When I think of the word “simplify” I am reminded of Henry David Thoreau’s famous directive to “Simplify, Simplify!” Thoreau carried his belief in simplifying to what most of us would consider an extreme in today’s world. He chose to live alone in a cabin in the woods, off the grid (not that there … [Read more...] about How to simplify your life (in three easy steps)
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How to start a minimalist wardrobe
Brent moved in recently, and can I just say? The boy has a lot of stuff. Holy cow. In fact, I think he has more clothes than I do. Which is fine, because I really don’t have very many clothes. I teased him a little about it, and he got rid of a few more shirts, but the fact of the matter is, I … [Read more...] about How to start a minimalist wardrobe
How to get your adult child out of your basement
It’s become somewhat of a stereotype: Young adults are living in their parents’ basements, unable to secure gainful employment and unwilling to grow up. While that’s a bit of an exaggeration, 33% of 25- to 29-year-olds were residents of multi-generational households in 2016, according to a Pew … [Read more...] about How to get your adult child out of your basement
Great tips for a successful garage sale
A garage sale is still a great way to get rid of unwanted stuff around your house. We've put together a list of garage sale tips that can help you hold a successful garage sale. The best day to hold a garage sale depends on where you live. Many locations prefer one or both weekend days. Dates … [Read more...] about Great tips for a successful garage sale
How to keep spring veggies fresh to avoid food waste
This article is part of a Don't Throw It Out! series on how to preserve fresh foods and avoid food waste. Food waste by the average American family is estimated at 25 percent of your grocery shopping dollars -- or a little more than $2,000 a year. Fresh vegetables top the list. If you have a … [Read more...] about How to keep spring veggies fresh to avoid food waste
Create your own cheap summer camp for kids
For many, summer camps have become as integral a part of childhood as school. They provide a safe place for the children of working parents, allow kids to explore new activities and retain and continue their learning, and so much more. However, summer camps can be expensive, from $100 to $400 or … [Read more...] about Create your own cheap summer camp for kids
30-plus discounts teachers can use all year long
Teachers are rarely paid what they're worth. Recognizing that, many businesses offer discounts to teachers year--round. Living on the Cheap has been rounding up great school supply deals, providing tips on how to save on school lunches and dressing for fall without breaking the bank. This is also a … [Read more...] about 30-plus discounts teachers can use all year long
Save money with these 18 popular salad dressing recipes (and 1 secret)
Bottled salad dressing is common on the dinner table in households across America. While convenient, these prepared salad dressings are much more expensive than those you prepare from scratch. None of the most popular salad dressings are hard to make and many can be prepared using common ingredients … [Read more...] about Save money with these 18 popular salad dressing recipes (and 1 secret)
What to give Mom when you’re all grown up
This annual Mother's Day conversation is so predictable it's aggravating: “Mom, what can I get you?” "Oh, I don't need anything!" She means it. Most mothers really don’t need anything. But handing her an overpriced store-bought card and saying “Thank you for being my mother” won’t settle your … [Read more...] about What to give Mom when you’re all grown up
Take a bite out of dental costs
More than half of Americans (nearly 130 million) go without dental coverage. For some it's just too expensive. Others believe dental insurance doesn't provide a great return on investment. But that tiny cavity can turn into serious health problems if left unattended. Yours truly has had so many root … [Read more...] about Take a bite out of dental costs
Make your Greek yogurt multitask
Greek yogurt has grown in popularity in recent years. It can be more expensive than regular yogurt, but with at least double the protein and less than half the sugar, in my opinion, the health benefits outweigh the cost. You can also save by purchasing in bulk from stores such as Costco and BJ's. … [Read more...] about Make your Greek yogurt multitask
12 spring-cleaning tasks that can save you money
Spring cleaning is a long tradition, often in cold climates, but also in cultures around the world as a New Year rite. Cleaning and decluttering the home is a great prelude to a change in seasons. But spring cleaning isn’t just a feel-good task. It’s also a source of found money. Here are typical … [Read more...] about 12 spring-cleaning tasks that can save you money
