💰 Let's FIND YOUR MONEY!

🧡 Join Patara for another episode from Appalachia's Homestead~
🇺🇸 See you on the farm! 12~6~2023
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#appalachiashomesteadwithpatara

[@celticfiddle7605]

I have made my husband's lunch for work every day for years. He is the only one who brings his lunch. After many years his waistline is the thinnest and his wallet is the fattest!

[@snookiegood6180]

same here....we just shake our heads at all the young adults he works with that eat out every day.

[@dawncrossland3028]

@@snookiegood6180Same

[@tililag5999]

I just cut my boys hair. He didn’t want anything special but a boys haircut, and that saved me $60. You are right we are in survival mode

[@vichellerenae8639]

Me too! I used to be a hairdresser and I cut my hair and my families hair too!

[@valerier4308]

I got clippers and cut my son's hair. Thank goodness it's curly and doesn't show if I make a little mistake! LOL

[@petethemeat9010]

This is Mrs Pete. I started cutting my husbands hair when no one could go anywhere. I got yelled at from the hairdresser because I cut his hair. Ummm. Yeah!

[@annejennings8568]

I cut my hair- very fine and use the “ wolf cut” works fine I do my hubbys too we do a spring cut #8 and then just a 4 finger length cut till next spring.. doing this for years

[@MFV77]

Sixty for a kid’s haircut?

[@tarajoanmitchell6552]

My mother, 86, trained us to live this way daily. Always buy on sale. The only light on is the light you're using. Use thermal blackout drapes to close in living spaces, including the bed to keep the heat in winter, etc. No waste, recycle, upcycle, put a sweater on, and the heat is Only turned above 64 when we're in the house during the daytime. Thanks, mom...

[@fullofgracehomestead]

Those thermal curtains are awesome and helps on drafts!!

[@gaylewilhelm9706]

Ours set at 65

[@Dolly11165]

Sounds like my mom 😊

[@carolchism5742]

My mom too!! And me as well!!! Raised my kids to be careful!!!

[@SpiritSky]

Thermal curtains can be expensive. We used easy apply film from Home Depot. Provides privacy but keeps the heat and sun out.

[@micheletaal4442]

My kids moved out in 2020. Turned off the cable and sold 3 tv’s and haven’t looked back. KZbin is my entertainment. My only eating out is taco Tuesday and I have 3 tacos for total of $6.00 and only once or twice a month. I learned how to can this summer and I’m making my own bread. Being frugal is kinda fun and I’m really enjoying it.

[@yoginimichelleh]

It’s become a game for us! So enjoying the game!

[@terrycurtis9757]

Yes!! It IS fun!😊

[@Jeo_Momma]

This will be my third winter at 7200' keeping my room in the 50s... Unheated. I use a heated lap robe, heating pad and corn bag. I wear Sherpa sweats and wear sheepskin boots. I'm a meal stretcher and plan our meals around sales. You're describing our lives ..

[@celticfiddle7605]

I bought a large 100% wool Irish sweater on eBay. It makes me look like a beach ball but hey if it keeps me warm and alive this Winter I will wear it every day!

[@lisaannwhite4080]

I kept my heat at 50 last winter. This year I’m splurging at 55. I live at 9,000.

[@Jeo_Momma]

@@lisaannwhite4080 I lived at 8500' for 31 years so 7200' is toasty in comparison! I love it cool...

[@user-gn1jf7sg4n]

You brought up some awesome ideas that I can revisit. I'm going to check everything in my house and check my budget again and call again to see if my cards will give me a few months lower interest rate (which a couple did a few years back). Plus, check into transferring a balance onto a new card. Thanks for that reminder. You are always so insightful. Tickling the memory and getting me back on track. Love you and your videos ❤😊

[@laurielong8277]

Use what you have Want what you got Get what you need

[@soyoucametosee7860]

Yes!

[@loisjkindel180]

Well said!

[@go3484]

Use it up. Wear it out. Make it do or do without. That's our motto.

[@colleenrichpickett8825]

Our propane company locked in a lower price per gallon if we paid the years amount up front. We took out a credit card that was interest free for 21 months. We divided the total amount by 12 and paid that amount for the year. No interest and saved money.

[@classicrocklover5615]

If you are making additional payments, make sure the extra payments are noted "for principle payment only".

[@Coyotes-galore]

I hang my laundry out on the clothesline until about 3/4 dry, then bring in and finish off in the dryer. I have done this for years and have saved a ton of propane. Cloths smell so fresh and are just as soft. $$$ saved. 🇺🇸

[@brittanym58]

Same here!

[@dannydurastanti7235]

Me too. Everyone thinks I'm silly for doing it that way.

[@sharonbeehm9060]

During heating season I vent the dryer into the house with nylon over vent to catch lint. . Heat n moisture...lint is then used to make firestarters

[@kellymetz4869]

Also a drying rack is handy

[@lisac1619]

Better yet, get rid of the dryer.

[@dragonlady8961]

It's just my husband and I, and on Mondays, I can get a $6.99 rotisserie chicken. With one chicken, we eat about 8-10 meals. 1 Breast and rice side (day one). Other breast and sweet potato hash (day two). Chicken pasta salad or a casserole (day three). Then, I use the rest to cook down into a chicken soup. With just the 2 of us, we eat well for over a week on 1 chicken.

[@shirleypoplo-ej7lz]

Very nice !

[@bluebirdgramma6317]

Melee toooo. Love the chicken soup with scraps.

[@skyleen]

You bet! I've been doing that for awhile.

[@salonsavy6476]

I just bought one for supper

[@user-wm4el5hv3c]

we do that too .... get at least three meals from it. remnants go to chic salad sammies

[@Becka034]

I keep the heat at 60, when I am home all day alone and we live up north 😂. Then when hubby gets home after work it goes to 65. Hotflashes work to my advantage 😂

[@susiebilk9905]

❤❤❤

[@Spot4art]

I set this new year budget up this month. We use CCs but we have total discipline with zero balance all month. We got rewards and used it toward Christmas. Cook from scratch. We do not waste food. We rarely eat out. Make popcorn for snacks. Drink water.

[@Livefreeordi]

Me too it’s not that hard to live simpler.

