LIVING ON $12,000 A YEAR IS GETTING HARDER
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- čas přidán 5. 09. 2024
- Living on $1,000 per month my entire adult life is becoming nearly impossible with these crazy inflation rates.
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I am 74 and living independently I have my laundry down to a full load of whites one week and a full load of darks the next week. I hang my clothes to dry whenever possible. I shower every third day unless working in the garden. I use one of my solar batteries for my AM FM radio CD player and another solar battery for my laptop computer cell phone and tabletop fan. This has helped me tremendously to cut back in my electricity, down to about $47 a month. In winter, I layer up, seal the windows from drafts and can go to about $50 a month in propane for a 3-bedroom 2-bathroom house. Cut the cable, cut the subscriptions, and work out at the Senior Citizens Center for free and can even have lunch there for $3. It can be done you just have to use your resources.
That's wonderful!!
Yup! Walked to my senior center. Took a free Tai Chi class. Used the exercise room. Came home with a free loaf of sour dough bread and a free red velvet cupcake; the goodies were expiring today at my local supermarket and the supermarket donates almost expired baked goods to the senior center. Also bought a portable washing machine (fits in my condo kitchen) and hang dry the clothes on a foldable dryer rack.
I love reading about your tenacity
AWESOME 🧡👍🧡
I love this 🙏
I wish i had $1000 a month. What a dream. Try under $800. Now being evicted because owners passed. I dont have ac or a well that functions here. No where to go. Too old to get another job. No extras in the home...it's hard. Bless all those that struggle.
Don’t you get social security tho? My spouse did, before he passed and they direct deposited him over $1,000/ month (the day it went into the account was based on his birthday, he was born on a 2nd of the month, so he was in the first round of deposits. Not that it mattered, once the pattern is established, bills can be paid based on the deposit date)
@@Fe26man That is my ss. My only income.
I live on 13000 a year with 2 kids
No assets but no debt.. no fun no extra.
Its getting super hard this year especially.
Waiting until the littlest is in school next year and im going back to school to offset cost of daycare. Wish me luck im going to need it. 😢
Can you apply for food stamps?
What state do you live in?
Good luck. You can do this.
Remember, she is trying to teach us how to survive with very little. She is also saving for her own future. Be proud of her. A.
She's doing a lot of complaining lately about not having enough money when she actually does. She's just not managing her accounts well.
My parents, both in their late 70s, and on fixed incomes were struggling for years. We bought their groceries every week as they needed their RXs. Sad, they had to choose between my dad's heart condition and my mom's diabetes over food. Well, now they live with us. It got to be too much after my dad fell in a store last year to go get their meds and he had to have knee replacement surgery. Now they live with us, on 20 acres. Dad loves to ride the zero-turn mower to mow the 2 acres of lawn, and he helps me take care of our chickens. The quality of life is better for them, and I have peace of mind knowing they're here with us.
Mom helps me prep the garden and can the harvest. We make it work, and it's nice to have someone around all the time. I never leave the property except for once/twice a month to go to the city for errands, etc. I foresee multi-generational homes becoming a more popular way of life soon.
I'm so glad this worked out for you all - agree, multi-generational family looking out for each other is the way to go when ever possible 😊
Where I live in Amsterdam that wouldn't work...
I’m 70 and just moved in with my daughter and family ❤
My mom is 93 & we're contemplating combining households. Her h/o ins just went up about $1000 & prpty taxes are rising too. The combined incomes would lead to a more comfortable lifestyle. Less stressful too.
I'm about to be 62 and living on $1k is very doable. My friends call me cheap, but I just don't spend money on anything, but I don't do without. Love ya Prepper Princess
Where do you live may I ask? Do you have a car?
I'm from the UK and I relate fully to what you are saying. Last winter the electricity and gas companies hiked up their prices enormously meaning I could not put the heating on as much as I wanted. I wore 5 sweaters, woolen tights under my trousers and sat under a blanket...you get the picture. I cannot cut back any further...I dont eat meat, I dont have netflicks or any of those other tv deals. I never buy chocolate, cookies, cakes, etc. Never buy new clothes, never eat out, never go out any where that costs money...I have no gym membership, no club memberships of any kind. It isnt working, my house became damp and mouldy because of the lack of heating, I am old (62) so keeping myself warm is getting harder. I am eating less food than I used to, it all just feels pointless. What is the point of existing instead of living? Politicians are so far removed from my reality, and in the meantime the share holders of the fuel companies made billions of pounds of profits...yes billions not millions.
@kitchenware Just wanted to let you know you are not alone. I know exactly how you feel. I'm 60 supposedly living in one of the greatest countries (Canada) and am living in very similar circumstances as yourself. There are an untold amount of others as well. I have heard it's bad in the UK.
