don't have many bills) so when I move out I'll be okay for a few months. I'm already trying to work out a budget plan and I want to be prepared as I possibly can. I want to start a food stock up budget but haven't figured out how much to spend yet. I haven't brought books in 3 months and I'm trying to cut down on takeaways. Little changes here and there will definitely help me.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You're doing well

[@kenwassonjr.6589]

We have several grocers here where my wife and I live, as well as a "warehouse" store, notably Sam's Club. The 1 grocer has a website where they publish a daily special, an opportunity to stock up when the price is good. I also maintain a victory garden where I am able to grow food for canning, freezing, and dry beans. We keep 3 chickens on our property for eggs and fertilizer. My 1 daughter and her family buy a 1/4 cow for beef, and 1/2 a hog every year, and they give us the cuts they don't like, heart, liver, and tongue. Never buy or grow anything we don't want to eat.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

I’m glad you’re a nose to tail eater.

[@kenwassonjr.6589]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance I should mention that we were able to secure our cellphone AND internet at a locked in price, forever!. I do have a gym membership that is free through my health insurance provider, and the insurance is free too! We do use our credit card for the cash back, but pay them off monthly so we never pay interest.

[@belindacopson2390]

Great content especially about not wasting things. I make my own breadcrumbs from any leftover bread ends. When I have enough they become a delicious treacle tart - a favourite treat in this house :D

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Great tip!

[@johnmelissaziech6207]

I, too, worry about the people who are living, and spending, as if there aren't serious issues going on. Those of us who are being careful and frugal will then have to take care of them when they get into trouble. I don't mean to sound uncaring, I do care, but it can be hard enough to take care of ourselves in tough times. To have to take care of people who weren't willing to make an effort to prepare for tough times puts a burden on those of us who did and those who weren't able to.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@debracarroll7732]

Hello Jane, I and my husband are still on our debt free journey. Our finances are getting better and better. I hope you and Mike are doing well.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Wonderful! I'm cheering you on.

[@marykappesser5145]

Am trying, hubby is not of the same mindset though. But I keep watching to be inspired, so that I don't throw in the towel. Thanks

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

I hope his spending isn’t keeping you both broke or stopping you both from saving?

[@marykappesser5145]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance We are saving, and are not indebt, except for home improvement loan and one car. But I know we could do better.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

@@marykappesser5145 home improvement loan is home improvement debt and car payment is car debt. I hope you’re able to pay this off quickly.

[@marykappesser5145]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance that is where we disagree. My car is paid off in 6 months, he wants to replace his car this year, I've been saving for a down payment, but would prefer to not have another debt, and put off his car. However, his car has 188,000 miles and in last 2 years has needed extensive and expensive repairs, we used savings to cover said repairs, hence 5K less to use for replacement car. He has taken a part time job to help with savings ( we are both retired). But to pay cash for a car will take several years to save, or nearly deplete our long term savings. Anyway, I keep doing what I can.

[@teresamoore3671]

@@marykappesser5145 Do you think you could have just one car between you being that you are both retired? It would save you a lot of money. We are going to go to one car soon as my husband now works from home.

[@jonnaborosky8836]

Hi Jane. It struck me today when you defined poverty. I thought I was just poor. Now I understand that I do live in poverty. I hear you when you say the only solution to that is more money, but I disagree. I've been able to keep lowering expenses till my Budget worked out. This is the the first time I haven't had enough money to cover all my needs. I've never been smart about making money. I've tried several things over the years. Not much came out of any of it. I have had good incomes in the past. I've always been frugal and I've always been able to save. I'm a retired nurse. Because I am frugal and a saver, I thought I was providing for all my needs. I never really anticipated large medical and legal expenses. Well, they came and used up almost all I'd saved. Now I live in poverty. I'm an optimistic person, who also believes in and relies on God's provision. That's where I live now. I'm still content. I can wait and see how my expenses go down or my resources increase. I lived on no income for 2 and a half years. I had savings then. If I could weather that, I can weather this... with God's help.

