I am a 68 yr old retired nurse with grown kids. I just love your channel. You are so upbeat and encouraging. You have such great ideas. Thank you for doing this channel!!
Lydia, autism in my oldest has really impacted our family. My son is 13 and doing really well now. I could write you a novel right about all that we have been through as a family now but i wont. The therapy is very necessary but also very hard to make work. If it wasn't for my retired mom-- we would not be here today. My husband and I work full time. Im a teacher so i have summers to take over the appointments but it was HARD. From age 2-8yrs old he went to weekly one hour private speech therapy. From 5-9yrs old he went to ABA for 2-4 hours a week. From 3-4yrs he went to vision therapy 2 hours a week. From 3-7yrs old he went to OT/PT for one hour a week. From 3-6yrs old he went to preschool 6 hours a week. I look back and i can not believe how amazing my mom was. I took him when i could. Scheduled evening appointments and did summers. This was also very hard emotionally and financially. We recovered financially but we had quite a bit of debt for a long time. It was all worth it because hes made amazing progress. He could not answer a question or speak in full sentences until about age 7. Like no verbs. Nouns only until about 5. Now hes 13 and is writing a novel for fun. He scores high school level in use of vocabulary and sentence structure according to tests at school.
I recently learned that Our library has a ‘library of things’!!!! You can check out tools, dishes, baking appliances, projectors, musical instruments…thousands of items! I cannot believe what a BRILLIANT idea that was ❤️🥰❤️
This was so good Lydia. I have to say you hit home with the business part and having a special needs kiddo. I have had my design business since 2008 (full time 2014). When I had my fourth child in 2018 and everything we went through to understand what was going on with her . (I was living at Children’s Hospital with her for 5weeks) then 3 weeks. Just on and on. Took a year to get her diagnosis (rare genetic disorder) causes low tone, autism spectrum in there, seizures. And so much more. It was a devastating blow for our family. My business took a major hit, but I had faithful clients and God’s Grace. Zoie is 5 now, still non-speaking, cannot walk and is gtube fed. But my business is thriving, homeschooling the 3 older kids was a choice (seemed crazy) but Covid forced my hand couldn’t risk Zoie . Turned out to be the right one for us. But all that to say… it is HARD. But I love my business and my babies. I cry a lot , but that’s expected. I finally have a small team for my business. I really take it one day at a time. Plan but leave room for whatever May come. And (did I say I cry lol?) yeah I let out all that emotion. Because it’s so much but I am grateful. Sorry this is long. I really love your channel and what you share. Sending hugs to everyone reading this also.
Hi! I'm a mom to an autistic/ADHD child. I went part time last year because I became ill and burned out working full time. God was good to us and my hubby had started a job that gave us enough income for me to be able to go part time. I wasn't okay working full time, it was horrible 😟 unfortunately we don't have any good thrift stores around here (we live in Scotland and the charity shops are sometimes more expensive than buying things new). But going to try and find other ways to save money this year ☺️
I've started doing everything with Money one day a week. I pay bills, make deposits, buy groceries, order things, etc. It forces me to wait to purchase anything, and it has been a game changer. We started this awhile ago, and strangely, it has taken so much stress off. I loved this video, I'm learning to give myself grace. Thank you for being so positive ❤
Love this. We've ben avoiding the thrift because my husband and I have "collecting" hobby tendacies, but I like that a "Thrift First" house rule could let us thrift with purpose! The one thing we did last year that helped a lot was always keeping two frozen pizzas in the fridge. Sure, they are not "cheap" but they are cheaper than pizza delivery/takeout on nights that I have to tapout on cooking. I just budget them into part of my weekly staples grocery list like coffee and creamer. Saves us at least $20 each time we choose that over take out or delivery!
I can always find something to buy in a store, so I don't go regularly. But if I pass a thrift store that's calling my name I'll go in and I always know why I had to go . I take my daughter, granddaughter,and her boyfriend on senior citizen discount day and say a prayer that everyone will find what they need . We all do very happy T-shirt , jeans, skirt, even shoes.
In the last couple of years, I’ve realized that I’ve become a compulsive shopper. I wasn’t always this way. I can trace it back to my Mom’s terminal breast cancer diagnosis. It was during that time that I discovered that I could buy something cute and I would have several days to be happy for a little while, waiting for the purchase to arrive. I finally let my husband in on what was going on - For the most part I had stayed within our budget and we had an emergency fund. I now read to him everything I spend each paycheck. He is very encouraging and thoughtful. I have deleted websites that tempted me to overspend. I now stick to thrift stores. I love bits of seasonal decor and books at a fraction I used to spend!
First, I am very sorry for your loss. But further, I’ve been there. My mother’s terminal cancer diagnosis caused me to behave in the same way. And it’s taken me some time to break that cycle. It’s hard.
Back around Thanksgiving I had a bunch of wrinkly apples so I decided to make applesauce. I didn’t have an immersion blender, so I borrowed one from my mother-in-law. Worked perfectly and I loved the homemade applesauce. Fast forward a month to Christmas and she gifted me a new one. Now I can make more applesauce with the new batch of wrinkly apples!
Thank you for saying we can make mistakes. I’m 53 and still make mistakes. One about made me sick this year but I’m brushing it off and 2024 is a new year.
My child has childhood apraxia of speech we have weekly therapies, and I do work full time. Thankfully I am a nurse so I get a full weeks of hours in three days. I work mostly weekends which sucks for church and time with the hubby but it saves us on childcare and more flexibility for his therapies he was going to OT too at one point but has graduated from that. Not sure how other people do it. We buy our bread from a discount bakery. A whole months worth for $10. It’s been helping us save in the grocery budget.
