Accepting that I am a homebody and traveling is not a goal for me. I used to force myself on vacations because society told me that’s what I should want. I always hate them. I love being in my home with my hubby and 2 fur babies. Working a jigsaw puzzle, listening to music and drinking coffee is my happy place. I am only 51!!! My brothers, in-laws and neighbors are all always going. They seem so excited and really enjoy their adventures. Sounds like torture to me! Lol!
My idea of a vacation is a secluded cabin on the river in the mountains away from people lol. In my younger days I didn’t think much about going somewhere crowded but it’s like a switch flipped after I turned 50. I vacation Monday-Thursday when most places are less crowded plus lodging rates are cheaper than they are on weekends
Well, I thought it is just me. So glad to find out there are people like me too. I love beach (sit and look at it) and that is one of the reasons we moved here to FL. But society and all people think vacation is so great to go ever year or a few times a year. Literally, by thinking of it, it makes me tired lol. I do have plans to go to vacation for my son to understand the world and culture experiences.
Ohmygosh your post spoke to my heart! I thought I was an alien for wanting time to enjoy such simple pleasures with someone I love. Downtime, easy conversation, working a puzzle together and enjoying a cup of homemade coffee without a care for time. When the world and life are crazy, my idea of a break or a vacation, is time to be still.
I might sound a little Grinch-y but I stopped hosting Thanksgiving and Christmas because my family wasn’t willing to help by bringing a dish or help clean up. The whole day was my husband and I busting our butts and not even getting to visit. This year I’m pregnant and I just can’t do it all for people who don’t appreciate it. My husband and I are figuring out what to eat and will spend the holidays together without the chaos. I’m very excited.
We agreed no gifts for adults at Christmas. We each make a donation to our favourite charity. Who needs more stuff? Good music, good food, playing games, watching a Christmas movie in my pjs … that’s all I need! Thanks for a thoughtful video Kate ❤❤❤
We buy for the 3 kids in our family and his grandmother. I got gifts for my dad & MIL so far and I am going to take them back. We just don't need them.
Once my sons started playing video games, lots of other good things went by the wayside. Delay as long as possible, and then limit the options and conditions, especially as Kaden heads into middle school.
One practical tip, for me at least, for living below my means is to remember my why. I worked hard to become 100% debt free. The peace of mind I have is priceless and when I think about spending money on something, I always ask myself if it’s worth sacrificing that peace of mind. It’s not worth it for me anymore. I see friends spending money on all kinds of things and they’re stressed or will be when their financial bubble collapses. I don’t want that.
Thanks for writing my response for me. We are also 100% debt free and watch some of our friends and neighbors spend like crazy. The weird part is that we’ve explained how we got to financial independence - spend less than you make, buy used, etc. - we get, ‘oh I couldn’t do that.’ Or, ‘I don’t have the time.’ Or, we want to enjoy life.’ None of it makes sense to us so we smile, nod, and change the subject.
how wonderful is that you have 100% debt free! I am working on the mortgage to pay off. For holidays, I reduce buying gifts to people and my family. The truth about spending money on items that will be used only one or two times make me sad. I even question to my son before I am buying gifts for Christmas and birthday. It sounds little harsh but it is better to teach when they are young so they never have debt in their life!
Something that honestly helped me keep the variable costs down for my household is meal planning and buying in bulk when possible. I would like to share one tip that originally my roommate showed me and that I believe saved my family a lot of money over time: Cook a big pot of garbanzo beans (I use 1 kg - no salt, just baking powder to speed up cooking process) in a big pot. Use 1/3 or even half of it to make hummus on one day. Put the rest in the fridge over night and use it the next day to make a delicious tunesian dish called "Lablabi" (with lemon, olive oil, harissa, cumin, sea salt and old bread - look it up). Both dishes are tasty, easy to make, cheap , filling and most of all - healthy. 😊 Lots of iron and good protein. I do the garbanzo bean thing every other weekend. Besides, I really believe that if you want to live economically in today's world you need to put on that apron, roll back your sleeves and start cooking from scratch. A nice side effect of that is that it's tastier and also more healthy for you and your family.
👍❤️thank you! Notes: 1. Reduce the chaos in the home. Make it your sanctuary. 2. Figure out what you really enjoy for entertainment and prioritize the favourites 3. Be present when you are with others. (Live life, don’t multitask so you don’t use things to soothe loneliness) My tip for saving- keep a wish list on my iPhone- add anything with the necessary information including the price and any thoughts about why and why not. Leave it there. Let it marinate as long as possible. A month at least. Sometimes I buy stuff that looks good in the moment because I don’t want to forget about it.
My sweet 17 yr old stepson who has been living with us for the past 4 years asked me what I wanted for Christmas. I paused, thought about it for a moment and suggested a bowling date. So he is going to take me bowling the first Saturday in January. It’s quality time and something we both enjoy doing and less clutter.
We cut our Christmas gifts back to 1 gift and everyone still wants my stockings. I find the best stuff😊. Honey and I do alot of charity. Giving all year and vamp it up during the holidays. We can do this because we have always lived below our means and invested heavily. The extra from not overfoing gifts will add to the community food pantry with special items. Like canned hams. I am 100% on board with your reasons why no gaming unit. When my daughter was in mid. school, small TVs for their bedrooms were the popular gift. I was against it, but someone gifted her with this. Talk about chaos! I never saw her, homework was not up to par, repeat requests from me to join us for dinner, game nights, family activities... Her room became a mess. I'd had enough. Her TV was moved to another area of the house that wasn't a place to hide. Eventually, she lost interest and I purged. 1 TV in the family room and I got rid of all extra clocks (we had clocks in the bathrooms and family room, we had alarm clocks in all bedrooms, we had phones, appliance timers even a coocoo clock). It all created so much chaos.