@@SandraDawe-xr3pb Yes, you are correct. The only thing that I am very grateful for in the UK is the NHS...at least if I fell over and gashed my arm, my treatment would be free...but it is not going to last much longer, the govt are trying to demolish the NHS by stealth...IMO
I'm watching my building insurance sky rocket and scrimping and saving like you say. Sending you good cheer❤ We are keeping the wolves from the door successfully! Enjoy the free things in life. Proud of your strength Keep going
Eat hot soup perhaps.
You live like I do. You are very much not alone. I recall reading about heating costs in Britain and it took a giant jump up. I am 65 and live in an 18 ft travel trailer. Staying warm is a challenge since it's like living a tin can with lots of condensation I personally depend on my electric blanket a lot. It's substantially cheaper than running the heat. I also depend on my hot water bottles.
Great point about the change from "buy" to "get"! In my neighborhood, it seems to be taken even a step further. One of my neighbors (a long time disabled guy) asked me "Who GAVE you your house?" and the 12 year old girl (her mom is soon to be mother of 7 with 5 different dads) next door asked "Who GAVE you your car?" Around here, so many people are recipients. And they are raising their children to think like recipients. I know I am being harsh but so many here just take. Its all they know to do. I used to do favors but so often, I do something and suddenly it is expected-- I am financially comfortable, in their eyes, because I have a house and car, even though I work as a caregiver at $15/hour, though I live in a small midwestern city and I know money goes alot further here than on the coasts.
Girl! I can listen to you for days. I feel like I have found my tribe! People treat me like I am so cheap but saving makes sense to me. Keep doing what you are doing.
Also, I owned an old Victorian home that had single pane windows. I went to a local glass store, and they measured the inside of my windows and created "storm" windows of plexiglass on metal frames. I installed thin metal strip magnet with contractors adhesive to the inside of the window frames, Voila! They just "magnet" into place inside the window frames, and are inside the house so I slide them into the closet and under the bed in the summertime. MUCH CHEAPER than replacement windows.
We are retired , we dont have a million dollars in assets and never had. I understand about inflation, and the actual cost of things. Most families in our area take home 2 thousand a month. They make it just fine. Retire when you want to, go see and do stuff. Your not promised tomorrow, enjoy your life.
I think the poverty level needs to be reevaluated with this inflation.
I agree
Absolutely
You are the most extreme frugal person I have ever seen. Something to be proud of really with all you have been able to accomplish by doing so. Most people would have a hard time with half of what you do to save money. It is tough out there and while I am not nearly as frugal as you, I do have a garden. It's purpose is to help cut costs at the grocery store and I can tell you it has really helped. I have been doing a lot of canning. Funny that you mentioned barbeque sauce because that is what I have been busy making this week with my home grown tomatoes. I live in a small (650 square feet) 120 year old home so I know how those remodel costs can be a struggle. I don't think we have seen the end of inflation. I wish I had some ideas for you, for any of us really. We just have to do the best we can.
Never put your faith in man or money
Move out of California!! I live way below the poverty line since I moved out of California 4 years ago. I lived there for 60 years. Be happy. Make a change.
@@christined4842And sadly living in California is the price you will pay, so why cry about it just live and be happy tomorrow is not promised. Family or not don't live in a place where you can't afford to live. My family lives in California too but they can afford to live there.
Never put yourself in a place of hardship.
Pick the smallest room and make a 'living center' out of it. Easier to keep warm with an electric heater.
I drive a 2010 Jaguar. We bought it for $7000 cash. My clothes come from thrift stores. I need nice clothes, so I buy Talbots, J Crew and some others for around $2.99 an item. I wear classic clothing that is timeless. (My mom is 91 and has classic clothing that’s 50 years old. She taught me well.😊) We eat simply, and splurge on a Friday night supper Club with friends. People would be in shock at what we live on!!!
I also have some clothes that are 30 years old or so. But with today's fast fashion that barely last a season it is hard to find quality
You are my absolute favorite money sense channel. I have put your tips to work in my life for over 5 years now and own a paid off , off grid cabin and paid off car because of you. Thank you for all you share and do 🙏❤️. Love to the pups!!!!🥰🥰🥰
That sounds fantastic well done to you blessings to you always🌈
Ty so much ❤❤❤❤❤
They lowered ceilings in the 70's because of high heating and fuel costs.
I would consider taking $10k to $15k out of investments to do insulation (attic, under floors, walls) and new windows. Not sure about raising interior ceilings = more space to heat. Old colonial homes in New England all had low ceilings, easier to keep warm. Your thinking and frugality is an inspiration.😅
But in the summer? Is it easier with high ceilings? I'm not sure. Probably. Unless the rooms are very large. And, isn't California a hot place? 🦘🦘🦘🦘🦘
I know you'd rather not have a regular job but to my mind, it would seem worth it to work in a coffee store that has medical benefits. Then your coffee costs would go down and your medical insurance would be covered. Those seem to be your biggest expenses.
