Dreams are a funny thing, don’t you think? For our family, our dreams include my husband’s new job (which requires us to move) and me starting a new online business. Both are important to us and I am convinced that they are answers to years and years of prayer. BUT…isn’t there always a but?…our dreams don’t come without a price.
My boutique needs start-up funds to get us running and the whole house-selling/moving/new-home-buying adventure requires money too! So this summer, we’re committing to making some short-term sacrifices to achieve our goals. I see it as a challenge to be creative with stretching our money, and you know I love a challenge!
Here are a few ways we’re trying to stretch our dollar – I’d love to hear your ideas too!
Put the thermostat up a few degrees.
I don’t know if it’s the same where you live, but my local power company is crazy expensive! To try to fight those costs, we keep the thermostat around 77-78 degrees. It’s a little warm, but we stay comfortable with ceiling fans and smaller fans in the bedrooms.
Cut out cable TV.
We actually did this a few years ago, but it’s worth mentioning. With resources available online like Hulu and Netflix, we still see our favorite shows and really haven’t missed all of the additional channels. Not to mention the extra time we have instead of sitting in front of the TV!
Make simple meals from scratch and limit fast food/restaurants.
While all of those delicious meals on my Pinterest board are enticing, we’re focusing on simple foods that can stretch. I’m also really intrigued by this Summertime Pantry Challenge…I’m thinking that may be a good way to use up some items in the back of the pantry!
While all of those delicious meals on my Pinterest board are enticing, we’re focusing on simple foods that can stretch. I’m also really intrigued by this Summertime Pantry Challenge…I’m thinking that may be a good way to use up some items in the back of the pantry!
Sell unwanted items on Craigslist or ebay.
Part of the fun of moving preparation is going through all of our things. No use in moving something we don’t really want, right? I’ve created an area for CL/ebay possibilities and will tackle selling them soon.
Take free “field trips”.
I love to take my kids on new adventures but sometimes that can get pricey! Right now, we’re taking “field trips” that are free: new parks and trips to the beach.
These are great ideas! We haven't had cable in 5 years and don't miss it. We also try to do a lot of free or very inexpensive activities like going to the park, swimming ($10 for the 5 of us) and lots of homemade cooking and baking.
Good luck with everything!