I'm trying to figure out the "Why" of my activities. For example, I love to when my adult children come home for the holidays. My why is because i like spending quality time with them. We usually go out to eat and go do something. But really, by the end of the night, there wasn't much quality time together. It was time of doing. If that makes sense. So this year, instead of that, I'm doing a "soup" supper and game night. So we can be together and have quality time. Still with food and still with laughs, but truly filling up my "Why" ❤
My husband and I love to travel and go out to eat. We are debt free, however we still limit dining out to only once or twice a month at most. We like to keep eating out a special treat, because we also love to cook. We always make sure that vacations and dining out are in the budget!
ask people what they want for presents. also, give people things they can use up, so they don't have to worry about having more stuff. for example: cut flowers, coffee, chocolate, hair products, skincare, or makeup (that they already use and like), homemade cookies, jam, granola...
I deeply wish i had never allowed video games into my household! I have 4 addicted kids, who are following the lead of my husband. You're really on to something with "be present". Contentment is the ultimate antidote to consumerism.
My son had a gaming system with one game only. It was a soccer game since he was a soccer player. No grand theft auto, no killing games and that worked for our family
I save monthly for travel. Tomorrow we’ll be in sunny Cabo Mexico enjoying a relaxing Thanksgiving week abroad. I say no to other things that don’t matter so I can say yes to things that do! Happy Thanksgiving early Kate squad!
Yep, I agree. I say no to so many things (most people don't agree) so I can say yes to what matters and bring joy (less clutter) to our family and home!
Amen ! 😂 agree 100% we bought 3 rabbits they were all supposed to be males - as you can guess one ended up female- lots of months and money later we could and should have walked away from the cute little rabbit at the fair- now that was a life lesson- plan for a pet like you would any other big budget item - thanks Kate 😊
I am so with you on the gaming system. So many people I know spend so much of their time and their life on games. They become so obsessed its kind of scary. I always imagine what could be accomplished in this world if video games did not exist, so much wasted time.
nice swanky new background, Kate! I'd add to this list - use the things you already have, especially the good stuff that you've been hoarding for a "special occasion." Craft supplies, fancy clothes/perfume/makeup/skincare, specialty cooking ingredients and tools, etc. What good do they do just sitting unused?
Often when I have an urge to get a new look for our home or to buy this or that, I realize that it’s often out of frustration and avoidance. So when I do something to improve the house, like clean and organize better or declutter, I get renewed and satisfied with the status quo! Then the urge to go out to add something new diminishes. I also get a better idea of what would make more sense to invest in . Good video.
Kate - Thanks for always being our voice of reason! My goal is to not panic buy more gifts than are necessary. I have a tendency to have a "it's not enough!" fear as the holidays get closer. Being more intentional this season and I know that will save me some cash and protect my sanity! You're the best. xo
Girl, that was me for way too many years too! I stopped that insanity when I became diligent about getting out of debt as an older single/divorced person. At first it was Incredibly hard to admit I had literally Nothing post divorce- so with no money I put Christmas on credit- Didn't want my kids to suffer from the divorce. Huge mistake I don't recommend Anyone doing. Time, and a few well-thought-out gifts within your budget are perfect. The next year I bought different colored throw blankets on sale for my kids, and had their names embroidered on them. My thought process was that they would have a personal, soft, comfy throw blanket while watching tv, reading a book, or playing a video game. It was personal and what I could afford.
14 years later...my littles are all Grown now...and some have littles of their own. I have followed a giving budget planned for with each payday. It's not much by some comparisons- but it's absolutely paid for in cash- and that's now okay with me- and something to be proud of. No credit card bills lurking in my future 😊
You are doing your son a terrific favor by limiting tech stuff....you can practice being present while giving him the opportunity to build balance in his life by getting outside WITH him to do whatever the two of you enjoy. A habit of daily outdoor activity ( without any tech) will give him an additional life focus as he moves through middle school and high school, when tech and other pressures are prevalent. It can also build opportunities to practice communicating with h 11:14 im, in a setting without tech....of course, the other positives, such as exercise and fresh air and playing in nature, are very important also.
If your kid doesn’t know it is his birthday, he shall not have a party. My kid had 3 birthdays and we did not celebrate them with a big party and gathering. We had a cake and whoever wanted to visit (friends and family who remembered it is his birthday) they stopped by. No gifts required, so nobody would be spending on my kid’s party. We started this „tradition“ because my husband and I are a lot wealthier then our families and we never wanted anyone to feel bad for not being able to participate in our celebrations.
#2 All for doing what makes us happy! I have a young kid and a toddler. Getting out of the house isn't as easy as it was before child 2. We enjoy either playing as a family the switch, watching a movie, making cookies. Basically anything that is fun that we can do at home! Reason we've kept some of the streaming services. Cheaper than movies and less crazy than leaving the house!
Hey Kate, home being a sanctuary really struck a chord with me as it's one of the most important things, unfortunately our rented accommodation at the moment feels far from that due to issues with the landlady that weren't caused by us but are somehow our fault, also wl me & my partner have very little family & the little we have live a long way away. We're not in a position to move at the moment but we're planning on keeping Xmas simple & making the best of the season together with our 5 catbabies 😻 I always say it's not what's on your table but whose around it ❤️
@@pmh8427I'm sorry that you're in a similar situation, but I totally agree, even in less than ideal circumstances we can concentrate on what's most important and make the most of the season 🤗
BEX! OMG I have been there and it was CHALLENGING to put it kindly. I love the idea of a simple christmas with your partner and 5 catbabies and have the best time together just being together and enjoying the close company:):):)
The video game tip is so spot on. It's a parenting issue and needs parents to stick to their guns. Family can be so stressful in that regard. I get my granddaughter magazine subscriptions and she loves them. It's like a gift every month.