[@cindyp2991]

We do that too! We use our CCs and keep zero balances. We take advantage of the CC rewards for extra prepping items or for gifts. Our meals are 90-95% home cooked and we have near zero waste. I’m always shocked at the prices when we do go out for a meal.

[@elizabethhutson9767]

Eating out is so overrated, and everything is so expensive these days.

[@dragonlady8961]

I shop for the group home I work at and go to a store with a rewards program. Each November, I build up enough points to get 2 turkeys. I had one still in the freezer, so this year, I gave all 3 to families that needed it. My family did an appetizer, potluck, Thanksgiving... it was great.

[@terrycurtis9757]

​​ @@Livefreeordi and, isn't it more joyful? It sure is to me ❤

[@wvnanaskitchenandgarden]

I’ve worked on my bedroom turned pantry all day. I’m re-organizing and inventorying it. My formal living room is a hot mess. Tomorrow will be day 2 of the organization project. 🤪🤷‍♀️ I’m praying I can finish it up tomorrow. My plan is to NOT have to go to the grocery store the entire winter, except for dairy and fresh produce.

[@aperry4313]

Oh my goodness - do you live in my house? Lol our bedrooms and livingroom are part pantry too !

[@mariewheeler5626]

I've cleaned, organized my food storage. I'm in the process of labeling each bottle. Whatever food "looks" old, I dry the food and give that to my chickens and turkeys. I've used every bit of the turkey from Thanksgiving meal. From pressure bottled turkey meat, made turkey stock and broth, to crushing the bones for cat food. There was no waste.😊

[@pattiemoseley8752]

My entire house has been turned into a pantry. I have food and supplies everywhere 😂❤

[@wvnanaskitchenandgarden]

@@aperry4313😂😂😂. I thought I was the only one that turned an empty bedroom into a pantry. I have things I pulled out of the pantry room scattered all over my formal living room. I meet my husband at the door this evening and told him it’s a work in progress 😂😂😂

[@wvnanaskitchenandgarden]

@@mariewheeler5626I’m labeling the shelves. Moving shelves up on the units in order to put more things on the floor underneath the shelving units. It’s been a job!

[@sonigram5882]

Ask your utility company if they can help you save money on your utilities, especially older people. Ask your trash removal company if it would be cheaper if you had them pick up every OTHER week. Cook Enough for leftovers. Stop all subscriptions to magazines, newspapers etc.

[@nancydrew1102]

Also tv subscription too like Hulu,Neon , Netflix etc

[@soyoucametosee7860]

Our dump is only a few miles away. I recycle everything possible. It takes me 2 months to make a bag to go to the dump. So I just drive there every other month. Maybe use $2 gas. If I had garbage pick up service I believe it is $30 a month now. Save big, waste little.

[@teeser2436]

I do the same $ 5.50 every3 weeks is better than $30. A month.

[@Linda-fg2rz]

Set at 60 degrees here. Just fine with my 2 big dogs, flannel pjs and wool blankets. I quit the bad habit of smoking many years ago but i still put away $15 a day that i used to spend on them. Its amazing how fast it adds up and i feel much better too😊

[@bluebirdgramma6317]

Proud of you!

[@Linda-fg2rz]

@@bluebirdgramma6317 thank you!

[@mc-si7vq]

That's great!

[@girlonaswing9439]

Awesome! Pray, my husband quits.

[@Linda-fg2rz]

@@girlonaswing9439 🙏🙏

[@Jeo_Momma]

I've saved $700 a year grooming our poodle. Over 45 years, I've collected professional grooming clippers, blades, etc. I also cut my husband's hair... With the dog scissors and clippers!

[@muchomacho2504]

That there is funny! Years ago I complained to my wife about cutting my hair with the same clippers she lent out to cut the hair of kids in the family. She refused to stop (thereby putting me at risk of lice and cooties). I went out and bought a professional style, very expensive clipper. It was understood without me having to say it this was going to be shared with neither kids nor puppies!

[@happy2cya70]

I used to cut my hubby's hair with our dog clippers when he was in the AF. LOL

[@Jeo_Momma]

@@muchomacho2504 that's a hoot! I trim my hair with the same scissors, too.

[@MarkZart]

Hey, I just don’t cut mine atall 👍

[@kerrywills8715]

Me too 😅

[@Seoulmom60]

We boughtv1/2 beef this spring, so glad we did. Monday I cooked a rump roast in the crockpot with onions, carrots and potatoes. Leftover potatoes got fried for breakfast. I saved the broth and the next day made beef stroganoff. Tonight I used the rest of the broth, about a cup of home canned tomatoes that I had froze and the rest of the carrots and made vegetable beef soup. Leftovers will be lunch.. of course I added other ingredients but was able to reinvent all of my leftovers rather than waste. I took it one step further and took the beef fat and did a wet tallow rendering. I have never cooked with tallow but will try frying some potatoes with it. 100% zero waste.

[@EyeAmCoa]

I just bought the supplies to wash and groom my 4 dogs! The equipment cost the amount of one grooming appointment! Best decision ever

[@jjsadventures]

I have 7 small dogs and I was paying $315 every 6 weeks to have them groomed. I now do my own grooming and saving that money

[@nancyockrin7428]

I bought the clippers , and working up the courage to cut my toy poodles hair. I did our boys growing up, so I should be able to do this. 14 years ago it was less than $30 for his haircut. Now it’s pushing $50…

[@victoriajohnson3034]

Have a girl's day once a month at someone's house to do potluck brunch. Plan to so a project together. Sewing, hair, nails, canning, anything you all want to do and help each other with. Have it be a productive fun day! Saves money while having fun.

[@tammihughes6229]

Great idea

[@debbywelchel3893]

I have a Trac phone $100.00 a year. Only used for emergencies. Land line use only. No credit cards here either. Only shop sales. Burn firewood all the time. No gas bill. I have battery candles for light. I wash clothes in cold water. Leftovers are great. Thank You for your ideas makes sense. Praying for all.

[@bluebirdgramma6317]

U sound like me.

