photo by LizMarie
The new year gives a fresh start for frugality. It’s the perfect time to start planning, organizing, learning and challenging yourself. Some frugal strategies are harder than others. Master one tough area, and slowly add easier methods throughout the year to avoid burning out. But which strategies tend to be the hardest?
Here are a few.
TRACKING SPENDING: You need to know what you’re spending to pinpoint where you …

photo by Rubber slippers in Italy
Valentine’s Day is the perfect time for chocolate, and it’s never too early to plan for the sweet stuff. These recipes are all quick and easy to prepare. The first two make a single serving, so they’ll work well whether you celebrate with someone else or alone. Simply double the recipe for two. One of the following desserts is made in a slow cooker, so …

photo by Lel4nd
Being frugal can be difficult when you’re just starting out as a young couple. Newlyweds are filled with hopes, dreams and challenges. To help young couples get off on the right foot, readers share their advice.
COMMUNICATE: You have to be on the same page with finances, or it can cause huge problems for the rest of your marriage. Cook at home, pack lunches, stick to a list. …

photo by LeifheitUSA
DEAR SARA: How often do you vacuum your home? My friends and family think I am insane because I vacuum darn near every day. It just got me wondering, how often is normal? — Lisa, Virginia
DEAR LISA: Although I’m frugal, I want my home to be tidy. I typically vacuum daily. If you don’t have young children or pets, you might not need to vacuum on a daily …

photo by jules:stonesoup
Pantry stockpiling and purchasing food in bulk are popular among frugal people. But it’s common for larvae or Indianmeal moths to be carried in with bulk purchases such as flour, cereal, dog food, powdered milk, spices and birdseed. If there are females, you’re bound to have an infestation. Within a couple of weeks, they are capable of laying several hundred eggs.
Anyone who has ever had pantry moths …