I loved this video. Really needed a reminder, to cut back on unnecessary things. I'm a shopaholic, and after watching you talk about what's important, I will go back and reduce my Christmas wishlist 🙈😅 thank you Kate 🙏❤️
Kate, you are so wise to say NO to the gaming system. If your son is not ready for it, put a stop to it, don’t allow it to just show up as a gift and you have to be the bad guy. (Said from experience.) In addition, these things come with a life of their own, there is the desk, then the special chair, and accessories like headsets and mics. And the “it’s time to turn it off and go to bed”, “is your homework done?”…. Moving on, manufacturers upgrade constantly; when and if your son does want one, getting the current model might be a better option. In my case dealing with an oppositional gift giver, the unwanted device just showed up, and became a single mother’s nightmare. Hopefully you have a better control over your situation. Good luck. I love your channel and well thought out advice. Now I have a chance to share my experience and hope it is beneficial.
I am 63 y o and do not need much stuff but I like to go second hand "shopping" with a friend. We are now playing a game that we keep the same amount of money in our wallet meaning I entered with 20 euros and left the store still having 20 euros.
Did an errand run yesterday, Sat after this video posted, which included: buying/ paying for some mandatory expenses, taking some recycling as a result of going through a stack of junk mail and flattening cardboard last week, doing some metal recycling even through there wasn't a lot of it, going to the credit union to pay off the posted and pending credit card transactions, being pleased at the account balances, and Home Depot to buy a little copper tubing piece to fix the air compressor. First, it was wonderful to feel good about doing an errand run only rather than just piece mealing errands in the way home in an effort to squeeze pennies and dimes out of our expenditures; which I realize is why the balances looked good. Second it felt good(ish) to see the gas prices at $5.09, the cheapest closer to home, where as we took a longer way home last week to fill 2.5 gas cans and top the tank at $3.79. Third, when we were at Home Depot it felt good to buy the part we needed,;some Teflon tape even though we probably have some in a place we know (yes not frugal); some butane which is very convient for starting the wood stove (one burst with the torch and its said and done, otsmlkke those crockpot liners you use); and get one person crossed off our Christmas list! This is the person we've been stumping about, the others are easy enough you have to make choices between this and that, and we allowed the glitter of center aisle impulse items grab our attention; it differently felt good to buy from these displayers too. It felt good to not make stops at 4 other hardware store type places on different trips home to find the best price, best collection, and best cases for saw blade and drill bit type sets; what we bought. It felt good to not feel the need to wait then battle the Black Friday crowds; at least for this gift. We got some Christmas gift pricing and even one early Black Friday price which enabled us to buy that particular item and remain within budget. We have no idea what this person owns, how complete his sets are, if he has containers for his sets, or even if he has a desire for some of the, so we dutiful made it a seperate purchase on the Home Depot card and collected a gift receipt. - Oh, that card will be paid Monday with cash on the way home from a different mandatory trip inbetween mandatory stops - Being frugal is about being as financially prepared as larder and having enough cash flow to pleasantly spend without stress.
Hi Kate, Amen on not adding gaming to the young ages. My son is 7 and I personally try to keep things extremely slow in gaming and close to zero in social media. Because I know they will get there when the right time comes. I am so glad that you are one of those parents like me lol❤
Yes to this! We all split the cost of a ticket to World of Illumination (a drive-thru light show set to music) every year. It's the one thing we do and it costs each person about $18. We buy a ticket for a couple of nights after Christmas. It's cheaper and it feels like the holiday is extended😊
Over the past 18 months or so pouring thrugh the frugal living and budgeting world, i have to agree with those who say that a common trait of frugal types is that they do what they can for themselves rather than pay for convience. I will add that many seek to expand or also improve thier skill set. The other thing ive concluded that despite how liberal thier politics, or not, frugal people are into traditions; especially around the holidays. They use the same decor year in and year out untill it dies a death of too many uses; it becomes a constant in a chaotic world. They often have holiday related activities be they on the frugal or more expensive side. Some people acrively build in free or low cost traditions so they can be done despite it being a flush or lean year. It is never too late to begin a tradition or a new tradition.
Learned a lot the past two year how to live frugal , still one hard yeart ahead before the renovations are finished but have a better budget then two years ago. Budgetting , budgetting and budgetting , safe money on the day you get your paycheck
I teach second grade. Some kids are obsessed with gaming. It’s sad that’s all they are interested in. I wish they’d go outside and play. When I ask what they do after school or on the weekends, it’s always just play video games.
My friends and i agreed to stop buying gifts for birthdays and Christmas. Take so much pressure off and keep the budget on track. I like gifts that can be used up like meals or a car wash. Useful stuff that doesn't take up space.
I look forward to the White Elephant gift exchange that we started years ago, now my children and their spouses participate and it is always a hoot!! What we do to stretch our dollar is wash Ziploc bags and a way we add to our income is saving aluminum and metal to recycle. (we just recycled 2 washers/2 dryers and a stove and got $58 from the recycle yard! Pick up those appliances on the side of the road and get some cash!!)
So I'm not one to comment much but i have been a subscriber for a while. This is the first year that i came forward and finally told my family i couldn't really afford to get everyone something (there are 9 of us and im the only single person) and get gifts for friends and work. It is an odd number but i figured we would all buy for the one baby and the rest could draw names. My sisters liked the idea, our brother doesn't care but i think my mom is upset. I feel like i have broken some unknown rule and am feeling so guilty. We are supposed to draw names on Thanksgiving so please send prayers and good vibes that i didn't just kill the holidays lol
Lena! First of all, thank you for being a long time subscriber ❤️ Second of all, I’m proud of you for speaking up. I’m sending you all the good vibes! Hoping the family can get excited about this style this year and give it a try, especially if the sisters are on board, you’ve got some fam that are into it. Hoping everyone can can excited about their pick and get something exciting for their person. 🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏❤️ Thanks for commenting today Lena! So happy to see you!
