101 ways to save money (surviving socialism)

Press Democrat (Santa Rosa) ^ | 10-21-08 | Not attributed

[CajunConservative]

I got my copy for $.39 cents at Goodwill. ;)

Most of it is probably online anyway.

[Mamzelle]

re: The usefulness of this tip depends on where on live. We are in the Piedmont of NC, growing zone 7a. In the fall,(plant the seeds about early September) I grow leafy greens in a large pot(16 inch diameter) in a protected spot on my deck. Leafy greens prefer sunny but cooler weather but not freezing temps. The homegrown stuff sure beats store bought and there is little waste. This fall I have a mixture of spinach, leaf lettuce, beet greens and red leaf lettuce. A full pot planted as described has provided us with four to six side salads per week for the last month.)))

Tell me more. Especially about the beet greens...where do you get your seed mix?

[Amelia]

There are a few that I disagree with such as the tips for dealing with credit cards ( I suggest using a pair of scissors).

Use of credit cards depends on how disciplined you are and the terms of the card.

If there is no interest charge when you pay in full each month, and IF you are sure you can do that, you can make money using a rewards card.

The credit card companies make money because most people don't pay off their balances each month.

[Gondring]

First of all, it's about giving up cultural prejudices. Many "middle-class" Americans live lifestyles well into the luxury range, and to talk about "surviving" socialism economically is an insult to many who have it far worse off. Socialism has killed tens of millions of innocent people, and simply lowering our thermostat and wearing a sweater isn't a fight for survival.

But for those who are ready to face the harsh world, here are a few pointers, some of which I've employed...

• Dry your razor blade after use. Oxidation between uses can dull your razor blade more than the act of shaving, and leaving water on the blade will accelerate the process.
• Reload ammo...but note that surplus can often be cheaper
• Consider other factors in menu selection. Eating rat and dog seems to raise the body temperature, so they can be good choices for winter meals (but in moderation, as too much rat is claimed to cause nosebleeds and may raise blood pressure). (Another advantage is that it's "exotic," and exotic cuisine is often priced with a premium.) Insects are plentiful in the summer and are a good source of protein. (Do a Google search for recipes...I'm not a good enough cook to give advice to others.)
• Put more perishible items back into the refrigerator, rather than on the door, so they are closer to the cooling elements and remain fresh longer.
• Cancel cable TV, or keeping just basic for Internet access (e.g., Skype)
• Use half the flavor pack for each package of ramen noodles. Use the other half for your next meal of rice, to give it some flavor. Red (kidney) beans can be added to provide variety, but also protein and fiber (and lots more).
• Avoid having children. They are one of the biggest drains on the wallet out there, and it can take many years to recoup any investment.
• Inspect packages of meat before purchase. Select the less-lean grades and try to get those with the most fat, as it has more calories per unit weight so you get a better deal.
• Add borax to each wash load. You can often use cheaper detergent if borax is added, and get the same result as more expensive detergents (though I use it even with Tide).
• When weather permits, don't wear clothing unless needed (e.g., for personal protection against cooking grease, for going out, etc.) Fewer washes means lower costs, both for electricity and lower wear.

Well, that's just a few...many more out there, once we stop getting caught up on what is a "must have."

And lastly, while the point I make up above is serious, I don't really mind the catch title of "surviving socialism"...as long as we don't forget the blessings we do have.

[nina0113]

I’m just heading down to buy more bottles - I’ve got ten gallons fermenting and only 6 gallons’ worth of bottles. Kegging will be NEXT year’s project.

[Gondring]

I recommend saving this thread, rather than just bookmarking it.

[odin2008]

My grandmother taught me to use the water left over after cooking vegetables to water my plants and garden with. She never poured water down the drain that could be used outside.
My grandmother did that and her house always smelled like cabbage...Well, I think it was the house..

[informavoracious]

Another tip on pantyhose I learned years ago. When you get a run, cut off the hose leg with the run. Then pair 2 opposite one-legged sets together (2 panties, 1 leg each). Voila! Makes for buying a lot less pantyhose.

[cajungirl]

I feel good,,I think I felt so bad for a long time and iddn’t know I was sick.

People tell me I haven’t looked this good in a long time.

And I feel surprisingly, shockinly hopeful about my prognosis! EVeryone including me praying has been like amazing to me.

[cherry]

close the doors of rooms you are not using .....save the heat for the room that you are in currently.

another favorite....hang your clothes outside...even if just on a hanger on a pole across your deck....the clothes dry well on a hanger and they smell wonderfully clean...

wash out and save cottage cheese containers when you buy bulk hamburger...then freeze the meat in the containers..seems to work better than wrap.....

gosh...anyone remember putting mismatched socks on your hands instead of mittens?...saving your shoe laces?....

[cajungirl]

Agreat tip on pantyhose,,,just say no!

I use a tanning cream when I have to and don’t wear them anymore and I am an old lady!!

[cherry]

its a matter of choice...do you want to spend money on the heating bill or have a nice supper out somewhere...

that's why we live frugally with no air conditioning..have one for the window..didn't even put it on last summer..and we keep the heat at 68 but we do have a wood stove..when the heat comes on, I rush downstairs and throw more wood into the stove...

anybody know anything about a wood burner?

[alicewonders]

My grandmother’s house always smelled like fried chicken - yum! She was frugal to the max though - I remember one Christmas - she gave me a good scolding for putting my dirty styrofoam Christmas plate in the garbage. She told me that she washed those & reused them next year!

LOL! I swear she did!

[VAarea]

Something I’ve started just recently is to dilute dishwashing liquid by 1 part to 4 parts water. Dispenses more easily, is easier to rinse off and there is less waste since it’s easier to use only the amount needed. Also I always wash out my plastic sandwich/storage bags instead of discarding after one use.

Experiencing the Great Depression honed my parent’s frugality, much of which has rubbed off on me.

[listenhillary]

Is your oven vented outside? Where is the heat going to go?

I agree on the dishwasher as the shot of humidity is nice in the winter time.

[alicewonders]

I’m glad to hear that. I totally believe in the power of prayer!

[odin2008]

More ways to save:
1. Go to work naked as much as possible.
2. Check your neighborhood for kittens.They are delicious rolled in corn meal and deep fried.
3. Reuse toilet paper when possible.
4. Mug a stranger. Take his stuff.
5. Dry Skin? Use old bacon grease. Great for your skin and your dog will love you for it.
6. Have your wife not shave her legs. Saves money on socks, and birth control.

[listenhillary]

You bent my brain. I might have to go to the brain doctor and see if it can be repaired.

[ErnBatavia]

What does the cost per minute come out to be?

[Squantos]

Awwwww whats the matter you didn’t like the bombsite crappers..........:o)

Thought I was in a shower first time I saw those damn things.....LOL !

Hope yer well girl !