Great comment
That insurance benefit is NOT free. You pay the premium. Better to go on the exchange for insurance.
I think I have to agree with the others you spoke of. You are not living below the poverty line because you are forced to you choose to and there is an incredible difference in that. Most people don't have the pleasure of knowing that if it comes down to it they have a huge savings to fall back on. The stress that comes with being forced to live on $1000 a month knowing once that's gone that's it and that's all is incredible. Along with, possibly not needing to mention, but, we don't have our own homes, we pay rent for others to pay their mortgages.
Her tips to manage it still apply.
All my friends think I’m crazy. I’m ALWAYS looking for “one more way” to squeeze a penny. I’m actually beginning to like it too…..
Very accurate video on how hard it is to live under your means. So honest with the cost of things. Please keep inspiring us with your transparency.
It's sad when an American can't feel well off with a million dollars
That's how she chooses to live though. She could do it differently.
@@nadinenc3097 she makes thousands per month just off these videos.....don't be fooled.....
@@gretaz1502 I think she is just faking anyway...Iike I don't think she stays under 1000 a month....she just says that to make the videos....
I watched it all 😊 mom was visiting me she is 88 I am 60 I wanted her to watch you so she can learn to be more frugal since she is on social security, thank you we enjoyed the evening
I'm 63 and I've been retired for 23 years! My family has a problem with living to age 50. So I had planned to retire at age 45. My children would be done with college, house paid for and I'd be fully vested in retirement. I've planned my retirement since age 23. Grow up poor. That will make anyone a frugal guru!
I needed to hear you tonight. I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks hard that saving up to buy paint! I hate the color Grieg! But until I can paint all the walls white, I'll close my eyes! I have three new powerchairs and my Jackery! When gas goes too high? I'll just toodle my way to the BOGO store and toodle my way home! ❤
I'm not afraid of being poor. I'm afraid of the societal breakdown when what bothers you and me, hits all those who are used to "get" "give me" stops.
I’m not usually one to comment although I’ve followed you for quite a while but this is probably my favourite video of yours. You could never realise how much you have helped me today. I’ve had trouble sleeping just trying to figure why I can’t seem to get ahead with things. Listening to you is like having an old friend over for coffee, I wish you could have stayed for longer. If I had any tips for you, you’d have them but all of mine came from you!. Bless your heart Prepper Princess and here’s to a brighter future ❤
Living on a little over 10,000 a year. It def isn't easy but can be done. Never be afraid to use the resources you qualify for to try to get ahead especially if you are sick/disabled and trying to survive.
Rent- $630 a month
Utilities - none included in rent
Food- Use food pantries
Phone- Ting mobile $15
Car Payment - none. Paid $4000 cash for good used car
Car insurance- $52
Able to put back about $300 a month by living below my means. I also have a year stockpile of food and household supplies. Did all this on a very low budget.
People who say they can't live on $70,000 a year are doing something wrong. The things I see are ppl with $600 car payment, eating out constantly, streaming/phone costs, and not shopping food sales. Some people have no choice and being on disability is not chosen poverty. It is FORCED poverty.
I’m 77 years old and I have not yet had to beg for bread or to pay my bills. I didn’t go to Salvation Army one time to get my eight dollar light bill paid when I lived in a trailer. But I just want you to know that God is the one in control and he’s the one that will provide stop depending on yourself. Depend on him. He said he will supply all your needs according to the riches in glory. Fall in love with Jesus and that’s all that matters.If you’re living in fear that’s what Satan wants. Read your Bible find the verses on fear and read them and see what God says. Fear not.
Fear. It cripples you. It has me for a long time now..
The most important skill I've learned (late in life) is delayed gratification. When I was younger, if I wanted something - a new car, clothes, home furnishings, vacation, whatever - I would buy it asap even if I had to use a credit card or take out a loan. Now I research my purchases and save until I can pay cash. If I find it at a great price, I'll buy it but only if I can pay for it in full. I even went without an oven for 10 years because I was too broke to buy a new one. I eventually bought a portable countertop oven for under $100.
I live in Ireland now and like you I am on my own and before that I have lived in Denmark for over thirty years, so I know what cold is in the winter. My best heat source is a wood burning stove, its my life line. My back up is oil to heat the house but its just so expensive now. So I have a minimum oil for back up, but its wood that is going to get me through this. I am blessed that I have a great net work of neighbours, mainly a community of women that survive on their own so every body helps each other out. And also blessed that the local hardware store, which hasn't put their wood prices up since last year. So I am ok and still have a roof over my head, but still I am like you thinking all the time how to make a dollar go further. Im an artist so it comes naturally to me to think creative and outside the box in these very trying times. Love dipping into your channel now and then, it makes me feel not so alone. Thank you Preppier Princess. P.S love your furry companions. My furry mate left this world last year and I still miss him. They are such a joy!
