Small Frugal Budget Strategies to Save More Money

[@kevinjacobson731]

Im 60. Lost my wife to cancer in april. I retired early and in financially set. I still decided to go the frugal route. Just me now, no kids. But im eating at home now. Making my own coffee, learning to cook from scratch. I cant believe how much my life has improved. Im following a lot of your tips. Im downsizing and creating my own house, just what i like. I'm no longer jealous of what the neighbors are buying, i don't need any of that stuff now. Its been a big change but im so much happier now, living simply and feeling so much better, eating good. Life can be good people, do your best to improve your predicament and live your best, simple life. Thanks Larry and Hope for steering me in the right direction. Im not going back. Stay safe.

[@salvease]

I am so sorry on the loss of your wife. That must've been a very difficult time for you and your family. I'm glad that you are enjoying your newfound frugality in your retirement!

[@kevinjacobson731]

@salvease Thank you❤️

[@lovelife7343]

Delayed gratification i have wanted a larger big screen tv for over 5 years but i already had a working 40 inch tv. I commited myself to no buying a new tv till my 40 inch broke. The greatest day came about 6 months ago when i arrived home and my son said i have bad news the tv broke. I yelled out a big yes, yes, yes finally i get a bigger tv. I was so excited i could not wait and immediately went shopping. My son was so confused by my joy that the tv broke.

[@TeachingTinyDisciples]

My son will say, “I can’t help it, I have adhd” and I always say, that’s an explanation, not an excuse. This is why we also chose to homeschool. I will teach him all the tools I can, he gets therapy, etc. we all have things we need to overcome. Some have it harder than others, but with Gods grace, we will make it through.

[@thisisme2681]

Larry looks like he has recovered so well!

[@camperjack2620]

I remember a fellow named Charlie (actual name) who saw all my lights on in the house at night. He told me I could only be in one room, shut those lights off when you go to another room. Lights aren't the biggest energy hog, but they mentality is important. Another man I knew, Ken, clipped coupons, bought store brand items in case lots, used stuff up until it broke. A third person I knew, Gordon, would shop around, consult all his neighbors for their advice before making a major purchase. I find myself now in situations talking to myself, so and so would do it cheaper. I continually try to remember the lessons and cut back. Every dollar counts, no matter who you are.

[@SauerPatchGardening]

I want to say how happy i am that you ( Larry) are doing so well. What a scary day that must have been for Hope. I could see her fighting emotion when you talked about tieing your shoes on your own. We never want to see our partners, husbands, wives, children etc. Struggle. You two are an inspiration because i know this accident has been difficult. My prayers have been with you throughout. And still are. ❤

[@As-fk1rb]

It is hard. My husband had a heart attack few months back he's only 35. I didn't think I was taking him to the e.r to be rushed off to a new hospital to have a quadruple bypass to save his heart... visiting him in the hospital was so hard to see a feeling I can't even explain. 😢.

[@dianebondhus9355]

Hi guys! It's nice to see Larry looking so energized and well. 😊 We just canceled Netflix and Disney. No one was even watching them!

[@katherinerichardson1767]

When my husband and I decided to plan our 50th anniversary several years ago, we used the 10% challenge. We had the best time visiting various places on our trip. We were so use to focusing on needs and very few wants, our anniversary trip was gratifying. Surprisingly, when we got home, we found that we brought home over $500. We didn't need lots of money to have fun. Thanks again for a great show. Larry and Hope, I am keeping you in my prayers.

[@elizaC3024]

We did many no spend months over the last 2 years and that money was saved, not touched, and that allowed us a frugal vacation to Europe for 6 weeks. We have the occasional Gelato, or a espresso with chocolate filled croissant. But we eat all of our meals at our airbnb. We prepuchased our train tickets prior to coming, so we were able to budget our activities while in Europe. Museums, churches and palaces that we wish to visit. Frugality made it possible. 😊

[@YeshuaKingMessiah]

How sad to not eat while there It would make it a no go for me

[@joycewright5386]

Years ago we were saving for a large screen tv. By the time we saved the money we realized we didn’t really want it anymore. I loved delayed gratification.

[@rochellethundercloud346]

One frugal hack is cook a big meal,take what I eat,then break down the rest in single portion containers, label and freeze. Takes the same amount of energy to cook a big amount of food and freeze it in portion control containers as it does to cook one serving at a time.plus,lunch ready to go,and ready to go meals when life is hectic

[@brg2743]

Cooking more than is needed and freezing it makes more sense to me than standing all day cooking several meals and freezing them to have ahead. Both are good, but easier to just make extra.