We spend $20 a year for a membership to a library about 20 mins away, over state lines. Our little town library is seriously underfunded and frankly sad. It's dingy and tiny and dark, with few materials and activities compared to others. I wanted my kids (now teens) to love libraries as much as I do so to another town (and even state!) we went. It's basically on my husband's route home from work so we can order materials online and he drops in to turn in used stuff and get new. Worth every penny and thensome! I am a total library junkie!
Lydia, my hat's off to you. Having been a very young mom raising a child alone after a bitter divorce, I look back and see that I did some things right and some wrong; I often worked 2, sometimes 3 jobs and missed time with my boy. My conscientious efforts this past year have included making sure I don't let unused or little-used subscriptions linger, keeping power usage down when the weather is mild, and really being mindful of how much I use of favorite cleaning products. I wish you every success, and salute you as being what I'd call a great Mom!
I can’t believe you said that “I don’t come to your job and by work equipment for Christmas!” 😂😂😂 Priceless. I agree with thrift first always. I’m not quite there with borrowing yet but the LIBRARY is one of the best places on earth. Also I have put water into every single soap, lotion, cleaner, beauty product and made it last for several more days or weeks!!!! Great video as always thank you
Have a clothes swap party. I love having these. A good excuse for a fun party. You gather a group of women (or men) and you bring items you no longer want or wear. Everyone has to bring at least one thing. They all get hung up in a room, and then let loose the group. Try on everything, as you would be surprised what fits. We included accessories and jewellery too. And added the caveat, in good condition, eg. no stains or holes. I still have a top from years ago that someone else didn't wear that I adore. And it reminds me of her and the fun of the event each time I wear it 🙂
I love these tips! My family and I live in Hawaii and we are part of a Buy Nothing group on our island where people post stuff to give away or ask for things. It's amazing and has saved us from buying the items ourselves. Highly recommend checking to see if you have a local group in your area. Our son is also on the spectrum and dear god the therapy costs. Our insurance isn't the best and we spent a lot of the year fighting to get his therapies covered. For any who are in a similar boat my son's OT recommended looking into a supplementary insurance, like getting a private plan that's just for them. If you're already paying out of pocket it can save you hundreds. And yeah props to any working parents who are working and trying to take care of their special needs child. I'm a SAHM and I think it's a lot.
Heres a few that i hope can help ! Shopping your home first see what you have then see what you need. Keeping inventory in the pantry of what expires first to use everything up for less waste. Sell unwanted or unused items. If you havent used something in a year or have it in storage your probably not going to miss it. ( offer up, marketplace is easy to get started) sell clothes to thred up and credit can be used to a like new item as a treat. Dont forget to do returns in time to avoid fees or being stuck with a broken product. Many companies have gone to 30days with receipt If you do buy something new hold on to that receipt many places will price adjustment within 15days if the price has dropped further.
Thrifting too. I like that it has less environmental impact too. Another tip with using products up before buying more is cutting them open - toothpaste, lotion, etc- usually you can get another 3-5 days by really scraping out a bottle.
Really appreciate this video and your positivity. I started being more financially responsible over a decade ago when I was entering my 30s and while it has been a challenge, I have elimated my undergrad, grad and credit card debt and I have been much happier with life because I'm able to handle many of life's unexpected emergenicies with ease just by living well below my means. I still have my moments where I want to buy clothes and sneakers, but I tend to shop at outlet stores and places like Burlington Coat Factory and TJ Maxx and Marchalls. And if I do buy online, it's usually clearances and sale items. Still, I wait until everything is finished or unwearable with holes before I make any new purchases.
I got a similar gift this past Christmas. A book about something my husband adores. And yes, it was meant for me and only me. "You love reading." I legitimately thought it was for him at first... Nope. 😆 My husband didn't understand why I was offended.
I am a mom to both an Autistic child and a child with ADHD and work fulltime. I am lucky to get help from my dad and work for a smaller company that is flexible with allowing me to be at my kids weekly OT appts as well as IEP meetings. I dont make as much money as I could doing a more corporate job, but I am absolutely grateful for the flexibility. Also, we get help from the State Autism program to cover the copay of one of my kid's OT. It is exhausting, and I feel for you as well.
I am starting over .. jump in at anytime … Thanks for help me daily … I am trying to do better in my life and Money at 66 . Your Beautiful . Enjoy today . Proud of you ..
Lydia- you’re such a huge encouragement to me!!! My husband and I are not eating out this month, with the exception of 1 time last week when our plumbing collapsed. Even though we took on debt to pay for it ($30K😱), we’re baby stepping and know that we will get it paid off. God is good and He has us in His hands. We will get thru this.
If you are open to it, a video on baby gear would be amazing! There is so much in the market, but babies need very little “stuff” to thrive. I’m always interested to hear minimalist and frugal mom’s perspectives on this topic! ❤
I live in Fairfax County, VA, it’s ridiculous. I’m short, my clothing budget this year is going to hems and alterations, I have a whole bag of nice items since my birthday last September. Thanks for the encouragement. I have been where you have been as a parent, keep doing all the hard work, it pays off. Blessings
This year, am really focused on planned spending and knowing what am saving for keeps me focused and helps me stay the course. Like you I am not spending on clothes this year even though I had planned to purchase some items in the off season. I have travel in mind which I really want to do and just planning and dreaming of travel has turned me off spending money on random things including clothes, eating out and such. I still do plan on eating out in fact gave myself the allowance to do it twice a month but so far, it seems it would only be for birthdays and anniversaries and in that case am okay. When it comes to beauty, I have always leaned towards, using and only repurchasing products that work. Don’t have the time or money to try new products that am not sure would work.