I live my own life,not other people's. They're in a totally different financial situation than I am. Those images we see do not show the full story.often,they use props, or are eyeball deep in debt,and sinking fast. As for holidays,if I can't afford it, I don't do it.simple. I'm not going into debt over one day. Not buying gifts nobody wanted,not cooking a huge dinner nobody eats,not doing that.for what?to throw it away?waste money I don't have,on something nobody wants?
I get together with high school friends for a potluck meal. We each bring a gift for the exchange and enough cookies for each person to take home a half dozen of each kind. We end up with three dozen cookies we didn’t have to make, and a variety at that! I bring mine home and put them in the freezer to share later when my family gathers. I set a dollar amount for each grandchild, and once they reach a certain age they no longer get a gift.
My house is feeling quite warm and I’m heading out shortly so I’ve turned the heating off completely and it’s staying off until the house hits below 17°c. I think I’ve got used to having the house too warm and make excuses, say it’s for the kids or it’s for the pets. It’s not, it’s because I should be getting up and moving or putting on extra clothes!
Absolutely 💯% agree with the gaming console. My son was 11 when he got his and he was only allowed football games for years. I kept the system in the lounge and not in his bedroom until he was 13. Now he’s 15 he’s constantly on it in his bedroom and he’s so loud! I’m glad I held off as long as possible but I do wish I never got it at all! 🙈
I have always had trouble with staying on budget. For 2024, I am committed to buying only essentials for the entire year. Prior to the start of the year, I have canceled all subscriptions that I don't use all the time, my produce delivery, and my curated clothing box (sad about this one 😢). Wish me luck!
Helping others crochetting coffee chat with a friend it's just me and my 26 year old twins daughters we enjoy hidays nights away travel meet up with family
The being present is so huge, especially being around the people that we care about. It's so sad when I see parents with children in mall and I see them on their phones. You can tell that the little ones are wanting their parents to talk to them.
My sister and I used to do Christmas gifts. Then we switched to picking charities and drawing one. Now we say no Christmas, just give to charities you love. My friends are doing the charity drawing as well. Christmas will only cost about $100 this year total.
I am only buying one gift for Christmas. I no longer want expense or hassle. I am happy not having gifts this year. Saving is more important tbh now i am 55
❤ Fabulous video ❤ we do not give Christmas presents, we only give Birthday presents because we have 8 grown children 2 living with Jesus, and 22 Grandchildren and 4 Great Grandchildren, a ton of Nieces and Nephews , we love just having snacks sharing memories and playing board games ❤
Death of my Grammy, my Bonus daughter and my beloved Winston pups (border terrier) all with in 48 months has been horrific and the stress of the family BS while my Grammy was dying and the nastiness of my uncle and sisters' greed caused me to find solace in spending. Grief and late-night internet shopping are not a good mix : (
Not to mention that when they are alone in their room, they are often introduced to things You do not want your child, or anybody to be introduced to such as the occult pornography, general dark nastiness of this world. Keep him close monitor him engage with him. You won't have him for long.
Accepting that I am a homebody and traveling is not a goal for me. I used to force myself on vacations because society told me that’s what I should want. I always hate them. I love being in my home with my hubby and 2 fur babies. Working a jigsaw puzzle, listening to music and drinking coffee is my happy place. I am only 51!!! My brothers, in-laws and neighbors are all always going. They seem so excited and really enjoy their adventures. Sounds like torture to me! Lol!
My home is my happy place, too 😊
My idea of a vacation is a secluded cabin on the river in the mountains away from people lol. In my younger days I didn’t think much about going somewhere crowded but it’s like a switch flipped after I turned 50. I vacation Monday-Thursday when most places are less crowded plus lodging rates are cheaper than they are on weekends
And I'll bet they're broke too
Well, I thought it is just me. So glad to find out there are people like me too. I love beach (sit and look at it) and that is one of the reasons we moved here to FL. But society and all people think vacation is so great to go ever year or a few times a year. Literally, by thinking of it, it makes me tired lol. I do have plans to go to vacation for my son to understand the world and culture experiences.
Ohmygosh your post spoke to my heart! I thought I was an alien for wanting time to enjoy such simple pleasures with someone I love. Downtime, easy conversation, working a puzzle together and enjoying a cup of homemade coffee without a care for time. When the world and life are crazy, my idea of a break or a vacation, is time to be still.
I might sound a little Grinch-y but I stopped hosting Thanksgiving and Christmas because my family wasn’t willing to help by bringing a dish or help clean up. The whole day was my husband and I busting our butts and not even getting to visit. This year I’m pregnant and I just can’t do it all for people who don’t appreciate it. My husband and I are figuring out what to eat and will spend the holidays together without the chaos. I’m very excited.
That's fair enough 👍🏻 All the best for you!
Sounds Wonderful!
Congratulations, to you both
Katie!!! Congratulations on your pregnancy and for doing Thanksgiving your way! Love it!
We agreed no gifts for adults at Christmas. We each make a donation to our favourite charity. Who needs more stuff? Good music, good food, playing games, watching a Christmas movie in my pjs … that’s all I need! Thanks for a thoughtful video Kate ❤❤❤
exactly, plus we have jobs as adults so use that money to buy your own gifts.
We buy for the 3 kids in our family and his grandmother. I got gifts for my dad & MIL so far and I am going to take them back. We just don't need them.
Absolutely agree with holding off on gaming systems for as long as possible. Reasons too many to list. Thank you.
Once my sons started playing video games, lots of other good things went by the wayside. Delay as long as possible, and then limit the options and conditions, especially as Kaden heads into middle school.
