Small Frugal Budget Strategies to Save More Money

Рет қаралды 56,239

Күн бұрын

Visit our sponsor, Creekmur Wealth Advisors: creekmurwealth.com/
In this video we describe ten small budget shifts which will allow you to save more money every month. These small, but important, changes have been incredibly impactful for us and have helped us reach great, big goals on a low income. Need to save more money, but you’re out of ideas? Maybe you need to look at your budget with fresh eyes.
//MENTIONED IN THE VIDEO:
Links included in this description may be affiliate links. We participate in the Amazon affiliate program and several other affiliate programs, as well. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide we may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you.
○ Mint Mobile (Get premium wireless for as little as $15 a month): www.mintmobile.com/underthemedian
○ FREE eBook, "Ten Ways to Radically Reduce Your Expenses": www.subscribepage.com/radical...
○ Get our budgeting forms and resources: Frugal Finance Planner: www.subscribepage.com/budgeti...
//TOOLS AND SERVICES WE RECOMMEND:
○ Graphic Artist: Our Logo design is by: Sarah Hallam, graphic artist:, contact her at: polaroidsandpens@gmail.com.
○ Mailerlite - www.mailerlite.com/invite/538...
DISCOUNT, COUPON, AND BROWSER EXTENSIONS WE RECOMMEND:
○ Honey: (Coupon Browser Extension) :www.joinhoney.com/ref/m7n46co
○ Rakuten: (Cash Back!) www.rakuten.com/r/HOPEWA158?e...
○ Fetch: (Upload Receipt to Earn Gift Cards): USE MY REFERRAL CODE: 3FUV4U at www.fetchrewards.com/
//TIP JAR: Want to send us a special "Thank You" for our content? Here's our PayPal email address: underthemedian@gmail.com
//WATCH MORE FRUGALITY VIDEOS:
○ Frugal Trends that Will Impact You in 2024: • Frugal Trends That Wil...
○ Easy Frugal Ways to Curb Your Spending: • Easy Frugal Ways to Cu...
○ Ten Percent Challenge: • How to Cut Your Expens...
○ 25 Cheap Ways to Keep Warm without Turning on the Furnace: • 25 Cheap ways to Stay ...
//SHOP OUR E-BOOKS: underthemedian.com/shop
//COME SAY HI!
Our website: underthemedian.com/
Facebook: / underthemedian
Instagram: / underthemedian
//ABOUT:
We're Hope and Larry and we love practical frugality. We raised our four sons, debt-free, including paying cash for our home when our income was well under the national average. For tips on saving money, budgeting, paying off debt, and setting goals (while living with a spirit of joy and abundance), subscribe to us here on KZfaq and visit us at our website and on social media.
Information on Under the Median represents our opinions only. We are not medical doctors, medical professionals, nutritionists, or investment professionals. All content found on Under the Median is intended for informational purposes only. Please be sure to exercise due diligence and always contact a professional with any questions you may have regarding any information you have seen or heard on our KZfaq channel. Use caution when following instructions in this video. The creator and publisher of this video will not be held responsible for any adverse effects that may arise from the use of any method on this channel.
Creekmur disclaimer: Views expressed in this video are solely those of Under the Median and do not reflect those of Creekmur Asset Management, LLC (CAM LLC). Investment advisory services offered only by duly registered individuals through Creekmur Asset Management, LLC (CAM LLC), a Registered Investment Adviser. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values. CAM LLC and Under the Median are not associated entities. Full Disclosure Here: creekmurwealth.com/disclaimer/
//CONTACT:
For all inquiries, please use this email: hope@underthemedian.com

Пікірлер: 300

@lovelife7343 8 ай бұрын

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.

@thisisme2681 8 ай бұрын

Larry looks like he has recovered so well!

@katherinerichardson1767 8 ай бұрын

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.

@44andbroke24 8 ай бұрын

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

@SauerPatchGardening 8 ай бұрын

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. ❤

@Joce123 8 ай бұрын

Well said. As a result of Larry's accident I have been noticing my friend's environment from a changing safety standpoint. Maybe the ramp is too steep compared to the angle that worked last year. Maybe there has been a "creep" of other changes that are important to address. Maybe family members are in denial about their parents declining physical or emotional strength. Maybe more protein or vitamin D3? Maybe more technology like video chatting with winter approaching?

@As-fk1rb 8 ай бұрын

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 8 ай бұрын

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!

@TeachingTinyDisciples 6 ай бұрын

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.

@patblack4332 8 ай бұрын

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 2 күн бұрын

Great,do same for yrs.Some are necessary 😂

@user-kz6ms2rr3j 8 ай бұрын

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

@rochellethundercloud346 8 ай бұрын

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

@Joce123 8 ай бұрын

My doctor is advising eating a bit several times daily to avoid fatigue..like fresh broccoli florets, cashew nuts, milk.cheese, cranberries, fruit high in potassium like grapes

@brg2743 8 ай бұрын

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 8 ай бұрын

@@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 3 ай бұрын

I do it all the time

@elizaC3024 8 ай бұрын

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 8 ай бұрын

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

@joycewright5386 8 ай бұрын

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.