[@lobstermash]

@@brg2743 Yes, and another advantage to having meals in the freezer is that if you're too tired to cook, you can heat a meal and not be tempted to buy fast food.

[@jat6547]

I do it all the time

[@hm_09865]

The most frugal approach to entertainment, including movies, music cds, books is the public library. Some libraries have online rentals. Cost is limited to travel. Netflix with ads is an entertainment bargain. For under $8 a month, it is worthwhile and a frugal option.

[@melindastookey3831]

Celebrated getting off foodstamps and bettering mine and my husband's lives this year ❤ yes it will be an adjustment but we know how to get by with less ❤

[@44andbroke24]

For those who could shave 600.00 from their budget. That's like getting a 4.57 per hour raise pre tax.

[@DebbyRushìng]

I haven't had cable in around 3 decades. I do have internet. I also use an antenna. Many people may not realize this, but when you have internet you get internet channels. I have more than 600 internet channels. I am not missing out on anything. Just thought I would let you know ~Debby

[@patblack4332]

I have a budget but what i did was take a small book and write down every day exactly what i spent... cant be in denial anymore..😂

[@Fegga1955]

Great,do same for yrs.Some are necessary 😂

[@flordiaevens6546]

My husband's job closed. So my budget has to be tweeked for more frugal lunch items.We are both home now😊😊😊😊 I am up for the challenge.

[@Sweet87671]

So far sonce April, we are so Glad we have not used the credit card since 1st week of June. Now we are in Octuber, i wont lie, and tell you i dont get tempted to buy things for our girls with the credit card, but the fact that after using it to make ends meet, before and not anymore, helps me say NO. We are still paying off dept. Now budgeting i see how much better our finances are! We had some repairs to our van this summer, but we were budgeting for all the parts we bought and Thanks to God my husband was able to repair it himself. So we save on the labor.

[@kimberlyc84]

I've always been frugal and I knew I needed to cut out sugary drinks for healthier options, as well as start my exercise regime again to get the extra weight off and bring my BP and cholesterol down. So I would go to the Smoothie King and get the $5 smoothies on Tuesdays thinking I was doing something big... But I noticed that when I got to the bottom of the drink there was always the grinds from the strawberries, I didn't like the amount of fruit pulp and it was only 20 oz. but mostly water. So I priced the frozen fruit at the Aldi and I chose to start making my own. But I would only buy blueberries, strawberries, & mangos if I couldn't find them at a better price at the Farmers market. When I found them in season for a great price at the farmers market, I would buy in bulk and then freeze them myself. For 2 lb of blueberries, 2 lb of strawberries, and 2 lb of mango frozen fruit, it came to less than $8. But get this, I got 10 days worth of smoothies when I made it myself! I thaw the fruit for about 30 seconds, then I have my little blender that juices grapes, oranges, mango, strawberry, pineapple, & blueberry. Then I strain the pulp out and freeze it. Then I put the juice back in the blender with a dollop of Greek yogurt and diced up Ginger. it's DELICIOUS! And not watery and no pulp or beads from the strawberries. My coworkers are so jealous when I come in with my 20 oz smoothie that looks so good compared to the watered down Smoothie King one they have😂 Then I decided to continue my better eating habit journey. I've always been a brown bagger, but I never really did portion control. So I went to Dollar tree and got some of the 2 oz, 4 oz, and 6 oz square and rectangular containers. The 2 oz container, I split a container of Greek yogurt. I'll bring 2 oz with me, put the other 2 oz in the refrigerator to put in my smoothie. The 4 oz will carry a main entree, usually a protein and a vegetable. Then the 6 oz, I make myself a salad every day the night before, with spinach and dark leafy greens, then I chop up oranges, apple chunks, I put trail mix on it, and a little sprinkle of cheddar cheese, and then I also put diced ginger in that for a kick. It's got so many bursts of flavor I don't even use dressing. But when I started doing was also bringing my breakfast. I'll bring oatmeal and I'll use the small individual containers of creamer because milk will go bad too quickly. Two little tablespoons of creamer and water and I have a HotLogic heating box in my office because I don't prefer microwave food. By the time I'm done with my morning car rider duty at my school, my oatmeal is heated up and ready! And if I can't eat it at the same time or quickly, the hot logic keeps it at a certain temperature until I'm ready for it. I've been doing this since lockdowns were lifted two years ago. I just needed to take my health back. Instead of staying in my office most of the day trying to deal with compliance and deadlines, I started deliberately getting up at 10:00, 12:00, and 2:00, and walk the halls of my school. My husband brought me a 'Sorry...closed' sign with the little clock on it from Dollar tree😂 and change into my sneakers, lock my office door, and go walking. That way the Halls are clear and I don't have to worry about students changing classes. When I first started doing it, I got winded going down the first hall. But I kept at it. By the third week, I was able to walk all seven halls within 12 minutes. My step tracker showed I was walking the equivalent of a mile and a quarter each time! That came to a minimum of three and a half miles to 4 miles a day! I also make sure that I drink no less than a half gallon of water throughout the day. I also bring my own snacks, usually in applesauce cup or a fresh fruit cup or some tuna that I've made and some pretzel sticks to snack on. I absolutely love knowing exactly what I have, knowing exactly what's in my food, and knowing exactly who made it😊 By 3 months, I had dropped one dress size and had gone down 11 lb. Over the past year and a half, I have steadied at dropping 23 lb. I've gone from a dress size 16 down to a size 10. The dress size is what I'm more pleased about😊 When I look at the co-workers who buy a full lunch, even at $4 for an entree, two veggy sides, salad & drink (Sweet or unsweetened tea/lemonade), even though that's one of the best bargains in town, I still prefer to get a baked potato and a salad for 50 cents if I didn't bring my own. Imagine $4 a day.......that's the price of a tank of gas for my car. No thanks. I'll keep my little lunch cooler.