[@grandmafreeman6618]

I have a credit card which I obtained through my preferred grocery chain; however, I only use it to buy food when I go over budget and at checkout without enough cash to pay for it all. My credit card is a just-in-case method of payment and I try to pay it off every month or as-soon-as-possible (ASAP). There are times when a credit card is the only way possible to pay, as if online or on the phone, etc.--not good, yet possible.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Make a list and keep a calculator in your hand going around the supermarket so you don't go over budget.

[@irenedombryant2023]

Interesting when you said about the washing machine, had to get a new one ( was told and they were correct ) would be cheaper to buy new one. Regarding cycle time; on the machine, it has a 10kg wash that takes nearly 3 hours, yet this wash is the cheapest to run, it uses: 1Kw in energy for the wash and the least amount of water than any other wash! It's the reason I chose it.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@charlenebrissette3348]

It is not bad here where I am in Quebec, but I know it is coming so I am preparing what I can.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

I’m straight off to Google homelessness and poverty in Quebec….we all use our personal circumstances but there’s always people out there unable to put the heating on and buy food the same week. Thanks for watching

[@annmcnitt8749]

Good morning, Jane and Mike! I hope you're both having a wonderful day.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You too!

[@leedezern6862]

Jane I have a question. This is related to my previous comment. I have 2 nephews that have money problems and have had them for years. Both continue to stay in jobs that don’t pay well and no benefits like health insurance or retirement benefits. There is a part of me that truly wants to help them. (Give them SOME money) but they’ve proven over and over they’re not responsible adults. One is 38 and one is almost 35. I spoke to someone yesterday and they told me they helped periodically over the last 10 years. Evidently they’re not learning anything from prior experiences. Then there’s a part of me that wants them to grow up and be responsible.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

What’s the question. There’s no question in these sentences. Thanks.

[@leedezern6862]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance would you give $$ or just advice?

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

@@leedezern6862 neither. Don't give unsolicited advice. If they want advice they'll ask for it. Don't give them money as they're adults and they're responsible for themselves.

[@teresamoore3671]

No I wouldn’t give money to people who don’t learn from mistakes. The only thing I would give is a meal if they were hungry. ❤

[@charlenebrissette3348]

Than you for your advice Jane. I believe people really need to hear his.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@helenhartley6904]

Comprehensive car insurance is a cost we have continued into our retirement. Our car was stolen a few days ago. I cannot afford to replace it if totalled or torched. The relief I have that we are insured for new for old is immeasurable.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Sorry to hear about the car.

[@helenhartley6904]

​@@FrugalQueeninFrance it is confronting, thief broke onto our house, took car and house keys and handbags too. Car now found, insurer changing ignition, door locks, checking and repairing any damage. Still we have to pay $800 excess plus cost of replacing all house locks. Plus I'm not sleeping well.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

@@helenhartley6904 house break in too, sorry to hear that. Sadly as the economy worsens, crime will rise

[@tracypeel6424]

@@helenhartley6904 Sending positive thoughts

[@robindumpleton3742]

Reading through the comments, it struck me that few people eat offal. We love steak and kidney pudding, struggle to get hold of suet in France, either from the chill cabinet, dried, or from the butchers direct. We are partial to dumplings with stews, and again they are off the menu. Liver is expensive, and we cant get lambs liver, presumably because it goes into paté production. We do eat a fair bit of horse meat and it seems to be in decline with any but the older generation. Horse liver is a good standby for beef. About once a week at this time of the year, i love Bourginon and we cook mostly on LPG. It costs €1 per day, but that includes water heating, from the instantaneous water heater. Long Hollywood showers are to be frowned upon, except when i'm working fibreglass, which the grinding dust is a problem unless you steam it out of your pores. Working the boat deck this week, and SWMBO has gone to see her offspring in the UK. 😁 Sea Fishing is not only a great pastime, but the catch of the day is cheap and tasty. I have to keep saying that, or my boat money will dry up 😦

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@wyyeti4004]