Im not even a Mom of small kids.... Im 60 and married and preparing to retire on our continued small income. We buy almost nothing new. First we go to our local FB no buy group and then our thrift stores. Honestly, we have gotten every single thing we asked for and/or wanted/needed from those two places for years. We buy new quality shoes (although I do buy some shoes at thrift stores too) and underwear (although I got a bag of brand new white socks for my hubby on the no buy group). We snagged the .99 cent/mo Hulu deal on Thanksgiving. We are saving for a new bed mattress though.
Hi Lydia - off topic but if you’re open to it, I’d love to hear about your decision to go back to school/career plan. I’m in my 30s and feeling overwhelmed by trying to figure out what I may want to study/career change I may want to pursue that would justify the cost of school. Would be interested in hearing your thought process and how you decided to go the path you did. Thank you!
I can fully empathize with your long-term chagrin at your husband gifting you a vacuum cleaner for Christmas. My (now ex-) husband gifted me an electric bread maker for Christmas one year. He was so excited as I was opening it. But he was the person who ate the majority of bread in the house - hence his nickname of Pillsbury! 🍞😂
As always, yes to all of this! Internet clothes...ugh. if its available and you have tradeworthy goods consignment has gotten my family free clothing for years...except underwear and workboots.
I just love watching your videos. I have so much skincare that I most likely won’t need to purchase anything this year. I’ve also had to be really honest with the fact that I don’t need any new clothes, I’ve worked from home full time since 2020 so I don’t need new work clothes. That one has been hard for me but it helps that I can put more money into saving for a vacation in 2025. Just a small getaway but I’m looking forward to that. Thank you for being such a positive influence!
i’m now they’re saving tip that I’m so grateful for I switched out my cable boxes to streaming boxes. My cable bill is down 100 bucks. I’ve got the wireless router and I’ve got two streaming boxes cause I have two different TVs and I’m just so thrilled that I was able to do that. I have so many channels. I’m very happy I don’t have HBO, you know those expensive channels and I’m just thrilled with the streaming boxes so if you’re town office them switch them out it’s so much cheaper
Great video! We are big thrifters too. I like that it saves money and we are not adding to the landfill, last year was a tough year healthwisw, so we are looking forward to 2024!🎉 We have spent this month focusing on using the food we already have. Freezer, fridge and pantry. We’ve had some great meals. We haven’t had to pick up much, which has been $ saving for sure. Re the lotions and “new” things that call us, I reminded myself of the phrase from minimal mom- it’s not the potion, but the motion. Ie, if we are already not using up what we already have, how likely is it we will use the new stuff. not very!!
I went to a skin care party years ago at a friend's house. I will never forget the demonstration lady telling us that if you don't spend an hour on your skincare routine every day, you were doing it wrong. I had 3 kids and I was pregnant at the time. Ummmm, heck no, what busy mom has time to spend an hour on her face every day?!? 😮😅
We did thrift stores for clothing growing up too. I liked that i knew my clothes would be unique - it was weird to see 10 "copies" of the same shirt in Sears/wherever. However, it could be hard on my brothers because boys clothes could be harder to find in good condition.
Yes!!! I literally text my friends first and then look at swip swap & thrift for cleats, sports wear, clothes, and basically everything else. Lol Girllllll I cut the ends off my concealer/ moisturizer/ etc to get the last bittttt 😂 Lydia, I needed that little encouragement at the end/ thank you, boo!
Hey sweet woman. I definitely messed up. And that's fine. Stuff happened and happened and happened in the past 2 years. Back on the wagon and refocused. Thrifting is awesome, but only go when you need something. Or have that list of things you are specifically looking for. Because it can be so tempting!
1. I remember when Libby was a baby and Hilary from Old World Home sent you a package of clothes Evey and Lara had outgrown. 2. I discovered thrifting when I had a very low-paying job in 2016 but it demanded proper office wear. I've never looked back. Even WalMart seems expensive to me now lol
I'm just the opposite!! I love a product I will stay with that product!! Ajax is not sold where I regularly do my grocery shopping. But the Dollar store does, good for me, it's cheaper there and I stock up on my cleaners. And I use the very last of the toothpaste in the tube!! I can squeeze out every drop before I open a new package, and I don't have to pay for my toothpaste it falls on the OTC products of my Medicare coverage. but I still get the most out of it!!
I am proud of YOU Lydia!! Mom to an ADHD kiddo and diagnosed last year with ADHD myself. You provide such great insight and your authenticity is so appreciated. I’ve got sparring gear I’ve been trying to unload (younger daughter quit basically right after we bought it 🙄) and if the size is right I’m happy to figure out a way to get it to you! The only thing is it has the name of the franchise on it- not sure if this matters. Stay strong, you’re doing great ❤
Spend freeze for me unless it's needed... not just because I want it. I'm also using it up because I can't justify buying another (fill in the blank) to add to the cabinet or drawer when I have more than enough of same item (s)!
Love this talk today. Thanks, it was really good. I did a no spend January this year for the 1st time. Did really good at it too. I want to do a low spend this year. And I was planning to try to not buy "new" this year I want to try 2nd hand. Thrift as much as possible.