[@lizpetruzzi7700]

Discretionary spending is part of my current budget. I assign a dollar amount for the month and take it in cash. That’s my spending money and I spend it on whatever I want but when it’s gone, that’s it! If I’m saving for a trip or something larger, I cut the amount in half or use the entire amount to save for that larger item. If the refrigerator breaks, that’s emergency $$. Then no extras till that money is replaced. This works for me and gives me freedom within structure.

[@kelleyspears1218]

Hope and Larry, can you do a video on how to convert a spouse to frugality? It’s possible to be the spouse who does frugal things, but getting the other person on board is difficult.

[@cherylbroadenax1006]

Correct. I am divorced and my worse nightmare is to re marry after being divorced 23 yrs to marry a person who is clueless. I feel ya.

[@jenniferhenderson6154]

I’ve just cut my sky (satellite) tv in the uk down from £51 to £20 per month . Also reduced my mobile sim down by £40 to £18 per month . I sell on eBay and vinted and make roughy £200 a month . We were getting take away pizza every Friday now we do it once a month . We always take packed lunches and never go out for coffee. I’m so happy with the savings I’ve made this month x

[@CynthiaChaffin-gx6ym]

Statistics say most first marriages end because of money issues or disagreements. You have to have two people who are are on the same page with this frugal life style. This couple is truly blessed to have each other !

[@HeleenGreenwald]

I'm fairly new to your blog. Thank you for such a good blog, It is very helpful! I've been shopping for myself for 43 years, but had gotten out of the habit of checking the price of things etc. Since listening to your blog I have started looking at the price of things (and saying, "That's HOW MUCH??") And asking myself it what I was about to buy a need or a want. Well, guess what? I have been putting things back on the shelf and thinking 'No way' or not right now, maybe next time. My goal is to have the house spackled and painted in about 2 years. Thanks to you guys, I am on my way!

[@Mary-w7c4z]

Thank you Hope & Larry; for helping me to have a better life.

[@heatherncasey2004]

Great tips! I appreciate your channel. Also, Larry looks great! I am so glad he healed quickly.

[@AZHITW]

It's really all about needs and wants. I've cut out all wants and have tried very hard to whittle down my utility bills by using my washer/dryer and dishwasher only on off peak hours. I turn off lights when I'm not in that room, I stopped using a beverage fridge and would stop using my chest freezer but darn that this is handy when meat goes on sale, and I can stock up. I've done everything you mentioned, but I'm old so entertainment is not high on my list, my only want that I can't get rid of is my internet provider, the internet is my entertainment.

[@maxinedavieds6104]

Now that my husband and I have retired, we’ve had to change our mindset a little from save,save,save to enjoy a little of that money we worked so hard to save.But I especially have always loved finding ways to conserve etc. so we are not depriving ourselves at all,but still incorporating many of the tips and tricks we’ve cultivated throughout our lives. One of my favorite things to do is find ways to lower our utility bills and also all the little tips mentioned in this video. Got rid of that cable,went to streaming. Cut our bill in half!

[@YeshuaKingMessiah]

How do u be cold or hot? N enjoy it too? 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@desertfish6239]

Glad to see that Larry is doing well. We have been working on our budget and cutting the 10%. We do not miss the cable or eating out. Life threw us a curve ball recently when my husband ended up in the hospital and had two surgeries. He is home now and recovering nicely. We found several free or low-cost things to do in our area and when he has recovered we will enjoy visiting the new places.

