Hi Jane & Mike, I’m 26 and live in the South East UK - I really appreciate you recognising that you’re the last generation to be able to purchase a house on 1 income and continue to live as you would have before - it can still at times feel very hopeless having a goal of buying a home solo (I’ve been frugal as long as I can remember and save 60% of my income thanks to living at home) Great video both of you!
I have taken over all the bills since my husband passed away three months ago. We never had a budget before-we’re not millionaires, but we are comfortable. I am now scrutinizing every bill and tracking them each month. You introduced me to the idea of a sinking fund, which I think is brilliant. Each month something seems to crop up that is not a regular monthly bill. It will probably take me nine more months, but eventually I’ll have a list of all those bills and will know how much to be putting away in my sinking fund each month. To start, I transferred some money from savings (we had no distinction between long-term savings and short-term savings) into a sinking fund for myself and am using that as I continue to gather data to use going forward. So budgeting and learning to grocery shop and cook for one person are my current projects. I’ve been making a big pot of soup each week and then freezing it in single-serving portions to have in future weeks. Unfortunately, I overestimated how much is in a single serving and will adjust my quantities down the next time I freeze a batch. It’s a learning curve, but I very much appreciate all the things I’ve learned from you.
Well done on having a plan! I find that need smaller quantities these days and when I go out to eat ( birthdays, usually) the quantity is usually too big but many places here provide 'take home' boxes, thank goodness! Never be afraid to ask!
We recently bought an instant pot on discount so we could drop the canned beans. We only eat 2-3oz flesh meat each in a day. We get new underwear at Christmas and buy used clothes and shoes. We make our own cleaning supplies. We let our friends and family know to think of us first if they are cleaning out closets or pantries. We will come and help and carry it off. We are minimalist, we own very little physical items. We only give small gifts that are consumable for birthday and Christmas.
I have been hanging all my clothes, towels and sheets to dry for 5 years now. Honestly, I think my underwear will out live me! I use vinegar in the rinse to soften the items ….it is non toxic and works great.
This is so refreshing to hear as a society that is obsessed with consumerism. I’m from the US and I my parents raised us this way and I felt like I missed out on a lot of things that other kids my age did but now that I’m all grown up, I completely understand where my parents were coming from and I appreciate their sacrifice. With that; I learned to live a frugal lifestyle and I’m ok with passing up on a lot of things but I struggle to get my husband on board sometimes. But we have let go of that mentality of not letting other people know that we are on a tight budget, and are honest with friends and family. There’s no reason to go into severe debt just to stroke our ego’s. We are all struggling and it’s ok to acknowledge that.
Just made a pot of soup for about $3 dollars. It will feed me for several days. With a nice piece of bread and a piece of fruit- it's a cheap meal. I got a notice from the Utility company that i use 75% less energy than my neighbors. The utility company wants me to take out an energy efficient loan to do upgrades to my old house. Don't think so. I am doing fine with what I got.
I do confirm. I contracted a 30 years housing credit in order to afford cheap monthly repayment. However thanks to yours years long advices, and lots of sacrifices, I repayed my mortgage in 14 years. Not too bad.
I'm amazed that some people go to Starbucks for a coffee and muffin almost daily. I can make my own home-brewed fancy coffee and a tray of muffins to last a week or two for what one Starbuck's visit would cost! I eat out very seldom...maybe once every month or two if I'm getting together with friends or family. I prefer going to lunch as it's less expensive than dinner and a smaller portion.😊
+45 years ago my mom made all the family members a huge Christmas stocking. Each family would buy each individual a small item for the stocking. Such happy memories! The 7 kids all married, 17 grandkids and us, total of 33 of us. Those who can come make a big deal about it still. The original stockings are getting worn and a bunch of new ones as the family grew. Lots of little snacks, small items that are fun to unwrap.
We are retired here in the USA. We don't have any bad habits with spending. Watch for the sales on groceries. And other necessary items. No mortgage just the utilities and insurances . No desire to go out and spend $15.00 on two cups of coffee we make it at home. Jane, Mike, Dolly and Mary I really appreciate your videos. 😊
@@cdelaney5047That’s crazy, but it’s true. We buy an extra turkey the day after thanksgiving for pennies on the dollar, cook it and slice up the whole thing for sandwiches, and freeze in portions. It lasts for quite a while. And we make broth from the bones!
I chuckle at my way of making my bras last so long. I don't wear the nice ones very often ! If i wear a nice outfit out in public, i wear a bra. Once home, I slip my nice clothes off and put on roughwear. That means a raggedy old jog bra or undershirt under a lose top or flannel shirt and some work pants . I'm retired so don't dress up much. So i spend very little on clothes. I havent bought a bra in 5 years!
I agree! We could be sisters as I do as you do. Am semi-retired(still work 2 nights a week) and the only time I wear a boob binder is when I leave the house to go to work or if I HAVE to go out in public. I'm bound and determined not to be seen or labeled a "cow that needs milked" from the general public.🤣
I love my 1976 Bernina sewing machine, I bought a very expensive computer oriented Bernina and nothing but total frustration. The mother board when out and the cost to repair was awful. Tried again and no success. I gave it to my friend who loves it and she longarm quilts my quilts. I am a handquilter at 86 years of age and love to sew. I'm still ahead of the game and we are both winners. I can still make lemondaide from a not so sweet lemon. You teach me so much. Advice to others be selective of friends who are big spenders, they can lead you down a path of life that takes you away from your goals and it is difficult to return to them. Thank you.
There is everyday life and there is those happy few days where you might be on a vacation, celebrating a Birthday, things like that. I can be frugal in the everyday life, but I save into my fun fund, in addition to the other "boring" stuff. You are so right. I bought my first flat in 1991, single, with one income, the price was 2 times my income. That flat costs 6 times a median income today.
Today we are enjoying eating fresh satsuma oranges from our own tree, which has a large crop of oranges ripening. This saves money, yes, and it provides the freshest possible Vitamin C and other good nutrients as well. We live in Gulf Coast Louisiana where summers get blazing hot but autumn months are lovely. We had to wait five years for that satsuma orange tree to bear fruit, but it has been mature for a long time now. Our second orange tree, a blood orange tree, is in its second year of bearing fruit but those oranges won’t be ready to eat until January. We share our oranges with friends and neighbors. Age and arthritis keep me from tending my little veggie garden so I am particularly glad we planted those orange trees and a fig tree, which look after themselves, all those years ago.
People wouldn't waste so much water if they had to boil the water for dishes and bathing like I do 😂😂😂 I was paralyzed from the chest down in 2021, lost my job, had to give up my apartment and move into the Campervan. Took 18 months to get my social security approved. I am so thankful I had started my path to debt free living beforehand and had the savings to survive this crisis. I can walk with a rollator now and I look at this as my new adventure. Gen X 2.0 😂
@lynnoorman2144 I appreciate that. I have learned it's 100x harder to dig oneself out of a depressive episode than to fight the daily fight to tread water.
I count myself lucky, in these difficult times, that I have always had to watch costs and keep in budget. It is much harder for those who have had easier times, when they could do what they want and not worry about money. It isn't easy, but can become a creative challenge. Luckily for me, I am very happy staying at home and crafting and have no ambition to be out and about. I did go shopping the other day and looked at the cafe at the garden centre longingly for a moment, then reminded myself that I had plenty of coffee at home, and that was all paid for, so moved on and got what I needed and left.
I've never seen your videos before, but thank you. I'm pretty frugal, too. I bought my house way after you and I can vouch for the house prices in the UK doubling and tripling in a few short years. I had a few years when I first started living on my own where I could barely spend £10 a week on groceries because the budget was so tight. I do have disposable income now, and I do go on the occasional holiday (maybe five nights a year) and eat out occasionally because those are my pleasures. I budget for *everything*, though, and have a heck of a lot of 'don't-s' in my budget: I don't drink. I don't smoke. I don't own a car. I don't have any subscriptions. I don't have a gym membership. I don't have takeaways. Ever. I don't own a television (so the £175 a year TV licence goes into my holiday fund). I don't have my eyebrows done. I don't have my nails done. I don't buy clothes unless I need them. But... I realise I'm incredibly lucky when I say this, I don't have any debt. I am financially independent and I know just how unbelievably fortunate I am to be in that position. I really appreciate just how hard the CoL crisis is hitting families and how devastating this must be.
When,I was in junior high,I usedbto baby sit for my aunts you ger sister, who was very chesty, she taught me to line dry bras to make them last much longer.once I got out on my own I did this too, taught both my girls this trick, nonenof hasvto buy bras frequently!😊
We just did a big stock up at the grocery store and purchased new underwear and socks for both of us, so we figure we can do a no spend period for a few months come January. We shop the sales like you do. No meat is purchased unless it's on sale, or discount. Most of the items we buy are bought that way. Great video, and I wish all of you can manage to get through this crisis safely.