Good evening, Jane. As of January 1, 2023, you are only able to make up to $600 per year, now, on side hustles, garage sales, etc. A tax form must be filled out. Also, here in the USA, people cannot afford to purchase things because of debt or lack of income…as you so rightly pointed out. Bartering is gradually taking hold in certain areas and will be one of the avenues to acquire what you need. Hopefully your videos are waking more people up. You also pointed out the people desperately hanging on to “what they know & are used to”. It is sad to see. Some folks refuse to see the reality, no matter what you do. You have to let them go. Keep making the videos. You two have incredible integrity & common sense…which is hard won. Stay prepared & best wishes.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@jomcd2073]

I was one of those people who carried credit card debt. I am now debt free and it is so freeing:)

[@cherylT321]

Yes it is!

[@annmcnitt8749]

Terrific video, and many wise words. Thank you!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@happyJan2516]

Thank you so much Jane and Mike. Jane you are so clear and concise, spot on with your advice and always give different perspectives on finances and planning, really useful and great video as always x

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Our pleasure!

[@janiec3915]

Hello from chilly northern NJ USA!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Hello there!

[@liztoth4324]

Thank you for your wise observations. My concern at the moment is anyone saving regularly, which is important - however, these savings are devaluing rapidly. If real inflation is near 50% then savings are struggling to keep its buying power.

[@lindajacquot5391]

Good morning from Coeur d'Alene, Idaho.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@preppernut]

Thank you for the numbers in the definition of poverty. Its nice to have something to measure our progress. I've made frugality into a competition with myself, after all, anyone can live on a million dollars a year, but who can do it on a quarter of the median income? I am sure that you will be able to do it in a few years, once your "groundwork" is done.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

What groundwork do I need to do Louise?

[@preppernut]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance Basically what you are already doing, getting your home and property to the point where you don't have to spend a lot of money on it, except for maintenance.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

@@preppernut a quarter of the median income would be 500€ a month.

[@preppernut]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance The median income where I live is between $70,000 and $90,000 a year (CDN), depending on who is writing the report. We spend between $1000 and $1500 a month. Are my calculations incorrect? They very well could be. Wait a minute, our median is for the household, yours are probably for a single person. So yes, we spend 500 euros a month per person.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

@@preppernut the median income in France is 2000€ a month, minimum wage is 1350€ a month - those are after tax figures.

[@MaryKane-qv5vz]

It is serious when those who used to be middle class cannot afford a home of their own and the ordinary items they expect to own.

[@moirasutherland7443]

We live frugally here in South Africa, at the moment we have load shedding for over six hours a day and it is going to get worse. Due to our lifestyle we had the money and have just had solar panels installed, we have had a solar geyser, hot water heater, for three years and very seldom have to heat the water with electric. Nearly all the people we know keep saying oh it must be nice to have all that money, but we are careful with it and always have been.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Good investment

[@asavannah7439]

I only have one colleague who is as mindful with his money as I am. The people around me spend and waste so much money, I'll never understand

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

I never understand either

[@asavannah7439]

And they're always complaining about not having enough money, even though they could just spend less!

[@judimantos904]

Great video+ I am debt free but I can’t convince my daughter, age 55, to be more frugal + pay off debt. She feels that I am depriving myself of all the fun in life 😢.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

I'm 57 and debt and mortgage free. I'm definitely having fun.

[@sheisMsA]

Hello! :) new sub here, noticed your tap was dripping the whole video :(

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Sorry about that, we fixed it later that day

[@moniquecm1144]

❤️All is So true what is happening these days we are living for so many people ❤️love your way and knowing it all ❤️those are strongly time ❤️thank you ❤️love

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks

[@dawnmorandin541]

We have a house for rent here in Canada, you would be surprised how many people can't come up with the first and last month's rent. Many are renters that have no savings in case the house sold etc

[@octaviajames9217]

Thx 4 this info. Sometimes you need a reminder about these things 😊

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Glad it was helpful!

