Use Your House
Take advantage of the often-underused resources already available in your home. Preparing meals at home can save money and is often healthier than eating out. Cooking does not have to be drudgery! With a little advance planning, you can save time and add variety to your weekly meals. Crafts are a great artistic outlet; whether you create with a paintbrush, sewing machine, or knitting needles, you can enjoy custom results for a fraction of the cost of paying a professional.Eat Your Yard
Start your own vegetable garden, and save money on your grocery bills while enjoying some fresh air and produce picked fresh from your own yard. Go organic and save even more! To stretch your harvest throughout the year, try canning, drying, and freezing produce. In the dead of winter, you'll be able to bypass the produce section if your freezer and pantry are stocked with fruits and vegetables from your own garden.The Three R's
Reduce, reuse, recycle. We've all seen those words emblazoned on grocery bags touting the benefits of recycling. You can put those same ideas to work to cut your budget.Put Art to Work
Art can be very practical! Ceramic tile or glass block add beauty to your home while serving a useful purpose. Decorating with practical items does double duty!Find Free Fun
There are so many ways to have fun on the cheap. Street fairs and festivals, many state parks and beaches, or simply long walks and bike rides. The internet has an increasing number of free (and legal!) movies and TV shows available....And you're helping the environment, too! So many of these tips are also great for the earth. With its emphasis on simplicity and avoiding waste, frugal living is naturally friendly to the environment. Who knew that saving money could be so green?