As I used to be a shopaholic I had loads of debts as well. A few years back I realized that I couldn’t live like that anymore. I was still living like I did in my working years before I got sick and lost my job. So I did make a budget and although it wasn’t easy to live like that with very little money I paid off all my debts (€10000) in a few years while living on a barebones budget. The same as you the lights are only on in 1 room, I only heat one room etc, but I can afford something every now and then. With the rising costs of everything nowadays it would be impossible to pay off my debt with my income now, so I’m lucky there are no debts left anymore. I don’t have much income but I am able to get my groceries and if I really need or want something desperately I will use some of the grocery money to buy that item and then my meals will be less healthy for some time but that is the choice I make.
Modern detergents work perfectly well on a cold wash unless clothes are really dirty. Most of my laundry is done on a cold wash and I hang it to dry - I haven't had a tumble dryer for 25 years.
We bought a fixer-upper (in an unknown, unpopular small town) 10 years ago so we would have a very low house payment - $440/month. Paid it off in 7 years, so no payment now. I have a ledger where I write every penny we spend (within the set limit, or course). I also set aside money every month into 12 sinking funds for the once-a-year bills. I cook from scratch - basic whole foods. Hang laundry on drying racks and clotheslines in my basement and outside.
We are seniors and retired. We manage to live within our means. We have no mortgage or other debt. It is not easy with the price of food etc going up all the time despite being told things are getting better. Prices for rent and houses is crazy here, making it hard for younger people to get ahead. We hunt for bargains and buy what we need and save for bigger items. Thanks for the video. Looking forward to the next one.
I'm in a house now that is way too large for me (6 bedrooms, just me )...but it's an older house and honestly, if I sold this I'd just be walking into something smaller with the same problems for double the price, so I will just remain here where I'm comfortable. I've lived here 26 years and it's almost paid for. I run an in home daycare so the space is nice to have for now.
It’s so important to live below your means. When I got married we each had bought a condo prior to marriage so we lived in one condo and rented out the second one as a source of passive income. Paid them both off then bought a modest single family home while keeping both the condos which meant two sources of passive income. We then paid that one off (by selling one condo) and bought another single family home. We always had jobs and two sources of rental passive income. Unfortunately after 25 years of marriage we divorced. Divorce destroys wealth. At least I still had one rental income that generates passive income each month. I bought a townhouse which I’m aggressively paying extra towards principal each month. Now I’m able to work part time as a nurse after 40 years. I’m still frugal in many ways but splurge on experiences and travel.
Shopping sales/deals, meal planning and batch cooking are all such great ways to eat well and save money. So grateful that I learned that as a child/teen as it has been a great help as an adult/parent.
Love your channel. Working my way through your suggestions. Changed my habits of spending amazon etc.. cancelled amazon saving money now .simple things formed a budet for the first time in my life im 67. Just as well as a large fence in my garden blew down today. Im in the Uk had terrible storm at weekend. Ive had time this weekend to form a menu plan amazing how it motivated me to cook and plan ahead making life easier. Thank you your so appreciated.
I wash all clothing on casual/delicate. Handwash my undies, hang everything to dry. Sheets and towels have a fifferent setting on my washer, hang to dry also. Cols water wash. I have done this for years. Good video today, thanks.
Hiya 👋, I have been for years making soup and purchasing cabbage, carrots, onions,leeks, shallots, potatoes, peppers and cornbread mix, making spaghetti and meatballs freezing that pot for later usage. The budget is $178.00 out and don't buy clothes nor shoes also gas and electric each month living far below poverty level.
I wished I had better education from family and teachers about money but it was all spend and consumerism in the late 80s and 90s. I’ve definitely learned the hard way. I also felt huge pressure when I was younger to have things and look a certain way. I never felt confident to be myself until my late 40s which is when I started to turn things around. It’s hard to go against what society expects but so glad there are now ways to connect to people who are doing things differently and frugally. I think mental health has a big part to play in finances and sometimes you’re just surviving and doing the best you can at the time.
I chatted with a financial advisor last week and he had talked with people who spend $1000 a month to eat out. I make bread because that now costs $8.50 a loaf at the bakery. I would hope people would learn to do things for themselves- better quality and now you can take care of yourself.
Like you, we’ve been lucky enough to have never been in a position to be frivolous. So when others were trading down, we had nowhere to trade down to. We’re fortunate that we’re established. My biggest help is I cook from scratch, slice meat wafer thin, and use a joint for several meals throughout the week. A chicken is stripped and we freeze the carcass in bread bags. Once there’s 2 I make chicken soup in my stovetop pressure cooker. Everything we eat I make from scratch. Cakes biscuits and meals. I grow my own herbs The pressure cooker is the biggest saver. It saves time, energy and water We have a chest freezer also for stocking up and storing pre-cooked meals.
It can still be done here in Canada. Our youngest son bought a small home (which is all he needs) on one income. He grows his own veggies, shops the sales and makes do with what he has. Mostly this can be done in smaller cities in western Canada.
Hi Jane, these days I prioritise vitamin and minerals in my choice of foods I purchase at the supermarket. For the cost of living when it comes to groceries is too much to accept at times. Health is my priority now. 😌 Thank you for your time and support
My house is paid for I did it in 11 yrs. Taxes, insurance and tash pickup are saved for monthly. The struggle is paying for house repairs. The way i handle it is by borrowing money against my savings. Once it gets to a certain amount i pay it off in full. Right now I 'm trying to cash flow for a new air conditioner before next summer. It's difficult to maintain what you have. I love being debt free. You have to find ways to get it done.
Jane, thank you for teaching me better money management. I appreciate you as a voice of reason in a world that promotes debt and carelessness. Being frugal definitely includes taking care of what we have.
We are doing fine. We aren’t as frugal as you, but fortunately we are in a position where small changes keep us at the same standard of living. The house is paid for. We have no debt. I just saw on the news yesterday that (US) thanksgiving travel is expected to be at an all time high. Credit card debt is also at an all time high. People want what they want, and by god they deserve it. Their money, their choice, but don’t complain you can’t afford life.
I do confirm as well Grand Frais is doing 50% off everyday. Just turn up at the opening at 9 Am. The discounted prices on fish and seafood are for short date products. I shop there every tuesday right at the opening, to pick-up up the best deals. Last tuesday, I loaded my bag full of bargains for 30 euros. 😊
Hi, Jane and Mike. We are doing exactly the same! We are just confortable now but I can not allowe any step outside of the budget. Everything needs think over twice and, for sure, everything is used up/out until it has life in it😂
Jane and Mike, I so enjoy your videos & learn something from each one...coping: food I budget, buy almost everything on sale, cook ahead & freeze meals for later (on those days I don't feel like cooking), keep lights off if not in the room, I purchased a new to me car with cash- it is older but in great shape...every month I thank God I got through it- creature comforts are met, I'm older and worry about family who can't pay rent let alone buy the "American Dream" their own home..tough times
I’m older than you and after my divorce and moving to the UK from France I never did get back on the ladder. Just when I was about to buy in 1999 I was made redundant and I’ve been working in the NHS ever since. There’s no way I could afford to buy on this income!l in Hertfordshire! Rent has been ridiculous ever since, and my daughter is now suffering the same fate. The only good thing is that I am now in a 55+ Housing Association scheme and it’s competitive compared to the free market. I also have a lifetime tenancy. I have to work until I’m 66 for my state pension, although I have been able to get my French pension and my NHS pension early. That has allowed me to cut my hours but money is tight.
Ditto, Jane. There are a few differences between what you do and what I do. 1 I haven't had a TV in decades and decades. I've never paid for television, or any streaming services. UA-cam is free. 2 I have an insurance agent who understands my financial situation and my medical needs. She finds me the best, cheapest program for me and then the money is taken from my bank account. So I don't see, or miss, the money. 3 The only times I use heated water is when I wash dishes ( by hand), and when I take a bath or shower. I always turn the water off in between when it's necessary. In the shower, I get in and get wet, then, turn the water off while I wash. I turn the water back on to take a very fast rinse...maybe 2 minutes, but not always that long. I challenge myself to get the time lower and lower. I've trained myself not to take a bath or shower everyday. I take a " bird bath," or a " sponge bath" at the sink as much as I can...at least 3-4 days a week. When it gets too bad, I take a shower. They take less time and water for me. I have to be in pretty severe pain, or sick to take a bath. When I do my wash up at the sink, I've trained myself to use cold water. I heard it was good for the skin, so I trained myself to do it. I wash all clothes in cold water. 4 When it begins to get cold in the fall, I bundle up for as long as I can, so as not to turn on the heat. I always aim for Thanksgiving, but I never make it. This year, because it's been unusually warm, I still haven't turned on the heat, and think I might get through the next 4 days till Thanksgiving. There have been 2 days that I really wanted to turn on the heat, but I resisted. 5 I unplug the stove at the fuse box until I'm ready to cook. As soon as I'm finished cooking, I go back to the fuse box and turn it off again. A stove has a large plug in, so takes a great deal of phantom electricity. I basically unplug every electrical appliance or item until I'm ready to use it. Then unplug it when I'm done using it. I shaved about 80% off my electrical bill. 6 I also dilute all soaps and cleaners by 50% water before I use them. 7 I use the cash envelope system to help make sure I don't inadvertantly go over budget. 8 I find free transportation as much as possible. For the last several years, I've bought ONLY 2 and a half tanks of gasoline. That's per YEAR. That's how little I use my own car. As ever, I love listening to you, Jane. Love to you and Mike.❤
🏴❤️🏴 hello everyone my wonderful husband made homemade burgers with chips for tea tonight, which we had early so didn’t need lunch 🏴❤️🏴
A few years ago, I noticed that things were changing for the worse, and figured that it would take a long time to turn around. With that in mind, I sat down with my husband and made a list of priorities and put them in order of importance. Since keeping a roof over our heads and food on the table, they were high on the list, but since we live close to public transport, our vehicle was further down. Of course we needed medication, and since I lost weight, I don't need it anymore, but my husband had a heart attack five years ago, and his meds are important. Do we even need the internet? The telephone is important, so it rated higher than the internet...and so on. This gave me a great sense of security, planning for a worst case scenario. We've always been frugal, but again, we can switch to a simple source of income by hatching out some eggs in the spring, and raising more hens to sell eggs (which have jumped to well over eight dollars a dozen here), and butchering the young roosters to eat or barter with when they are about three months old. We also have a pair of rabbits and they could be bred if necessary, right now they are pets providing manure for our garden and lots of enjoyment for youngsters when they come to visit. Another thing that I will be doing soon is sprouting seeds of alfalfa and kale, mung beans and lentils just for a bit of variety in our diet. I harvested the kale seeds from some plants that grew in a dilapidated little greenhouse. I got half a litre of them.