[@susanjacks8830]

Every time I think of buying something there is Jane whispering in my ear...do you really need that? It's amazing the effect you have on people. I love your way of thinking. Our only debt is Car payment and Mortgage. We are working to pay off on retiree income. I have faith we will get it done.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@justdreaming3869]

Your videos are so wonderful to listen to. You have the best perspective!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much

[@gregsgirl23au]

My husband got a nice bonus at work recently..we are already debt free and mortgage free and we've invested the money into our energy security by getting more solar panels and a battery..the rest is going into savings to keep building it up. I wonder if a lot of people would blow that on "stuff" or expensive holidays..but for us it's important to be as secure as we can be

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing

[@donnajackson7261]

Always wise, commonsense points from your channel, thanks so much for doing what you're doing :)

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

My pleasure!

[@heathertucker7056]

I realized how passionate you are about waste and I am exactly the same! It is my pet hate and can’t imagine how much food and other items are simply thrown away! People have to realize this and stop spending on things they don’t need! You are sending out a great message and I hope people start to listen!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@EJBDitty35]

One comment. Supermarkets are in a very competitive market. They make a very slim profit margin from fresh food if at all. There is a lot of waste/spoilage to deal with. Stores make money off packaged food and non-food items. Sales of everything give a 2.2% profit on each dollar spent.

[@jessicaduvall5059]

I’m saving for an emergency fund while paying off my debt of $26k. I don’t have a mortgage, so that’s good, but am kinda worried that my efforts will go backwards. I’ve got 4 credit cards, a car payment and my sons student loan. I feel so far in the hole, but know I have a job that paid me $60k last year. I’m working hard to pay off all my debt this year but I get discouraged when prices go so high. I’ve been eating out of my pantry and refrigerator and freezer since January, it looks like I can go a bit further(til Easter) before I have to make a trip to the grocery store. Any tips when you can give when it feels like I’ll never get above ground? I know this is very drawn out, but I wanted to share the full experience of where I’m at. I absolutely love your advice and recipes!! You are both very wise!!

[@Turtledovegrove]

Anothere instalment of sage advice....discipline and self-respect play a big part in it all....yes once issues arise they can spiral out of control faster than a blink of an eye....tfs...they say those with ears shall hear....

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@lorimarable128]

I need to paint the house and put a new roof on...I've decided to go with a black metal roof and dark gray paint because I live in Ohio and the heat is on 6 months minimum as apposed to the a/c for maybe 2...dark colors will absorb the heat and help keep the house warmer and the metal roof will last the rest of my life

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@katiefranklin5055]

We will need a new roof in a few years. I am tempted to go with a lighter color that reflects heat in order to keep the house cooler in the summer. Our summers have been getting hotter and more humid here in New England. We do not have central air. However, it does get quite cold in the winter, and we heat with a wood stove for six or seven months of the year. With the climate change, I need a black metal roof in the winter, and a light gray asphalt shingle roof in the summer. Crazy, but true.

[@nicolescotto3918]

Great advice per usual. Thanks Jane

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You are so welcome!

[@Turtledovegrove]

Ps..congratulations you reached you 25k...

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thank you so much 😀

[@judyduncan1852]

A lot of young adults are living with their parents and not paying rent etc. They are spending their money on high priced items etc, which drives up the demand for the products, which in turn, drives up the prices.

[@sophiawolthof1238]

👍👍👍

[@brendafarris7590]

Congrats on hitting 25k subscribers! Wise words.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thank you!

[@rebacarmack8335]

Thanks for sharing- I sent to my email so I can rewatch as much as need be

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@Cookie7294]

Credit cards can work in your favour. In Canada there are no fee cards with cash back. If you use it for all your spending, you can accumulate enough to pay for a grocery order a few time a year. Of course this is only good if you have the discipline to stay within the budget and pay it off every month.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Most people who use credit cards do not pay them off each month.

[@Cookie7294]

I agree that it's only practical to do if you have the discipline to pay the card off every month as the interest charges are extortionate.

[@debbiesavage7107]

We use our card for just about everything and pay it off each month. The cash back paid for Christmas last year. We already have over 100.00 in points. It took awhile to get debt free but there’s no going back, now!