One practical tip, for me at least, for living below my means is to remember my why. I worked hard to become 100% debt free. The peace of mind I have is priceless and when I think about spending money on something, I always ask myself if it’s worth sacrificing that peace of mind. It’s not worth it for me anymore. I see friends spending money on all kinds of things and they’re stressed or will be when their financial bubble collapses. I don’t want that.
🙌❤️
Thanks for writing my response for me. We are also 100% debt free and watch some of our friends and neighbors spend like crazy. The weird part is that we’ve explained how we got to financial independence - spend less than you make, buy used, etc. - we get, ‘oh I couldn’t do that.’ Or, ‘I don’t have the time.’ Or, we want to enjoy life.’ None of it makes sense to us so we smile, nod, and change the subject.
how wonderful is that you have 100% debt free! I am working on the mortgage to pay off. For holidays, I reduce buying gifts to people and my family. The truth about spending money on items that will be used only one or two times make me sad. I even question to my son before I am buying gifts for Christmas and birthday. It sounds little harsh but it is better to teach when they are young so they never have debt in their life!
Something that honestly helped me keep the variable costs down for my household is meal planning and buying in bulk when possible. I would like to share one tip that originally my roommate showed me and that I believe saved my family a lot of money over time: Cook a big pot of garbanzo beans (I use 1 kg - no salt, just baking powder to speed up cooking process) in a big pot. Use 1/3 or even half of it to make hummus on one day. Put the rest in the fridge over night and use it the next day to make a delicious tunesian dish called "Lablabi" (with lemon, olive oil, harissa, cumin, sea salt and old bread - look it up). Both dishes are tasty, easy to make, cheap , filling and most of all - healthy. 😊 Lots of iron and good protein. I do the garbanzo bean thing every other weekend.
Besides, I really believe that if you want to live economically in today's world you need to put on that apron, roll back your sleeves and start cooking from scratch. A nice side effect of that is that it's tastier and also more healthy for you and your family.
I absolutely agree with you!
Put off getting any gaming products as long as possible as kids become absolutely engrossed
👍❤️thank you!
Notes:
1. Reduce the chaos in the home. Make it your sanctuary.
2. Figure out what you really enjoy for entertainment and prioritize the favourites
3. Be present when you are with others. (Live life, don’t multitask so you don’t use things to soothe loneliness)
My tip for saving- keep a wish list on my iPhone- add anything with the necessary information including the price and any thoughts about why and why not. Leave it there. Let it marinate as long as possible. A month at least. Sometimes I buy stuff that looks good in the moment because I don’t want to forget about it.
My sweet 17 yr old stepson who has been living with us for the past 4 years asked me what I wanted for Christmas. I paused, thought about it for a moment and suggested a bowling date. So he is going to take me bowling the first Saturday in January. It’s quality time and something we both enjoy doing and less clutter.
We cut our Christmas gifts back to 1 gift and everyone still wants my stockings. I find the best stuff😊.
Honey and I do alot of charity. Giving all year and vamp it up during the holidays. We can do this because we have always lived below our means and invested heavily. The extra from not overfoing gifts will add to the community food pantry with special items. Like canned hams.
I am 100% on board with your reasons why no gaming unit. When my daughter was in mid. school, small TVs for their bedrooms were the popular gift. I was against it, but someone gifted her with this. Talk about chaos! I never saw her, homework was not up to par, repeat requests from me to join us for dinner, game nights, family activities... Her room became a mess. I'd had enough. Her TV was moved to another area of the house that wasn't a place to hide. Eventually, she lost interest and I purged. 1 TV in the family room and I got rid of all extra clocks (we had clocks in the bathrooms and family room, we had alarm clocks in all bedrooms, we had phones, appliance timers even a coocoo clock). It all created so much chaos.
I'm trying to figure out the "Why" of my activities. For example, I love to when my adult children come home for the holidays. My why is because i like spending quality time with them. We usually go out to eat and go do something. But really, by the end of the night, there wasn't much quality time together. It was time of doing. If that makes sense. So this year, instead of that, I'm doing a "soup" supper and game night. So we can be together and have quality time. Still with food and still with laughs, but truly filling up my "Why" ❤
Eating oatmeal is healthy and helps me live below my means 😊
Your thinking is way beyond your years, keep up the good work. Kaden has an awesome, spot-on mom! P.S. You look great Kate!
Thank you so much Cindy Ann🙏❤️I Appreciate you!!!!!
100% agree with you about the gaming console. I wish I wouldn’t have been influenced by others into introducing that stuff to my children too early.
My husband and I love to travel and go out to eat. We are debt free, however we still limit dining out to only once or twice a month at most. We like to keep eating out a special treat, because we also love to cook. We always make sure that vacations and dining out are in the budget!
ask people what they want for presents. also, give people things they can use up, so they don't have to worry about having more stuff. for example: cut flowers, coffee, chocolate, hair products, skincare, or makeup (that they already use and like), homemade cookies, jam, granola...
I deeply wish i had never allowed video games into my household! I have 4 addicted kids, who are following the lead of my husband.
You're really on to something with "be present". Contentment is the ultimate antidote to consumerism.
That is what I fear of. Ignoring the present and addicting to games. My husband play games but he only can play before my son wakes up lol.
My son had a gaming system with one game only. It was a soccer game since he was a soccer player. No grand theft auto, no killing games and that worked for our family
I save monthly for travel. Tomorrow we’ll be in sunny Cabo Mexico enjoying a relaxing Thanksgiving week abroad. I say no to other things that don’t matter so I can say yes to things that do! Happy Thanksgiving early Kate squad!
Yep, I agree. I say no to so many things (most people don't agree) so I can say yes to what matters and bring joy (less clutter) to our family and home!