I have a wood-burning stove in the living room. I tried using it several times but it didn't seem to warm anything up, so I just gave up on it.
We live in our oldest sons basement apartment. No stove. Fridge and sink but no stove. We bought an induction one burner cooktop. There is a learning curve but my husband loves it. It will work with solar. It is supposed to be the most efficient way to cook. Now I commend you for your goals and your willingness to share and give. You are an amazing person. Having said that I will say this. I would hope you would give a little more to you. Now here is my suggestion. For 3 months take your charity money and circulate (never say spend) on clothes for yourself. Of course they are bought at a thrift store. You commented how you were low on clothes. You are planning for retirement and that is great. You could drop dead from an aneurism tomorrow. Keep your goals and the way you do things just lighten up a little. Just sayen.
I'm on Social Security struggling to survive. I only have phone, internet and a old computer. I grow some of my food in the summer. Food is so expensive. I can't go to the store until the 18. Electric and Gas are my two bills. I have got rid of every thing I could. It's cold now and I'm miserable.
I'm sorry you are struggling. In my town, the power company has assistance for low income. Have you looked into assistance for utilities in your area? Food pantries? Any public assistance that'll help your money stretch further?
I'm living on $12,000 a year. I do somewhat ok, but the utilities are a farce. Last month (Nov) my gas bill was $50.00. This month (Dec) it is $153.00. I have only had to turn the furnace on twice when the night temps got down in the 20's. The furnace is only 2 years old, so very efficient. The gas company gives themselves huge rate hikes in the fall, electric company does the same in the spring. Something really needs to be done about all of it. I've heard from so many people that PG&E is the absolute worst. The price of food now is outrageous. My only fear is something going wrong with the house and having to come up with money to fix it. Can't win these days.
It seems like a lower ceiling would make the room warmer.
And cooler. We have high ceilings so summer time is tough when trying to cool rooms.
I think that wearing worn out shoes when you have the means to buy others is false economy. When you slip and fall and break or sprain something, your medical bills will cost far more than a pair of shoes.
Still here. I bought a small used Rv for $9,000 because my rent went up so much.
Darlin’ if you can’t retire on a million dollars, you are doing/adding/subtracting something wrong! I strongly recommend living frugally but you can retire on a million, you don’t have to starve yourself now
She could at least start her own business and trigger her money
I can live off a million dollars for life
You can make it work better if you invest it properly then live off interest.
I was flabbergasted when she said that!
My husband had an ingrown toenail - really started hurting him on the weekend. I took him to urgent care - they gave him antibiotics and said go see a podiatrist on Monday. ???? Our urgent care can’t even take care of a toenail.
Before we replaced our windows every winter we used the window seals that you seal up with a hair drier. It really helped.
One of my co-workers told me an interesting story last week: he has a family member who never wanted to get health insurance in order to save money. They postponed it each year, then they got sick, had to go to a hospital in Mass., in order to get treatment they had to sign their house over to the hospital. The bill was over $200,000. They no longer own their house. I was so stunned, I didn't even ask for details and we had to get back to work.
That is so sad. I live in Germany. As in many European countries (if not all) nobody is even ALLOWED to NOT have a health insurance, it's mandatory! And if you can't afford one, the state will pay for it. All included, all operations, all emergencies, all doctor's appointments, all medical treatment, everything. Don't understand America in that respect to be honest.
Crazy not having insurance in this country or any country!
If you don’t have health insurance In Massachusetts you are fined each year when you do your taxes, so it probably wasn’t much if a savings.
@@JamesRWhite-wb6iq we’re having a problem financing Healthcare. What they did was they interrupted perfectly normal people who had insurance and interfered with normal insurance costs by penalizing insurance companies with mandates. They interrupted the free market which was working pretty well. It’s gotten corrupt and we will get to the bottom of it. Maybe you have some suggestions of what’s going on in your country but I don’t want somebody’s free healthcare because it usually means it’s crap. Obama wanted to destroy the whole system and that’s exactly what he did. He’s a communist and there’s no coming back from the destruction of his so-called free crappy healthcare. I know my premiums went up so much I went without it and that’s disgustingly sad for being in my late 50’s but I dealt with it. Obama is a psycho and he does everything wrong because he’s uneducated in business and it’s all he could care about is penalizing the free market system. I wish Obama could go back in time and live in the Bolshevik
Revolution post war famine in Russia before he opens mouth one more time. Obamacare destroyed the American healthcare system. Communists always destroy everything with their big mouths spewing nonsense and propaganda.
@@bridge7528 Oh wow!