Thanks for another really helpful video Lydia. I really appreciate the time and energy you out into them. This year I've helped myself financially by physically cutting up my credit card at the start of January. I'm not really an online shopper but I use a credit card to make my day feel a little better as I walk through my life. Occasional coffee and cake here, new folder there, new coat that's not in the budget. It could total 10% - 20% of my bext month's salary so then I'd be struggling the next month as i had to pay my credit card in full. January has felt a little constricting but, you know what? - I've survived! My credit card payment at this next payday is just £10 due to two small monthly payments. So happy 😊🎉
Great video this year cutting back like everyone else. It's just the two of use and we don't have a lot of white clothes so washing a small load of laundry is such a waste. So I bought us bonus packages of under clothes so I only wash whites every 2 to weeks or so.. saves me time, soap and everything In-between.
As always you keep it real which I appreciate so much but really that you stay positive !! So much negative stuff out there ,thank you it’s funny and refreshing to see your UA-cam
My MIL became a widow suddenly before she was 35. She had a 14 yo (my hubby) and an 8 yo with cerebral palsy. To lose the main breadwinner with no life insurance suddenly was brutal. My hubby stepped up and her parents helped a ton but she is a BEAST because she has had to be. Her sister is also mentally retarded. I knew going in to our marriage that I would wind up the primary caregiver for these 2 at some point. I probably have 5 more years before I have to retire just so I can care for all our parents and family members.
Thank you so much for being so encouraging!!!! You are exactly what I need when I am having a bad financial day week, month. You are amazing. Thank you!!!❤
Lol I live in Fairfax county va so I get mine for free. Love the discount when you cancel streaming service! We are currently using up everything. We just defrosted our freezer and I got to rearrange everything so feeling good.
Mom of 5!! My number 4 has Down syndrome and SPD possibly a autism diagnosis soon. It’s hard very hard . But in those little moments that is good it really really good .
I've been able to save so much MOLLA!! By not going grocery shopping. How so? By using up what I had in the freezer...I used my food saver to freeze so much food that I don't have to go grocery shopping for another week or so...bc I have so much food in the freezer n free food that I get from my insurance company...WhooHoo!!😊😊😊
if you do get fast food always check the bag before you drive away I was so mad the other day I went to go to Panera bread which is expensive but the food is good. They were closed because the fire department was there inspecting something there’s a Burger King right next to Panera bread I went there. I ordered a meal and it was supposed to be two junior whoppers two fries and two drinks, the lady asked me did I want two lemonades I said no just one she only gave me one fry she did not give me two orders of fries I was so mad because I paid almost $11 for this meal and I was enjoying the fries cause I was going somewhere and then I went to go look for the other package. She didn’t put it in and I had already driven away, and I was quite far from the place , so not only did I have bad food you know Burger King I was ripped off and she said I called. She says well if you come back I’ll give you the fries. That is not good enough. I was way far away you know it’s just it’s bad enough to pay that amount of money for that food but then to be short changed so annoying always check your bag because you’re paying a lot of money for this food and then to be ripped off
Live this video and fairfax county is about an 45 minute drive and so expensive to live there. We just like makes me laugh that they gotta charge their $27 annually because they need it joke joke love your videos take notes.
I am a 68 yr old retired nurse with grown kids. I just love your channel. You are so upbeat and encouraging. You have such great ideas. Thank you for doing this channel!!
Thank you so much!
You are so nice. 😀
Lydia, autism in my oldest has really impacted our family. My son is 13 and doing really well now. I could write you a novel right about all that we have been through as a family now but i wont.
The therapy is very necessary but also very hard to make work. If it wasn't for my retired mom-- we would not be here today. My husband and I work full time. Im a teacher so i have summers to take over the appointments but it was HARD.
From age 2-8yrs old he went to weekly one hour private speech therapy. From 5-9yrs old he went to ABA for 2-4 hours a week. From 3-4yrs he went to vision therapy 2 hours a week. From 3-7yrs old he went to OT/PT for one hour a week. From 3-6yrs old he went to preschool 6 hours a week.
I look back and i can not believe how amazing my mom was. I took him when i could. Scheduled evening appointments and did summers. This was also very hard emotionally and financially. We recovered financially but we had quite a bit of debt for a long time.
It was all worth it because hes made amazing progress. He could not answer a question or speak in full sentences until about age 7. Like no verbs. Nouns only until about 5. Now hes 13 and is writing a novel for fun. He scores high school level in use of vocabulary and sentence structure according to tests at school.
I recently learned that Our library has a ‘library of things’!!!! You can check out tools, dishes, baking appliances, projectors, musical instruments…thousands of items! I cannot believe what a BRILLIANT idea that was ❤️🥰❤️
This was so good Lydia. I have to say you hit home with the business part and having a special needs kiddo. I have had my design business since 2008 (full time 2014). When I had my fourth child in 2018 and everything we went through to understand what was going on with her . (I was living at Children’s Hospital with her for 5weeks) then 3 weeks. Just on and on. Took a year to get her diagnosis (rare genetic disorder) causes low tone, autism spectrum in there, seizures. And so much more. It was a devastating blow for our family. My business took a major hit, but I had faithful clients and God’s Grace. Zoie is 5 now, still non-speaking, cannot walk and is gtube fed. But my business is thriving, homeschooling the 3 older kids was a choice (seemed crazy) but Covid forced my hand couldn’t risk Zoie . Turned out to be the right one for us. But all that to say… it is HARD. But I love my business and my babies. I cry a lot , but that’s expected. I finally have a small team for my business. I really take it one day at a time. Plan but leave room for whatever May come. And (did I say I cry lol?) yeah I let out all that emotion. Because it’s so much but I am grateful.
Sorry this is long. I really love your channel and what you share. Sending hugs to everyone reading this also.
Hi! I'm a mom to an autistic/ADHD child. I went part time last year because I became ill and burned out working full time. God was good to us and my hubby had started a job that gave us enough income for me to be able to go part time. I wasn't okay working full time, it was horrible 😟 unfortunately we don't have any good thrift stores around here (we live in Scotland and the charity shops are sometimes more expensive than buying things new). But going to try and find other ways to save money this year ☺️
I've started doing everything with Money one day a week. I pay bills, make deposits, buy groceries, order things, etc. It forces me to wait to purchase anything, and it has been a game changer. We started this awhile ago, and strangely, it has taken so much stress off. I loved this video, I'm learning to give myself grace. Thank you for being so positive ❤
I love a good admin day!
This is a great idea!
Never thought of this, but I am going to implement this! Thank you!!
@@pinkpixiepeony4407 It really has changed the game for us!Enjoy
Love this. We've ben avoiding the thrift because my husband and I have "collecting" hobby tendacies, but I like that a "Thrift First" house rule could let us thrift with purpose!
The one thing we did last year that helped a lot was always keeping two frozen pizzas in the fridge. Sure, they are not "cheap" but they are cheaper than pizza delivery/takeout on nights that I have to tapout on cooking. I just budget them into part of my weekly staples grocery list like coffee and creamer. Saves us at least $20 each time we choose that over take out or delivery!
An emergency pizza!
I can always find something to buy in a store, so I don't go regularly. But if I pass a thrift store that's calling my name I'll go in and I always know why I had to go . I take my daughter, granddaughter,and her boyfriend on senior citizen discount day and say a prayer that everyone will find what they need . We all do very happy T-shirt , jeans, skirt, even shoes.
In the last couple of years, I’ve realized that I’ve become a compulsive shopper. I wasn’t always this way. I can trace it back to my Mom’s terminal breast cancer diagnosis. It was during that time that I discovered that I could buy something cute and I would have several days to be happy for a little while, waiting for the purchase to arrive. I finally let my husband in on what was going on - For the most part I had stayed within our budget and we had an emergency fund. I now read to him everything I spend each paycheck. He is very encouraging and thoughtful. I have deleted websites that tempted me to overspend. I now stick to thrift stores. I love bits of seasonal decor and books at a fraction I used to spend!
I'm so sorry for your loss.
First, I am very sorry for your loss. But further, I’ve been there. My mother’s terminal cancer diagnosis caused me to behave in the same way. And it’s taken me some time to break that cycle. It’s hard.
Back around Thanksgiving I had a bunch of wrinkly apples so I decided to make applesauce. I didn’t have an immersion blender, so I borrowed one from my mother-in-law. Worked perfectly and I loved the homemade applesauce. Fast forward a month to Christmas and she gifted me a new one. Now I can make more applesauce with the new batch of wrinkly apples!
That's so sweet of her.
"Pray for your short friends because we are not ok." 🙋♀ 🤣
We’ve stepped on all of our hems
@@TheRealLydiaSenn Yes. Yes, we have.
Thank you for saying we can make mistakes. I’m 53 and still make mistakes. One about made me sick this year but I’m brushing it off and 2024 is a new year.
My child has childhood apraxia of speech we have weekly therapies, and I do work full time. Thankfully I am a nurse so I get a full weeks of hours in three days. I work mostly weekends which sucks for church and time with the hubby but it saves us on childcare and more flexibility for his therapies he was going to OT too at one point but has graduated from that. Not sure how other people do it.
We buy our bread from a discount bakery. A whole months worth for $10. It’s been helping us save in the grocery budget.
We’re in three therapies a week and about to start a 4th. It’s a little overwhelming
I'm so glad I found your channel! You are the opposite of judgmental, and it's beyond refreshing!
Thank you so much.
We spend $20 a year for a membership to a library about 20 mins away, over state lines. Our little town library is seriously underfunded and frankly sad. It's dingy and tiny and dark, with few materials and activities compared to others. I wanted my kids (now teens) to love libraries as much as I do so to another town (and even state!) we went. It's basically on my husband's route home from work so we can order materials online and he drops in to turn in used stuff and get new. Worth every penny and thensome! I am a total library junkie!
Library junkies UNITE!
Lydia, my hat's off to you. Having been a very young mom raising a child alone after a bitter divorce, I look back and see that I did some things right and some wrong; I often worked 2, sometimes 3 jobs and missed time with my boy. My conscientious efforts this past year have included making sure I don't let unused or little-used subscriptions linger, keeping power usage down when the weather is mild, and really being mindful of how much I use of favorite cleaning products. I wish you every success, and salute you as being what I'd call a great Mom!
I can’t believe you said that “I don’t come to your job and by work equipment for Christmas!” 😂😂😂 Priceless. I agree with thrift first always. I’m not quite there with borrowing yet but the LIBRARY is one of the best places on earth. Also I have put water into every single soap, lotion, cleaner, beauty product and made it last for several more days or weeks!!!! Great video as always thank you
I stand by this statement. 😂 Also I was pregnant and always throwing up at the time so there's that.
Have a clothes swap party. I love having these. A good excuse for a fun party. You gather a group of women (or men) and you bring items you no longer want or wear. Everyone has to bring at least one thing. They all get hung up in a room, and then let loose the group. Try on everything, as you would be surprised what fits. We included accessories and jewellery too. And added the caveat, in good condition, eg. no stains or holes. I still have a top from years ago that someone else didn't wear that I adore. And it reminds me of her and the fun of the event each time I wear it 🙂
That's a really good idea.