I'll be retiring in January, and my income will be a third of what I earn now. My hubby and i are going to have a serious sit-down as to how to make it work. We're both thrifty, but really need to dig deeper. He finds it tedious to have a budget and stick to it, but I'm hoping he'll go along with what I can figure out. Nervous but an exciting challenge at the same time!
I'm 73 and grew up with parents who budgeted and a mom who always cooked from scratch at home. I remember 2 times we ate a restaurant meal....both times a celebration of some sort. If you didn't grow up seeing that you WILL STRUGGLE. But it can be done. You just get determined and take it on.
I'm 67 and cannot recall one time my parents and my 3 siblings EVER went "out to eat" unless one counts family get togethers at our uncle Bobby's campsite.
You should start growing some fruit trees and vines. Apples, plums and grapes grow so well in France and while the upfront expenses might seem steep, they pay for themselves within 5 or 6 years with the fruit they produce! You can then grow vegetables in their shade. Grapes can be easily dried into raisins or sultanas, providing a source of vitamin C year round! Apples also keep for a long time after harvest, as long as they are kept cool and dry.
@PsychicIsaacs our garden was a quarry, under 2" of soil it's shingle and other quarry backfill. I had to dig pits and fill with rotted compost and manure and I've planted two apple trees, the deer eat the trees and the apples. We've had raised beds and again got eaten by deer and voles. Food is cheap enough here.
How do I manage? I am learning to cook tastier soups with cheap ingredients ( lots of beans and carrots). I stopped all eating out. I hang 💯 of the laundry 💯 of the time. I am inventorying what I already have to avoid shopping. I am staying home more. 😊
@ what I am referring to are unplanned for emergencies and surgeries which can cost thousands of dollars. It can be a shock. It is good you have a fund for your pets. Many people do not. A friend went into debt to pay for her dog’s care.
Hiya, you mentioned you don't buy as much fruit these days, how about growing some fruit on your land like an apple tree or two, you can get patio sized ones if you're limited on space. I grow raspberries, blackcurrants and strawberries in pots.
You always tell me to budget and i know you are right but i find it sooo hard to do. Im working and my work takes up all my brain space. I keep watching your channel, thank you for your positive encoiragement. Ill keep trying to do a budget... Im getting there in small steps.
Regarding using smartphones and computers, here in the States there are organizations that offer free instruction on using those devices and apps on them. One can find out about them from local libraries who are more than happy to assist you find out what you need.
I try not to waste any foood. I make my meals around what I have in the fridge, freezer, garden and community garden. I try to be generous and give eggs to friends/family doing it tough or give baked goods to lighten their struggle. I watch my super like a hawk. I created a pension 7 years ago and, even after monthly draw downs, the lump sum is still greater than when I started it. I wait u til the market is “up” and convert $x to cash ..this year I’ve withdrawn $4200 to top up my bank account. Currently it’s earning 30%..yopee! I keep 3 years income in my “cash” component and go Australian shares for the balance. It’s been brilliant. I’m actually stunned, I earn 5.3% on my savings outside super by transferring $1000 pm into the account. That earns me an extra $300 pm. I eat at home. I love where I live and will never incur the cost of selling and repurchasing a home. Your videos keep me on track. Thank you wholeheartedly.
I agree about prepping all food at home. In Nth Qld half leg ham is now $8 kg in lead up to Xmas, once deboned and skin off that is about $14 kg, the best price for any ham. So we buy 1 half leg every fortnight, slice it up and freeze it. Also begun a herb garden, and growing rocket, loose leaf lettuce and baby spinach. We were debt and mortgage free but decided to incur some debt for travel this year so now knuckling down to pay it off quickly. Also our 45yo son just paid off his mortgage, yay. Last year I renegotiated our house insurance, it was well worth the phone call. I saved hard for a new bought on disThanks for all the encouragement Jane and Mike, it keeps me focussed!
All great advice. You tube is a great resource for those learning to cook. People doing pantry challenges usually make simple meals from simple ingredients. Or go to the library and check out an old! cookbook. No fancy ingredients and clear instructions.
@@FrugalQueeninFranceI think we’re in laissez faire capitalism currently. Hopefully the globe will curb the greed at the top of all corporate entities.
When you said about the cost of your first house I realized when I bought my first house, in my 20's it was 1.5 times my annual salary and my salary was very low. I never thought of that before. It was a camp and now a bank would not finance a house like that, now you have to be a cash buyer.
Great video.... My adult children are millennials. All 3 live on one income (their spouses) and all have purchased homes. One of them paid off their home and did it in 10 years. The other two are a few years behind them in home ownership. Wondering your thoughts on next year. So many are saying things will be worse next year on the cost of things. Do you and Mike feel the same way? I am seeing on so many social media groups that they don't have enough food to eat, which just breaks my heart. It's rough out there.. Thanks for another great video.
It very much depends on jobs skills and how much that pays. In the UK, people on average earn less than £40,000 per year and in France €35000 so no, on those salaries, they can't afford to ever buy a house after paying rent and bills, there's nothing left and they won't inherit either.
I’m frugal and I save every month, but little things like a coffee and a muffin in a cafe is a weekly treat. You can’t remove all joy and pleasure from life, otherwise what’s the point in living? Everyone needs some little lift, a treat. I don’t think it’s mentally healthy to avoid absolutely everything which is classed as a non-essential or even a little luxury.
Thanks for sharing. We have coffee at home, with friends or at their houses. We get absolutely no pleasure from eating out or drinking coffee for 2.75€ a cup. I wake up every day happy to enjoy another day.
@@FrugalQueeninFrance I also drink coffee at home but I find it really helpful to get out of the house and I enjoy just sitting on my own for a while with my iPad!
I agree. So when my family asks me what I want for holidays and birthdays, I ask for gift cards to Dunkin Donuts here in the US. I meet with a friend every Thursday and we take turns paying for coffee. Have a lovely chat catching up with each other and the money doesn't come out of my budget. I also meet with another friend for supper every Friday. We bring our own homemade supper and we each take turns making dessert. We spend the night watching old British TV mysteries on BRITBOX 😂😂
I agree I get together with my 2 adult children on the weekend we pick a different neighborhood or a short car to a nearby town or city We explore I pack a lunch and have a treat it must add up to under $15for the 3 of us Excellent exercise I see a new place I don't smoke or drink alcohol so those weekly get together create wonderful memories That are priceless.
I agree. I also like to get a cappuccino from the bar once in a while. I had days when the thought of a cappuccino and a fresh pastry was what took me out of bed.. I’d say I do it about once a month. I work from home almost all the time so this gives me a nice change, a little walk, and an excuse to exchange a few words with other people. And I think it is important to support local vendors. I wouldn’t do it daily or weekly but it is nice sometimes. But our little treats are individual and to each their own.
Hi Jane and Mike. You both are so wise. I'm thinking it's probably the way you were both brought up being low income. and not wanting to put yourselves i the predicament where ou an't afford something. You can reap the benefits now while still living frugally. Kudos to you both!
Thank you fir sharing your storeyand journey 👍. Great faveroiit frugal channal .Great tips and advice frugal ways and smart ways to live thank you .miss rhe puppies 🐶 adorable❤❤❤❤❤
It is so sad that many children are going without the bare necessities of food, clothing and shelter in both the UK and USA. Most shelters in the states are full, the cost of rent has doubled in recent years, with little vacancy, so even if you need to move to somewhere cheaper, there isn’t any where to go. Schools in the U.S. have children who are sleeping in cars, or staying at a different place every night, no way to track them. If they weren’t getting food at school they wouldn’t have anything to eat at all.