[@veronicamitchell9378]

Thankful your husband is home 😊

[@lisageores2845]

New subscriber. I love your videos. On a very restricted budget. No starbucks, no eating out. I've cut out some un-necessary bills, but I need to do more. Groceries and electricity are my largest expenses. So inspiring. A car accident changed my life permanently.

[@donnad4264]

We track every $$ we spend. It's amazing how much $$$ is spent in certain categories. Groceries are our biggest change. We buy needs only, not wants. We only eat out once a month

[@victorbaird8220]

Once a month is too often 😊

[@bevd.7024]

We go out to eat several times a year.

[@debramills3123]

Your correct, I used to do Budget Billing. Let me tell you, I buckle down and get ready for the winter season,pay the heating bill and look forward to Spring, Summer,and even Fall.😊 I really enjoy your channel, I wish I found you both alot sooner.

[@katherinetyrrell8810]

As someone who lives with a chronic, and somewhat debilitating, disease, I am always looking for ways to physically simplify my life. Every day, I choose to focus on what I can do, or how I can adapt, rather than throwing up my hands in frustration. Are there challenging days? Absolutely, but choose not to wallow. I can really relate to Larry's situation and I pray for your complete healing. Even now, you are using his condition to give others hope. Thank you for all you do to encourage us. :) ❤

[@joytotheworld2100]

Great advice.For 10 years, I saved and repaired my home.Last week, part of my tooth cracked off. Time to save & repair my teeth.

[@cynthia57169]

I’ve had difficulty as each child leaves for college, preparing and buying less food. The last one is a college freshman now. It’s an abrupt lesson in cooking less or eating the same dish for lunch all week. (Sometimes I commit to the week if the recipe’s a favorite, such as Japanese curry & rice.

[@kimdodd8055]

As a single person, I freeze a lot of leftovers and take leftovers for lunch a lot.

[@anniec6420]

the fact that they left home and went on towards their own individual independant lives is a credit to you and how you raised them....well done. hard i know that they have fled the nest, but wow independent individuals going towards their futures...well done

[@katworkstowander9853]

I’m single, and I too freeze about half my leftovers or eat it for several meals. Fortunately it doesn’t bother me too eat the same meal for a couple of days. I do try to plan freezer friendly meals though. Then later in the month I don’t have to think about what to eat. Just pull it out of the freezer.

[@cynthia57169]

@@anniec6420 thank you so much for your kind words. It means alot to me

[@deniseconaway701]

When Larry spoke about just being with Hope and family and that is all that matters, i cried, because it’s true your family or people your close to are everything x

[@barbararichard718]

I usually allow myself one smallish “want” when I go grocery shopping, otherwise I find myself getting angry and resentful.

[@juliemoore6957]

Dear Hope and Larry, praying for supernatural healing for Larry.❤ God bless you both!

[@UndertheMedian]

Thank you. We'll take all the prayers we can get. Some days are harder than others. Today was a difficult day for Larry.

[@jonnaborosky8836]

We all have our days when everything's been horrible! I'm thankful for those, too, because they teach us calmness and patience. And, they make us a lot more thankful for better, smoother days! 😊 Sorry I missed the live. 😢

[@michellewalker8196]

I'm a one income family and on a budget for my gas and electricity . It works for me, and I try my best to save money, so my budget keeps coming down on my settlement months.

[@brg2743]

Someone we know of was in a bad motorcycle accident not too long ago. It has taken several months to regain most of the arm movement. It takes time.

[@kimdodd8055]

As a single person, I do Ameren’s level pay, but I do pull up my usage daily and continue to try to decrease, for budgeting purposes I like knowing amount of bill ahead of time

[@justynakavi407]

Hello. I just discovered your channel, I think you're giving very good advice. Even though lots of it benefits US citizen only but I still find it very helpful. Plus you're probably first American channel I've seen that promotes reasonable family cooking, what I mean by that is that your meals are not unhealthy but they are also not ballerina food. You're serving lots of vegetables which is great. Thank you for sharing what you've learned. Greetings from France

[@jennil7797]

$100 a month for the average mobile bill???? Wow, that is a national rip off. I pay £10/$11 and that includes all calls I wish to make - even to family overseas, internet, unlimited texts and photo storage. Being visually impaired, I barely use the internet though. I'm so glad you are staying positive about life, Larry! I have MS and was told I'd be in a wheelchair by age 50. I hit 70 last week and still walking, gardening and gently hitting the gym. My right hand became useless so I retrained my left one to write and sew. Life is good because my husband and adult son support me. You go for life! There's so many new hobbies and interests to be found.

[@RN-mn3jn]

This is such a great video! Buying food at work 😮 now that's a hot infuriating topic at work these days....lol. I work in a very large hospital. Recently they raised the prices on all foods in all 7 cafeterias we have by at least 20 - 25%, some foods were raised more. But just an example of the craziness... 20 oz bottle Coke $2.85 1/4 cup Jell-O $3.50 1 slice chocolate cake $4.50 1 hamburger/fries/cola. $17.98 1 peanut butter/jelly sandwich $5.85 I serving of ice cream $7.98 Lol....sometimes I'll walk through 2 of the cafeterias for my own entertainment of the food prices. The other day I laughed at the PB&J sandwich price...out load accidentally...and the cashier said "yesss honey!" I meal prep prior to my 4 day work week. I generally make a meal for what would be a meal for a family of 4. Divide it in my glass containers and eat the same thing everyday for about $1 to $2.50 a meal. It's just like you both teach....choices and changes...can impact your financial success and goals.

[@Dit1160]

I happen to like aPB&J sandwich and have them most work days. I figure 34 cents a sandwich…and that’s with me being just a little fussy about peanut butter. I buy a bag of apples or clementines I slice celery or carrot stick and tea…less than a dollar…and none of my 30 minute lunch break wasted standing in line or fighting traffic.

[@RN-mn3jn]

@virginialangford6257 I'm with you, I love PB&J sandwiches also. I take them to lunch often. I believe the cafeteria PB&J used to be $3.85....still too expensive 😬 I have a few co-workers who buy lunch every day. Lol...but last week one of the guys bought lunch and came back sooo angry. His burger, fries, cola was $17.98. Now I see him with packed lunch every day😏

[@eileenmeyers2663]

Wow! I work at a small rehab hospital and I can get a main dish with a side or the salad bar for $4. Coffee, tea, and fountain drinks are free.

[@charlottehetherington8720]

I'm really inspired about your outlook on life and how to face challenges

[@rhondanelson5582]

Get you a firestick. That’s 45. +. 125 a year 😊

[@daralynncameron3290]

Gas & electric utility prices are increasing dramatically here in Texas. Average monthly billing is the only way to go. The swings between the cooling & heating seasons and the times when you do none of these is just to much to handle.

[@theresamcclure7333]

Thank you! I’m watching from Australia 🇦🇺 have had to come to some hard realities.. your advice is invaluable! I’m in my 40’s I thoroughly enjoyed your budgeting strategy and then reviewing it..budgeting isn’t such a dirty word to me now 😂and working out your needs and wants just got alittle easier! Thank you ❤

[@paularobinson2352]

We like going out to eat so we learned to trade garden items we grow to the owner in trade for eating at the restaurant when we want to. Eggs from our chickens, herbs, tomatoes, apples, ect...

[@phy11isprice81]

Live in 1 bedroom apt. Equal billing is $44....❤❤it

[@dogmom3845]

You two are great! I also second Mint Mobile. I was hesitant to change from Verizon ( how could a $15 plan perform as well as a $100 plan?) but I have had absolutely no issues, my service is perfect and I kick myself for not switching sooner.

[@Dreamcatcher0007]

I cannot miss how Hope's expressions changed when Larry showed his arm n was talking about how he is working on getting better. Strength to both of you ❤

[@fredswartley9778]

I like the idea of a 10 percent challenge. However, sometimes you can't really lower your budget any more. Sometimes the solution is to earn more money. You can only lower your budget so much, but you can always earn more

[@zabmcauley5647]

This is the boat I'm in, though I'm disabled and unable to work to earn more. I can get a roommate to bring in extra money though.😁

[@YeshuaKingMessiah]

Many many can’t earn more

[@Qsaysha]

I'm not frugal, I don't follow any frugal practices although I imagine some of what I am learning from the two of you is rubbing off. I wonder how many more of your subscribers are in the same boat, generally just enjoying learning from two incredibly sharing and warm people such as yourselves? Very happy that Larry is feeling better; God is good. PS- I'm very much looking forward to the wedding tips video and the "how not to be frugal" farce video- fun ideas!

[@faithrada]

I agree with your observation. Although it is NOT my goal to be QUITE as frugal as Larry & Hope ... I still have a desire to do better than I currently am, and just watching these guys is a great influence. Since Covid we no longer eat out.. nor do we go to movies, etc.. so INSTEAD ... Netflix , hamburgers, home fries, and a decent bottled beer 🍺 is OUR NEW version of frugal. I ALWAYS thought Starbucks was nuts...but now I even make my own non-kurig pods for our daily coffee. Unlike my FRUGAL dad however.. I REFUSE to use a tea bag 3 times. 😂

[@cindypatrick785]

As per your advice about examining our electric usage , we have changed every light bulb in the house and outside to LED . We had motion lights put on our business shop that will only come on when we walk near them and at our front and back entryways. I called our electric coop this morning and set up an energy audit( we pay 1/2 and the coop pays 1/2) he will check our insulation, windows, doors etc. The lady also confirmed that the charge for our electric is .8 kwh and she agreed that using a oil space heater in the evening with the thermostat on the 2nd setting set to shut down when the room reaches a comfortable temperature rather than having the central heat running and warming rooms we’re not in . I sleep with the heater set at 65 Hubby has to have it 70. Also unplugged my 88 yr old daddy’s refrigerator & hot water heater and turned off his furnace for now during warmer weather still, now that daddy is in an Alzheimer’s unit nearby. Thank you for your suggestions 🙂 11:37

[@Savannah-ed4rv]

I appreciate all of your knowledge and suggestions very much! I do have to disagree a little bit with restaurant meals not being a need. I am not a very good cook and I really don't enjoy it, plus I take care of my 88 year old mother to an extent even though she's fairly independent. There is no possible way that I could have a cooked meal even with leftovers for 7 nights a week. Also having some disability makes it difficult to have enough energy to not only cook but to clean up afterward! And when you're by yourself doing it yourself everyday it's very difficult. I do try to limit it as much as possible though

[@Dit1160]

I so agree with not putting utilities on a payment plan. I want to know where I stand every month…and looking how I might lower monthly costs.

[@YeshuaKingMessiah]

Have to even out the highs so u can make that payment those mos! Income doesn’t change, just the heat/AC does!

[@eks2024]

Love your channel!

[@mckenziedemello531]

It's so hard when you don't drink coffee, only eat out for a $10 meal for lunch once a week at the most, use coupons while grocery shopping, already don't have cable or unnecessary subscription services, no vacations ever except a couple nights at a local coast once a year or to visit family and you live as frugally as possible and you still can't make ends meet. At this point it really is just the economy and the only solution is to continue to try to make more money until we pass away. I can't keep up with inflation.

[@cherylbroadenax1006]

Yes try to make more money in this case. Trying to think of another solution but seems making more is the issue. I caught your msg because this is what I had to do.

[@elizabethsydnor5247]

Yes, small steps is often how God heals. Take them one at a time, and thank God for each part of your healing.

[@virginiaschell886]

I gave up daily Starbucks and went to instant coffee and flavored creamer in a commuter cup. Once a week I would get a small coffee with cream and a toasted bagel with butter (they charge for cream cheese, not butter). I would add hot water to the coffee at work in my commuter cup. It was a step between, that helped.

[@rinamorgan8795]

You two are always such great inspiration. Also I really sympathized with not having quite the same mobility/function as before. For a while it seemed that I would never be able to walk again without assistive devices thanks to some nerve damage in one leg. (I bought a cane from a charity resale shop; I think you would have approved!) Over a year later, that leg is still numb in places, and weaker than the other, but it doesn't hurt and it does work well enough that I can walk my dogs. :) I hope you continue to regain strength, and if you rule out getting back on the bike, may you find something you enjoy just as much.

[@daralynncameron3290]

It was worth it getting a 2nd hand walker before I actually needed one. It was set aside & used at first only when I would only be involved in a lot of walking/work. Now as my arthritis progresses, it is a much loved performance enhancing device. Carries laundry to the laundry room, medical items for cleaning, dishes to their proper cabinets and lets me move faster while stabilizing my gait, thus preventing or reducing damage to my knees & hips.

[@carladavis2587]

This video brought tears to my eyes. Just the positivity and both of you guys’ positivity and determination and faith in the process of small steps, (which I am all about because that is really basically the only way I can do things because I’m a single woman and I have bipolar and I care for two bipolar, grown children)And I just wanted to say that I appreciate this mindset that you guys are sharing with us. Because the mindset is everything. With a small goal mindset, you can reach all kinds of challenges. It takes a while, but you can reach them. I paint my house myself because it’s cheaper and because you know I’m the only one that can do it. But the way I paint is I use a small brush and a can of paint because that’s the way I work best. I may be only painting a half a wall a day and it might take me a week to finish the room. But I have finished the room and it didn’t cost me nearly what it would cost had I paid someone. So I am a very firm believer in the turtle versus the hare. The turtle always wins the race. He goes slow. Sometimes people laugh at him because they think he’s not making any progress, but he winds up winning the race. The hare goes so fast that he doesn’t finish the race and he winds up sleeping because he’s raced around so much. I appreciate the the goals and the small goals and the even smaller goals because that’s where we get lost is in goalsetting. I’m going to pray for Larry’s recovery and pray for you guys to use this to get even closer and to find even more joy in your lives. Love you guys!!!

[@joanncole9603]

So much wisdom & gratitude in this video. Thank you, Hope & Larry.

[@jennytaylor3409]

I feel safe and warm while listening to your videos. The guidance and counsel I should have received years ago from those who were meant to teach me. Thank you for being that now. Real life and advice that is practical and that I am able to implement.

[@southerngirlyall6497]

Got to share this... My neighbor asked if my water bill had gone up. I said no it has actually gone down because I have two 55 gallon water barrels and use them to water outside plants. Love my rain barrels!!

[@TheKaty739]

You guys have the best attitude. You have so much wisdom and I appreciate you sharing it. I’m so sorry to hear about the accident and the severe injury you sustained. Praying that you recover quickly.

[@mimibatman2787]

My best money-saving on food strategy is meal planning, shopping with a list, and shopping at Aldi (much cheaper than the others stores in my area)

[@mariongratzer1692]

I am so sorry for your arm, Larry! I hope and pray it is getting better!

[@donnad4264]

We are on budget plan for utilities and it has been a blessing for us. We sre conservative, so minimal changes.

[@ginapiano5593]

I love your thing on weaknesses. I have severe spine issues and I can bend due to it, and other things, so I've had to find ways to do things differently! It's so true, you learn, and u grow. ❤ ps... Larry I'm so glad u are able to get dressed today! 😊

[@karencraig5916]

You guys are an inspiration about seeing light at the end of the tunnel. In the last two years I've had a shoulder replacement due to a fall and breast cancer diagnosis. 2021 was a year of disasters but I'm grateful for the healthcare system that has been available to me and my husband who tries to compensate for my limits. ( wonky thumb and shoulder, fatigue, and don't let me get started on the hair! That's on the floor instead of my head). It's wonderful to have a good partner in crime! 😁. Keep t!he faith!

[@daisyycanelatv]

I love to watch your channel I have learned so much! Also enjoy seeing you both!

[@loricairns3459]

What a wonderful team you are! This video is inspirational on many levels. Continuing to move forward and celebrating each step, however big or small, really resonates. Good to see you looking so well, Larry. Determination will take you far.

[@loricairns3459]

@@Joce123 I think this is all part of Larry’s recovery from the accident.

[@jillpruett3444]

​@Joce123 his arm is broken

[@MaryKane-qv5vz]

Hope and Larry are just fortunate that they both are happy to co-operate with each other. If the other spouse is not on board it would not be possible as each one would drive the other one nuts.

[@katebaker8763]

Made a Conscience effort in September to turn off the ac my bill Went from $197 to $99 it truly saved me

[@ricksherman34]

I use my natural gas grill to cook almost all of my meals. Breakfast , lunch and dinner. I almost never use my range which eats electricity. NG is about a 1/3 of the cost to create the same amount of cooking energy as electric. It also has the added bonus of dumping waste heat and fumes outside. I live in Phx so it's a bit easier to use my grill here all year round. This probably saves $5/mth , or about $60 a year. Again it's not a lot of savings but for someone where money is tight it might make a difference. I just prefer to cook outdoors to prevent smelling my house up...

[@ireneroy8820]

We have natural gas stove top/ Cook top and fireplace, it is much cheaper and when and if power/ electricity goes out we can still cook and in winter, still be warm The utility cost this summer was ridiculous!

[@rhondashephard-z7p]

And our government is trying to get rid of natural gas

[@YeshuaKingMessiah]

$5 a month U can’t cook in ur kitchen?? That’s ridiculous

[@ricksherman34]

@@YeshuaKingMessiah I don't like smelling up my house with food prep. I do it all outside. I could care less about the money. I have solar power , more than enough to offset the induction range.... I prefer to use a natural gas grill where I can cook/ bake / etc... And my house doesn't stink of prepped food all the time.

[@belindagritter1572]

Just seeing this for the first time. Brilliant episode! Just what I needed and what I need to share with my granddaughter. She actually said she would like me to link a podcast that could help her and I linked yours. Sending her this one immediately.