The water heater takes up a lot of electricity. The way we are saving money is to turn that off and only boil water for shower. We use a 5 gallon bucket and fill it 85% with cold water. Then boil two pots of hot water and mix that in. And then we use a water scooper to pick up the water and shower it onto the body after we soap it. It takes LESS water and you only use hot water when you need a shower or wash your hair. That can save a lot too! For people in extreme times, this is another way to save money. And we shower only couple of times a week; not every day. We are all office workers so we don't get dirty or sweaty.
Oh my gosh! We did that last year when our water heater went out and had to wait to fix it. I am still doing my dishes that way. It really is pretty easy to do.
Your house looks great but it breaks my heart that you want to remove the pillars. They are such a great architectural detail.
I’ve found that wearing a knit hat (indoors) keeps me warmer.
Yes, or wearing it to bed!
Same!
Extreme tips especially if you have children:
Charity shops for DVDs. Everyone is throwing them away. Build your library.
Wash on cold.
Dry clothes on line only, buy inside 'clothes horses' (drying racks)
Cloth sanitary pads. (One set has lasted me 20 years so far)
Hand soap, spray cleaners, dish detergents, water down 50/50, and use same amount.
Jelly, toffees, popcorn and 'honey crackles' (look up australian recipe), are your best friends for kids snacks and things to take to a party.
Board games for recreation. Often available at charity shops. Children will love the time spent with you.
Bread maker from a charity shop. Mine was $10. Kids love it on a weekend. The smell of bread baking is comfort.
Weekend activity for kids: learning to cook.
Dollar Stretcher is a website with info about everything and gave me peace of mind when I found myself to be a single parent. My adult kids still talk about the birthday parties they had on a shoestring budget.
Did all of these with my now adult kids..who have told me they had a great childhood 😊
Dang, you got this covered!
I recently purchased a beautiful tall chest of drawers at a second hand store, when I got it home discovered 2 pairs of pjs and 1 nightgown in my size in one of the drawers 😳and they looked like new, so I washed them and wear them all the time 😊
Bonus!
Your cold you dont eat enough for your body to heat Calorie restriction can lead to lower core body temperature.
My Ariel Rider Grizzly E bike has been a total game changer. I bought it used, paid half retail, with almost 400 miles on it. After 2 month of riding it everywhere, it has 1200 miles. I manage a small fleet of delivery vehicles. When they need to be dropped off for service, I load the e bike & ride it from the shop back to work -much easier than depending on other people & fun too. My weekends are filled with bike trips - love the the e bike!
I sure like your video's.I think what I like most about them is how you always encourage us to step up and take personal responsibility, and ditch any temptation to see ourselves as victims. This is SO empowering, and I thank you for it.
Just discovered your channel. I'm 75 and have been doing a lot of the same things you do most of my life. In my day it was craft shows for the independent types. I did post a video 16 plus years ago, who knew you could make money by posting videos. I really don't need to save any longer but old habits are hard to die. Like you I pretty much do what I want to do, not everything has a $ price.
I think this is the best video you have made. It is so honest and raw. Even though we might have rental income, we are squeezed. I feel it. In the last year my available income has shrunk and I am being so much more frugal out of necessity.
I just don't know how some survive. I have a friend at work, she is married and her husband also works. They make a good income, but she's always telling me how they have no money. But, she spends $100 on her hair every 6 weeks, $100 every 2 weeks for cigarettes, they both smoke. Meanwhile, I'm a single mom making $16 per hour I was able to buy a house of my own 2 years ago because I stretch every penny until it squeaks. My house needs work, my vehicle needs work, but I'm doing what I can and doing my best with what I have!
Nobody is guaranteed tomorrow so dont forget to enjoy life during your journey. If you use every minute of life trying to cut costs and make money you miss the living part. That being said, having something solid in place for the next step in life really helps with the enjoyment part so learning to be frugal and responsible is something to take seriously.
Do you ever think being poor is a state of mind. I would always tell myself i need to be careful with my spending. Never thought of myself as poor
Exactly! I have been broke, but I have never been poor. That is a state of mind.
Wow what an insightful video! I question if your relationship with money is starting to affect your mental health. Money can take over your mind , be very careful you don't let it rob you of happiness and peace. I see you more stressed than ever and you are richer than most. It looks like a slippery mental slope from where I am sitting. Just conveying what I'm observing through this video.....take care!
Yes, I agree and that’s just sad.
I can relate I'm disabled and never made 6 figures even before that . I totally relate and I just turned 50.. And I absolutely get this! Just want to reassure that many of us from 40 to 60 do
And your one of the few ppl our age and still trying to make it under the poverty level that we can relate too.. Please don't give up..we learn a lot from you . And no one really seems to understand.. but many of us do.
They lowered the ceiling to keep the room warmer - if you raise it up it will be even harder to get the room warm
Exactly.
@annetedder8202 She said it's bowing. That could be a big problem later on.
I love your videos, and I make notes and see what is available here in the UK.