I've been saving for a new eco tank printer, and waited 6 months for Black Friday and got $80 discount. I bought this new toy of mine by using electricity solar credit and birthday money and not buying anything else for 6 months.
Hallo Jane and Mike 👋. New sub here because I have honestly found your channel delightful (the music, photos, your home and your accent). Your kind of content is exactly what I am diligently seeking for. I have shared your channel with my Dear Mum who is by all standards a frugal Queen as well, a lifestyle which has brought her to a very comfortable and decent retirement. Watching and learning from Nairobi, Kenya 🇰🇪
This was one of the most precise and eloquent videos that you have done to date. You hit it on the nail. I am 64 in the US and I am lucky to be living in a single family home on a fixed income. I have spent the last several months trying to put together the available resources for my adult disabled daughter to be able to continue to live in this house after I am gone. The state human services finally realized that they needed to be providing her the resources that she has been entitled to for the last 24 years and are scrambling. Now with the new upcoming political climate it may all be gone and there are no family or friends that will be able to help her. It is tough for everyone. Please be kind and considerate to others as you may not know the struggles that they are going through. Thank you Frugal Queen!
I agree with you re buying good clothes and treating them well so that they last. I have jumpers and ciats that are at least 15, if not 20 years old. Folks ask - why dont you get a tumble dryer - because I bought a lot of these from charity shops ( good makes, barely worn, or still with tags on) a tumble dryer might wreck them as I cant remember, after all this time, if they will go in a tumble dryer or not ( print has worn off most of the labels😂)
We own a restaurant and have for more than twenty four years. It is difficult and very scary. We are really slow this time of year, but this year more. My husband has not been able to pay himself for the last 4 pay periods. Luckily we had some money from tax refunds that we did not spend, but that is going fast. I am more worried about the younger generation as rent is sooo high and it is impossible to buy as house.
I didnt realise that Grand Frais did 50% off fish on a Saturday, that said we have to travel an hour to our nearest one but its got to be worth it, thanks for the tip. We also use the cheap electric at night, we are very lucky to have the facility but it used to be half of the daytime cost now it is not such a good deal. thanks for another good video.😃
I also keep and breed Old English Game Bantams. They breed prolifically and about once or twice a week (at night) I go to the chicken pen, select a nice looking bird (preferably a young rooster), do the deed using the Broomstick Method, take it inside and process it into a pot of chicken soup. I have heard of folks doing similar things with ducks and I used to do it with king pigeons, many long years ago! King pigeons are easy, once they've bred in a place they will always return to it and they get most of their food from foraging, which really minimises the grain expenses! They are about the size of a bantam chicken and make a very, very nice soup! Rosemary, Sage, Oregano and other herbs growing around the house make the soup extra yummy and 50 or 100 potato plants, grown from sprouting supermarket spuds, provide a filling and tasty addition, and more calories, of course! Bases of onions can be sprouted and grown, ditto celery and lettuce cores. Cut off the top third of a carrot and plant it in the vegetable garden, it will regrow and set seed. Next Spring, you'll have carrots popping up everywhere! Dried beans and peas from the grocery store can also be planted and will make 50 beans for every one that you plant. It's much cheaper than buying seed in packets and because it's food grade, there's no nasty chemicals! Pips from all fruit can be planted in propagation trays and will grow. In about 5 years, they'll begin to make fruit. I've even germinated grocery store raw almonds and they are now trees, growing on my farm. If the fruit's no good, you cut down the tree and use it for firewood. It cost you nothing, so nothing's lost, but you might get the nicest fruit you've ever tasted! I wish you all the best, and God Bless!
Hi Jane, love your information and inspiration. I’m also a frugal long arm quilter. Can I ask for your suggestions about frugal batting/ wadding ideas?
Hi Jane and Mike. Unless you're a millionaire, cost of living right now is a struggle for many worldwide it seems. Yes, amongst everything else, insurances have really increased. I renewed my buildings and contents insurance last week and after spending some time searching around, I was able to find one which provides me with adequate cover for £2.49 more a month and slightly lower excesses. Was the best I could find. I was lucky with that, as I thought it would have been more. I know, it's a battle to keep costs down. I'm constantly adjusting my weekly meal plan when doing my shopping list, in an attempt to reduce my overall monthly food bill. It's surprising how by doing this, has helped. So yes, I'm doing whatever it takes to retain as much savings as I can, even if it means a little inconvenience at times. 🤷🤗
We need great channels like yours Thank you Jane and Mike. My Xmas gifts this year are gifts to unicef. I went through my wardrobe last Sunday and discovered some clothes. I'm planning on wearing them too. It was a treat to discover the nice clothes I can wear in the future. Lambs fry cut into thin strip's cooked with onion in the fry pan with a splash of balsamic vinegar is worth it.. Taste's like marinated steak. 😊yummiest bargain 👌 😎blessings Maria 🙏
i was looking at our gas and elec bills, two years ago it was £270 for the quarter nov, dec and jan and there were 4 of us living here , now its £160 a month and its just the two of us 😢
My lovely husband has short time work since months and the future looks not good in his company, now. On top my health insurance will increase from 1.1.2025 by 92,- Euros per month (!) . I am a civil servant and in Germany I am required to have private health insurance. As a part-time worker my health insurance is from 1.1.2025 one third of my income (!). That is awful and there is no way out of this way of insurance. I was looking for a full-time job for a while, but at 57 no one wanted me. So we save our money as we can and hope the best.
Hi Jane & Mike, I’m 26 and live in the South East UK - I really appreciate you recognising that you’re the last generation to be able to purchase a house on 1 income and continue to live as you would have before - it can still at times feel very hopeless having a goal of buying a home solo (I’ve been frugal as long as I can remember and save 60% of my income thanks to living at home) Great video both of you!
Well said!
I have taken over all the bills since my husband passed away three months ago. We never had a budget before-we’re not millionaires, but we are comfortable. I am now scrutinizing every bill and tracking them each month. You introduced me to the idea of a sinking fund, which I think is brilliant. Each month something seems to crop up that is not a regular monthly bill. It will probably take me nine more months, but eventually I’ll have a list of all those bills and will know how much to be putting away in my sinking fund each month. To start, I transferred some money from savings (we had no distinction between long-term savings and short-term savings) into a sinking fund for myself and am using that as I continue to gather data to use going forward. So budgeting and learning to grocery shop and cook for one person are my current projects. I’ve been making a big pot of soup each week and then freezing it in single-serving portions to have in future weeks. Unfortunately, I overestimated how much is in a single serving and will adjust my quantities down the next time I freeze a batch. It’s a learning curve, but I very much appreciate all the things I’ve learned from you.
@@lindabudzik9583 I'm sorry for your loss and so pleased to hear you're on top of this
Good for you! Well done! You're doing amazingly well considering you're grieving at the same time. God bless you.
So sorry for your loss. You sound like you are really on top of everything or at least close. Great job.
Well done on having a plan! I find that need smaller quantities these days and when I go out to eat ( birthdays, usually) the quantity is usually too big but many places here provide 'take home' boxes, thank goodness! Never be afraid to ask!
I do the same with a slow cooker full of stew. Freeze individual portions. Also shepherds pie. Eat 1 freeze 4 on a monthly basis.
We recently bought an instant pot on discount so we could drop the canned beans. We only eat 2-3oz flesh meat each in a day. We get new underwear at Christmas and buy used clothes and shoes. We make our own cleaning supplies. We let our friends and family know to think of us first if they are cleaning out closets or pantries. We will come and help and carry it off. We are minimalist, we own very little physical items. We only give small gifts that are consumable for birthday and Christmas.
I have been hanging all my clothes, towels and sheets to dry for 5 years now. Honestly,
I think my underwear will out live me!
I use vinegar in the rinse to soften the items ….it is non toxic and works great.
Thanks for sharing!!
@@kathleens4252 how much vinegar do you use per each cycle?
I use apple or vinegar instead of a softener too. It's not as polluting .
I use vinegar all the time. Add lemon juice.
This is so refreshing to hear as a society that is obsessed with consumerism. I’m from the US and I my parents raised us this way and I felt like I missed out on a lot of things that other kids my age did but now that I’m all grown up, I completely understand where my parents were coming from and I appreciate their sacrifice. With that; I learned to live a frugal lifestyle and I’m ok with passing up on a lot of things but I struggle to get my husband on board sometimes. But we have let go of that mentality of not letting other people know that we are on a tight budget, and are honest with friends and family. There’s no reason to go into severe debt just to stroke our ego’s. We are all struggling and it’s ok to acknowledge that.
Just made a pot of soup for about $3 dollars. It will feed me for several days. With a nice piece of bread and a piece of fruit- it's a cheap meal. I got a notice from the Utility company that i use 75% less energy than my neighbors. The utility company wants me to take out an energy efficient loan to do upgrades to my old house. Don't think so. I am doing fine with what I got.
Good stuff!
Oh my! Glad you didn’t fall for it!