Amen ! 😂 agree 100% we bought 3 rabbits they were all supposed to be males - as you can guess one ended up female- lots of months and money later we could and should have walked away from the cute little rabbit at the fair- now that was a life lesson- plan for a pet like you would any other big budget item - thanks Kate 😊
I am so with you on the gaming system. So many people I know spend so much of their time and their life on games. They become so obsessed its kind of scary. I always imagine what could be accomplished in this world if video games did not exist, so much wasted time.
nice swanky new background, Kate! I'd add to this list - use the things you already have, especially the good stuff that you've been hoarding for a "special occasion." Craft supplies, fancy clothes/perfume/makeup/skincare, specialty cooking ingredients and tools, etc. What good do they do just sitting unused?
So true!
Often when I have an urge to get a new look for our home or to buy this or that, I realize that it’s often out of frustration and avoidance. So when I do something to improve the house, like clean and organize better or declutter, I get renewed and satisfied with the status quo! Then the urge to go out to add something new diminishes. I also get a better idea of what would make more sense to invest in . Good video.
Kate - Thanks for always being our voice of reason! My goal is to not panic buy more gifts than are necessary. I have a tendency to have a "it's not enough!" fear as the holidays get closer. Being more intentional this season and I know that will save me some cash and protect my sanity! You're the best. xo
Girl, that was me for way too many years too! I stopped that insanity when I became diligent about getting out of debt as an older single/divorced person. At first it was Incredibly hard to admit I had literally Nothing post divorce- so with no money I put Christmas on credit- Didn't want my kids to suffer from the divorce.
Huge mistake I don't recommend Anyone doing. Time, and a few well-thought-out gifts within your budget are perfect. The next year I bought different colored throw blankets on sale for my kids, and had their names embroidered on them. My thought process was that they would have a personal, soft, comfy throw blanket while watching tv, reading a book, or playing a video game. It was personal and what I could afford.
14 years later...my littles are all Grown now...and some have littles of their own. I have followed a giving budget planned for with each payday.
It's not much by some comparisons- but it's absolutely paid for in cash- and that's now okay with me- and something to be proud of. No credit card bills lurking in my future 😊
@@truthseeker6370 Yes! Great idea! xo
LOVE THIS LISA😍
You are doing your son a terrific favor by limiting tech stuff....you can practice being present while giving him the opportunity to build balance in his life by getting outside WITH him to do whatever the two of you enjoy. A habit of daily outdoor activity ( without any tech) will give him an additional life focus as he moves through middle school and high school, when tech and other pressures are prevalent. It can also build opportunities to practice communicating with h 11:14 im, in a setting without tech....of course, the other positives, such as exercise and fresh air and playing in nature, are very important also.
If your kid doesn’t know it is his birthday, he shall not have a party. My kid had 3 birthdays and we did not celebrate them with a big party and gathering. We had a cake and whoever wanted to visit (friends and family who remembered it is his birthday) they stopped by. No gifts required, so nobody would be spending on my kid’s party.
We started this „tradition“ because my husband and I are a lot wealthier then our families and we never wanted anyone to feel bad for not being able to participate in our celebrations.
This is a very thoughtful and meaningful video! Really great ideas! ❤ Also love your new background ❤ Very stylish. Levelling up 😊 You go, girl!
Thank you so much🙏
#2 All for doing what makes us happy! I have a young kid and a toddler. Getting out of the house isn't as easy as it was before child 2. We enjoy either playing as a family the switch, watching a movie, making cookies. Basically anything that is fun that we can do at home! Reason we've kept some of the streaming services. Cheaper than movies and less crazy than leaving the house!
Hey Kate, home being a sanctuary really struck a chord with me as it's one of the most important things, unfortunately our rented accommodation at the moment feels far from that due to issues with the landlady that weren't caused by us but are somehow our fault, also wl me & my partner have very little family & the little we have live a long way away. We're not in a position to move at the moment but we're planning on keeping Xmas simple & making the best of the season together with our 5 catbabies 😻 I always say it's not what's on your table but whose around it ❤️
@@pmh8427I'm sorry that you're in a similar situation, but I totally agree, even in less than ideal circumstances we can concentrate on what's most important and make the most of the season 🤗
BEX! OMG I have been there and it was CHALLENGING to put it kindly. I love the idea of a simple christmas with your partner and 5 catbabies and have the best time together just being together and enjoying the close company:):):)
@@KateKadenThanks Kate, I hope you have a lovely Christmas too ❤
The video game tip is so spot on. It's a parenting issue and needs parents to stick to their guns. Family can be so stressful in that regard. I get my granddaughter magazine subscriptions and she loves them. It's like a gift every month.
I agree with you 💯 💖💖 I don’t allow people to influence me in my lifestyle 😅😊.
I loved this video. Really needed a reminder, to cut back on unnecessary things. I'm a shopaholic, and after watching you talk about what's important, I will go back and reduce my Christmas wishlist 🙈😅 thank you Kate 🙏❤️
You are very welcome! You rock!
Luv what you said about the video games!
So good. Going to finish strong in November by saying "NO" to several habits that no longer serve me. Thank you for the inspiration!
Yasss🙌🙌
Kate, you are so wise to say NO to the gaming system. If your son is not ready for it, put a stop to it, don’t allow it to just show up as a gift and you have to be the bad guy. (Said from experience.) In addition, these things come with a life of their own, there is the desk, then the special chair, and accessories like headsets and mics. And the “it’s time to turn it off and go to bed”, “is your homework done?”…. Moving on,
manufacturers upgrade constantly; when and if your son does want one, getting the current model might be a better option. In my case dealing with an oppositional gift giver, the unwanted device just showed up, and became a single mother’s nightmare. Hopefully you have a better control over your situation. Good luck. I love your channel and well thought out advice. Now I have a chance to share my experience and hope it is beneficial.