@melindastookey3831 8 ай бұрын

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 ❤

@flordiaevens6546 8 ай бұрын

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.

@barbararichard718 8 ай бұрын

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

@jenniferhenderson6154 8 ай бұрын

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

@kelleyspears1218 8 ай бұрын

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 Ай бұрын

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.

@lizpetruzzi7700 8 ай бұрын

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.

@camperjack2620 8 ай бұрын

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.

@lisageores2845 8 ай бұрын

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.

@joytotheworld2100 8 ай бұрын

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.

@hm_09865 8 ай бұрын

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.

@katherinetyrrell8810 8 ай бұрын

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. :) ❤

@deniseconaway701 8 ай бұрын

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

@maxinedavieds6104 8 ай бұрын

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 8 ай бұрын

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

@jonnaborosky8836 8 ай бұрын

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. 😢

@desertfish6239 8 ай бұрын

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 8 ай бұрын

Thankful your husband is home 😊

@CynthiaChaffin-gx6ym 7 ай бұрын

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 !

@donnad4264 8 ай бұрын

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

@Joce123 8 ай бұрын

We eat out at once a year.

@victorbaird8220 8 ай бұрын

Once a month is too often 😊

@bevd.7024 8 ай бұрын

We go out to eat several times a year.

@michellewalker8196 8 ай бұрын

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.

@debramills3123 7 ай бұрын

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.

@kimdodd8055 8 ай бұрын

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

@brg2743 8 ай бұрын

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.

@juliemoore6957 8 ай бұрын

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

@UndertheMedian 8 ай бұрын

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

@Joce123 8 ай бұрын

@@UndertheMedianThere may be temporary changes like velcro instead of buttons or shoe laces.

@justynakavi407 8 ай бұрын

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

@cynthia57169 8 ай бұрын

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 8 ай бұрын

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

@anniec6420 8 ай бұрын

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 8 ай бұрын

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.

@Joce123 8 ай бұрын

@@katworkstowander9853Me., too

@cynthia57169 8 ай бұрын

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

@Sweet87671 8 ай бұрын

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.

@jennil7797 8 ай бұрын

$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.

@dogmom3845 8 ай бұрын

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.

@ricksherman34 8 ай бұрын

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 8 ай бұрын

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!

@user-po4in8ly8w 8 ай бұрын

And our government is trying to get rid of natural gas

@YeshuaKingMessiah 8 ай бұрын

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

@ricksherman34 8 ай бұрын

@@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.

@RN-mn3jn 8 ай бұрын

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.

@virginialangford6257 8 ай бұрын

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 8 ай бұрын

@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😏

@Savannah-ed4rv 8 ай бұрын

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

@karencraig5916 8 ай бұрын

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!

@Qsaysha 8 ай бұрын

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 8 ай бұрын

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. 😂

@AZHITW 8 ай бұрын

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.

@theresamcclure7333 8 ай бұрын

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 ❤

@user-vg5gq9im3b 4 ай бұрын

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!

@mckenziedemello531 8 ай бұрын

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 Ай бұрын

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.

@Joce123 8 ай бұрын

I am revisiting your past podcasts from quite a time ago. They bear repeating!

@rinamorgan8795 8 ай бұрын

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 8 ай бұрын

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.

@virginialangford6257 8 ай бұрын

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 8 ай бұрын

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

@carladavis2587 8 ай бұрын

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!!!

@fredswartley9778 8 ай бұрын

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 8 ай бұрын

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 8 ай бұрын

Many many can’t earn more

@jennytaylor3409 8 ай бұрын

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.

@virginiaschell886 8 ай бұрын

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.

@donnad4264 8 ай бұрын

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

@user-bb3rm8dl2z 8 ай бұрын

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.

@Dreamcatcher0007 8 ай бұрын

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 ❤

@daralynncameron3290 8 ай бұрын

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.

@cindypatrick785 8 ай бұрын

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

@ginapiano5593 8 ай бұрын

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! 😊

@MaryKane-qv5vz 6 ай бұрын

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.

@HeleenGreenwald 6 ай бұрын

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!

@elizabethsydnor5247 7 ай бұрын

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...

@mimibatman2787 7 ай бұрын

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)

@TheKaty739 2 ай бұрын

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.

@9FatraBbits 8 ай бұрын

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.💚

@katebaker8763 8 ай бұрын

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

@bobbiewilliams5101 8 ай бұрын

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.❤🙏

@Battlekitten-sl2vn 8 ай бұрын

Great video. My biggest budget challenge is food spending. Working on it.

@elizabethsydnor5247 7 ай бұрын

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

@socialdgirl011 8 ай бұрын

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.

@user-kt4ed2yj6f 6 ай бұрын

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

@daisyycanelatv 8 ай бұрын

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

@loricairns3459 8 ай бұрын

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.

@Joce123 8 ай бұрын

I wondered if Larry had a stroke

@loricairns3459 8 ай бұрын

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

@jillpruett3444 8 ай бұрын

@Joce123 his arm is broken

@stevegorkowski3246 8 ай бұрын

Pay close attention to the households that have the most garbage. They normally have the least amount of money and they normally rent. They throw out a large amount of what they buy. They keep buying the same thing over and over. They can never get ahead because they are not living sustainably. In a way Hope uses a numbers format to reduce, reuse, recycle or setting up a path to sustainability. I have a heat bill that is $600 and many think that is cheap. In a sustainable view point work is needed. I have enough energy that lands on my property to heat and power my home. The machine to collect it is solar. This should make the bill be $0. My goal is a $0 energy bill and harvest the free energy. The point to all this is you can never get the bill too low it can become an income. I worked on a guy's Microhydropower system. His system generates so much power now he doesn't work and the power company pays him for the energy he makes.

@mariongratzer1692 6 ай бұрын

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

@truthseeker6370 8 ай бұрын

Instead of doing the utility company's bill averaging plan, I created my own based on previous history and taking into account increased costs and usage variation based on weather. I currently have a surplus. I still scrimp to save gas/electric and check my usage daily- always trying to save. There are some people who have paid well in advance, yet alternatively use their buffer as a way to justify "being personally comfortable" regardless of the usage cuz there's a surplus on the account.

@joanncole9603 8 ай бұрын

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

@eks2024 8 ай бұрын

Love your channel!

@Steina_The_Yarnist 8 ай бұрын

Thanks for this video; I'm so glad that you both are doing better! My hand strength /coordination improved drastically after friends invited me to dinner and found out that no one had taught me to twirl noodles onto a fork as a child. After demonstrating how to do it, they teased me until I did it. Although I hated being teased at the time, I'm grateful now. Keep up the good work!

@hollyhansen7898 8 ай бұрын

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.

@phy11isprice81 8 ай бұрын

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

@cherylkingsley6583 8 ай бұрын

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

@barbaratozzano6364 8 ай бұрын

Levelized billing still works for me because my focus is to keep the average as low as I can. Which means that here in SW AR at the end of October and the Temps are still in the 80's, we are keeping the AC turned off! Heat won't come on for a good while. I really can see the difference month to month as the bill does vary slightly.

@charlottehetherington8720 8 ай бұрын

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

@kimberlyann8960 8 ай бұрын

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 8 ай бұрын

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.

@cindyl3378 8 ай бұрын

You guys are living proof that where there is a will, there is a way! Thank you for all of the info that inspires us and enables us to achieve financial goals in these challenging times. Love your spirit, Larry! I am sure you will find your new passion! : )

@carriedavis1424 8 ай бұрын

Howdy from Arkansas ❤

@cwomo9147 8 ай бұрын

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

@stephaniegaddis1716 8 ай бұрын

Yes, to every single one of these!! But, especially that "frugality is not about deprivation." We can have all the things, we just can't have them all at once. That's where delayed gratification and priorities come into play. To help with that, I think it's also super important to put a name on our savings goals -- like your buckets. There's something about naming every single bucket that changes my willingness to rob one bucket to pay for another. I'm a lot less likely to rob "Car Insurance Deductible" than I am to rob "Emergency Fund." It's a small mindset change, but very effective!

@cindypatrick785 8 ай бұрын

My husband and I just had this discussion 30 minutes ago. We are needing to save up to buy a used car to replace our 2008 Kia Optima, but not while interest rates are sky high.😮. So I suggested that we make a car account only and put my social security check which I am just starting to draw and also $120 property management fee I get for running my 88 yr old daddy’s 2 rentals since his Alzheimer’s has advanced and he can no longer handle any financial things😔. 1:05

@heatherncasey2004 8 ай бұрын

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

@DC-cd5tv 8 ай бұрын

Just when I think you two couldn't possibly come up with new ways of looking at money, budgets and processes...you prove me wrong. Great ideas, advice and easy to understand. As always, Hope and Larry, thank you for your videos.

@southerngirlyall6497 8 ай бұрын

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!!

@dee7690 8 ай бұрын

Great information as always.

@donnad4264 8 ай бұрын

You 2 have nailed it!

@rochellethundercloud346 8 ай бұрын

First and foremost,you have to know what you have coming in. Plus,what basic bills are. If you don't have a set income,budget based on the lowest amount you know you're going to get. Track every cent in and out. Know exactly where your money is going.