I do confirm. I contracted a 30 years housing credit in order to afford cheap monthly repayment. However thanks to yours years long advices, and lots of sacrifices, I repayed my mortgage in 14 years. Not too bad.
Well done to you
Well done! You’ve done this don’t award housing credit. You’ve worked hard for it. It’s all you.
Congratulations- that's awesome!
Well done you did it
That's wonderful. 😊😊😊😊
I'm amazed that some people go to Starbucks for a coffee and muffin almost daily. I can make my own home-brewed fancy coffee and a tray of muffins to last a week or two for what one Starbuck's visit would cost! I eat out very seldom...maybe once every month or two if I'm getting together with friends or family. I prefer going to lunch as it's less expensive than dinner and a smaller portion.😊
Thanks
Yep and use food delivery daily and complain about costs. I know several who do the daily
+45 years ago my mom made all the family members a huge Christmas stocking. Each family would buy each individual a small item for the stocking. Such happy memories! The 7 kids all married, 17 grandkids and us, total of 33 of us. Those who can come make a big deal about it still. The original stockings are getting worn and a bunch of new ones as the family grew. Lots of little snacks, small items that are fun to unwrap.
That's lovely
We are retired here in the USA. We don't have any bad habits with spending. Watch for the sales on groceries. And other necessary items. No mortgage just the utilities and insurances . No desire to go out and spend $15.00 on two cups of coffee we make it at home. Jane, Mike, Dolly and Mary I really appreciate your videos. 😊
We appreciate you watching
We have a lovely coffee shop but it’s over $13 for two cups 😮my husband asked if we had turkey meat and at $11 a pound-I quit buying it
@@cdelaney5047That’s crazy, but it’s true. We buy an extra turkey the day after thanksgiving for pennies on the dollar, cook it and slice up the whole thing for sandwiches, and freeze in portions. It lasts for quite a while. And we make broth from the bones!
I chuckle at my way of making my bras last so long. I don't wear the nice ones very often ! If i wear a nice outfit out in public, i wear a bra. Once home, I slip my nice clothes off and put on roughwear. That means a raggedy old jog bra or undershirt under a lose top or flannel shirt and some work pants .
I'm retired so don't dress up much. So i spend very little on clothes. I havent bought a bra in 5 years!
Thanks for watching
I agree! We could be sisters as I do as you do. Am semi-retired(still work 2 nights a week) and the only time I wear a boob binder is when I leave the house to go to work or if I HAVE to go out in public. I'm bound and determined not to be seen or labeled a "cow that needs milked" from the general public.🤣
I do the same at 37 😅😂😂
Nowadays it is almost a partime job to make sure you live within budget.
Yep
💯
In drought season, we have used the pans of dishwater, and bath water to flush the toilet.
Hi Jane. Brit in Germany here. We do food sharing. A little group of people who share and save food that would be binned by supermarkets.
Awesome! I loathe waste
I love my 1976 Bernina sewing machine, I bought a very expensive computer oriented Bernina and nothing but total frustration. The mother board when out and the cost to repair was awful. Tried again and no success. I gave it to my friend who loves it and she longarm quilts my quilts. I am a handquilter at 86 years of age and love to sew. I'm still ahead of the game and we are both winners. I can still make lemondaide from a not so sweet lemon. You teach me so much. Advice to others be selective of friends who are big spenders, they can lead you down a path of life that takes you away from your goals and it is difficult to return to them. Thank you.
@@chrisdaniel4816 thanks so much for your reply
There is everyday life and there is those happy few days where you might be on a vacation, celebrating a Birthday, things like that. I can be frugal in the everyday life, but I save into my fun fund, in addition to the other "boring" stuff. You are so right. I bought my first flat in 1991, single, with one income, the price was 2 times my income. That flat costs 6 times a median income today.
Today we are enjoying eating fresh satsuma oranges from our own tree, which has a large crop of oranges ripening. This saves money, yes, and it provides the freshest possible Vitamin C and other good nutrients as well. We live in Gulf Coast Louisiana where summers get blazing hot but autumn months are lovely. We had to wait five years for that satsuma orange tree to bear fruit, but it has been mature for a long time now. Our second orange tree, a blood orange tree, is in its second year of bearing fruit but those oranges won’t be ready to eat until January. We share our oranges with friends and neighbors. Age and arthritis keep me from tending my little veggie garden so I am particularly glad we planted those orange trees and a fig tree, which look after themselves, all those years ago.
@happydodson6920 thanks for sharing
People wouldn't waste so much water if they had to boil the water for dishes and bathing like I do 😂😂😂
I was paralyzed from the chest down in 2021, lost my job, had to give up my apartment and move into the Campervan. Took 18 months to get my social security approved. I am so thankful I had started my path to debt free living beforehand and had the savings to survive this crisis. I can walk with a rollator now and I look at this as my new adventure. Gen X 2.0 😂
Thanks
Wow, you have been through hard times. It is brilliant that you have managed to keep going and not slide into depression. Good on you!
@lynnoorman2144 I appreciate that. I have learned it's 100x harder to dig oneself out of a depressive episode than to fight the daily fight to tread water.
Oh you are so brave that takes true spirit. I hope yr life improves daily. Merry Xmas 🎄
I count myself lucky, in these difficult times, that I have always had to watch costs and keep in budget. It is much harder for those who have had easier times, when they could do what they want and not worry about money. It isn't easy, but can become a creative challenge. Luckily for me, I am very happy staying at home and crafting and have no ambition to be out and about. I did go shopping the other day and looked at the cafe at the garden centre longingly for a moment, then reminded myself that I had plenty of coffee at home, and that was all paid for, so moved on and got what I needed and left.
You're doing great
I've never seen your videos before, but thank you.
I'm pretty frugal, too. I bought my house way after you and I can vouch for the house prices in the UK doubling and tripling in a few short years. I had a few years when I first started living on my own where I could barely spend £10 a week on groceries because the budget was so tight.
I do have disposable income now, and I do go on the occasional holiday (maybe five nights a year) and eat out occasionally because those are my pleasures.
I budget for *everything*, though, and have a heck of a lot of 'don't-s' in my budget:
I don't drink.
I don't smoke.
I don't own a car.
I don't have any subscriptions.
I don't have a gym membership.
I don't have takeaways. Ever.
I don't own a television (so the £175 a year TV licence goes into my holiday fund).
I don't have my eyebrows done.
I don't have my nails done.
I don't buy clothes unless I need them.
But... I realise I'm incredibly lucky when I say this, I don't have any debt.
I am financially independent and I know just how unbelievably fortunate I am to be in that position. I really appreciate just how hard the CoL crisis is hitting families and how devastating this must be.
When,I was in junior high,I usedbto baby sit for my aunts you ger sister, who was very chesty, she taught me to line dry bras to make them last much longer.once I got out on my own I did this too, taught both my girls this trick, nonenof hasvto buy bras frequently!😊
We just did a big stock up at the grocery store and purchased new underwear and socks for both of us, so we figure we can do a no spend period for a few months come January. We shop the sales like you do. No meat is purchased unless it's on sale, or discount. Most of the items we buy are bought that way. Great video, and I wish all of you can manage to get through this crisis safely.
Thanks for sharing
You look amazing with that hairstyle. 😮😮😮😮
As I used to be a shopaholic I had loads of debts as well. A few years back I realized that I couldn’t live like that anymore. I was still living like I did in my working years before I got sick and lost my job. So I did make a budget and although it wasn’t easy to live like that with very little money I paid off all my debts (€10000) in a few years while living on a barebones budget. The same as you the lights are only on in 1 room, I only heat one room etc, but I can afford something every now and then. With the rising costs of everything nowadays it would be impossible to pay off my debt with my income now, so I’m lucky there are no debts left anymore. I don’t have much income but I am able to get my groceries and if I really need or want something desperately I will use some of the grocery money to buy that item and then my meals will be less healthy for some time but that is the choice I make.
Thanks for sharing
Modern detergents work perfectly well on a cold wash unless clothes are really dirty. Most of my laundry is done on a cold wash and I hang it to dry - I haven't had a tumble dryer for 25 years.
Thanks for watching
We bought a fixer-upper (in an unknown, unpopular small town) 10 years ago so we would have a very low house payment - $440/month. Paid it off in 7 years, so no payment now. I have a ledger where I write every penny we spend (within the set limit, or course). I also set aside money every month into 12 sinking funds for the once-a-year bills. I cook from scratch - basic whole foods. Hang laundry on drying racks and clotheslines in my basement and outside.
Perfect! Thanks for sharing
We are seniors and retired. We manage to live within our means. We have no mortgage or other debt. It is not easy with the price of food etc going up all the time despite being told things are getting better. Prices for rent and houses is crazy here, making it hard for younger people to get ahead. We hunt for bargains and buy what we need and save for bigger items. Thanks for the video. Looking forward to the next one.
Thanks so much
I'm in a house now that is way too large for me (6 bedrooms, just me )...but it's an older house and honestly, if I sold this I'd just be walking into something smaller with the same problems for double the price, so I will just remain here where I'm comfortable. I've lived here 26 years and it's almost paid for. I run an in home daycare so the space is nice to have for now.
