Entertainment
Everyone likes to spend a little money on entertainment but if you are on a tight budget you have to plan carefully. Try saving money by keeping a change jar in your bedroom and put all your loose change it the jar each night which will build up to be several dollars in a relatively short time.
Eating at restaurants and going to movies is much more expensive now than it was a few years ago. When the money is adequate pick a nice restaurant and enjoy your outing. Renting movies is cheaper than going to the theaters. If you live going to music concerts, then save up for one that is special to you. If you enjoy theater, sometimes you can find reasonably priced shows at local colleges or small theater groups. Museums and art galleries are always interesting and they are free.
Have a game night with friends or a cookout in the back yard. Go bike riding with your spouse or a friend. Think creatively and you can probably think of many things to do to socialize with family and friends.
Save Money on Groceries
Groceries are a major way you can cut your spending through sales, grocery coupons and wise spending. Cooking differently also can save money.
Use your cheaper cuts of meat and have at least two meatless dinners per week. Make casseroles that will last for two meals. /stay always from processed food as it is more expensive. Use oatmeal for breakfast as it is healthier and cheaper. You can sweeten it up for the children with some honey and maybe add some raisins or other fruit.
Saving Money on Cleaning Products
When you go into the grocery store you will see a huge variety of cleaning products, each one with a different purpose. Buy the stores own brand in a concentrated version if they have one. Buy the largest size as that will work out cheaper over time. When using the products measure the suggested amount. Try any cleaner on a small area first to make sure it does no damage. Why not try and make your own cleaning products?
You can make a multipurpose cleaner with these basic ingredients:
* White vinegar is excellent for killing germs, bacteria and mold.
* Baking soda is a great deodorizer and scourer.
* Lemon juice is useful because the acid provides antibacterial and antiseptic properties, plus it provides a great fresh smell to your home.
* Olive oil is good for polishing wood surfaces and adding shine to stainless steel.
* Salt is a multipurpose cleaner and deodorizer which is great for frugal cleaning due to its cheap price.
Cleaning Recipes
Multipurpose cleaner:
* 1 cup white vinegar
* 1 cup water
* Mix together and wipe over surfaces
Wood Polish:
* 1 cup olive oil
* Half cup lemon juice
* Mix together. Use a small amount on a soft cloth and after applying, buff off with a dry soft cloth.
Refrigerator odors?
1 cup dry baking soda place on saucer in the back of the refrigerator.
Blocked drain cleaner:
* 1 cup salt
* 1 cup baking soda1 cup vinegar
* Mix together and pour down drain. Leave for several minutes then flush with hot water.
Stubborn stains:
* 1 cup baking soda
* 1 cup salt
* 1 cup borax
* Mix and pour onto the stain. Leave for at least 10 minutes then using a scourer rub off. (only use on surfaces that will not scratch)
Carpet freshener:
* Dry baking soda
* Sprinkle on carpet and leave for 1 hour before vacuuming
Subject: Frugal Living Tips to Save Money 
Tue Jan 25, 2011 1:17 am