I love these tips! My family and I live in Hawaii and we are part of a Buy Nothing group on our island where people post stuff to give away or ask for things. It's amazing and has saved us from buying the items ourselves. Highly recommend checking to see if you have a local group in your area. Our son is also on the spectrum and dear god the therapy costs. Our insurance isn't the best and we spent a lot of the year fighting to get his therapies covered. For any who are in a similar boat my son's OT recommended looking into a supplementary insurance, like getting a private plan that's just for them. If you're already paying out of pocket it can save you hundreds. And yeah props to any working parents who are working and trying to take care of their special needs child. I'm a SAHM and I think it's a lot.
Heres a few that i hope can help !
Shopping your home first see what you have then see what you need.
Keeping inventory in the pantry of what expires first to use everything up for less waste.
Sell unwanted or unused items. If you havent used something in a year or have it in storage your probably not going to miss it. ( offer up, marketplace is easy to get started) sell clothes to thred up and credit can be used to a like new item as a treat.
Dont forget to do returns in time to avoid fees or being stuck with a broken product. Many companies have gone to 30days with receipt
If you do buy something new hold on to that receipt many places will price adjustment within 15days if the price has dropped further.
Thrifting too. I like that it has less environmental impact too. Another tip with using products up before buying more is cutting them open - toothpaste, lotion, etc- usually you can get another 3-5 days by really scraping out a bottle.
Yes!
Really appreciate this video and your positivity. I started being more financially responsible over a decade ago when I was entering my 30s and while it has been a challenge, I have elimated my undergrad, grad and credit card debt and I have been much happier with life because I'm able to handle many of life's unexpected emergenicies with ease just by living well below my means. I still have my moments where I want to buy clothes and sneakers, but I tend to shop at outlet stores and places like Burlington Coat Factory and TJ Maxx and Marchalls. And if I do buy online, it's usually clearances and sale items. Still, I wait until everything is finished or unwearable with holes before I make any new purchases.
My husband bought me a new house phone for our first married Christmas. I was devastated. I can laugh now but I almost cried!
I relate. This is for the house. We both use it, why is it a gift for me?
I got a similar gift this past Christmas. A book about something my husband adores. And yes, it was meant for me and only me. "You love reading." I legitimately thought it was for him at first... Nope. 😆 My husband didn't understand why I was offended.
Thanks for being my encouraging, UA-cam big sis. You speak calm into our regular chaos and I’m always grateful for a new video (pep talk).
🤗 you are so kind.
I am a mom to both an Autistic child and a child with ADHD and work fulltime. I am lucky to get help from my dad and work for a smaller company that is flexible with allowing me to be at my kids weekly OT appts as well as IEP meetings. I dont make as much money as I could doing a more corporate job, but I am absolutely grateful for the flexibility. Also, we get help from the State Autism program to cover the copay of one of my kid's OT. It is exhausting, and I feel for you as well.
You need to get a little treat this week.
I am starting over .. jump in at anytime … Thanks for help me daily … I am trying to do better in my life and Money at 66 .
Your Beautiful .
Enjoy today .
Proud of you ..
You got this!
Lydia- you’re such a huge encouragement to me!!! My husband and I are not eating out this month, with the exception of 1 time last week when our plumbing collapsed. Even though we took on debt to pay for it ($30K😱), we’re baby stepping and know that we will get it paid off. God is good and He has us in His hands. We will get thru this.
If you are open to it, a video on baby gear would be amazing! There is so much in the market, but babies need very little “stuff” to thrive. I’m always interested to hear minimalist and frugal mom’s perspectives on this topic! ❤
Thank you!
I live in Fairfax County, VA, it’s ridiculous. I’m short, my clothing budget this year is going to hems and alterations, I have a whole bag of nice items since my birthday last September. Thanks for the encouragement. I have been where you have been as a parent, keep doing all the hard work, it pays off. Blessings
This year, am really focused on planned spending and knowing what am saving for keeps me focused and helps me stay the course. Like you I am not spending on clothes this year even though I had planned to purchase some items in the off season. I have travel in mind which I really want to do and just planning and dreaming of travel has turned me off spending money on random things including clothes, eating out and such. I still do plan on eating out in fact gave myself the allowance to do it twice a month but so far, it seems it would only be for birthdays and anniversaries and in that case am okay. When it comes to beauty, I have always leaned towards, using and only repurchasing products that work. Don’t have the time or money to try new products that am not sure would work.
I would absolutely love a vacuum for a present....as long as it was a particular one I wanted. Don't just go buying me a random vacuum cleaner.
Fair enough!
Im not even a Mom of small kids.... Im 60 and married and preparing to retire on our continued small income. We buy almost nothing new. First we go to our local FB no buy group and then our thrift stores. Honestly, we have gotten every single thing we asked for and/or wanted/needed from those two places for years. We buy new quality shoes (although I do buy some shoes at thrift stores too) and underwear (although I got a bag of brand new white socks for my hubby on the no buy group). We snagged the .99 cent/mo Hulu deal on Thanksgiving. We are saving for a new bed mattress though.
I bought jeans that were too long and cut them short to make capris because it was cheaper than buying capris. And you can use iron seam stuff.
Thank you for the encouragement, Lydia. You are killing it, girl! ❤
Than kyou.
Hi Lydia - off topic but if you’re open to it, I’d love to hear about your decision to go back to school/career plan. I’m in my 30s and feeling overwhelmed by trying to figure out what I may want to study/career change I may want to pursue that would justify the cost of school. Would be interested in hearing your thought process and how you decided to go the path you did. Thank you!
Great idea!!
I can fully empathize with your long-term chagrin at your husband gifting you a vacuum cleaner for Christmas. My (now ex-) husband gifted me an electric bread maker for Christmas one year. He was so excited as I was opening it. But he was the person who ate the majority of bread in the house - hence his nickname of Pillsbury! 🍞😂
As always, yes to all of this! Internet clothes...ugh. if its available and you have tradeworthy goods consignment has gotten my family free clothing for years...except underwear and workboots.
Thanks for sharing!!
Your receiving vacuum cleaner for Christmas reminds me of a woman I know whose two young sons thought vacuuming was their mother’s hobby. 😅
😂
I just love watching your videos. I have so much skincare that I most likely won’t need to purchase anything this year. I’ve also had to be really honest with the fact that I don’t need any new clothes, I’ve worked from home full time since 2020 so I don’t need new work clothes. That one has been hard for me but it helps that I can put more money into saving for a vacation in 2025. Just a small getaway but I’m looking forward to that. Thank you for being such a positive influence!
Thanks for sharing!!
i’m now they’re saving tip that I’m so grateful for I switched out my cable boxes to streaming boxes. My cable bill is down 100 bucks. I’ve got the wireless router and I’ve got two streaming boxes cause I have two different TVs and I’m just so thrilled that I was able to do that. I have so many channels. I’m very happy I don’t have HBO, you know those expensive channels and I’m just thrilled with the streaming boxes so if you’re town office them switch them out it’s so much cheaper
I asked my boyfriend for a dual mop bucket and a chopper. He looked at me funny
Great video! We are big thrifters too. I like that it saves money and we are not adding to the landfill, last year was a tough year healthwisw, so we are looking forward to 2024!🎉 We have spent this month focusing on using the food we already have. Freezer, fridge and pantry. We’ve had some great meals. We haven’t had to pick up much, which has been $ saving for sure. Re the lotions and “new” things that call us, I reminded myself of the phrase from minimal mom- it’s not the potion, but the motion. Ie, if we are already not using up what we already have, how likely is it we will use the new stuff. not very!!
I went to a skin care party years ago at a friend's house. I will never forget the demonstration lady telling us that if you don't spend an hour on your skincare routine every day, you were doing it wrong. I had 3 kids and I was pregnant at the time. Ummmm, heck no, what busy mom has time to spend an hour on her face every day?!? 😮😅
An hour? A solid hour? That's literal insanity?
A return policy at a thrift store is gold!!! My question to you... Are you OK? Sending love and hugs ❤
Mostly.
"Pray for your short friends, we are not okay." NO WE ARE NOT! Never gonna find pants that fit right. Never!
And heaven forbid you be a short person with a long torso. I've given up.
We did thrift stores for clothing growing up too. I liked that i knew my clothes would be unique - it was weird to see 10 "copies" of the same shirt in Sears/wherever. However, it could be hard on my brothers because boys clothes could be harder to find in good condition.
I love how encouraging, positive, and levelheaded you are! Thank you Lydia for being you!
Yes!!! I literally text my friends first and then look at swip swap & thrift for cleats, sports wear, clothes, and basically everything else. Lol Girllllll I cut the ends off my concealer/ moisturizer/ etc to get the last bittttt 😂 Lydia, I needed that little encouragement at the end/ thank you, boo!
Love that!
I make a no buy list. Helps with impulse buying.
Hey sweet woman. I definitely messed up. And that's fine. Stuff happened and happened and happened in the past 2 years. Back on the wagon and refocused.
Thrifting is awesome, but only go when you need something. Or have that list of things you are specifically looking for. Because it can be so tempting!
1. I remember when Libby was a baby and Hilary from Old World Home sent you a package of clothes Evey and Lara had outgrown. 2. I discovered thrifting when I had a very low-paying job in 2016 but it demanded proper office wear. I've never looked back. Even WalMart seems expensive to me now lol
It was so kind of her. Hilary has always been a class act.
I'm just the opposite!! I love a product I will stay with that product!! Ajax is not sold where I regularly do my grocery shopping. But the Dollar store does, good for me, it's cheaper there and I stock up on my cleaners. And I use the very last of the toothpaste in the tube!! I can squeeze out every drop before I open a new package, and I don't have to pay for my toothpaste it falls on the OTC products of my Medicare coverage. but I still get the most out of it!!
I am proud of YOU Lydia!! Mom to an ADHD kiddo and diagnosed last year with ADHD myself. You provide such great insight and your authenticity is so appreciated. I’ve got sparring gear I’ve been trying to unload (younger daughter quit basically right after we bought it 🙄) and if the size is right I’m happy to figure out a way to get it to you! The only thing is it has the name of the franchise on it- not sure if this matters. Stay strong, you’re doing great ❤
Spend freeze for me unless it's needed... not just because I want it. I'm also using it up because I can't justify buying another (fill in the blank) to add to the cabinet or drawer when I have more than enough of same item (s)!
Love this talk today. Thanks, it was really good. I did a no spend January this year for the 1st time. Did really good at it too. I want to do a low spend this year. And I was planning to try to not buy "new" this year I want to try 2nd hand. Thrift as much as possible.
That's awesome!
