Siebrie

**Siebrie** · 05-03-2007, 07:21 AM

Hi there,

I have been reading this website for quite some time now, especially enjoying the similarities and differences between frugality in the US and the Netherlands (where I live).

The Dutch are traditionally known for their pennypinching (that's how copper wire was invented - two Dutchmen found a cent at the same time and neither one would let go), but I never really lived up to this image, until I decided it might be fun to actually finish my university education.

By now I am a 13th-year student at university, having taken one class at a time for quite a few years. But as you probably guessed, there came a time where I had to choose between my job and my education. I really enjoyed working full time (that's 40 hrs/wk) as a Personal Assistant, and luckily it also allowed me to save up for a 'sabbatical year' to finish the courses I still had to, topped of by writing my honours dissertation. So, if all goes according to plan, I will be allowed to write MA after my name this August.

This year I am living off € 800 a month (about $ 1,100), including everything. All your tips and stories are really helpful! I have my own allotment, which really helps a lot: apart from giving very tasty vegetables and fruit, it is also good for working out, socialising, getting out of the house and redirecting my mind from studying.

Bye,

Siebrie

What I would like to say to those people worrying about the cost of gas: cheer up, it is really cheap in America. In the Netherlands normal prices are around $ 8 per gallon.