Beyond Frugal: How do I make ends meet?

A few weeks ago I was asked a couple of questions by our lovely Ant....he asked: "How do you make ends meet?" and "How do you keep your bills so low?". Great questions which I'll try to answer today (as a break from digging!).........I go on a bit of a memory trip back to my childhood where it all began.
Living without a wage......living off the land and making do & mending. Click subscribe to follow my journey.
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Contact me at: Vivi's Kitchen Garden, PO Box 75303, London, SE26 9DL, UK
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[@mettesimonsen6196]

I don't often comment on videos, but I have to let you know that you have my deepest respect ❤️

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you so much......and thank you for commenting. 😊

[@dawndexter9779]

Wow, your tough childhood has made you strong, & independent. I'm sure mum did her best, and you speak well with a nice accent!! Gave you an amazing work ethic, and you need to be soo proud of yourself, paying off your mortgage, by 47..... going to take note of all of this..... you are amazing!! ❤😊😂

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you so much Dawn. 😊

[@Art930]

You are so right about buying below your means in order to pay off a mortgage early. My bank approved me for a $250,000 loan. I bought a place for $92,000 and put $12,000 down. Paid off the loan in 13 years rather than 30. Would I like a fancier place? Sure, but I'd rather have no mortgage payment.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Good on you lovely, that's fab! Definitely winning!

[@BenniLkitchengarden]

I didn’t get pocket money either, Vivi. Like you, I'm glad we were poor. It gave me a healthy look on life later. Love your stories.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Exactly! 😊

[@bfrommars]

I have so much admiration for you Vivi, and I'm only halfway through this very honest vlog.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Oh thank you lovely. X

[@rickiwinter1587]

Oh my goodness Vivi you never cease to amaze me , what an amazing life you have lived and continue to live.

[@WhatVivididnext]

💖

[@edithjohnson6835]

I love the way you think. I grew up like you and people don’t understand why I’m so frugal, because I can sleep at night.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Exactly!!! Thank you lovely.

[@sheilacamp5089]

I was told by a power man working on my street that even if something is plugged in & cut off, it still pulls power. I have unplugged lamps and everything I could find that I don’t use to unplug. I have noticed a big difference. Thank you for sharing all your tips!!

[@WhatVivididnext]

I'd heard that too, sometime ago.......I was glad I was already in the habit of unplugging everything. 😊

[@joannelandriault7715]

Vivi thank you for your honesty. I admire your willingness to share your life experience and describe how you became self sufficient through adversity. You certainly overcame much and have thrived as an adult. There is a book waiting to be written for sure. Hope the fatigue goes away soon. Be well. 💕☀️

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you lovely.......hopefully, one day, I will find time to put pen to paper..... 😊

[@chorky2]

I have had to be frugal since my husband died 5 years ago as I’m not in great health and can’t work even though I’m only 57. I treat it as a challenge and so far I’m winning. I’m lucky as I have a large wood burner in my kitchen to keep warm by in winter as I live in an old terraced house that is all electric with expensive storage heaters I haven’t used in 4 years. Heather

[@WhatVivididnext]

Yay for the winning.....good on you lovely. X

[@lynnoorman2144]

Bless you Heather - im going to get a wood burner installed - I don't want to for the sake of the environment but I don't want to be totally reliant on the electric companies either! I'm dreading the winter fuel bills as I am on a fixed income. I have taken on a small job at a school with occaisional hours to supplement this but the little I earn won't even cover the increase in the electric company's direct debit. I think there are gonna be a lot of us in this boat!!

[@trishlogie643]

Vivi I’ve learnt more about you in this video than the last 2-3 years ! I care about you even more you are such a lovely caring person and bloody hard working which I admire immensely. I love your attitude to life and that you look around and see what the alternatives are open to you when you come up against problems that can’t be solved easily. Didn’t you have a tough time at school too. Well Vivi I’m 71 fairly young at heart had a crap upbringing but fairly wealthy (very cruel mother ) parents but trust me I may have lived in what looked like a wonderful home (Edinburgh) I went through hell but it’s made me who I am now . I still work (p/time) after retiring from civil service and divorced later in life so had to start all over again in late 40s. I think my childhood and young adulthood taught me to survive and I can see that in yourself. I like you Vivi you are such a nice friend lol take care darling and when I win that lottery I’m buying us a takeaway ok lolxxx

[@WhatVivididnext]

Hahaha...deal!!!! Oh what a lovely comment....thank you so much for your kind words, they are very much appreciated. 😊

[@Meli_Mels]

Ditto to all of these life lessons. Make do and mend. Don't covet what is not even possible. I didn't really dream about really fancy things because we didn't need it. Also, if you want something. Get a job and earn it. I grew up in a rural community in USA. Hard working single parent household. 5 kids and not enough for everything. Every month was a decision between paying rent, buying groceries, keeping electricity on. I lied to get my 1st job at 14 yo. Technically too young to work, but I was desperate to help out the household. Grew up in housing projects and we mostly ate due to the kindness of strangers, a church food pantry and food stamps. After working for a month, I'd saved enough to afford a telephone line. When I told my mother I could afford to pay it, she cried. I'll never forget that lesson. I've always worked.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Hear, hear!!! Good on you lovely......you did something so good for your family....that's beautiful!

[@helenmobbs4599]

Hello, thank you. I needed to hear this. I'm looking at selling my sewing crafts, stained glass and books I've made, for money to help with bills. I'm coming up 60, unemployed and apart from money being tight, I'm happier than I have been in years. Keep well and keep sharing your hints and tips xx

[@WhatVivididnext]

Good on you lovely!!! I wish you the biggest luck selling things. 😊

[@scrappyquilter102]

You are delightful! Thank you for this. I spent quite a bit of my life being as frugal as you advise, but it was considerably more difficult with a hungry hardworking husband and two hungry boys growing up! I had a rule in those days: no plate can cost more than $5 (Canadian), which meant that all meals had to have a "warmed-over, leftover component. My family learned to love what I did with the leftovers! Now I continue with some of those frugal habits (you are right - it is a HABIT!) just to enjoy the thought of the money saved, and also good for the environment, re-using, re-purposing and re-creating second-hand items.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Hear, hear! Good on you lovely. 😊

[@janetraine4883]

Vivi, you have to write a book. You have to. There are no books out there on frugality and mixed with snippets of your very interesting life, it would be so good.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Awww, thank you lovely.......maybe one day I'll find the time..... 😊

[@football_editz453]

@@WhatVivididnext please do! If all your subscribers bought a copy that would be a super income source! Loved your never ever list! Please do more!

[@main2333]

@@WhatVivididnext Each time you make a video. Write a page or so of what you’re sharing on You Tube. Soon you’ll have a book! 😄

[@KC-dr3cg]

This is so wonderful because I don't have any friends who are Frugal or extreme Frugal their lives have gone better financially than mine and so this is like having a support network that keeps me encouraged and keeps me contented with what I do have and keeps me counting my blessings everyday because I've got good health and your KZbin presentation

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you so much lovely......and, yes, treat this like a support network.....folk post so many great ideas and encouragement in comments. 😊

[@ruthiepooh86]

You’re a hoot. I’ve always been frugal. Don’t need to, but I think it’s fun.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Fab. 😊

[@dag118]

What doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Me too! Glad I had the childhood I did.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Hear, hear! 😀

[@frugalitystartsathome4889]

It’s amazing, isn’t it, how such a start in life has given some of us the edge in dealing with what life has thrown at us lately? What you describe was much like my own life as a child (although my dad was still around steady work was always a struggle in the North of England) but, like you, I feel it’s stood me in good stead. My other half always says he’s never seen anyone make a meal out of nothing like I can! We know we can manage, and that nothing stays the same anyway, and so I think we’re not worrying in the way some people currently are.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Exactly that! I'm so grateful for the rough start because now everything seems surmountable!

[@gaselekrauss415]

I can identify with you. I started cleaning a older woman house at 13 to earn extra money. We were poor but I thought everyone was poor. We had food and used clothes so that’s all we needed I thought. I joined the military and learned a lot more about the world. My kids had it better and they will make it better with each generation. I tried to instill in them to live within their meens.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Good on you lovely......that's the best lesson you can give them. 😊

[@hopesprings7812]

You brought back childhood memories 😁 a friend and I were cleaning our bikes and her dad said we needed some Elbow Grease, he told her to go and ask the man on the Co-op van how much it was and he'd buy her some we really thought it was a thing and we were about to get some fancy polish🤣

[@WhatVivididnext]

Hahahahahahah - oh my goodness.....hahaha, love it!

[@paulinetaylor2812]

I am a new subbie as from today and I don,t know how I did,nt know about you, I love your content and will be back binging on your other past vids and so looking forward to them, you are one special lady.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you so much Pauline.....and a very warm, happy welcome to you here. 😀

[@primrozie]

I believe that growing up in adversity makes us skilled at living. I didn't have it extremely difficult but if I wanted anything I had to get it myself. I wish nobody had to ever go to bed hungry. Let alone a child. You've done amazing these few years without a 9 - 5. I don't think I would have been able to do what you've done. No, I KNOW I would not have been successful. I admire what you've accomplished. Hugs

[@WhatVivididnext]

Awww, thank you lovely....you know what though.....in my shoes you might surprise yourself! I believe everyone has it in them. 😊

[@janegoodfellow1529]

You have an INCREDIBLE work ethic Vivi, and now we understand where it comes from ❤ This was fascinating. Respect you even MORE than before!

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you so much Jane, I really appreciate this.

[@JP-ok1nj]

You are so likable! Really enjoy your stories in your video and the tips on frugal living.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Aww, thank you so much. 😊

[@shivakat2297]

I totally agree with keeping written log of every single penny spent everyday. Once you see where you spent and how much, it is astonishing.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Exactly!

[@craftystash8667]

So interesting to hear about your early life...and what it is that makes you who you are... unfortunately the youth of today don't know struggle ( for the most part) we all should learn from your frugal living..

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you lovely.

[@madeleine7729]

Vivi, I loved hearing how you do it - more please! I wonder have you ever had a car, that can certainly be expensive to maintain. I love that you show you can have a good life without spending a lot, it doesn't have to be all sack cloth and ashes! Particularly for those of us who grow food and/or have learnt to be good cooks, life can be abundant and generous. We already knew you'd paid the mortgage off, but I still gave a little cheer when you mentioned it as I love it when women achieve this 🙂 When Colette from Bealtine Cottage announced she'd paid hers off we cried! When we paid ours off we framed it, we were so proud. The peace of mind it gives you makes all the frugal living worth it. Hugs from Australia. xx

[@WhatVivididnext]

Oh I love that you framed your mortgage pay off....yes, it's definitely something to celebrate! No, I've never had a car and that has undoubtedly saved me a small fortune over the years! 😊

[@workinprogresssince1974]

We sound very similar. It's so hard to find KZbinrs that I really align to. I am frugal to the last detail and have a small income and small outgoings so I totally get it. Great work, keep it up!

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you so much Claudia.

[@lindabonomi7274]

New subscriber, Arizona, love your ideas and your channel. You have great spirit and energy, can't wait to binge-watch all your other videos!

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you so much Linda....and a very warm, happy welcome to you here. 😊

[@lynnoorman2144]

Thus was a totally brilliant vlog, Vivi! Thank you. You are a born story teller and it was fascinating to hear how your early life shaped your frugality. And how you have climbed away from a rough estate to being a property owner in London. I always thought you remarkable but now I am even more impressed. How you manage is an inspiration. So fun with the I have never ever: 1) bought designer clothing not even front John Lewis 2) had a brand new car 3) traveled further than Europe ( and then only on a bargain coach tour!) I think you need to set that out to your viewers as a challenge!😀

[@WhatVivididnext]

Hahahah....great 'never, ever' list. 😉

[@christinepease890]

Hee hee, I have never ever, done all you said plus never brought greasy spoon breakfast, never stayed in a hotel, since leaving home, never had a holiday, last ate in a restaurant in the late 70s, never ordered fast food, only eaten burger king when I moved countries back in 2020 (I came back home to the UK) and on the 2 days of driving we had burgers as that was really only all that was open, I am so looking forward to seeing some of your sewing, I like watching the gardening but do not have one, now, I found you when Kate sent you the linens etc, and look forward to your videos every week , keep well, keep saving and keep smiling

[@WhatVivididnext]

Hahhah...and yay to your never evers! Thank you lovely (and thank you Kate!).

[@kanah1]

Watching you from the bayou of Louisiana. Love your accent. Thank you for putting yourself out there. You have a lot of good tips to help others. Keep going strong! 💕

[@WhatVivididnext]

Awww, thank you so much, that's lovely.

[@charlenebordelon4858]

Watching from Louisiana too, Northshore.

[@dhoffman4955]

You are an inspiration. Watching this was humbling. I would like to see this video go viral.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Oh, thank you so much Doris.

[@annab3952]

You embody the saying, “the harder i work, the luckier i get” !! Bravo

[@WhatVivididnext]

Yay! Cheers Anna. 😊

[@ruthpilkington9087]

LOVED this video! You're a wonderful storyteller. I grew up "privileged" but i never knew it. My mom talked like we needed to be VERY, VERY careful. I'm thankful for how they taught me.❤

[@WhatVivididnext]

Hear, hear to that. 😊

[@helenhartley6904]

I think your mind set is fabulous and most important, congratulations! We too have paid our mortgage, we have a big yard 1000 sq m for gardening, and solar panels that actually give us a refund credit from our electric grid power supplier. So we live very well despite income well below the 'poverty' line.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Oh that's fantastic! Good job lovely! 😀

[@marie-annenogues8667]

Love you Vivi! Thank you for sharing personal stuff.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you lovely.

[@lorie5543]

Just halfway thru watching but helping out the algorithm 😎 good to know someone else is creatively super frugal!

[@WhatVivididnext]

Yay! Thank you Lori. 😊

[@RP-fy4jx]

I resonate with so many things you have said and you have lived! It looks like we have lived parallel lives! I am at a crossroad, I want to leave my job and I know I will be self sufficient because I live well below my means. I just need a push :) I have learnt a small bird needs a small house, a big bird needs a big house ;)

[@WhatVivididnext]

Oh good luck with making the leap lovely! 😊

[@zaibarehman4231]

I can watch you whole day Vivi 🙂 you are such an inspiration 🥰🥰

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you so much lovely.

[@lynneeie5226]

Saving this video for a day I have time to really pay attention, but catching up on the others. I hooope to be doing some sewing tomorrow! 🤞🏻 Rainy day! 🌧🌧🪡🧵

[@WhatVivididnext]

Cheers lovely......fingers crossed for rain and sewing.

[@rubybrowning5111]

Thank you you were fun to watch.🎉 I live in Oklahoma and utlities are thru the roof! Blessings to you 🎉🎉🎉

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you Ruby. Ach, yes, prices are so ridiculous.......I hope they level out, even come down a bit (!), soon.

[@shelaghjackson9577]

Thank you for sharing the story of your upbringing....I love to hear people’s “stories”. I’ve never eaten fast food either.....we just used to stop for coffee and a muffin on the way to ski about 20+ years ago. We grew up frugally too , as immigrants to Canada from the UK. My Mum knew the value of a dollar and passed it down to us. Thank goodness! I still only buy things I really need. If I want anything else, I save up and pay upfront! I just want to say that I hate that all of you in the UK are having to pay such huge power bills and taxes, it really is awful. I hope you are all coping.💖

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you lovely. Ach, these crazy fuel prices......it's going to be so hard on so many people this winter.....it breaks my heart.

[@gladyschandler6724]

Yes, great tips. Especially the mortgage, paying extra every month helps. Growing vegetables if you can is very good; even if its herbs, onions, garlic, lettuce, zucchini, carrots

[@WhatVivididnext]

Yay and hear, hear! 😀

[@jonnaborosky8836]

I love hearing you're so frugal! Seems to me that you and I think and act in much the same ways...although seems we got to the same point through different means. I allow myself one take out a year, but I don't feel like I want one. Do, I don't take one. I could write books about how I've shaved off expenses, so I won't go into detail here. A few tidbits are...the water company was once amazed at all I did to save money. I called them once when my bill went up $1. I knew I hadn't used any more water. I shaved 76%, plus an additional 11% off my electric bill, just by unplugging things until I needed them. I even turned the stove off at the fuse box until I was ready to cook, and then closed the fuse again as soon as I was finished. I've used online shopping with free delivery delivery (from a discount deal) for some time now. There's telemedicine, pharmacy delivery, online banking, etc. such that I almost never use my (16 year old) car. That means in over a year, 14 months to be exact, I filled up the car with gasoline. I filled it up in April of this year, and it still has nearly a full tank. We'll see how long that lasts. I wasn't trying to save on gasoline. It just happened, but now that it has, I know how to do it. As I said, I could go on and on... Out of respect for your not having to spend precious time reading this, I'll quit now. I really enjoyed listening to you tell your story. Thank you for sharing! I'm a new sub as of now.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Good on you lovely......sounds like you've got this frugal thing/savings off to a 't'. 😊 Oh and thank you for subscribing....you ate very warmly welcomed. 😊

[@sugarbomb26]

Vivi, you are a born story teller and superwoman! I was riveted listening to you speak about your upbringing, emotionally glued! This video has made me love you more. I would never have guessed what you’ve been through. You are so well spoken and intelligent, that I thought you must have gone to a very good school outside London and must have experienced an idyllic childhood. You are just brilliant!

[@WhatVivididnext]

Awww, thank you so much lovely. 😊

[@ivoryesther5576]

Yes, a lovely clear accent, very well spoken.

[@wildchook745]

It's one of your best videos ever. Well done, Vivi. I love your frugal ways, to be admired. I do live within my means but I have wasted money on rubbish, too over the years. Frugal ways never leave me. I love my shower morning and night. I can't do a once-a-week shower unless I'm up bush or a nomad LOL btw, I'm glad you're doing better too.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you lovey.......hahaha, these days I'm more Nomad/Bush than civilised.......but I love it! 😉

[@bloodmoon1956]

Brilliant vid Vivi.You’ve come a long way.Thanks for all your chats,they certainly offer solace in these hard times.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Awww, thank you so much Corrinne, I really appreciate that! 😊

[@lisasprite3322]

Wonderful reminders. Will definitely be watching more of your posts, growing more veg - salad greens, sprouts, and I appreciated you going through the water conservation. 💖

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you Lisa. 😊

[@JonTanOsb]

I don't do graphs or spread sheets, as some do, but I do make meticulous budgets. I pay all of my bills online, even my house insurance and property tax, and always copy and paste the confirmation number to my budget document. I get my bills by email, too, so I don't miss any. My rural property tax gets lowered by filling out forms for the homeowners grant, and the additional homeowners grant for seniors. I have to to this every year, but I save over a thousand dollars. I would stay sober on your drinking game. :) But I did avoid going to the village wide yard sale and buying things I do not need. Besides, it's raining, so I'd rather stay inside with a hot cuppa. At least my little garden is getting watered. :) I buy groceries in bulk, because my little house has a floor to ceiling pantry between the wall the the refrigerator. I recently bought flour, sugar and yeast and oil, to make bread and save on the rising costs of ingredients. I could have bought a more expensive house, but I didn't need all that room. My little one bedroom has everything I need, and my mortgage is under $300 a month. ~ Jon in rural BC, Canada

[@WhatVivididnext]

I'm glad you do all the forms and faff each year.....yes, it IS a faff.....but, gosh, if it's going to save you a few quid it's so worth it!

[@shess1640]

Hello from San Francisco and a new fan & new subscriber. So enjoying your videos and cannot imagine someone in the US not buying takeaway coffee or food or not ever buying fast food! You inspire and though I can well afford it, I hate feeling like a sucker!!! Looking forward to watching more of the videos from before this. Also…. Still learning English slang and enjoying the fun of that as well.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Hahaha, cheers lovely....glad I'm teaching you some new slang! 😉 You are most warmly welcomed here. 😊

[@erstwhile3793]

American here. Have never had a habit of eating take out or buying coffees, etc. We bought a small 3 bedroom for our young family of 8, clothes, furnishings, cars, etc.mostly 2nd hand and refurbished if needed. As the raises began to happen, the extra income mostly went toward balloon mortgage payments, and savings/ investments. We already knew we could live well on the previous income, so why not use the raise to improve our lives in more substantial ways than fancier clothes and dining out? Mortgage paid off a decade ago, fifteen years early at a savings of $83,000.00 in interest. It is do-able here, as well, if one feels like living that way. You just gotta figure out what you really want most, and choose to forego all the lesser stuff that could nickel and dime you out of it. As long as you have enough for food and shelter, you have choices. Some don't realize they have options, though. I've seen people spend such enormous sums on lifestyle choices that they think are simply the way to do things. They just don't know that food can be made from raw ingredients quite simply and easily. Or that if you buy under your limit in housing, you can afford to balloon pay and save a lot of money. They are on a train track financially, one that's been designed for them by people who intend to get rich off their ignorance. Of course, if a person is fully aware of the options and their consequences, and chooses to live to the extent of their means, that is also a valid choice. It's good that Vivi is willing to share her hard win knowledge, though, for those who want another option than the train track, but don't know how to find one.