I am saving for the solar kit and stripping my outgoings, and I was sickened by what I paid for the privilege cost just to have gas and electricity connected to my home.
It's gone so crazy that I can't afford the basics to live feed and clothe myself.
I have downsized so much and am as careful as I can with everything, and like you said, it's just crazy.
On the plus side, I am acquiring some amazing new skills and refinding old skills. 😊
I found my shopping basket and jazzed her up to walk to a local market and only get what I need to save money. My family laughs when I say I'm out shopping with bernadette, 😅
One of the things that worried me about your generosity and wording was the backlash, and it was lovely to hear you being careful.
Hope you stay safe and well.
Yes, thank you, Jesus, for all your blessings. Hope is important.
And yes I stayed till the end 😅xx
Take care from Leicester England xx
When you are ready for paint, consider checking your hardware store for " mis-tints". People return paint that isn't quite what they wanted, or doesn't match, and the hardware stores sell them about half- price. I have found colors VERY close to a perfect color and have been delighted when it is on the wall.
I use those and mix paint when I can.
I live on $1214/month, and I make below poverty level. The emergency fund grew, but housing is still a mess where I am. People are lucky to find any apartment for about $700 a month but most have increased their rents to $900 and above. If not for having to fix up our roof, we would have our expenses down to less than you. One meal a day isn't the best for health, but then again, I can understand how obesity is an issue. I have diabetes type 2 and the diet alone is not helpful. I have 8 windows on my home and replaced all but 3 so that we could pay off Lowes card. Now it's all paid, and 3 windows is way cheaper than 5 to get and then we will have energy efficient windows, using less electricity. We are going to do those next before winter. Then we will attack the broken central heat and air outside. We will be removing the insulation from the ceiling up in the attic area (it was blown in but its rotted). The electric bill is down to $108 for warmer months, but in winter, its 3X that, so looking at solar like you have. Low supply equals higher prices. I am trying to cut some of the other stuff back such as storage unit we have. My business shop is mandatory however, and costs $125/month. Family does NOT make it easy for me to do all these things without having to give something up. My brother and sister are chronically homeless ALL the time, and never happy with where they live. I am not coming to their rescue anymore though. They are on their own. We used to have tons of debt, but now, we have less than $15K left to pay off. Grocery bill is cut down to $80/month for family of 4. That is equal to 3 meals a day and have to make snacks instead of buy them, and its water or they pay for their own drinks. I am NOT buying soda, and we don't smoke, drink alcohol, or do drugs of any type (unless we are sick of course). I make a LOT of my own foods though, so really, it's helpful. I cook on Saturday for the entire week of food we need. Its portioned. So we use the microwave mostly. The stove gets used when baking breads, snacks, and desserts but we cut it back to one day use a week. It saves on electric bills during winter. I raise my own chickens and make their food instead of buying layer pellets. I think they get better omega 3's this way, which is healthier for myself. I barter for meats and foods from others as well when chicken eggs are needed for their business. It's not like I am cheating them. I get a ribeye steak 16 oz for 3 doz eggs. Not a bad way to get meat. Bacon is 2 lbs for 3 doz eggs, etc. I chop the steak to make stir fries, and bacon with eggs for breakfast to cut down prices on groceries. Not many people will barter anymore though, seems like a lost art to me.
Shoot, where's your youtube channel. Sounds like you have ALOT to share with the rest of us trying to make ends meet and still improve our homes, our health and our lives.
That’s really a great job! I try to barter too but like you, not many people accept barter anymore.
@@susanvangassen8041 I am not computer literate, and stupid enough to not know how to make a channel. Still working on this though.
Cuddle Duds..are a game changer for winter months. Soft long underwear that are thin but a heck of a lot of warmth. My pair has lasted for the last 10 years!❤
I’m so glad I’m in my 70s! It would be so difficult to navigate this mess we are in if I was in my 40s. But stay debt free. That is the key.
I was encouraged by you to call AAA and I definitely did lower my car insurance. I changed around and omitted some things that I had NO CLUE … such as $15 k mileage…. Down to 4.5k . I am a senior and had no clue. I trusted the BROKER. My car is worth $2,000 and I was paying $121.00 per month. (My driving record is PERFECT) in fact I did the 3 month driving app~ which gave me $20 discount per month (whatever).
The only part of my coverage I will not give up is Roadside Assistance. $13 per month.
So,people learn your car coverage and do not always count on your Broker.
Thank you for your content. It really helped me!
AAA doesn’t operate in my state. But, I am satisfied with the bundle (after removing many of the suggested lines).
The last part is what people need to understand… if you have money and you just keep spending it then eventually you will NOT have money.
I am old now, so can’t do most of the things you do, but I have to admire your spirit and resoursefullness
Since you have solar, buy a star energy portable heater!!! Take it to your room and close the doors. At least you can be warm, even if it’s only in one room.