I feel so encouraged 🎉 :have a good cry and drink some water: yes girl 🎉
Sending love from Ontario 🇨🇦
Thanks for another really helpful video Lydia. I really appreciate the time and energy you out into them. This year I've helped myself financially by physically cutting up my credit card at the start of January. I'm not really an online shopper but I use a credit card to make my day feel a little better as I walk through my life. Occasional coffee and cake here, new folder there, new coat that's not in the budget. It could total 10% - 20% of my bext month's salary so then I'd be struggling the next month as i had to pay my credit card in full. January has felt a little constricting but, you know what? - I've survived! My credit card payment at this next payday is just £10 due to two small monthly payments. So happy 😊🎉
Our thrift stores have gone way up in prices. In some cases, it is cheaper to buy brand new.
Great video this year cutting back like everyone else. It's just the two of use and we don't have a lot of white clothes so washing a small load of laundry is such a waste. So I bought us bonus packages of under clothes so I only wash whites every 2 to weeks or so.. saves me time, soap and everything In-between.
Oh. My. Gosh. The karate professor made me LAUGH So. Hard. Thank you ❤
They just call him Mr. "First Name."
@@TheRealLydiaSenn I don't know what to call my kids' karate teacher, either. I refer to him as "The Dude." :)
I really love your channel. I appreciate how real you are. You are so encouraging. Thank you :)
Thank you so much!
As always you keep it real which I appreciate so much but really that you stay positive !! So much negative stuff out there ,thank you it’s funny and refreshing to see your UA-cam
I appreciate that
I started saying that to myself. “You can do hard things”
In my small town the moms sell used soccer cleats and other sports gear when their kids have outgrown those things.
My MIL became a widow suddenly before she was 35. She had a 14 yo (my hubby) and an 8 yo with cerebral palsy. To lose the main breadwinner with no life insurance suddenly was brutal. My hubby stepped up and her parents helped a ton but she is a BEAST because she has had to be. Her sister is also mentally retarded. I knew going in to our marriage that I would wind up the primary caregiver for these 2 at some point. I probably have 5 more years before I have to retire just so I can care for all our parents and family members.
I adore you and your videos, was this one out of focus on your face or is it my phone screen. 😅
I always look forward to your videos.
Glad you like them!
Thank you so much for being so encouraging!!!! You are exactly what I need when I am having a bad financial day week, month. You are amazing. Thank you!!!❤
You got this!
Lol I live in Fairfax county va so I get mine for free. Love the discount when you cancel streaming service! We are currently using up everything. We just defrosted our freezer and I got to rearrange everything so feeling good.
Awesome.
Your wonderful! I’m so proud of YOU ❤️❤️❤️🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙋🏻♀️
Thank you so much!!
I love your ideas. Thanks so much Lydia!
Mom of 5!! My number 4 has Down syndrome and SPD possibly a autism diagnosis soon. It’s hard very hard . But in those little moments that is good it really really good .
😂 I realy like this video, I know you r funny, but today we can fell your new year energy 👍
Thank you! ♥
Always inspiring! 💜 I cancelled my Prime membership last year…no regrets!
None at all! The Prime content is meh.
Thank you ❤
❤
Thanks so much Lydia!❤😊
You are so welcome! Thank you!
Great video Lydia! From a fellow short girl
Hey, thanks!
Love your videos, as usual! Really wish you were my neighbor!
That would be fun!
I've been able to save so much MOLLA!! By not going grocery shopping. How so? By using up what I had in the freezer...I used my food saver to freeze so much food that I don't have to go grocery shopping for another week or so...bc I have so much food in the freezer n free food that I get from my insurance company...WhooHoo!!😊😊😊
You always make me feel better about myself Thanks ❤
In an encouraging way or in a "she's such a mess she makes me feel better about myself" way? 😂
In an encouraging way , of course @@TheRealLydiaSenn
Love watching you!
Thank you
Lol!- I'm waiting to use my MGM free trial on prime for when Belgravia season 2 finishes!
Same! My sister and I were just talking about it.
For some reason February always feels better to me as a "start fresh" month. Probably bc my husband's bday is in mid Jan.
I totally get that!
I’m doing another low spend year. My goal is to make double mortgage payments this year
Sensei !! For Karate :)
Great video!
Glad you enjoyed it
if you do get fast food always check the bag before you drive away I was so mad the other day I went to go to Panera bread which is expensive but the food is good. They were closed because the fire department was there inspecting something there’s a Burger King right next to Panera bread I went there. I ordered a meal and it was supposed to be two junior whoppers two fries and two drinks, the lady asked me did I want two lemonades I said no just one she only gave me one fry she did not give me two orders of fries I was so mad because I paid almost $11 for this meal and I was enjoying the fries cause I was going somewhere and then I went to go look for the other package. She didn’t put it in and I had already driven away, and I was quite far from the place , so not only did I have bad food you know Burger King I was ripped off and she said I called. She says well if you come back I’ll give you the fries. That is not good enough. I was way far away you know it’s just it’s bad enough to pay that amount of money for that food but then to be short changed so annoying always check your bag because you’re paying a lot of money for this food and then to be ripped off
Live this video and fairfax county is about an 45 minute drive and so expensive to live there. We just like makes me laugh that they gotta charge their $27 annually because they need it joke joke love your videos take notes.
I know! I have family that used to live there. Crazy expensive.
What do you use for rosacea?
I have a prescription
I had roacia I stopped hot sauce when it disappeared I can handle mild ok.
I received a vacuum for Christmas. I asked for it.
I got a hedge trimmer for Christmas. I also asked for that.
Sensei?
Honey I have a small bubba cup and love it
Bubba cups & ozarks from Walmart!❤❤❤
They are such good quality.
Karate Sensei
It’s tango so doo they call him Master
😂
What happened to my earlier comment?
I don't know. What did it say? This is the only comment I see from you.