[@aliliveswellonless]

I also grew up 'poor' on a housing estate but didn't know any different until I met my ex husband. He grew up 'comfortable' and liked to spend money so that's how we spent the first 15 to 20 years of our marriage. But I'm grateful now for my upbringing and live a full rich life on less money 🙂 xxx

[@WhatVivididnext]

Exactly! We can always revert to what we know best......and make the best of it!

[@rebacarmack8335]

I’ve started to do some fermenting because you don’t have to use heat, I can use those large squash that normally most people would toss. A bath daily unless you are getting really sweaty is really not necessary.

[@WhatVivididnext]

The fermenting is a great idea. 😊

[@sonigram5882]

Or if you live in the deserts of Arizona in the heat of summer. (105° + ) But you usually don't need to use a ton of soap. Mostly to cool off.

[@theannecrossett7761]

Thank you for sharing...has anyone ever told you that you should write a book...about your life. I'm queuing now for my copy. 🙂 You have such a wonderful attitude about finding your joy in simple, everyday pleasures. Take care of yourself.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Awww, thank you so much lovely.

[@theannecrossett7761]

@@WhatVivididnext 🥰

[@rough-hewnhomestead5737]

I enjoyed this video. I've gotten sloppy about finances. We went through a difficult financial time (job loss) several years ago and it lit a fire underneath me to begin living frugally and over the years I've waxed and waned. I have got to get it together and not fritter money away. Thank you for sharing your habits and thoughts with us.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Ach, yes, we all waver.....that's OK.....just have a wee chat with yourself and get back on track. X

[@Briardie]

So full of great ideas and solid common sense. Thank you.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you Amanda.

[@MorningsattheAllotment]

oooooooh, never ever have I 👏🏻 I love it! For me the surprising one would be a haircut. I have never spent money on a hairdresser. Ever. My mom used to cut my hair (and still does from time to time), I've cut it myself, now my daughter cuts it (and I cut hers). (Or a nail salon. Or a beautician/cosmetician.) Thank you for this video 😘

[@WhatVivididnext]

Yay for that!

[@donnahilber8701]

A good deal of your story resonates with me, but the circumstances were different. I relate to learning life's financial lessons very early on, and although I made many mistakes, I have a strong work ethic and I understand how to live without much money at all. I am also a retired person, and find that I'm drawn to frugality and realize it is a wonderful life choice. Life is much more meaningful and abundant when money isn't one's objective. My work Nursing provided me at the time with the ability to buy nice things, but that has never been very important to me. However, providing for my daughters has been important. Now, I know the importance of saving and being able to manage emergencies. Your lifestyle and tips are wonderful and I do thank you for sharing. Please continue!

[@WhatVivididnext]

Oh thank you so much Donna, I really appreciate that. 😊

[@lollys9041]

Great video Vivi…..I loved the insight into your childhood and adolescence. All I could think of was you in St Trinians…😂 I grew up on a. Council estate to. I was lucky though not as tough as yours, very rural. Dad was lowest of low paid unskilled worker, Mum was a Home Help this was the late 60’s into the 70’ and early 80’s. Bloomin hard times! One saving grace was each house had a mahoosive garden and we grew everything. I cant remember being hungry but got a incredulous look from hubby the other day when I put baked beans on my salad! I never thought of it at the time but there must have been times when they couldn’t afford meat or cheese so a tin of beans was cheap. Mum made my clothes and knitted my jumpers and cardi’s and these were then handed down to my cousins who lived found the corner when I grew out of them. Mum budgeted because she had to. Anything left at the end of the week was put aside for a day out in the summer holiday. There was usually enough for return bus fare to the seaside and a pot of tea. No fish and chips, a bottle of squash, sarnies that she made, either tomato or marmite. To this day I love a soggy warm tomato sandwich😆 and if it’s gritty and sandy all the better..hahaha. Great tips by the way. You always manage to stir up some wonderful memories Vivi…thank you.😻❤️🙏

[@WhatVivididnext]

Awwww, love this!!! It sounds like your Mum and Dad did a grand job with what they had..........hahahaha, yes, sandy marmite (or dairylea if we were being posh!) sandwiches are a memory for me too!

[@dianaschoen4485]

I love the English names for things, but don't always understand what they are!🤣😁❤️

[@lollys9041]

@@dianaschoen4485 🤣will help you out if I can find an equivilent. Some can be very regional to. I originally come from the depths of Essex in the East of England not the city side nearer Suffolk which if you know your painters is a few miles from where John Constable was born. I now live on the borders of Norfolk and Cambridgeshire...still very rural but believe me when I moved here I had no idea what they were talking about....😂

[@RN-mn3jn]

I have been in a very low to no income situation in my life. But like you I climbed out of it with education. Interesting enough even though I now have a good income ....I still live an extremely frugal life now. It's like you say, it becomes a lifestyle. I don't buy expensive shoes, purses or clothes. All of mine come from charity shops...still. I just bought a summer dress for $3.00. When I looked the dress up it was $169.00 new. I too pay my electricity bill on a set monthly amount for the year and usually get a refund in March. It's all the little savings that add up to a comfortable life. And although some may think I deprive myself, I on the other hand feel I live an abundant life. I have everything I need. Great video Vivi.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Wowzers!!! That dress was such a massive bargain! Enjoy swishing about in it. 😀

[@Levantine68]

Ha ha, my childhood was very similar to yours. I never went to bed hungry but i do remember my freezing cold bedroom, with a one bar electric fire.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Ugh...horror memories of waking up with ice inside the window!!! 😉

[@paulinetaylor2812]

Slow cookers are fantastic for lot,s of different kinds of recipes and costs are so small, I could not ever do without one, and also batch cooking is so easy and again so economical.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Absolutely. I'm a big fan of batch cooking. 😊

[@sarahm9651]

Great video Vivi. Thanks for sharing some of your life experiences.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you Sarah.😊

[@susanhague4719]

Brilliant reminders. Thank you Vivi.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thanks Susan. 😊

[@GG-qv1ny]

Great ideas for reducing wasteful spending. One thought on utility bills: instead of giving extra money to the gas/electric company during the summer, you could let the extra money sit in your own savings/money market account to earn a bit of interest. These days, interest can be around 5%.

[@valeriegrice4775]

I just found your channel ViVi!!! You have a new subscriber here🥰You are awesome!!!I am a retired nurse here in the states, worked hard since age 16.my body is pretty beat up lol...living on social security here. We were poor too,growing up.....I love hearing you describe your life❣

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you so much Valerie.....and a very happy welcome to you here. 😊

[@michelleaw1325]

I certainly admire your frugal attitude. I myself am on the frugal side.I have a question.How did you travel on trains, planes, trips as you say without eating out? Not one takeaway coffee or tea? I think the way you live is a great stewardship of Gods green earth ❤️

[@WhatVivididnext]

No, not a single take-out tea or coffee! When travelling I make a packed lunch/picnic. 😊 When I used to take holidays and travel around Europe I would occasionally eat out (as mentioned in the vid) but also, and mostly, would visit local markets to buy gorgeous ingredients to cater for myself.

[@michelletessier1647]

Thank you for sharing about your life. I also grew up poor. My father worked but mostly seasonally. Most winters we were on assistance. He passed when I was young and my mom worked her butt off to purchase a house and take care of four kids. I don't really remember wanting things but I do remember being embarrassed about it. In the united states they used to give paper food stamps and plastic coins. When I was sent to the market the looks you would get for paying with them made me never want to have to do that again. I think the pandemic lockdown reminded us all again of the things we really don't need to purchase. We do a lot more walks or hikes now that are free and I go to library book sales with my daughter. We both buy a shopping bag for five dollars and then trade the books with each other. We also don't waste food. You spend a lot less when you use everything.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Exactly! And I think you're right about Lockdown in that folk saw what they had and could use.....and found free forms of entertainment.....I think it made us all realise what's important. 😊

[@debrabyrd5876]

I use my garden solar lights at night only paid a dollar for them. Thanks for the tips.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Fab!

[@123uschie]

You are so right about getting into the habit of watching how and where you spend your money -those of us that have had to economize all our lives get it but there are so many that have a substantial disposable income and when hard times hit end up bankrupt because they have no idea how to be frugal - seen a lot of that happen - everyone is pressured to buy buy buy - we are lucky both of us are very able to do most jobs that need doing learning a new skill is so empowering . You have good advice Vivi .

[@WhatVivididnext]

Hear, hear! Thank you lovely.

[@bria2596]

Your budgeting advice is excellent. I live this way, and it greatly simplified my life. I do not allow them to dip, I pay them directly myself (US). Thank you for letting us know that you have a way of handling expenses. I will worry about you less, now.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you Bri. 😊

[@jillghiati5761]

❤️ 🤗’s from Jill.

[@Sweetie8387]

Been looking for new frugal uk vlogger and really enjoyed this. Off I go to binge watching all your other vlogs 🏃🏼‍♀️

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you so much Emily....and a very happy welcome to you here. 😊

[@mudoh2131]

Such a pretty top Vivi. I have never bought a handbag, just don't need them. Also don't do makeup - but I do do perfume! Often say to my husband I wonder how much we have saved on handbags and make up over the years. You are amazing Vivi. I too grew up on a tough estate and knew education was my way out - I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to take it.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank goodness for education!!!!! Even if it was hard won.....it was the way out. I'm so glad for you that this happened for you too!

[@annecasillas5402]

Thanks Vivi, this is really helpful. I am just in awe of your perseverance in overcoming such a rough childhood. As a country kid raised in a rural small town, we had a charmed and innocent life. I can totally see you jumping that guy to save your money. You are one resourceful lady and I can see why you were and still are a great nurse. My how far you have come. But I think your grandparents set the tone and you definitely are following their example. Thanks for sharing.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Definitely! I miss my grandparents so much....there's hardly a day goes by when I don't think of them.....I am so grateful for everything they taught me and instilled in me. 💖

[@memoffitt]

awesome information ... thank you so much for sharing :)

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you lovely.

[@donnalatty]

Hello Vive, New subscriber here, looking forward to watching your previous videos! I love reading and learning about the frugal and simple living tips of others! I am retired now but I also began working at the same age as you did! Actually before that age as I would babysit and sometimes clean the houses for other family members, neighbors, and parents of my friends! Have a Blessed weekend! Donna NE GA mountains 🇺🇲

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you so much Donna....and a very warm welcome to you here. 😊

[@Sparsam.Achtsam.Echt.]

{ Vivi, you speak to us from the bottom of your heart. That's why I love the channel so much! 💐🌾🌿... Thank you for giving us your time. All the best and greetings from Germany. ~Annie 🌻😊🧡...

[@WhatVivididnext]

Oh thank you so much Annie, I really appreciate this.