🙌thank you!❤️❤️❤️
I’m already frugal and listen to a lot of frugal content so it’s refreshing and useful to hear these new perspectives. Thank you!
Thanks for being here!
Thanks Kate. This really spoke to me! Great financial food advice. ❤
I am 63 y o and do not need much stuff but I like to go second hand "shopping" with a friend. We are now playing a game that we keep the same amount of money in our wallet meaning I entered with 20 euros and left the store still having 20 euros.
Are you stealing? Lol
Did an errand run yesterday, Sat after this video posted, which included: buying/ paying for some mandatory expenses, taking some recycling as a result of going through a stack of junk mail and flattening cardboard last week, doing some metal recycling even through there wasn't a lot of it, going to the credit union to pay off the posted and pending credit card transactions, being pleased at the account balances, and Home Depot to buy a little copper tubing piece to fix the air compressor.
First, it was wonderful to feel good about doing an errand run only rather than just piece mealing errands in the way home in an effort to squeeze pennies and dimes out of our expenditures; which I realize is why the balances looked good. Second it felt good(ish) to see the gas prices at $5.09, the cheapest closer to home, where as we took a longer way home last week to fill 2.5 gas cans and top the tank at $3.79. Third, when we were at Home Depot it felt good to buy the part we needed,;some Teflon tape even though we probably have some in a place we know (yes not frugal); some butane which is very convient for starting the wood stove (one burst with the torch and its said and done, otsmlkke those crockpot liners you use); and get one person crossed off our Christmas list!
This is the person we've been stumping about, the others are easy enough you have to make choices between this and that, and we allowed the glitter of center aisle impulse items grab our attention; it differently felt good to buy from these displayers too. It felt good to not make stops at 4 other hardware store type places on different trips home to find the best price, best collection, and best cases for saw blade and drill bit type sets; what we bought. It felt good to not feel the need to wait then battle the Black Friday crowds; at least for this gift. We got some Christmas gift pricing and even one early Black Friday price which enabled us to buy that particular item and remain within budget. We have no idea what this person owns, how complete his sets are, if he has containers for his sets, or even if he has a desire for some of the, so we dutiful made it a seperate purchase on the Home Depot card and collected a gift receipt. - Oh, that card will be paid Monday with cash on the way home from a different mandatory trip inbetween mandatory stops - Being frugal is about being as financially prepared as larder and having enough cash flow to pleasantly spend without stress.
Hi Kate, Amen on not adding gaming to the young ages. My son is 7 and I personally try to keep things extremely slow in gaming and close to zero in social media. Because I know they will get there when the right time comes. I am so glad that you are one of those parents like me lol❤
I have stop sending packages in mail . Has gotten to expensive I send grandchildren $$$ (checks) have parents go a buy a put under tree. 🎄🎄
Loved that NO-vember!!!
You are SO smart for not bringing a video gaming system into your house lol
🙏🙏❤️
Thanks Kate.
Yes! Totally agree with you on the gaming system.
Absolutely 😮😊
Pick & choice your events during the holidays, don't overbook yourself and create stress.
Yes to this! We all split the cost of a ticket to World of Illumination (a drive-thru light show set to music) every year. It's the one thing we do and it costs each person about $18. We buy a ticket for a couple of nights after Christmas. It's cheaper and it feels like the holiday is extended😊
Oh, this delivered in a way I didn't expect. Thanks!
Thanks so much!
We only get gifts for our immediate family. Used to do so many others and it was too much.
Over the past 18 months or so pouring thrugh the frugal living and budgeting world, i have to agree with those who say that a common trait of frugal types is that they do what they can for themselves rather than pay for convience. I will add that many seek to expand or also improve thier skill set. The other thing ive concluded that despite how liberal thier politics, or not, frugal people are into traditions; especially around the holidays. They use the same decor year in and year out untill it dies a death of too many uses; it becomes a constant in a chaotic world. They often have holiday related activities be they on the frugal or more expensive side. Some people acrively build in free or low cost traditions so they can be done despite it being a flush or lean year. It is never too late to begin a tradition or a new tradition.
❤️❤️❤️
Hi! Buy all your holiday decor wrapping paper Cards on clearance after the holidays then for the next season you’ll have them already.
Sanctuary 🎄🏡🎄yes Peace on Earth and goodwill to all Beings! Thank You Kate! 🏠💐🎄
Love the background 😉
Learned a lot the past two year how to live frugal , still one hard yeart ahead before the renovations are finished but have a better budget then two years ago. Budgetting , budgetting and budgetting , safe money on the day you get your paycheck
I teach second grade. Some kids are obsessed with gaming. It’s sad that’s all they are interested in. I wish they’d go outside and play. When I ask what they do after school or on the weekends, it’s always just play video games.
Totally
Good job Mama!
Thank you 🙏
Nice background!
My friends and i agreed to stop buying gifts for birthdays and Christmas. Take so much pressure off and keep the budget on track. I like gifts that can be used up like meals or a car wash. Useful stuff that doesn't take up space.
I look forward to the White Elephant gift exchange that we started years ago, now my children and their spouses participate and it is always a hoot!!
What we do to stretch our dollar is wash Ziploc bags and a way we add to our income is saving aluminum and metal to recycle. (we just recycled 2 washers/2 dryers and a stove and got $58 from the recycle yard! Pick up those appliances on the side of the road and get some cash!!)
Love a white elephant gift exchange!
So I'm not one to comment much but i have been a subscriber for a while. This is the first year that i came forward and finally told my family i couldn't really afford to get everyone something (there are 9 of us and im the only single person) and get gifts for friends and work. It is an odd number but i figured we would all buy for the one baby and the rest could draw names. My sisters liked the idea, our brother doesn't care but i think my mom is upset. I feel like i have broken some unknown rule and am feeling so guilty. We are supposed to draw names on Thanksgiving so please send prayers and good vibes that i didn't just kill the holidays lol
Also adding, my friends decided no gifts and work is a name draw so only one person to buy for.