[@CS-zp3to]

We do the same thing. All of our bills (phone, utilities, etc) go on the card and I pay online once a month in full. That saves on lots of stamps, envelopes and checks. I haven't paid a cent in interest in more than 10 years.

[@mariannejoynes6541]

Funny that you should mention washing machines but I’ve started putting £1 in a jar every time I use mine now. It’s surprising how it adds up! I’ve planted seeds for tomatoes, chillies, peppers, herbs and nasturtiums (edible) but I do want to get some french bean seeds as well as peas. I’ve got my potatoes ready to plant too. I bought a small oven that has a dehydration mode so I’m going to be experimenting later in the year lol. My emergency fund is at a good level and I’m now building a long term fund for my retirement. I only have 2 small debts which will be both finished in July so I’m very happy. I do need to work on impulse takeaways, some times it’s hard to cook a meal when my arthritis is bad and as you say, it’s too easy when there’s an app. 😢I’m getting there, slowly but surely. Thanks for the great video both. Xx

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

That arthritis is no joke. I have arthritis in every joint including my neck and it's agony. It's there whether I cook or don't. So, I cook as I won't waste money.

[@patmartin9727]

I also have arthritis in my hands and most other joints. I batch cook so I always have meals in the freezer ready cooked and just need microwaving on the days I either can’t or don’t want to cook.

[@lynnoorman2144]

Ooh what an excellent idea of putting a pound in a pot everytime you use the washing machine! Brilliant! I'm pinching that one!!

[@gladyschandler6724]

Great talk and subject matter. My CA/TX taxes are done. Unfortunately, I owe 7.5 K to I.R.S. due to working part-time and also collecting social security & small pension. I knew I would be hit and have the funds in my savings to mail out 4/18; not a day sooner. Next year, taxes will be better since I'm retiring tomorrow and live in Texas.

[@blairegagnon7495]

I am enjoying your videos immensely. We are kindred spirits. My husband and I are also retired (in our 4th year) and debt free. Retired at 56. We have always been frugal, though as my son would say not cheap. We do have a much bigger budget but that is because we have worked, saved and keep our expenses down. But it is about finding that balance that works for you and everyone's unique balance between budget and income. And yes, it is outside the mainstream. But we're ok with that. The life-long learner point is very true. We renovated our home ourselves and do 90% of all repairs and upkeep. Grow and preserve food etc.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing

[@christineconnor4413]

Some people can't or won't see what's happening. Spend spend spend . We were told if you ain't got the cash don't buy ! We've had loans for stuff but always paid off and managed our money . Never had a big wage but managed to get by .Our children never went without . It makes me sad to see people struggling to manage the basics of life . Greedy bosses are to blame . The government seems oblivious of the situation. They're sitting pretty with their lifestyle - they should live on basics and see how tough it is . Food going up every week but wages not . We're retired now and can live reasonably. Only with be being careful and not buying latest car - hubby's car is 36 years old and still going strong! holliday / fashion etc . Never been interested in stuff like that . Boring to some people but we're ok . Keep up the good work you two x

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much and you and I are in agreement

[@frankprit3320]

great video !!! Yes, I think more and more companies look at it this way "Why build 10 fiats, when I can just sell one Ferrari".

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Great point!

[@CaroJones-mi7kt]

Our government should provide info like the responsible government during WW2. Market Economists would say that it would be the Nanny State. Bring it on! I was born in 1949, the culture was so different

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@mortenbecks2017]

Regarding the bare bones budget for those who are part of the regular workforce: calculate how much you need both with your job and without your job. I was out of work due to an illness for a few months once and my expenses dropped significantly, since there was no more commute and I did not need to be clean shaven, in a freshly laundered outfit and ironed shirt every morning. The realization made me relax A LOT regarding the amount of money I'd need in retirement. (English is my second language, sorry if this comes across jumbled)

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for this. I made a video addressing this as retirees. You don't need as much money when you're debt and mortgage free.

