Frugal HomemakingWith Some Frugal Ways to Save Money
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It may seem obvious, but frugal homemaking begins at home. We all know the stories about how our parents and grandparents lived a frugal lifestyle as a matter of course--and necessity. There is much we can learn from their examples. Grandma's way to save money on food was to grow her own. Huge gardens, eggs from the chicken coop, milk from their own cows, rows of canned fruit and vegetables are all part of the wonderful memories I have of my grandparents' farm. I so loved that lifestyle that, when our children were young, we bought a hobby farm and did all we could to provide for ourselves.
Now that we live in the city and have a smaller garden we have found other ways to be frugal when it comes to our grocery budget. Grandma did not have money-saving grocery coupons; we do. She lived in isolation; what her family had on the table was what she and grandpa could provide. We live where there are farmer's markets, pick-your-own farms and gardens, and so much more.
A frugal homemaker, of course, saves money on more than groceries. Frugality--thrift--prudence can be implemeted in all parts of our lives. Again, to use the example of our parents and grandparents there are thrifty, frugal skills that we can learn from them and wonderful resources available to us that they never knew.
Grandma made every dress and undergarment she wore as well as most of the clothes her children wore. Grandpa bought a couple of pairs of overalls every year; grandma made his shirts.
Sewing, knitting, crocheting and quilting all were talents that were taken for granted "back then" and that many find great joy in now as well. I recommend it. Add to that our access to thrift stores, garage sales and discount stores and we have great opportunity to supply our families without the long hours spent by those who went before us.
Creating our own fashions, decorating our homes, making gifts for others, are all opportunities to learn and practice frugal homemaking.
Decisions about how to spend, and save, the money we earn may not be easy but there is no lack of advice and help available. Grandma's saving account was a jar in the cupboard where she deposited the penny's she earned from selling eggs and cream to the store in town once or twice a month. We have access online to multiple tools and tips for budgeting and growing our money.
Thoughtful spending, and decisions not to spend, can lead to a less stressful life, the ability to be debt-free, healthier bodies and spirits and a better enviromnment.
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