Lena! First of all, thank you for being a long time subscriber ❤️ Second of all, I’m proud of you for speaking up. I’m sending you all the good vibes! Hoping the family can get excited about this style this year and give it a try, especially if the sisters are on board, you’ve got some fam that are into it. Hoping everyone can can excited about their pick and get something exciting for their person. 🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏❤️🙏❤️ Thanks for commenting today Lena! So happy to see you!
Being present is everything but can be so hard!
So true!
I agree with you regarding adding extra gaming consoles etc he's very happy and content with what he has....Sometimes, less is more🎉
I live my own life,not other people's.
They're in a totally different financial situation than I am.
Those images we see do not show the full story.often,they use props, or are eyeball deep in debt,and sinking fast.
As for holidays,if I can't afford it, I don't do it.simple.
I'm not going into debt over one day.
Not buying gifts nobody wanted,not cooking a huge dinner nobody eats,not doing that.for what?to throw it away?waste money I don't have,on something nobody wants?
I agree with the video games.
I seems so weird to me when people gather in social environments with family then about half of them spend the whole time staring at their phones.
I get together with high school friends for a potluck meal. We each bring a gift for the exchange and enough cookies for each person to take home a half dozen of each kind. We end up with three dozen cookies we didn’t have to make, and a variety at that! I bring mine home and put them in the freezer to share later when my family gathers.
I set a dollar amount for each grandchild, and once they reach a certain age they no longer get a gift.
Love it!
My house is feeling quite warm and I’m heading out shortly so I’ve turned the heating off completely and it’s staying off until the house hits below 17°c. I think I’ve got used to having the house too warm and make excuses, say it’s for the kids or it’s for the pets. It’s not, it’s because I should be getting up and moving or putting on extra clothes!
LOL! I hear you!
Absolutely 💯% agree with the gaming console. My son was 11 when he got his and he was only allowed football games for years. I kept the system in the lounge and not in his bedroom until he was 13. Now he’s 15 he’s constantly on it in his bedroom and he’s so loud! I’m glad I held off as long as possible but I do wish I never got it at all! 🙈
🙌yasss❤️
Hi Kate, you are spot on with all that you say!!! Love this channel Sher.
Thank you Sher!
I have always had trouble with staying on budget. For 2024, I am committed to buying only essentials for the entire year. Prior to the start of the year, I have canceled all subscriptions that I don't use all the time, my produce delivery, and my curated clothing box (sad about this one 😢).
Wish me luck!
YASS!!!! You've got this Kristi!!!! We are here to support and cheer you on to reach your goals!
@kristiluce2838 ☘️ I'm curious! How's your essentials only going so far? Rewatching 14/10/24 Monday
Nice background. You match with your blouse and hair colour😉🌷
Thanks so much!
Super great suggestions! Thank you💕
Thank you so much🙏❤️
Helping others crochetting coffee chat with a friend it's just me and my 26 year old twins daughters we enjoy hidays nights away travel meet up with family
Just dropping by to say Happy Thanksgiving! Finally became subbie and thanks again for everything you do. ❤
I'm SO GLAD you are here! Thanks for subbing and HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
Such a good video!
Thank you❤️🙏
Hi. Have to run to kitchen to get coffee ☕ 1st, lol.
Absolutely!
The being present is so huge, especially being around the people that we care about. It's so sad when I see parents with children in mall and I see them on their phones. You can tell that the little ones are wanting their parents to talk to them.
🙏❤️
My sister and I used to do Christmas gifts. Then we switched to picking charities and drawing one. Now we say no Christmas, just give to charities you love. My friends are doing the charity drawing as well. Christmas will only cost about $100 this year total.
So cool!
Kate and Kaden ❤❤❤😮😮😮😊😊😊 Great job
Love the background…did you redo a space in your home?
Hi Rhonda! I was on a trip at the time of filming:) That wall was too cool not to use it as my background that day:) :)
Agreed..... don't lose him to the gaming system.....👍
I love to travel and love going to movies.
Yasss🙌 So fun!
I am only buying one gift for Christmas. I no longer want expense or hassle. I am happy not having gifts this year. Saving is more important tbh now i am 55
Good advice Kate!
❤️🙏Thank you so much.
❤ Fabulous video ❤ we do not give Christmas presents, we only give Birthday presents because we have 8 grown children 2 living with Jesus, and 22 Grandchildren and 4 Great Grandchildren, a ton of Nieces and Nephews , we love just having snacks sharing memories and playing board games ❤
Thank you so much for sharing with us🙏❤️
Kate I am 55 what helps me live below my means it helps seeing my bank account getting higher also my senior years and down sizing
YASS!!!!
Hi Kate. Great video
Thank you Elaine ❤️🙏
100% on board with you on the gaming. My son does do ROBLOX on his phone or computer.
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Death of my Grammy, my Bonus daughter and my beloved Winston pups (border terrier) all with in 48 months has been horrific and the stress of the family BS while my Grammy was dying and the nastiness of my uncle and sisters' greed caused me to find solace in spending. Grief and late-night internet shopping are not a good mix : (
🙏❤️
Yes stay in the Roblox !! My son is in college and the gaming world is crazy But he’s an adult - sorta haha.
See you!
❤
Sharing.
Thank you!
Not to mention that when they are alone in their room, they are often introduced to things You do not want your child, or anybody to be introduced to such as the occult pornography, general dark nastiness of this world. Keep him close monitor him engage with him. You won't have him for long.
Ignoring friends and family for our phones is so damm rude in my opinion. I was raised differently.