Sounds like a road trip and get away kinda day for ya! Enjoy life, its so short! And yes you are way blessed then most so relax, You're doing fine! I'm 52, newly divorced after 28 years and basically starting over after being a stay at home mom for 20 years. I could have worked but being home with my kids was the best thing I ever did!
I'm able to be me now. I don't have much but I don't stress over it. Not worth it! I'll be fine when the time comes to retire. I may be a bit poor, but I'll take that over a sad/lonely marriage any time! You are very motivational and encouraging so do more of those videos please! Thank you so much!
I am semi-retired at 59. I work three days a week and make full-time pay with benefits.
My husband and I have downsized tremendously and can't move to a 800 ft² home. We are planning to work until 70.
We may work beyond that as well, depending on how we feel. We grew up in the '70s with the energy crisis and so know how to cut corners and still live well.
Our forefathers lived with much less than we do now. If we put away consumerism and concentrate on being stable, we will do well.
So true!
Those windows are worth a FORTUNE. Don't replace them, get storm windows instead and have screens as part of that. You get the double paned window effect without messing up your windows. I have oak windows and they are a great asset, so I know what you're talking about. Also, you might want to do some clear caulk around them. It's a big help.
Most are original but there’s a couple aluminum ones that must have been replaced at some point. I’ll likely replace those at some point
PP, you are attempting to live on less today than you did over 5 years ago. $1k is worth less today due to inflation. You are a rock star in streatching your money. Stay strong. You may need to find an additional source income to alleviate your feelings of dread. Hang in there. You are a true inspiration. See you down the road, on CZcams that is. Joi
You have an old old video that I wish I could find again where you talk about all the things you do each week like washing/cleaning your car etc and basically taking care of what you have to stay grateful. I love your videos and I think you are very inspirational. Cali is just expensive! My cousin just moved back to the Midwest last year for that rewarding.
czcams.com/video/Y3rHe1oq7MQ/video.html
You are a true inspiration to all of us ❤️ thank you!
Prepper princess, I LOVE your videos, you are my absolute Hero! You taught me so much worth like no one else in the internet! You're a real life saver! ❤️ Love you❤️
If you had children, this would be a totally different channel. People with families or a spouse cannot expect to live this way. Kudos to you for being able to live on this budget.
People with a spouse have another person to add income. I don’t have that luxury so please do not try to downplay my accomplishments
My car, health and life insurance is $1500 alone.
@@PrepperPrincessnot true, i have never worked, have only ever lived on one income household, i am 32 and we have 5 kids that are homeschooled so we are home all day everyday. Somehow we afford to clothe and feed ourselves well. We also rarely eat out. And of course vacations never happen mostly because we almost always have a little baby. Sure you have accomplished much but shouldn’t others be saying that about you? You sound childish trying to prop yourself up. I do see that a lot with the childless women. They are very self centered. I i i i i me me me me me lol
@@heyikindalikeyou Confused by your statement "You sound childish trying to prop yourself up". What did PP say that gave you that impression (please give timestamp)? Maybe you are a recent viewer and don't know her background? PP took care of her mother when she had cancer. She visited her elderly family member in nursing home (PP made interview video awhile back; so precious). She donates to animal shelter. She opens her life/finances to viewers how to cut expenses (some viewers are hypercritical). So where is PP self-centered?
@@heyikindalikeyou
Are you okay? Try a Snickers bar. Helps with the grumpiness.
I have watched you for years. Your my support system and my mentor. I thank you for your thoughts. I feel that food and gas is causing the most problems. I have stopped my trash pick up if you can believe that! I recycle and then burn my paper in the fire pit I have. I use a solar generator around that house even to do my laundry.I hang out my clothes. I make my own clothes soap, cleaning supplies, mouth wash and toothpaste. I use rags not paper towels. It is still hard to get by. The struggle is real.
Wish I could stop my trash and recycling pick up. But it is tied to the property title recorded with the tax assessor's office and billed automatically to the property owner, and the charges can't be cancelled, even if you never use it.
When I was your age we lived in California. We could dry laundry outside nearly every day of the year. We used to go out and collect wood in the desert for our log burner. We didn’t pay for heating at all. We had single pane windows too
I would love a fireplace and wouldn’t need a heater either if I had one.
Replace gas stove with cast iron wood stove. Wood heat is comfortable. I use wood fuel blocks made of hardwood sawdust...low smoke and ash. I keep my hvac on 50-60 degrees. Typically, use 3 small bricks around 7 pm...this will burn, turn into hot coal and throw off heat and keep the fan going till morning. Occasionally I had to keep it going during extended zero degree days like last year...still spent maybe $300 for the whole season.
@@ang9968 Thats interesting. I've cooked on the coals with a cast iron pan when the power was out but it was only in there twenty minutes or so. I guess you put the angle iron in before you build the fire. Do they cool off pretty much when the coals die or a few hours later?