[@rosie7715]

And me also

[@JD-dg1kw]

I don't respond to videos very often, but I had to with this video. This is the exact type of video we all need. I am reading everyone's responses and learning how to save more $ from the great people in the chat! Thank James too for me, because I will be saving $40 a month on Verizon too...that pays for my insurance increases on my autos and home! Thank you Everyone! Ohhh, I'm also liking the ideas on leftover recipes too from the chat.

[@sharonoverton9897]

I am 70 ..keep my heat on 60 degrees...have a tiny electric stove I use in the bathroom for 10 minutes when I shower..wear leggings with sweat pants over them..long sleeve shirt...with hooded sweat shirt over it...sleep with a heated lap blanket on top of my body..then the covers..and I live in Maine it is cold sista...

[@bluebirdgramma6317]

❤❤❤

[@grammamary7283]

Layering is the key here in Minnesota too. Am 72.

[@Evyenne]

During covidtime, I found a great trick. You can refill foaming hand soap bottles. I’ve used body wash and dish soap. Just put about a half inch of the soap in the empty bottle and slowly add tap water. Reattach the lid. Shake up and down, it will mix eventually. You use a lot less soap and I personally have four or five of these I just refill for kitchen and bathrooms. None have stopped working yet. 😊

[@kimjohnson7133]

Same here. It works great. Leave air space at top so it will foam.

[@diesel9650]

Yeah I've been doing the same thing and saying thank you God for these clean clothes thank you Lord for the nice warm shower and all this water and all my food a lot lately it's so easy to take things for granted , great video

[@celticfiddle7605]

Amen to that!!!😁

[@terrycurtis9757]

Yes!! Gratitude! Thank you for the reminder

[@sonigram5882]

I always try to do several stops when i go somewhere to save gas

[@gabriella7471]

Being frugal is where it’s at. Just me and hubby and we still shop bjs and Sam’s. Instead of 2 cans of this and that we buy a case and we very rarely run out. I am a coupon queen. Like you, dinner out is really a treat but actually my food taste better and I know what is in it. You my dear lady is very inspiring 💕

[@susandavidson635]

My husband retired last year and our income was cut by 2/3. However, we planned ahead and we now have no mortgages, no car payments, no debts except for 2 credit cards that we pay off monthly. We moved to a tiny mountain town in the Rockies, and the whole town is about 2 blocks long, so we don't use a lot of gas. I am able to get a lot of food for free at the local senior center - everything from fresh or frozen meats (turkey, chicken, pork, beef, sausage) to fresh produce, canned goods, rice, beans, flours, pasta - so our grocery bills are very low. You are so right, advising people to consider their expenses and find ways to cut back. It can be done - it just takes determination and discipline. Keep on preaching and teaching!!!

[@teripittman]

So smart to move to a place with a low cost of living. I've only used it once but we have transit service here, $2 round trip.

[@tripletfeb4034]

I've also started making my own hand soap and laundry detergent. So much cheaper and cleans wonderfully

[@leecoughlin4408]

I also do that.

[@kellymetz4869]

Cut old clothes into squares to make quilts. This is a tip from my grandma. She was 3 when the Great Depression started

[@bluebirdgramma6317]

Yep, I was born in 1934

[@kellymetz4869]

@@bluebirdgramma6317 you are great resource to have at this point in time.♥️

[@kimjohnson7133]

Mine too! I would recognize the material from the clothes she had made us in the quilt!

[@sandysmith8567]

This is a tiny thing, but realized how much more shampoo I was using than I needed. Usually buy it in a regular bottle that you pour into your hand. Bought shampoo with a pump. I only needed to use 11/2 pumps to really clean my hair. It was probably half the amount of what I'd been carelessly using. Most shampoos aren't in that type of bottle, so just pour it into one that is. Might really help if you have kids.

[@bettyir4302]

Squeegee it off your hair and onto your body to get double use.

[@kellymetz4869]

I found that leaving my hair longer allows me to wash my hair half as often without using more shampoo. Longer hair is easier to pull back away from my face or put in a simple bun. When my hair was shorter I need more styling products to control it.

[@MarkZart]

@@bettyir4302or save it for next time!

[@reneenewfrock5743]

Yes, every bit counts!

[@kimjohnson7133]

Get your hair soaking wet before putting shampoo on. A lot of people use too much shampoo because their hair is not wet enough to lather. Try it. Also use 1 pump and rub it in your hand before applying to scalp area. Shampoo at scalp and work your suds out to the rest. Rinse very well. It’s more about wet hair and a thorough rinse to get hair clean.

[@ahicks414]

When I was first married at age 18, living in an army town in 1970, our main form of entertainment was driving around each evening (gas prices were cheap back then) and sometimes shopping. But we never bought anything. We knew we couldn't afford to buy anything. My mom thought it would tempt us to spend, but it never did. For Thanksgiving, we found another couple from our old high school and planned our Thanksgiving meal together. Had the complete thing, with everybody's favorite dressing, too. And we were all able to afford it, with lots of leftovers.

[@user-iu3in5ui6z]

Fun fact on this feast of St Nicholas day I wanted to share that the real Saint nick was born in a town called Patara!!! It was in Asia Minor now known as Turkey 😊

[@marthabowser501]

Got rid of TV, ditched the cell phone,.....got more goats!❤

[@quietlyobserving3734]

My Dad was an electrician. Years ago he told us to unplug anything that wasn’t being used. It still draws some electricity even when it’s turned off. We use some power strips now to make it easier. Just hit the switch! Plus, if your power goes out, you won’t lose anything to a power surge when it comes back on. We saved 40% on our electric bill! 😊

[@Andrea-HeIsKing]

Love them little tail wagging babes.💕 I have an aerial antenna. Fifty mile antenna on my roof $50. No monthly bill. No internet. Im on my dumb phone. By time I clean 7-10 houses a week,3 dogs,2 horses,house, gardens,yard maintenance, I fall asleep in front of the tv at night.( Usually Grit tv.😀) Im not paying for tv to fall asleep. God bless🙏

[@jasonmerrifield6342]

It's the tails that do it for me too. And the ears! 😆

[@nancykegg1417]

Love the animals on your farm. You can find solitude working with them ❤.

[@gretchenarrant8334]

Those dear little tails wagging are just too cute!!

[@CarlaQuattlebaum]

@gretchenarrant8334 - Pretty neat how she set up that feeding station!

[@carlaherrschaft5869]

We wash clothes and hang them on the clothes line. I have the poles that my grandfather made over 60 years ago. We plan washing around the weather.

[@Jean-sv6kk]

Same hear.

[@helgabruin2261]

Same here. My living room gets used for clothes drying on rainy days. It's the only warm-ish room.

[@yoginimichelleh]

Laundry hanging in our room with the ceiling fan on for an hour or so, then turn it off overnight and it’s dry in the morning!

[@sillylilysallykaye4917]

Wool socks hanging on a tension rod above kitchen sink. Hopefully, heat rising will dry them tonight. We shall see.

[@C11120]

I let my gray hair grow out and I am saving a ton of money. I remember saying I would work 2 jobs to pay for my hair to be done, but now I’m so glad I did it and the best part is my husband loves it and I get a lot of compliments out in public. It’s a win win

[@robertwalker5521]

If a person is paying the credit card balance with a check, know that USPS mail services continue to get slower & slower. And...if your payment arrives at their office a day or two before the FINAL date, those checks have been known to "rest" on a desk....which allows a $35.00 or more 'late charge's Try to mail the payment the day after the bill arrives in your mailbox

[@snotgurgletroll1812]

I have a credit card which can be SLOW on posting. Was hit with a late fee ONCE. Since then I pay my bills by phone using checking account. Getting hit by a late fee is horrendous!@@

[@SassySue67]

With some credit cards you can pay it over the phone with your checking account.

[@christinaadams6092]

Note that they sometimes claim it was late but if you send it registered with return receipt it always seems to arrive AND get posted on time. Hmm , I wonder why? Not really....

[@patriciacave4450]

That happened to my brother. He gets the bill that day mailed it out the next day and he was constantly being late and he told him pics of the hill off the desk and put it through but they do that on purpose.

[@patsternburg8737]

@@SassySue67sometimes for a fee, so check with them first.

[@nadinecarson3259]

We’ve really cut back too. We bundled everything at Spectrum (our cable co.) & now have our phone, internet & cable for $220. We were paying $500! We stopped going out to eat every wkend & now go every other. You’re going to laugh Patara … I’m now washing my paper plates 🤣 while I stock up on them so we have them when we’re really going to need them. My grandaughter lives with us & I’ve sat her down & talked to her & now she’s shutting her lights off in her bedroom & her bathroom when she’s done. She started doing her own laundry & now we’re back to the 3 of us putting our laundry together. We have to start making different choices because everything has skyrocketed. We’re so happy … my husband got his truck paid off & I got my car paid off! We are still truly blessed by God! I so appreciate your videos 💕

[@bettyir4302]

Word of caution with bundling. When the cable and internet goes out (it does regularly here), then your phone does, too.

[@tresa8166]

Like most people living paycheck to paycheck, it is hard to find those extra pennies. One suggestion on saving, have breakfast for supper. Pancakes and eggs are awesome after a hard days work. GOD bless all who believe.

[@bluebirdgramma6317]

And so healthy tooooo.

[@dragonslayer7587]

Since I've been using baking soda for toothpaste, {I hate floride} my teeth are better off & I'm saving money! I've got Internet and a TV antenna, and THAT'S saved me big bucks! I also switched my cell service to Metro PCS, and THAT'S saved me a bunch. Inflation has eaten up my "saving" money tricks, but by doing this, I've stayed ahead of the worst of it.

[@go3484]

I use baking soda too. And have noticed my teeth are healthier.

[@kathebert8093]

Entertainment: Our library lends some really good movies, for a week at a time. They may not be the latest, but maybe the library has something you wanted to see, but missed. Our family has had some fun times at home watching the films and eating popcorn.

[@snotgurgletroll1812]

I don't have cable/dish. I have quite a few of my own dads but I do get dvds thru the library (forc1 week). Even get duds thru interlibrary loans!

[@rayf6126]

We have a DVD, VCR combo player and the VHS tapes are .10 cents per at our local thrift store. We have a massive collection of movies and shows for probably $500 over 7 years.

[@patsternburg8737]

@@rayf6126think about hosting a movie night with friends or neighbors. Great getting together and having fellowship.

[@user-hw9vf4pl9s]

librarys are AWESOME!!!

[@MN_Cozy]

Locate and buy a copy of The Tightwad Gazette! I was a subscriber to the original newsletter!! It will pay for itself!

[@teresaellis895]

Hubby just retired Nov 17th.He has army pension over 20 years but adjusting to no paychecks.First ss comes middle Jan..We are saving on gas with him not commuting 90 miles a day but its a new frame of mind now..We live pretty simple..

[@bluebirdgramma6317]

It'll be easier when you do things together to make memories. I have many awesome pictures of our retired years now that hubby has gone to heaven. The memories keep me going!❤

[@buckeyedav1]

@@bluebirdgramma6317 same here with losing my husband 4 months ago I treasure the photo albums. Anna In Ohio

[@donnakennell5111]

Prior to marrying my amazing husband, I'd been poor, having to make everything last. Never lost that mentality. I still eat once or twice a day, half servings - not for everyone, but it works for me and holiday feasts take on new appreciation. 1st suggestion, when any bottle or jug gets low, add water to get 1 or 2 extra uses (detergents, shampoo, syrups). That dab of sauce, empty it into a storage dish (pyrex). Example; I mix mayo, ketchup & mustard dabs for sandwich spread. Frugality is a staged battle in our home (food, hygiene, utilities). The oldest teen is in full rebellion mode with 3 months left before he "escapes" and finds out the "They" way of living in adulthood doesn't come with the snap of a finger... I have been teaching conservation and frugality for years. For instance, using the sinks without running the water constantly, timed showers, only leaving lights on when you're in the room (exception is the Christmas tree and small porch lights, which replace lamps during holidays). If your clothes can be wiped clean, you can wear them again. There is a laundry day for each son - full load only. I'm going from dryer to line dry in the spring. Switching to cloth napkins and dish clothes cuts down paper goods. I DO wash off and reuse my tin foil, ziplocs & wax paper (dangit the costs). Love my swiffer, but I use old rags instead of buying the refill pads. Make my own cleaning solutions. I gave up my yearly beauty treat, a friend trims my hair. Lol, we dress for the weather and our bedding and clothes are layered. I accumulated fleece blankets & throws, no electric blankets. I (just me) shampoo once a week, full shower Saturday, sink wash unless I'm really dirty. Big tip... get a good sewing kit and start repairing things instead of throwing away. Example, Our dog's bean bag (reused kid chair) bed sprung a leak. I collected the little pearls, refilled the bag, stitched up the hole rather than spend $60 for a new dog bed. I could go on, but all this is to share how we've become accustomed to throwing things away as a society. My yard doesn't look like Sanford & Sons, nor my home..but if I see a usable item discarded, it comes home with me. To fellow gardeners - the price of those pretty plastic pots $$$ spray painting other containers is cheaper & creative. The point is, look closely at what you can do and do without... I'm not dirty, unhealthy or a troll in a cave.. My family is healthy, presents well, my animals well tended. It's not BH&G (that's pre-pinterest time), but my home is warm & welcoming. I'm only 64, I still get spoiled in this lifestyle. Unexpected gift is gratitude and knowing we live life not missing what we don't have.

[@iktr109]

When cough cough hit, my husband could not find a haircut to save his life, so I decided to start learning how to cut his hair. It probably took me twice as long as a professional but here we are years later… I’m getting faster and he is satisfied with the results. That’s all that matters to me. Saving 20$ every 2 weeks now

[@bluebirdgramma6317]

❤❤❤

[@salonsavy6476]

👍👍👍

[@stardanya2114]

Same here

[@JohnLemlyJr-dc5gh]

There are many videos on Utube to learn how to cut various hair cuts.

[@kimklingele2019]

Same here!! He won’t go back to the hairdresser now. I’m his forever barber from here on out…saving $55 every month.

[@Centexgem]

We get an internet hotspot from the library. The library also lends dvd movies and cd music. They also have the things called books.

[@janenichols3880]

I don’t get my hair colored since I retired in 2012. My hair is naturally white. I have a Covid hairdo. I stopped getting my hair cut back then. Now I cut my own hair! lol!

[@dfegley302]

More of this please!!!! So many need the push to save and it's so helpful just to throw ideas out. People are drowning in debt. We just paid off our mortgage 🎉 - awesome feeling. Now I'm going to find major ways to cut back again. Thank you Patara! And tell James thank you - I'm going to look into that as well 😊

[@heatherlj2847]

Commenting as I watch. We got rid of cable 5 years ago. Movies from the library are suiting us just fine.

[@MaddsUkjentAZ]

Yes!😊

[@helgabruin2261]

You have internet, and youtube has a ton of great movies.

[@heatherlj2847]

@helgabruin2261 I have a cell phone. Can't watch most movies on it and wouldn't want to with the family.

[@terrycurtis9757]

​@@heatherlj2847yes! Me too! And on top of it all - it's a better life ❤

[@imaliveinjesus]

We began returning to the Basic Necessities in early 2023. Now, we only owe a little less than $1,000 on our Tiny House. Then, we are Debt Free from typical debts of today. Thank God, we will only be paying for 4 items on the necessity list in the future. #1. Electric #2. Vehicle Insurance #3. Phone #4. Trash Pick Up The rest of our monthly income will be used for Fuel (Gas), food items, and household cleaning supplies. WOOHOO!!!

[@NeighborofKT]

Mending and stain removal...so often when I shop at the thrift store, I find current style clothes, but one little button is missing or there is a little smudge on a sleeve, or a seam is a little unraveled. Evidently, the original owner of the garment couldn't be bothered to replace the button, mend the seam or use a little elbow grease to remove the slight stain. I take the item home, take 5 minutes to fix the problem, and it looks like I have a brand new garment.

[@mc-si7vq]

That's great. I recently almost got a shirt that had a stain. I wasn't sure if the stain would come out, though, and I didn't end up getting it.

[@LoriHall-db2mq]

Would you believe people don't know how to sew on a button. 😂

[@NeighborofKT]

@@LoriHall-db2mq yes, I know someone who said she didn't know how.

[@benton-benton]

Beautiful just absolutely beautiful, the intro. The music is so perfect for all the beautiful wonderful animals. I just love it. Thank you Patara!❤❤❤❤

[@Honeybadgerwisdom]

Random thoughts: dump all luxuries immediately including gym, spas, nail salons, etc. Challenge yourself to 1-2 days a week as no spend. This creates habit of finding free things to do and uses up leftovers. If you go out to eat (like once a month at most), utilize the lunch menu or happy hour discounted hors doeuvres as a meal. Increase deductible on insurances reducing monthly or quarterly fees. We put our motorcycle insurance on hold during the winter and activate only in summer months. Unplug appliances not in use. Time to sell unused items and organize to prevent impulse purchases just because you can't find something. Most sauces can be made cheaper with a homemade version. Check the expiring meat bin at the grocery. They deep discount meats that will exceed sell buy date within a day or so. This is good meat at huge discount and can be frozen or eaten within a day.

[@iktr109]

Great ideas! Thank you!

[@bluebirdgramma6317]

❤❤❤❤

[@Tambryl]

You could can those meats, too - we have done and it's great for throwing together a quick, healthy meal.

[@Mrgreenjeans578]

I’m in the process of trying to downsize we are retired and have so much stuff that we could sell but I’m not sure where to advertise etc. I could wait until spring and have a massive yard sale

[@terrycurtis9757]

Yes!! And it's a better life too, isn't it?

[@sharondoyle2132]

At almost 68 yrs old.. I live alone. I have lowered utilities. Less lights on and heat at 68°... I am going to unplug unnecessary items. I love using coupons! I do not over shower and only do wash when really necessary. I dropped Dish network and that saves over $600.00 a yr. I pay cash for things... I pay less per month on my smartphone use by being on my daughters grouping. I don't use too much water and my water bill is every 3 months... I cut my own hair... No pedicures or manicures. :)

[@krys3216]

check with your county and see if they have a program for us "old people" I am saving over half on my taxes something about a homestead act. There are also alot of discounts out there for us. search for them and they will find you :) ML&BLSNGS

[@donnaaskew3684]

A heated mattress pad is a game changer! Turn it on about 10 minutes before you go to bed and climb into a toasty bed. Then turn it OFF.