Thanks for sharing
It’s so important to live below your means. When I got married we each had bought a condo prior to marriage so we lived in one condo and rented out the second one as a source of passive income. Paid them both off then bought a modest single family home while keeping both the condos which meant two sources of passive income. We then paid that one off (by selling one condo) and bought another single family home. We always had jobs and two sources of rental passive income. Unfortunately after 25 years of marriage we divorced. Divorce destroys wealth. At least I still had one rental income that generates passive income each month. I bought a townhouse which I’m aggressively paying extra towards principal each month. Now I’m able to work part time as a nurse after 40 years. I’m still frugal in many ways but splurge on experiences and travel.
@maryannrogers8675 thanks for sharing
Shopping sales/deals, meal planning and batch cooking are all such great ways to eat well and save money. So grateful that I learned that as a child/teen as it has been a great help as an adult/parent.
Me too!!
Love your channel. Working my way through your suggestions. Changed my habits of spending amazon etc.. cancelled amazon saving money now .simple things formed a budet for the first time in my life im 67. Just as well as a large fence in my garden blew down today. Im in the Uk had terrible storm at weekend. Ive had time this weekend to form a menu plan amazing how it motivated me to cook and plan ahead making life easier. Thank you your so appreciated.
Thanks for your feedback
Thank you Jane you are so true we are fortunate in that if we need an extra, in that I am a nurse, I work an extra shift. Keep up he great work
Thanks for sharing
Jane, like myself you are so Gen x!! You’re a great example to how people should be to be happy
We're the last generation who have houses, that's why we're happy
@ Lol!!! You’re so right!
Jane your self discipline is amazing.
@@denisescott3943 it's just being an adult
@@FrugalQueeninFrance👏
We haven’t had to give anything up either because we never had it to begin with. I feel very blessed.
Ditto
I’m with you Jane, I loathe shopping, makes being frugal so much easier.😁
So true!
I agree- it's heaps easer when you don't actually like it- I'm the same 🙂
I wash all clothing on casual/delicate. Handwash my undies, hang everything to dry. Sheets and towels have a fifferent setting on my washer, hang to dry also. Cols water wash. I have done this for years. Good video today, thanks.
Thanks for sharing!!
Hiya 👋, I have been for years making soup and purchasing cabbage, carrots, onions,leeks, shallots, potatoes, peppers and cornbread mix, making spaghetti and meatballs freezing that pot for later usage. The budget is $178.00 out and don't buy clothes nor shoes also gas and electric each month living far below poverty level.
You're doing your best
I wished I had better education from family and teachers about money but it was all spend and consumerism in the late 80s and 90s. I’ve definitely learned the hard way. I also felt huge pressure when I was younger to have things and look a certain way. I never felt confident to be myself until my late 40s which is when I started to turn things around. It’s hard to go against what society expects but so glad there are now ways to connect to people who are doing things differently and frugally. I think mental health has a big part to play in finances and sometimes you’re just surviving and doing the best you can at the time.
@@melaniebaker2233 sorry to hear that, those were my formative years too. I remember well never having enough money to complete, look good or keep up.
I chatted with a financial advisor last week and he had talked with people who spend $1000 a month to eat out. I make bread because that now costs $8.50 a loaf at the bakery. I would hope people would learn to do things for themselves- better quality and now you can take care of yourself.
It's madness, people are spending as if they're millionaires
Like you, we’ve been lucky enough to have never been in a position to be frivolous.
So when others were trading down, we had nowhere to trade down to.
We’re fortunate that we’re established. My biggest help is I cook from scratch, slice meat wafer thin, and use a joint for several meals throughout the week.
A chicken is stripped and we freeze the carcass in bread bags. Once there’s 2 I make chicken soup in my stovetop pressure cooker.
Everything we eat I make from scratch. Cakes biscuits and meals.
I grow my own herbs
The pressure cooker is the biggest saver. It saves time, energy and water
We have a chest freezer also for stocking up and storing pre-cooked meals.
When you've always done it, it's second nature
How you and your husband enjoy yourselves? What do you do for fun? Sincere questions. Thank you for your video.
Volunteering, gardening, socializing, walking, meeting up with other dog walkers, crafting, reading, exercising.
@@FrugalQueeninFrance Thank you for replying and again sharing good ways to enjoy life. A Veteran.
It can still be done here in Canada. Our youngest son bought a small home (which is all he needs) on one income. He grows his own veggies, shops the sales and makes do with what he has. Mostly this can be done in smaller cities in western Canada.
@jackiephillips9042 that's good to hear, it's impossible in many areas
In eastern Canada also. Several people in my family have been able to do so.
Hats off to you. Canada has in some places exceeded Bay Area (California) costs.
Hi Jane, these days I prioritise vitamin and minerals in my choice of foods I purchase at the supermarket. For the cost of living when it comes to groceries is too much to accept at times. Health is my priority now. 😌 Thank you for your time and support
Thank you for watching
My house is paid for I did it in 11 yrs. Taxes, insurance and tash pickup are saved for monthly. The struggle is paying for house repairs. The way i handle it is by borrowing money against my savings. Once it gets to a certain amount i pay it off in full. Right now I 'm trying to cash flow for a new air conditioner before next summer. It's difficult to maintain what you have. I love being debt free.
You have to find ways to get it done.
Thanks so much for sharing
Jane, thank you for teaching me better money management. I appreciate you as a voice of reason in a world that promotes debt and carelessness. Being frugal definitely includes taking care of what we have.
You are so welcome!
We are doing fine. We aren’t as frugal as you, but fortunately we are in a position where small changes keep us at the same standard of living. The house is paid for. We have no debt. I just saw on the news yesterday that (US) thanksgiving travel is expected to be at an all time high. Credit card debt is also at an all time high. People want what they want, and by god they deserve it. Their money, their choice, but don’t complain you can’t afford life.
Greed and stupidity
I do confirm as well Grand Frais is doing 50% off everyday. Just turn up at the opening at 9 Am. The discounted prices on fish and seafood are for short date products. I shop there every tuesday right at the opening, to pick-up up the best deals. Last tuesday, I loaded my bag full of bargains for 30 euros. 😊
I love that store
I agree with everything you said. Everything has doubled. Our kids can't afford a home, childcare, etc.
30 year olds I know can't afford and will never afford children as childcare is the same as their salary
Hi, Jane and Mike. We are doing exactly the same! We are just confortable now but I can not allowe any step outside of the budget. Everything needs think over twice and, for sure, everything is used up/out until it has life in it😂
Wonderful!
Jane and Mike, I so enjoy your videos & learn something from each one...coping: food I budget, buy almost everything on sale, cook ahead & freeze meals for later (on those days I don't feel like cooking), keep lights off if not in the room, I purchased a new to me car with cash- it is older but in great shape...every month I thank God I got through it- creature comforts are met, I'm older and worry about family who can't pay rent let alone buy the "American Dream" their own home..tough times
Thanks
I’m older than you and after my divorce and moving to the UK from France I never did get back on the ladder. Just when I was about to buy in 1999 I was made redundant and I’ve been working in the NHS ever since. There’s no way I could afford to buy on this income!l in Hertfordshire! Rent has been ridiculous ever since, and my daughter is now suffering the same fate. The only good thing is that I am now in a 55+ Housing Association scheme and it’s competitive compared to the free market. I also have a lifetime tenancy. I have to work until I’m 66 for my state pension, although I have been able to get my French pension and my NHS pension early. That has allowed me to cut my hours but money is tight.
Glad you got social housing.
Ditto, Jane. There are a few differences between what you do and what I do.
1 I haven't had a TV in decades and decades. I've never paid for television, or any streaming services. UA-cam is free.
2 I have an insurance agent who understands my financial situation and my medical needs. She finds me the best, cheapest program for me and then the money is taken from my bank account. So I don't see, or miss, the money.
3 The only times I use heated water is when I wash dishes ( by hand), and when I take a bath or shower. I always turn the water off in between when it's necessary. In the shower, I get in and get wet, then, turn the water off while I wash. I turn the water back on to take a very fast rinse...maybe 2 minutes, but not always that long. I challenge myself to get the time lower and lower. I've trained myself not to take a bath or shower everyday. I take a " bird bath," or a " sponge bath" at the sink as much as I can...at least 3-4 days a week. When it gets too bad, I take a shower. They take less time and water for me. I have to be in pretty severe pain, or sick to take a bath. When I do my wash up at the sink, I've trained myself to use cold water. I heard it was good for the skin, so I trained myself to do it. I wash all clothes in cold water.
4 When it begins to get cold in the fall, I bundle up for as long as I can, so as not to turn on the heat. I always aim for Thanksgiving, but I never make it. This year, because it's been unusually warm, I still haven't turned on the heat, and think I might get through the next 4 days till Thanksgiving. There have been 2 days that I really wanted to turn on the heat, but I resisted.
5 I unplug the stove at the fuse box until I'm ready to cook. As soon as I'm finished cooking, I go back to the fuse box and turn it off again. A stove has a large plug in, so takes a great deal of phantom electricity. I basically unplug every electrical appliance or item until I'm ready to use it. Then unplug it when I'm done using it. I shaved about 80% off my electrical bill.
6 I also dilute all soaps and cleaners by 50% water before I use them.
7 I use the cash envelope system to help make sure I don't inadvertantly go over budget.
8 I find free transportation as much as possible. For the last several years, I've bought ONLY 2 and a half tanks of gasoline. That's per YEAR. That's how little I use my own car.
As ever, I love listening to you, Jane. Love to you and Mike.❤
Well done! You are an inspiration!
Sounds like normal life to me
This was very good and good info. Thank you so much. Loved the part of fairies in the garden. Thank you Dolly Mary Jane and Mike.
Thanks for watching
🏴❤️🏴 hello everyone my wonderful husband made homemade burgers with chips for tea tonight, which we had early so didn’t need lunch 🏴❤️🏴
😋 yum..we all want a invitation to your house
A few years ago, I noticed that things were changing for the worse, and figured that it would take a long time to turn around. With that in mind, I sat down with my husband and made a list of priorities and put them in order of importance. Since keeping a roof over our heads and food on the table, they were high on the list, but since we live close to public transport, our vehicle was further down. Of course we needed medication, and since I lost weight, I don't need it anymore, but my husband had a heart attack five years ago, and his meds are important. Do we even need the internet? The telephone is important, so it rated higher than the internet...and so on. This gave me a great sense of security, planning for a worst case scenario. We've always been frugal, but again, we can switch to a simple source of income by hatching out some eggs in the spring, and raising more hens to sell eggs (which have jumped to well over eight dollars a dozen here), and butchering the young roosters to eat or barter with when they are about three months old. We also have a pair of rabbits and they could be bred if necessary, right now they are pets providing manure for our garden and lots of enjoyment for youngsters when they come to visit. Another thing that I will be doing soon is sprouting seeds of alfalfa and kale, mung beans and lentils just for a bit of variety in our diet. I harvested the kale seeds from some plants that grew in a dilapidated little greenhouse. I got half a litre of them.
@@preppernut thanks for sharing
I'll be retiring in January, and my income will be a third of what I earn now. My hubby and i are going to have a serious sit-down as to how to make it work. We're both thrifty, but really need to dig deeper. He finds it tedious to have a budget and stick to it, but I'm hoping he'll go along with what I can figure out. Nervous but an exciting challenge at the same time!
You do well to remind us of the habits that we must acquire in order to save, and this for life, whatever the future may be more or less favorable.
Thanks for your feedback
Thank you for the great information!
I'm 73 and grew up with parents who budgeted and a mom who always cooked from scratch at home. I remember 2 times we ate a restaurant meal....both times a celebration of some sort. If you didn't grow up seeing that you WILL STRUGGLE. But it can be done. You just get determined and take it on.
Thanks, my family never ate out at all, that's what rich people did
I'm 67 and cannot recall one time my parents and my 3 siblings EVER went "out to eat" unless one counts family get togethers at our uncle Bobby's campsite.
You should start growing some fruit trees and vines. Apples, plums and grapes grow so well in France and while the upfront expenses might seem steep, they pay for themselves within 5 or 6 years with the fruit they produce! You can then grow vegetables in their shade. Grapes can be easily dried into raisins or sultanas, providing a source of vitamin C year round! Apples also keep for a long time after harvest, as long as they are kept cool and dry.
@PsychicIsaacs our garden was a quarry, under 2" of soil it's shingle and other quarry backfill. I had to dig pits and fill with rotted compost and manure and I've planted two apple trees, the deer eat the trees and the apples. We've had raised beds and again got eaten by deer and voles. Food is cheap enough here.
How do I manage? I am learning to cook tastier soups with cheap ingredients ( lots of beans and carrots). I stopped all eating out. I hang 💯 of the laundry 💯 of the time. I am inventorying what I already have to avoid shopping. I am staying home more. 😊
Great job!
Smart!
If you have pets, you need to budget , especially for unexpected vet bills which can be quite high.
Our dogs have their own sinking funds for grooming and vet care. Vet care is never unexpected. Pets need medical care.
@ what I am referring to are unplanned for emergencies and surgeries which can cost thousands of dollars. It can be a shock. It is good you have a fund for your pets. Many people do not. A friend went into debt to pay for her dog’s care.
@ if a vet is charging thousands, they're actually robbing you.
Times have caused extended families to share homes. This is beneficial for all if they can stay civil with each other.
@tutuluvsminnie7129 that's a very big if, some families can't spend a day together
Just like in the Great Depression. Multi-generational families in one home.
So very true. Sometimes the savings simply aren't worth it!@@FrugalQueeninFrance
I love your honesty. Thank you ❤
Thank you
Good advice as always, keeps us all on track! Thanks
Thanks so much
Hiya, you mentioned you don't buy as much fruit these days, how about growing some fruit on your land like an apple tree or two, you can get patio sized ones if you're limited on space. I grow raspberries, blackcurrants and strawberries in pots.
I've planted apples, peaches, blackcurrants and strawberries and the wild life decimated the lot of it
You always tell me to budget and i know you are right but i find it sooo hard to do. Im working and my work takes up all my brain space. I keep watching your channel, thank you for your positive encoiragement. Ill keep trying to do a budget... Im getting there in small steps.
I wish you well
Regarding using smartphones and computers, here in the States there are organizations that offer free instruction on using those devices and apps on them. One can find out about them from local libraries who are more than happy to assist you find out what you need.
Thanks for sharing
Excellent Jane. I completely agree with all you said.
Thank you kindly!
I try not to waste any foood. I make my meals around what I have in the fridge, freezer, garden and community garden. I try to be generous and give eggs to friends/family doing it tough or give baked goods to lighten their struggle. I watch my super like a hawk. I created a pension 7 years ago and, even after monthly draw downs, the lump sum is still greater than when I started it. I wait u til the market is “up” and convert $x to cash ..this year I’ve withdrawn $4200 to top up my bank account. Currently it’s earning 30%..yopee! I keep 3 years income in my “cash” component and go Australian shares for the balance. It’s been brilliant. I’m actually stunned,
I earn 5.3% on my savings outside super by transferring $1000 pm into the account. That earns me an extra $300 pm.
I eat at home.
I love where I live and will never incur the cost of selling and repurchasing a home.
Your videos keep me on track. Thank you wholeheartedly.
Well done
I agree about prepping all food at home. In Nth Qld half leg ham is now $8 kg in lead up to Xmas, once deboned and skin off that is about $14 kg, the best price for any ham. So we buy 1 half leg every fortnight, slice it up and freeze it. Also begun a herb garden, and growing rocket, loose leaf lettuce and baby spinach. We were debt and mortgage free but decided to incur some debt for travel this year so now knuckling down to pay it off quickly. Also our 45yo son just paid off his mortgage, yay. Last year I renegotiated our house insurance, it was well worth the phone call. I saved hard for a new bought on disThanks for all the encouragement Jane and Mike, it keeps me focussed!
That's great
@@helenhartley6904 what part of Northern Qld? North Pole Alaska here. I hope to visit Qld again next year.
All great advice. You tube is a great resource for those learning to cook. People doing pantry challenges usually make simple meals from simple ingredients. Or go to the library and check out an old! cookbook. No fancy ingredients and clear instructions.
Thanks for watching!
I get frustrated because my rent went from 970 usd to 1339 for the same apartment with no new upgrades except the apartment complex
Good old capitalism!
I am speechless at this increase. My best advice is pray and keep praying for help.
@ people like Dave Ramsay promote property owners getting market value in rents for their 'investments' that's how the rich get rich.
😮😮😮WOW!!!
@@FrugalQueeninFranceI think we’re in laissez faire capitalism currently. Hopefully the globe will curb the greed at the top of all corporate entities.
When you said about the cost of your first house I realized when I bought my first house, in my 20's it was 1.5 times my annual salary and my salary was very low. I never thought of that before. It was a camp and now a bank would not finance a house like that, now you have to be a cash buyer.
Thanks so much
Great video.... My adult children are millennials. All 3 live on one income (their spouses) and all have purchased homes. One of them paid off their home and did it in 10 years. The other two are a few years behind them in home ownership. Wondering your thoughts on next year. So many are saying things will be worse next year on the cost of things. Do you and Mike feel the same way? I am seeing on so many social media groups that they don't have enough food to eat, which just breaks my heart. It's rough out there.. Thanks for another great video.
It very much depends on jobs skills and how much that pays. In the UK, people on average earn less than £40,000 per year and in France €35000 so no, on those salaries, they can't afford to ever buy a house after paying rent and bills, there's nothing left and they won't inherit either.
Hi
How Ru
Nice to see you again I’m listening 👂 😮😊 very Interesting 🤔 have a wonderful day❤❤❤
Good tip on the underwear! Hadn't considered a delicates cycle for some reason!
Our dogs really are the cutest dogs ever.
Thank you
I’m frugal and I save every month, but little things like a coffee and a muffin in a cafe is a weekly treat. You can’t remove all joy and pleasure from life, otherwise what’s the point in living? Everyone needs some little lift, a treat. I don’t think it’s mentally healthy to avoid absolutely everything which is classed as a non-essential or even a little luxury.
Thanks for sharing. We have coffee at home, with friends or at their houses. We get absolutely no pleasure from eating out or drinking coffee for 2.75€ a cup. I wake up every day happy to enjoy another day.
@@FrugalQueeninFrance I also drink coffee at home but I find it really helpful to get out of the house and I enjoy just sitting on my own for a while with my iPad!
I agree. So when my family asks me what I want for holidays and birthdays, I ask for gift cards to Dunkin Donuts here in the US. I meet with a friend every Thursday and we take turns paying for coffee. Have a lovely chat catching up with each other and the money doesn't come out of my budget. I also meet with another friend for supper every Friday. We bring our own homemade supper and we each take turns making dessert. We spend the night watching old British TV mysteries on BRITBOX 😂😂
I agree I get together with my 2 adult children on the weekend we pick a different neighborhood or a short car to a nearby town or city We explore I pack a lunch and have a treat it must add up to under $15for the 3 of us Excellent exercise I see a new place I don't smoke or drink alcohol so those weekly get together create wonderful memories
That are priceless.
I agree. I also like to get a cappuccino from the bar once in a while. I had days when the thought of a cappuccino and a fresh pastry was what took me out of bed.. I’d say I do it about once a month. I work from home almost all the time so this gives me a nice change, a little walk, and an excuse to exchange a few words with other people. And I think it is important to support local vendors. I wouldn’t do it daily or weekly but it is nice sometimes. But our little treats are individual and to each their own.
Hi Jane and Mike. You both are so wise. I'm thinking it's probably the way you were both brought up being low income. and not wanting to put yourselves i the predicament where ou an't afford something. You can reap the benefits now while still living frugally. Kudos to you both!
@@lynnbrown6485 thanks for watching
Thank you fir sharing your storeyand journey 👍. Great faveroiit frugal channal .Great tips and advice frugal ways and smart ways to live thank you .miss rhe puppies 🐶 adorable❤❤❤❤❤
Thanks so much!
It is so sad that many children are going without the bare necessities of food, clothing and shelter in both the UK and USA. Most shelters in the states are full, the cost of rent has doubled in recent years, with little vacancy, so even if you need to move to somewhere cheaper, there isn’t any where to go. Schools in the U.S. have children who are sleeping in cars, or staying at a different place every night, no way to track them. If they weren’t getting food at school they wouldn’t have anything to eat at all.
It's a disgrace.
I saw that homelessness was up something like 14 percent? Also near me nursing and uni students are living in their cars while attending higher ed!
I've been saving for a new eco tank printer, and waited 6 months for Black Friday and got $80 discount. I bought this new toy of mine by using electricity solar credit and birthday money and not buying anything else for 6 months.
Thanks for sharing
Hallo Jane and Mike 👋. New sub here because I have honestly found your channel delightful (the music, photos, your home and your accent). Your kind of content is exactly what I am diligently seeking for. I have shared your channel with my Dear Mum who is by all standards a frugal Queen as well, a lifestyle which has brought her to a very comfortable and decent retirement. Watching and learning from Nairobi, Kenya 🇰🇪
Welcome!🤗
This was one of the most precise and eloquent videos that you have done to date. You hit it on the nail. I am 64 in the US and I am lucky to be living in a single family home on a fixed income. I have spent the last several months trying to put together the available resources for my adult disabled daughter to be able to continue to live in this house after I am gone. The state human services finally realized that they needed to be providing her the resources that she has been entitled to for the last 24 years and are scrambling. Now with the new upcoming political climate it may all be gone and there are no family or friends that will be able to help her. It is tough for everyone. Please be kind and considerate to others as you may not know the struggles that they are going through. Thank you Frugal Queen!
Thank you for sharing
That was a very motivated video.
Thank you!
You are so welcome!
Good video! Have you compared the cost of laser hair removal vs other methods? I had it done, and it's nice not to have to keep going to someone.
@@barbaratolker4366 no where near here does it, the nearest is Paris, which isn't near
I agree with you re buying good clothes and treating them well so that they last. I have jumpers and ciats that are at least 15, if not 20 years old. Folks ask - why dont you get a tumble dryer - because I bought a lot of these from charity shops ( good makes, barely worn, or still with tags on) a tumble dryer might wreck them as I cant remember, after all this time, if they will go in a tumble dryer or not ( print has worn off most of the labels😂)
We own a restaurant and have for more than twenty four years. It is difficult and very scary. We are really slow this time of year, but this year more. My husband has not been able to pay himself for the last 4 pay periods. Luckily we had some money from tax refunds that we did not spend, but that is going fast. I am more worried about the younger generation as rent is sooo high and it is impossible to buy as house.
Thanks for sharing. It must be extremely difficult for non-essential services as that's the first thing people give up.
I didnt realise that Grand Frais did 50% off fish on a Saturday, that said we have to travel an hour to our nearest one but its got to be worth it, thanks for the tip. We also use the cheap electric at night, we are very lucky to have the facility but it used to be half of the daytime cost now it is not such a good deal. thanks for another good video.😃
Get there when the store opens as it goes quickly
I also keep and breed Old English Game Bantams. They breed prolifically and about once or twice a week (at night) I go to the chicken pen, select a nice looking bird (preferably a young rooster), do the deed using the Broomstick Method, take it inside and process it into a pot of chicken soup. I have heard of folks doing similar things with ducks and I used to do it with king pigeons, many long years ago! King pigeons are easy, once they've bred in a place they will always return to it and they get most of their food from foraging, which really minimises the grain expenses! They are about the size of a bantam chicken and make a very, very nice soup! Rosemary, Sage, Oregano and other herbs growing around the house make the soup extra yummy and 50 or 100 potato plants, grown from sprouting supermarket spuds, provide a filling and tasty addition, and more calories, of course! Bases of onions can be sprouted and grown, ditto celery and lettuce cores. Cut off the top third of a carrot and plant it in the vegetable garden, it will regrow and set seed. Next Spring, you'll have carrots popping up everywhere!
Dried beans and peas from the grocery store can also be planted and will make 50 beans for every one that you plant. It's much cheaper than buying seed in packets and because it's food grade, there's no nasty chemicals!
Pips from all fruit can be planted in propagation trays and will grow. In about 5 years, they'll begin to make fruit. I've even germinated grocery store raw almonds and they are now trees, growing on my farm. If the fruit's no good, you cut down the tree and use it for firewood. It cost you nothing, so nothing's lost, but you might get the nicest fruit you've ever tasted!
I wish you all the best, and God Bless!
@@PsychicIsaacs thanks
Hi Jane and Mike...love your advice!
@@karryhuston1321 thanks
Hi Jane, love your information and inspiration. I’m also a frugal long arm quilter. Can I ask for your suggestions about frugal batting/ wadding ideas?
It costs what it costs. I pay 8€ per 2.5m wide rent running meter
Hi Jane and Mike. Unless you're a millionaire, cost of living right now is a struggle for many worldwide it seems. Yes, amongst everything else, insurances have really increased. I renewed my buildings and contents insurance last week and after spending some time searching around, I was able to find one which provides me with adequate cover for £2.49 more a month and slightly lower excesses. Was the best I could find. I was lucky with that, as I thought it would have been more. I know, it's a battle to keep costs down. I'm constantly adjusting my weekly meal plan when doing my shopping list, in an attempt to reduce my overall monthly food bill. It's surprising how by doing this, has helped. So yes, I'm doing whatever it takes to retain as much savings as I can, even if it means a little inconvenience at times. 🤷🤗
Thanks so much
Thank you 😊
We need great channels like yours Thank you Jane and Mike. My Xmas gifts this year are gifts to unicef. I went through my wardrobe last Sunday and discovered some clothes. I'm planning on wearing them too. It was a treat to discover the nice clothes I can wear in the future.
Lambs fry cut into thin strip's cooked with onion in the fry pan with a splash of balsamic vinegar is worth it.. Taste's like marinated steak. 😊yummiest bargain 👌 😎blessings Maria 🙏
That's 👌
Its a roller coaster 5 doz eggs 2 weeks ago 14.97 today 19.97 wow wow.
i was looking at our gas and elec bills, two years ago it was £270 for the quarter nov, dec and jan and there were 4 of us living here , now its £160 a month and its just the two of us 😢
Fuel poverty adding to misery in the UK. If we lived there we'd have no heating
My lovely husband has short time work since months and the future looks not good in his company, now. On top my health insurance will increase from 1.1.2025 by 92,- Euros per month (!) . I am a civil servant and in Germany I am required to have private health insurance. As a part-time worker my health insurance is from 1.1.2025 one third of my income (!). That is awful and there is no way out of this way of insurance. I was looking for a full-time job for a while, but at 57 no one wanted me. So we save our money as we can and hope the best.
@@lilalavendel3951 sorry to hear this