[@roseannaschmitgen]

thank you for showing the joy of change. As I grow older, so much has changed. Yet the principles have remained the same. Thanking God for what we do have and asking for wisdom to use each day and dollar wisely is my goal for this year. Im 86,Lots of change!

[@Netsurf23-m4l]

Do what the utility companies do yourself. Set your own routine predictable payment. Set that aside, and then reward yourself for saving more. This way, you are even more in touch with the actual payment but are also incentivized by saving. You have the best of both worlds.

[@kimberlyann8960]

Just an idea - why not use your bike indoors safely and through the winter on a bike trainer ? That way no need to give up the biking you love but indoors while healing and until you are ready for the outdoors again

[@terryhenderson424]

While not directly related to changing the numbers on a written budget, i cannot over state the fiscal savings which many can find by gathering, sorting, and organizing what they already own - they purposefully use the organized stuff. If you use the storage and organzing containers and items you already own or free cardboard boxes, this is a free activity. Once identified and retrievable, use that stuff. Use it up purposefully, completely use it, and congratulate your self for every container emptied and shelf space freed. As needed create or come up with projects to use what you own. This as opposed to identifying a project then going out to buy the required materials and supplies. Folks who craft and diy often have left overs and just like left overs from the dinner table the left overs can accumulate. You've already purchased them, already have them at home waiting to be used, and are generally available for use without spending more money. Even folks without a crafting or diy penancht can often reduce thier spending for additional items if they coukd find a pen, some scotch tape, a particular spice, and so on which have already been paid for and live in thier homes.

[@shirleywolff611]

You're looking good, Larry. I hope you're feeling better. XOXOXO

[@hollyhansen7898]

Netflix has a $7 dollar a month plan It has ads but they group a couple together, the ads are often entertaining, and not very often so it is ok. Can also just sign up for a few months at a time like the holidays for instance or the winter. Much cheaper than $20 a month.

[@carriedavis1424]

Howdy from Arkansas ❤

[@bels2521]

You two are so inspiring!! Thanks for what you share to help this community!!

[@cherylkingsley6583]

Nice to see that Larry is getting better. Keep up the good work with your recovery. Blessings to you both.

[@elizabethsydnor5247]

You are a blessing to us. One thing regarding your hand is God's promise to heal ALL our diseases, if we will believe Him. Psalm 103:3 states this promise. I have seen stage 4 cancer healed when believing God for our healing. You can believe for this...

[@9FatraBbits]

What a great and truthful video! Taking a hard look and making adjustments IS an opportunity. Seeing setbacks as opportunities is a valuable learning experience. Keep using that arm Larry! Thank you both.💚

[@susanwebster9218]

You guys are amazing! I will pray for complete healing and restoration for Larry. God's got a lot more work for you to do. 😉

[@UndertheMedian]

Thank you so much for the prayers. We appreciate them.

[@cwomo9147]

I'm all about delayed gratification.. I'm on track to be debt free by 1/1/24. I have a small list of 5 or so items I want..not need..ice cream maker for instance.. and I will get it in January 2024.. Feb I'll make another purchase from the list...in cash.. not going hog wild... slow and steady wins the race

[@maxinebellows741]

I need to order out less! That's my goal! Thanks for your videos!

[@Gabi-lt4mx]

You can make it. 👍

[@Dreamcatcher0007]

Hey Larry hope you recover soon and funny ❤ sending love to both of you from India.

[@socialdgirl011]

I have been tracking every thing and where I spent for 2 months. I was so surprised by how many times I went to the dollar stores and how much I spent. I now only let myself go once or twice a week, which is still a lot I know, and put a budget on how much I can spend there.

[@melissaweller3718]

Hi from Spokane WA

[@tammiedwards7441]

I've called my utility company....they do not have peak and non-peak hours...they just advised to Google ways to lower your energy bill 😢 Hopefully I'm doing all I can to save as much as possible considering they offer no help

[@steffaniphillips8806]

Love watching the two of you. I always get ideas or reminders of things I can do!

[@catheydownunder]

Just redid budget Saved 5,000 a year Thanks guys love your videos Larry,s looking well Re his accident

[@bobbiewilliams5101]

You guys are wonderful. I found your channel a few months ago, and while we are doing blessedly well, my husband is priming to retire in the next year. At 71 I realize this will be a change for us. But many of the changes are well within our control. Your content is so very positive and doable. I am going to look forward to this new chapter with fresh eyes and realize what a gift the time together will be and how we are the managers of the life we choose to create. Definitely know life can throw us a curve, but being prepared ahead will make navigating that curve better for our physical and mental health. Thanks for all you do to inspire and educate others. Take good care and be well.❤🙏