[@dianay6691]

Never had a heated mattress either. Just wore more clothes.

[@jjsadventures]

Hallelujah!!!! Someone else thinks like me! I’ve been doing that for awhile and am trying to get my husband to get rid of cable but can’t get him to budge.

[@user-mp8kd3qz2o]

Look into doing something like Roku.

[@sheilawood1407]

You can also downsize your cable package to start...

[@Liz45779]

Same here girl

[@VJJBodhi]

I opened 4 credit cards to pay bills and big purchases (I already have cash to pay) to get the welcome bonuses. $740 in 2-6mo yay!! Did this last year too when buying a woodstove (spend $500 get $200 bonus, spend $1000 get $100, etc) Just make sure there’s no annual fee and you pay the balance before the due date to not get hit with interest. Orthodontic/dental work-down payments, electric bill, water bill, school lunch account, clothes, food shopping, gas, gym membership, etc. Crush the “devil” by beating them at their own game!

[@chandraachtenberg3123]

I order groceries from the local grocery store online and then use the pick up option. This allows me to shop the sales circular, pair it with online coupons, see my total and if need be change things to stay on budget and eliminate impulse buying. This has saved my a bunch. Also let my hair grow out, no longer need it cut every 3-4 weeks to keep it styled. I have got it cut 2 in 3 years and I went to Walmart for that because I don’t need to pay salon prices for trimming dead ends. I

[@ladydhayney3700]

I didn't know Walmart had beauty salons. I got my prescription glasses from Walmart. Much cheaper than the optician connected to the opthomilogist office. I just ask for the prescription.

[@emptynesterinnc8297]

Got our eyeglasses' prescriptions from the dr and then ordered online at zenni. Very happy withem and sooo much cheaper! Actually got 2 pairs each last time and go to the eye Dr every other year...prescriptions don't change that much.

[@allysonburns6214]

My grocery store (Kroger) offers a senior discount on the 1st Wed of the month. Maybe over 55ers dont know this!

[@GardeningLady]

The senior discount at Kroger was discontinued in at least state of Kentucky.

[@PatriciaTasker]

Dear Patara, I have been making your "PATARA'S COBBLER" ever since you made your video on how to make it. I always add 1 or 2 apples chopped or slices or chunks dotted on the batter before the intended fruit is added on top. This makes it stretch much further and everyone enjoys the surprise of apples in the COBBLER. I chop up the apples and squeeze a lemon, lime or orange over them, to prevent browning. Thank you for all you share. MERRY CHRISTMAS. Sincerely, Patricia Joan Tasker

[@CrazyWeather78]

So many of the things you talked about I already do. One thing that I do when I go out for dinner, which isn’t very often, is make the meal basically two. Instead of eating everything and feeling stuffed, I save enough for the next nights meal. The portion are usually so big anyway and if they are not then the next night I cut up some fruit or add a vegetable. It’s still cheaper than making a whole meal again. I know this is easy for me because I am single but a couple could do this or even a family on pizza night. Save a slice of pizza for everybody and the next night heat it up and serve a salad with it. If you don’t think that’s enough make some breadsticks or open a can of peaches. I used to feel miserable after I ate out because I didn’t want the food to go to waste and I would think I could eat it all . If I did take some home it wasn’t enough for a meal and it would end up in the trash sometimes. I don’t do that anymore.

[@bluebirdgramma6317]

I always get "doggie bag" if I eat out!

[@allgood6884]

I ask for a take home container before I start eating my meal. That way if I don't want the leftovers , someone else has a fresh meal the next day.

[@pamdore9292]

We do the same

[@mc-si7vq]

I do that too. I don't eat out many places or very often at all. One of the few places I go has a happy hour with some 1/2 price appetizers. I enjoy one of those too and sometimes have almost my entire meal for later. I figure it is nice to look at it as a double treat and not near as expensive when it's double the meals. Plus, this restaurant tries to use local and sustainable. I like to support that 😊

[@wdaiken61]

I color my roots myself $8 every 5weeks, I cut my husband's hair, have for 34 years.I can take a turkey breast and turn it into 4 meals (1 dinner, 2 lunches, and leftovers go into a vegetable soup). I pack my lunch on the days I go to work (water in a mug too), my husband works from home so his car stays in the garage ( less gas). I planted my own garden to offset grocery prices, and I've still managed to prep and save. We do have 1 credit card that we use for purchases. It is paid off every month. Using the credit card and accumulating points that i just recently cashed in literally paid for a solar generator to keep my garage frig running should the shtf! Everyone can make it work!

[@oldnanz]

I changed phone company and saved $100 a month. I only go in town once a week on Tuesdays grocery store senior citizen day save 10%.

[@thevanhyfte]

If you have can goods that are getting close to the date, open them and turn them into something else and then recan. Example tomatoes can be turned into pasta sauce, pizza sauce, ketchup and tomato juice. When you find produce onsale buy it and freeze it, dehydrate it or can it. Buy larger cuts of meat and cut it into smaller chunks for more than one meal. Turn leftovers into new meals

[@bettyir4302]

Even if you don't can, set that out of date food item front and center on the counter so you use it asap.

[@squeekytoys5911]

Great ideas.👌

[@connievaughn8468]

For commercially canned foods, that date is Best Buy, not expire. AND they are actually fine for several years after the date as long as the can is not damaged. Don't get rid of food you would normally use because of that date.

[@littleflockontheprairie4871]

Yes! I freeze-dried many cans of green beans that were "past due." No waste!

[@user-yr4lb7gi2z]

Dehydrating canned and or frozen vegetables saves from losing nutrients, freezer burn after a while and takes up little space.... Think about it. There are all kinds of instructions out there- internet, books @ yard sales, book stores, thrift stores......