I really enjoy this podcast style format that you use occasionally. i like the more edited videos as well, but this is an excellent way to communicate and remain current. Plus, you always have enough to say to take up the time.
Podcast style?
@@mariaa.5829 more like just free flowing versus scripted or edited or a live Q&A. She could eliminate the video portion and take the audio and make a podcast. That is what I mean. Kind of like when Joe Rogan films himself making his podcast.
@@JennRazo I actually connected my airpods to my phone, turned the screen off, and listened to this "video" as I did chores around the house!
I'm 57. I own my home. My outgoings, (food, energy, internet) comes to £258 a month. My income is £220 a month. I have no insurance, no car, no pension, nothing. ... I'd feel like id won the lottery if I had £1000 a month.
Medical insurance, home insurance, car insurance, property taxes?
UK is very different than USA. They can be ruined by one medical situation unless they have/can afford great medical insurance. I am from Canada, and no way could I survive on $1000/month with our sky high cost of living.
@@debbielockhart7762 i am in USA and live on 900 a month....but I do have medicaid which takes care of all my medical stuff......I would be dead without the medicaid....I also get food stamps....but that only lasts about 2 weeks....and there are food pantries which give out unhealthy food ....if it is an emergency....I have car insurance , rent , water and electric to pay.....that comes to 900 ....so I have nothing left for GAS, Toilet paper, paper towels etc...I find stuff and sell it to make a few dollars to pay for those ....I also make things with fabric and sell on ebay...but it is very very very little $ ..just enough to get paper towels or toilet paper etc....I can't work due to disabilities including cancer...uggggg I do my best to survive in this crazy world .....wish I had a house paid off ...that would be amazing...
@@PrepperPrincess We have free healthcare in the UK as we have a national health service so very few of us have medical insurance, home insurance is necessary so I can’t comment on that, our “property taxes” is called “council tax” here I believe. Its all very different though and usually a lot cheaper than California (unless you have in London)
Thank you for your honesty and advice.
I’m glad your a millionaire, God bless you, you worked hard, gone without, and learned toINVEST.
Thanks for your input about this scary situation we’re in. I feel the same. Most of the people I know are having the same uneasiness. My 72 year old friend got her food stamp cut to $87 a month. I.told her to go and complain they raised it up to $117. People are just starting to sell their thing to keep up. Its just not the food like you said it’s everything else.
That’s sad. They need to see if food banks or senior centers can help.
What state is your friend in? Benefits can really vary greatly it seems
I love how you think! I watch ALL of your videos. You have such great frugal tips and you put your ideas into action.
My small town has this community facebook page I think most towns have this now and I’ve seen ppl post when they need something. I’m always amazed at the amount of ppl willing to help. If you need a winter coat you could probably just put it out there and ask you will probably get a pile of coats for free .
Thank you. You speak for me, and so many others. Can't afford to attend my 50th high school reunion. Lived in outdoor coat indoors (19 below zero) this winter with plastic on windows. $954 Social Security knowing that fund has been plundered for trillions. Debt paid long ago if you take out the interest. Will not pay it this month because a 50th h.s. reunion comes up once in a lifetime. Who needs good credit at 68 when you're considered too old for a loan?
I am sitting here with my evg. Cup of Decaf. And nothing is going to interrupt my time viewing this. Glad you will be addressing the matters mentioned thus far. Love your longer vids!!
hi Jan :)
One to save $ is to plant perennial vegetables such as artichokes, kale, rhubarb, collard greens, etc. Even better, plant a food forest which can be self-sustaining. I would do that before any house projects which can wait. Also, since you have an abundance of oranges - you can use the peels to make a cleaning solution with vinegar. I've done it with lemon peel and it works great.There are many uses for orange peels such as making your own vitamin C powder both oral & topical. I love to forage. I've got 4 lbs. of chestnuts sitting on my table waiting to be roasted which I found on the ground. Not to mention, apples, pears and quince.
I wish I had some frugal tips to add but I really don't. My sister and I were raised by a single mom and had very little growing up so I've never needed much or had difficulty living below my means and am really grateful for that. My biggest expense by far is my animals (lots of rescues) but I don't generally admit that because it makes me sound crazy. It's an incredibly challenging time for everyone right now. You're doing great and are an awesome example and inspiration!
Bless you!! I do lots of animal rescues too and TnR. Someone HAS to feed the abandoned cats.. Was gifted 2 vouchers for a spay and neuter and vaccinations from a foster program. So wonderful..My animals will eat before I do, but I budget my food and am eating healthy too. 😺
@@Sasa-pm7jc Bless you too!
@@witchofthewildwoods3496 ❤️
My question is ,why did you buy that house?You are so smart and have been so aware of saving in everyway.....why this house?
California at that!
Really like this long format video. It feels personal, like we're having a face to face. