photo by whgrad
Many people are cutting back on spending. Some are even cutting things right out of their budget. It’s always interesting to see what makes the cut. If you’re frugal, you’ve done everything “right” by living within your means, yet somehow you are still along for this economic bumpy ride. But you’re prepared.

One reader, G.G. in Kentucky, says: “I’m attempting to have faith in my country and the people within it. I believe there is still enough American spirit that we should be able to pull out of this and come out better for it. I think the key is not acting only on that fear and gloom that spreads like a disease, but that we continue to think things through and look at the possible long-term results of our choices.”

Focus on the parts of your life you can control. Part of that comes down to what and how you spend — and what you’re not willing to waste. Some people are new to the concept of frugality. Maybe they’ve never had to consider it. Their certainty about the future is diminishing. So some are hopping onto the frugal wagon and need a starting point. It’s important to point out that frugal living isn’t about taking drastic measures. It’s about making responsible, consistent, prioritized spending choices. It’s about knowing you can’t spend your way to prosperity. And the economy? It’ll adjust.

Here are some things frugalitarians are doing to save.

CLOTHING: Buy children’s clothes a size ahead and anticipate growth. But limit the amount of clothing that is bought to a basic mix-and-match wardrobe. Mend and refashion what you can, and check secondhand sources or shop seasonal sales for the best prices. You can organize a clothing swap with family and friends. For help organizing a larger community event, visit Swap-O-Rama-Rama (www.swaporamarama.org), a nonprofit that helps organize clothing swaps and DIY design workshops.

BE A HOMEBODY: Spend more time at home. There’s great value in home entertainment such as an Internet connection and simple activities such as reading and learning, gardening, crafts and focusing on family. The money saved can go toward debt, necessities, in the bank or continued financial preparation for the future. Note: It’s not going under a mattress.

FREEBIES: Look for free or cheap opportunities. Maybe it’s a meal held at school, church or at a family or friend’s home, a book club or movie night at the library, or free local event. Put the word out for items you’re looking for, too. Check freecycle.com and craigslist.org.

FOSTER RELATIONSHIPS: A concept from days gone by. Turn to your neighbors for support, to swap/barter/borrow or lend a helping hand. Look out for one another. Networking is important, too.

SHOP WISELY: Stock up on pantry staples. Don’t hoard, but have enough food to get by for more than a few days. You can visit www.trackmyfoodstorage.com to help you get onto a practical food-storage system for your family. Look for discount groceries at stores such as Aldi, or visit my forums to find out if there’s a salvage grocery store in your area. Learn cooking options such as solar cooking (www.solarcooking.org), using pressure cookers, woks, slow cookers or even cast-iron cooking on an open hearth or fire pit.

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