[@auntnan9121]

“A day that would go down in infamy”. My father was there, aboard the Nevada. He seldom spoke of it, but I could tell when it was on his mind. Today is December 7 and I turned on the tv this morning, just to hear nothing about that “infamous” day. I’ll not forget as we watch so much being revealed in these days. God bless those who were there, who never came home and those who remember….PS: Thanks for all you do Patara.♥️

[@janetreindl1711]

Yes -- I was mentioning to my husband that I did not come across one reference to December 7th, that it must be getting too far in the past for most people to have any awareness of. My dad, born in 1925, passed earlier this year and he and I would always remember and acknowledge the date and the sacrifices made.

[@marendababcock6104]

When baking, jeep that oven door open when finished. Let thst nice warm het heat up your kitchen.

[@rosa632]

What we’re going through right now, is that there have been at least 3 homes in our neighborhood, that have sold for 500k. Because of that our home insurance & taxes have gone up. 🙄 It has left the locals hurting. We would have have moved but the exodus of those coming in was truly jaw dropping. We meal stretch, if the lights are on, I walk by & turn off the lights, we do what we can to cut back. At this point, we are rolling up our sleeves & keep at it. Trusting that G-d will Keep Us in the days ahead. Stay the course dear community!

[@benton-benton]

Property tax is just awful. It's my biggest expense. There are no frills at all in my life b/c 2/3 of my income goes to property tax. Would like to move, but can't afford an apartment. Good luck to you with the high property tax.

[@lesliestevenson1538]

We pack lunches for the kids and my son in law, often sending leftovers from the night before for son in law. We consolidate our travel to cooperate with appointments and keep a little list in the fridge for anyone who has to go run errands, We've been learning how to make our favorite fast food and just don't eat out. We pack a small cooler with drinks and little crackers etc when we run errands. We price compare for everything we need to purchase.

[@teeser2436]

Same happened to me because of Airbnb on my road.🙁

[@ladycountdown]

Homeowners need to get together with enough signatures and pass bill in your State to keep Homeowner's property taxes lower and not market rate adjusted. California did this but included business owned as in corporate properties as well.

[@patsternburg8737]

@@lesliestevenson1538copycat recipes are great for recreating those meals you love.

[@neenahteresa8008]

We hang dry our clothes even in winter. The dryer is soo expensive to run!!

[@dlgjsu]

Hey PATERA, this is one of your BEST. Continue to Encourage people too READ the comments on this. Most IMPORTANT thing is besides providing TIPS on SAVING, It lets people KNOW that THEY are NOT ALONE and do not have to keep up with others. A lot of people UNKNOWINGLY are SHAMED into wasting money... Love ya'll ! Agree with you except 3rd week of Oct. ROLL TIDE!

[@joeymartin2474]

Went out with friends first time in a while. Had 3 fancy beers, wife paid the bill. Got home and she looked me in the eyes n said those beers were $9 each😮. When did that happen? Won't be doing that ever again.😅😂

[@mysticimagesart5827]

The credit card fees used to be paid by the retailers or businesses.....now, they are passing that "fee" along to the customers.

[@judycummings3127]

These are great reminders! I have gotten lazy over the years, will now get back to being wise with the money God has allowed us to make!

[@linda487nc]

Yes, everything we have is by the grace of God. I try to be the best steward of it that I can.

[@annejennings8568]

A year ago I cut old bed sheet into bandana sized hankies so we have nose wipers while working outside. All towels - some sheets-work their way through the house and last into garage rags. Many Big sheets end up as pillow cases/ quilting/ rags. Any trash/ cardboard that can start a fire Is saved for fires. Used large cans- especially #10 and coffee cans are for storage. All glass jars get reused for food item storage many can be re- vacuumed.. i leave lights off till eve and then only the ones needed are on. Dryer lint can start a fire.

[@celticfiddle7605]

The other day I used a huge old bed sheet to gather and bundle leaves to bury in the garden. The leaves will act as a fertilizer for the garden.

[@lilbo1Y1]

I turned my cable off in 2011. Best thing I have ever done

[@littleflockontheprairie4871]

I pay with cash or a check for everything I don't purchase online. I was using my debit online and had been hacked too many times. So I reluctantly got a credit card. As soon as I make a purchase, I write the amount down in the checkbook and subtract it from my balance. In this way, I know when the bill comes in, it's already covered. I shared this with a woman who lives on a very limited income, and she had never considered such an idea. Good ideas, Patara!!

[@petrathorp2561]

We store our cleaned tin cans and aluminum cans and bring them to the salvage yard once a year. Mostly we get around 100 $

[@lynnlamont3485]

I pick up scrap metal and cans and we make a trip two in or three months. It's not much, but every little bit helps.

[@cherylfrady4602]

I've been putting change and dollar bills out of sight for years. Before we retired, it might buy us a tank of gas, gallon of milk for the kids and so forth. We use debit card mostly but I'm still pressed by how much change we still accumulate. Try it, it works. Merry Christmas everyone ❄️☃️🌲

[@itsamadmadsadworld4360]

This has to be for me one of your best videos..top 10 at least...I've been doing this for so long its become the norm for us...I have a suggestion if you go to eat fast food once a week why not save up the money and go somewhere nice once a month...it would actually be cheaper..fast food is not cheap and may i say not very appetizing anymore... We eat at home and rarely go out..I usually make enough for leftovers the next day...we both enjoy leftovers and I only have to cook every other day..I only do large loads of laundry.. I don't do Starbucks even though they are delicious but if you look online you can find all kinds of copy cat recipes...we only burn 1 light at night where we sit, why should the rest of the house be lit up...we did away with satellite TV over 3 yrs ago and don't miss a day of it..we bought a cheap antenna that gives us plenty of free tv..between that and the huge dvd collection I have I don't need anything else.. 6 months ago we canceled our internet service because we really didn't use it that much..everything we do is basically on the phone..that saved us over 80$ ...our house us paid for and so are our vehicles...for me sitting in my chair next to a cozy fire and a good movie on ..either popcorn or brownies beside me and knowing I'm not in debt gives me great satisfaction and puts a smile on my face..once you practice these things as Patara suggests you will kick yourself for not doing it 10 yrs earlier...

[@FemiNelson-sb1em]

Oh how I miss my small livestock. Padre God be Praised for the over 100 Trees we have, herbs n veggies to keep us busy n healthy. 😋 ❤

[@RozannaPotter-sk5et]

I love how honest and straightforward you are in all of the videos, God bless you and your family!

[@anniepette9795]

Hoping for a video before bedtime . I'm lucky. Greetings from Germany

[@Teri6419]

Guten abend!

[@marendababcock6104]

Let that sunshine in to het up your house. In summertime close those drapes to block the sun to keep the heat out.

[@mariasisis6246]

I keep the thermostat at 64 in fall and winter except when it rains... I turn it up to 68... old bones. 😎🙏

[@Mercedes65]

We had a presentation at our school a few years ago from the local electric company- and she said that you are being charged just having your gadgets plugged in while not in use. I had never given it much thought, but ever since then- I keep anything that doesn’t need to be plugged in UNPLUGGED! That includes lamps, chargers, coffee maker, microwave.

[@jackierosenwald4193]

All great ideas. When my husband and I first married, we bought a duplex. The rental helped pay the mortgage, and we were able to buy a single family home.

[@marlenebowers7181]

Got rid of my cable a few years ago. After that it was a short time that I knew the tv was irritating and I gave away a big flat screen. People comment on how peaceful my home is 😊. I do not miss it at all!

[@grandmagrr]

It took a accident for us to go back to how I raised my kiddos, 37 years ago when we did not have a pot to piss in 😂. Going back to basics is house cleaning. Not loving self and truly looking what God is doing for me.

[@escapeartist25]

My heat is on 60 degrees. Did it last year and you learn ways to live with it. Saved a lot on fuel.

[@TheLadymiss22]

My grandmother was born in 1879. She’d been through it all. My grandfather had a job selling and they moved constantly. Usually had to leave most everything behind. My Dad went up to the 8th grade in 13 schools. He quit. But he was brilliant. We had everything we needed and more when we were growing up, he was frugal but generous too. So back to my Grandma, she lived in a boarding house when I was growing up and would shop at the local grocery store. Walking with her cane. If she saw that they’d overcharged her 2¢ she’d slowly march back and get it. My parents had me when they were older, they had 7 grandchildren before I was born. I learned so much from them about life, history, everything.

[@terrycurtis9757]

Beautiful. Thank you for sharing your story ❤

[@catherinebourdon8258]

As a Latina, it is SHOCKING to me how much people will pay at restaurants for Latin food. Heard plenty of stories. We make meat, burritos, rice, beans, etc at home for nickels on the dollar. Our family members would take leftovers as a burrito bowl or taco salad for lunch the next day. And others were jealous. But this was a way of life for us out of necessity. So I encourage people to learn how to do it at home. Learning home economics is a major money saver. And I do understand it takes effort to learn. For some families, that learning curve is steep & harsh. It was ours when we learned one of our kid's health required the change. But over time, we have seen immense benefits. Less medical expenses for one! And we are debt free. Cleaning supplies is something we look to save money on. We can have the wrong idea soaps that highly lather is an indicator of effectiveness. Not really. We can rediscover the benefits of vinegar, and also bar soaps made into liquid soap useful for a wide variety of purposes. Consider $5 for a bar like bronner's. It can be turned into a qt of liquid that would otherwise cost $16-20.

[@shodson314]

We don’t have credit cards EXCEPT we kept the Lowe’s home improvement card open…why? If we charge on it it’s an automatic 5% discount. Then we turn around and pay it in full immediately so no interest. Also Lowe’s has put a no interest for 6 months for all purchases over 300.00. If you have an out of budget home emergency (think appliances) you get what you need and pay it off within 6 months (sometimes they go as far as a year) the trick is to adjust your budget to pay it off before hitting the interest timeline because if it’s not paid off in time they will go back and charge interest from the date of purchase.

[@Soundthenew22]

Wish I could come up with more saving tips. I’m already doing most of what you listed. Plus I don’t wear any makeup, never have and always saw it as a waste of money. Can’t wear perfume, and my job is way too physical for me to be wearing jewelry. It comes down to having a list of needs vs wants; can be different for everyone. Air, water, food, shelter. Build from there.

[@bluebirdgramma6317]

Amen. ❤❤❤

[@marlenebowers7181]

Have you seen the price of eye shadow lately??? I was truly shocked😮.

[@mc-si7vq]

Plus, the ingredients in most of that are terrible for you, along with cruel animal testing....

[@rayf6126]

I wear a single necklace that is long enough to tuck in my shirt for my family rings.

[@Mrs.Silversmith]

My advice is specifically for parents of young toddlers/babies. Look into cloth diapers. 30$ for a box of disposables is a lot, if you can handle cloth, give it a try. Also, if your kid is over 18 months, start potty training them. They may not be ready for night training at that point, but they can definitely learn to be dry all day. That brings you down to the one diaper each night.

[@donnaf5922]

We got rid of cable tv back in 2010!! I or my kids have NEVER missed it!! I do not own a credit card (I used to), have Never missed having one!!! I am month to month disabled! Where there's a will, there is a way!!🙏❤️

[@lindaengelen]

I water glassed my first, 3 dozen eggs today. I try to pay double if not a little more on my Credit card. I also got 2, 20lbs turkeys on clearance at Walmart .59/lbs. last weekend. ** Patara your question about getting your hair professionally done. I gotta tella; my daughter is an Esthetician (skin care) at a beauty salon. $100+ to remove eye brows, facials $60+. These people do this up to 2x a month. All I can say is really people are nuts.

[@renekippola2915]

I get gas and go to the grocery store on my way home from work because it is on the way home. When we go out to eat, which is not very often anymore, we share an entree. Partly because it's expensive and because the portions are way too big. I hate to waste food. We purchased a pellet stove because natural gas has gotten way too expensive. There is the cost for the stove and the pellets but it is still less expensive than gas. Our furnace is set at 62 degrees. You do adapt to the temperature. I wear a vest in the house and have a heated throw that could sit on the couch. Also have the heated mattress pad so the bed is toasty when I get in. I have a habit of turning off the lights when I leave a room or not turning it on unless it is really dark. Drives my husband nuts. He always ask why I am in the dark. When we were growing up my dad always made sure everything was turned off when we left a room.