[@mortenbecks2017]

> mortgage free My home will be paid off by the end of 2023. I cannot overstate how freeing that feels, I am just in my early 40ies with a lower middle-class job/income and taking care of my disabled spouse (kids weren't in the cards for us). There is the option of going part-time if my spouse (or my parents) need me around more, and if everything continues to go well, I might even just stop working before any official retirement benefits kick in.

[@cherylT321]

It came across very well…It was well said. Thank you.

[@lindad6223]

needs vs. wants; self sufficiency and collaborating with friends and family; a bit of self control... all necessary, and most of us can probably use a bit more discipline. I know I would benefit from it!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@christineconnor4413]

I was in a shop a while ago and there was a teenager prob 13 with grandma ? Buying a pencil case for school. They were £10 !!!!! I had a funny turn and had to come out to get some air 🤣🤣🤣 words fail me !!!!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Yep! All too expensive now.

[@tukaruss8680]

Very well presented.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thank you kindly!

[@bradlafferty]

Sound advice. The urgency in your tone compels attention. Thank you. I would ask you to consider a short review of main topics at the end to firm up the good advice you offer. Thanks.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@majagoedegebuur9451]

Thank you for this warning here in the Netherlands many peopple sleeping I hope se wake up its very importend that we prepaire Evriting and make greens and fruit inthe town sorry my Englichs difficult to writing Many greetings from Maja in the Netherlands.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing

[@ruthwiseman4730]

I really enjoy watching your Channel. Thank you for all the great advice

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching!

[@MsArri81]

You are one smart lady ! I appreciate all of the sound advice about being frugal, the importance being financially prepared in case of any sort of crisis! We are debt free pay but rent and it is really easy to sleep at night knowing you don't have debt (modern slavery) looming over your shoulder!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@lazyluci4803]

Always a good presentation. And great ideas for saving money. Please don't take this the wrong way but one thing we noticed was that your tap behind you seems to be dripping. thanks again for your wonderful content.....from Canada

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Yep fourth mention, we fixed it

[@alyssajenaway3781]

Many economists openly acknowledge that the tools used for measuring CPI inflation are not accurate in many countries, so I wouldn't trust or rely on those figures and what the governments tell us. Solid advice as always :)

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@jessieelliott3157]

I was in the tea room at work this week as they announced another interest rate rise in Australia. The people i was with had all immigrated from phillipines and india and have bought homes here in the past couple of years. They have come here to improve their financial situation and i really feel for them as they are all sending money home to relatives as as well as trying to make ends meet here. The pressure on my collegues is reaching breaking point.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Sorry to hear that

[@bunnobear]

It is getting bad in for people Australia with interest rates going up and up, thankfully we are enjoying the interest rates going up

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

I’m surprised there isn’t mass migration from Australia.

[@Alicesgardenau]

i feel that my partner and I are financially prepared for the life we live. But the life others seem to expect you to have: overseas holidays, flashy car, expensive clothing and the constant update in technologies, are beyond our means.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Yep! Stupidly beyond their means

[@workinprogresssince1974]

Most people I know have a holiday abroad already booked this year. I don't know how they do it, because they're all complaining about how high their energy bills are! Who knows, maybe it won't hit as bad. I'm not taking any chances but boy those cut backs are making life look a little bland right now!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

When you see bland, remember it's not forever. 50% of most people have never had a holiday and never will. My parents have never been on holiday in their lives

[@workinprogresssince1974]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance Oh I don't really worry about the holiday aspect of it. I haven't been away since 2017. I was thinking more about things in general, the relentlessness of checking every penny. I should be used to it by now, I've been at it a while but I think all the added gloom and doom in the news and the long chilly winter has magnified it. :)

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

@@workinprogresssince1974 we've been checking every penny for 27 years, it's ok, I promise it'll work out

[@juliethompson5301]

Jane I work behind the bar and I see little evidence of people worrying about their finances .it's good for us and our tip glasses but I do wonder as you say their sleepwalking ,

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Yep, I don't at all wish that you were jobless but I can't understand why anyone is going out to eat and drink.

[@juliethompson5301]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance they are in their droves.oh I know you don't thank you .I don't personally use pubs or restaurants but obviously we can't stop people .🤷