[@sharrongray1837]

Thank you for sharing with us all 👍🏻 I'm in so so much debt and this has helped me thank you ❤️❤️

[@WhatVivididnext]

Oh I'm so glad this has helped. Please do talk to someone like Citizens Advice Bureau if you are struggling and can't work out which way to turn. Take care lovely.

[@sharrongray1837]

@@WhatVivididnext to be honest I don't know which way to turn IV never been so much in a mess like this in my life it's so so depressing I didn't want to leave my bed funding u and Ur channel has really really helped me thank you stay safe and take care lovely lady ❤️❤️ x

[@WhatVivididnext]

@@sharrongray1837 Please do reach out to someone .....like CAB.......they can really help and start to get you seeing things straight again.

[@paulsavident]

Good questions, and informative replies!! 👍😊👍 God, my early life was a dream... and I mean that literally, even if not literally!! 🤗 Finding the difference between 'want' and 'need' can take time... 😬

[@WhatVivididnext]

Definitely........but I think asking the question 'do I really NEED it?' can massively help when trying to curb spending. 😊

[@joprent6727]

I can totally relate to what you are saying Vivi. Your life is on a par with mine.. I learnt very early how to live on very little.. Paying the mortgage off is huge... We built our house ourselves on a very tight budget... hard work. We lived within our means and it's paid off.. It is lifestyle choices . I have learnt a lot and being frugal comes natural to me. I live comfortably and don't feel deprived in any way... Thanks for your honest video... Look after yourself...💐💞

[@WhatVivididnext]

Yay! Good on you lovely. 😊

[@cynthiafisher9907]

The things you have “never ever” are pretty astonishing to me! I have work to do. I am much more frugal than my husband, he’s a bad influence, lol! We are working toward paying off our mortgage and thinking seriously of downsizing, as we have a pretty large home and the kids are grown. Thanks for being so open and vulnerable.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Yay for working towards getting that mortgage done! And downsizing sounds like a great idea now the kids have flown. 😊

[@patmartin9727]

I too grew up poor. The oldest of 6 mum and dad worked on low wages, when were feed and clothed and well loved but no extras. That upbringing taught me how to be frugal. It also gave me the longing for a better way of life. I have always worked and saved to allow me to retire debt and mortgage free. My income now is not much above the minimum wage but I feel I live well and still manage to save a little most month .

[@quiltygal6981]

Just found your channel and I'm watching some older videos, not sure if you will see this but this video is so interesting, I just thought I was cheap not frugal 😂😂 I think the most important thing to decide is " is this a want or a need" if it's a real need then purchase it, if it's a want then walk away, save up for it or put it on your Xmas / birthday list for someone else to buy.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Exactly! Thank you for finding my channel.....and a very warm, happy welcome to you here. 😊

[@patmartin9727]

Great video Viv, the more you learn to do yourself means you can keep your costs down. I too will have a go at most things. Growing up poor is a great lesson in life. My parents lived pay check to pay check, there was never enough to go round. Mum could make a meal out of nothing and could cut a current in half and some days in half again. She taught us all to be great full for what we had and the need to work and save for what we wanted.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Yay, good on her...such valuable lessons taught!

[@TheHawki235]

Me and my husband are 24. We moved out two years ago paying £70 a month on our bills, it's gone up to £120 in summer! 😭 I will be using all of your good tips in the winter to keep the costs down for sure. I've also started growing all of our herbs from seed because of your videos. Thank you, Viv, from a young person who felt a little overwhelmed before I found your channel. ❤

[@WhatVivididnext]

Yay, good on you for getting growing! I'm so glad you are feeling a little less overwhelmed now......you are welcome here all the time and folk give great tips and advice in their comments so they're always worth a read.

[@TheHawki235]

@@WhatVivididnext Thank you for replying! I’ve not been the best at growing so far, but I’m learning 🤣 You did give me the push to get growing, I will be trying for some carrots and potatoes next year once I get more of a handle on things. 😊💕

[@JanineHyslop]

@@TheHawki235 potatoes are easy worth doing, carrots not really worth the time and effort I found.

[@susanwood8086]

hi vivi, you are looking better now than you’ve looked for ages. Sue/Swansea x

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you lovely.

[@carolnewton496]

If you find budgeting tricky another tip is to round up. Dealing with whole numbers is easier. So if your mortgage is $1009.28 just round up to 1010 or if possible 1015. The same would go for credit card payments, utilities, car payments etc.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Yes, I totally agree.

[@mimi31268]

🎈wow thank you soo much for talking about all the ways you manage. you're incredibly creative and I love your positive personality 💕 I'm so glad I discovered your channel. xoxo to you from south Florida 😘

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you so much.......and a very warm welcome to you here! 😊

[@samsdadalways888]

Hello Vivi. Hello everybody 🌻

[@WhatVivididnext]

Hello lovely. 😊

[@SW-cu6bw]

Hello from the Norfolk Broads!

[@Sparsam.Achtsam.Echt.]

Hello from Germany and all the best to you and everyone else reading this! ~Annie 🌻😊🧡...

[@debbiechaney6607]

Wonderful video....such great tips for staying frugal and stopping senseless spending. Thank you. Sincerely Debbie and Dexter-Dog my silly sweet rescued Chihuahua companion living a quiet crafty life in southern California. USA.🙏👍🌈🏄🏡🚴🎃🌻🌲💝😄

[@WhatVivididnext]

Awww, thank you lovely......and cuddles to Dexter-Dog from me. 😀

[@alinewright1093]

Water consumption, I have a dish tub in the kitchen sink, when I rinse off vegs, or dishes. Or waiting the water to warm up on tap. I save the water for my flower pots outside and plants close to the back and front door. I get a little more exercise too.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Yay, good on you lovely.

[@jjudy5869]

The biggest eye-opener for most folks is writing down every penny you spend for a month. As tight as I am, I still do it at least once a year to examine if I'm still where I want to be financially. The other is sitting down with something as simple as a spiral notebook once a year (or every six months) and projected out your income and expenses is also eye-opening. In my case, I can't see where I'm going, if I don't know where I've been. Fancy dining at home tip - some chicken, rice and different spices-n-herbs and you can dine all over the world. Or in a Vegetarians case swap the chicken for lentils or chickpeas. Yum, yum good eats!

[@WhatVivididnext]

Absolutely! 😊

[@lindastone9385]

Thankyou once again Vivi! The monthly rule is so important. We managed to pay our mortgage off about 8 years ago, but we were both doing 2 jobs whilst raising a family. However , through saving at a similar time we were able to install Solar thermal and PV. Our friends were jetting off all over the place but we stuck at it. Soooo glad that we did. Our house, on a sunny day, is when everything gets charged. And whilst we are now semi retired, living off small pensions and a few side hustles, and growing as much food as possible in the garden, we don't feel too threatened by the current crisis. These things never happen overnight. It's a long term game!

[@WhatVivididnext]

Oh good on you for going the solar and PV route!!!! I had no idea, when I moved in here, that I would stay for nearly 20 years........if I had known I, too, would have installed solar......argh, kicking myself now.

[@lindastone9385]

@@WhatVivididnext You may well be able to put them in at your new home. Currently our motto is to keep everything simple, embrace frugality and to try and enjoy each day as it comes.

[@logothaironsides2942]

Kaa is the snake. My Grandparents were self sufficient too! Grandad was born in a travelling van and his dad was a circus performer but grandad didn't want to take over the role so he joined the Navy and saved all his pay(12 years) then when he left, he married Grandma and they used the savings to build a little house and start a sort of mini small holding. Wish I had met them . You are so lucky to have met yours!

[@WhatVivididnext]

Oh what a fabulous history - I LOVE it!

[@NomadicNight]

Hi. I just found your channel from one of your followers, after one of her subcribers mentioned you in a KZbin comment. You can't put a price on being mortgage-free. You also sound really posh, for coming from a working-class family, lol. 😇 Anyway, my life has been quite similar to yours, apart from the burglary part. A working class family from the 1970's, with bone stew from our local butchers twice a week, with my Mum having only £25 a week for food, bills and everything else. This is a very honest and down to earth video, and it's really great. I'll watch a few more videos before I decide to subscribe. I wish you a Happy New Year, and I hope you have an amazing 2024 ! 🌷

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you so much for popping over for a look....you're most welcome here. 😊 Hahaha......I'm definitely not posh! 😉

[@mysticmom616]

Have you ever done a flat tour? I’d love to see you home! I’m a new subscriber. I’m a 58 (soon to be 59😱) RN in the US. I’m really enjoying your channel. ❤️ Michele

[@WhatVivididnext]

Thank you so much Michelle......and welcome to you here.....and an early happy birthday wish to you! No, I haven't ever done a tour of the flat but may do in the near future.......hahaha, need to get some work out of the way and tidied up first!

[@Anneen2]

@@WhatVivididnext New subscriber also and would love a flat tour

[@royalpitamamma]

My God Vivi, the story about the robbery shocked me. What a brave little girl you were. I would be so proud of you and scared to death if you were my daughter. I'm still trying to find ways to reduce my bills, but here in the states the heat is above 99 F (37 C) so we have the air conditioner on as the humidity is 55%. We have had heat risk warnings. The air conditioner raises my electric prices to $8 USD per day. Oooof! Typically it is just $3-$4 per day. Energy prices and Petrol are sky rocketing. I can't imagine how I am going to cut back. I watch you for inspiration that Yes, I can...and tips on how. Thank you for the lovely session on KZbin. Always makes me feel like I have had a lovely chat with an old friend.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Oh my goodness, that is such a bill hike to have the air-con on.......ach, I feel for you. 😢

[@PrettyAliceNight]

I’ve done some of those things you mentioned like take out and fast food but it was always when my parents bought it for me. Now as an adult I’ve never bought that stuff myself.

[@WhatVivididnext]

Yay.....we're in the never ever club together! 😉

[@rena4220]

I started using the bucket in the bathroom. I don't have a water bill, it's included in my rent, but I hated seeing the water just run down the drain while waiting for it to get hot. Also use a solar light in the evening. My electric bill is on the budget plan and it gets adjusted every 3-6 months. As I looked over the last bill, the delivery charge was 4 times the supply charge!! Once it gets cold again, it will probably go up again.

[@WhatVivididnext]

The delivery charge does my nut in!!!!!

[@KsoPlans]

The supply charge in Australia on my last bill was 2/3 of my $300 bill a quarter. Even reducing my usage by half… I’ll only save $50 per bill. Costs really are going up and you get no extra value for it. It’s sad but what can we do…

[@rena4220]

@@KsoPlans I've started using solar lights at night. I bought a few cheap ones at Aldi and they are great for my small place. Better than using battery operated ones.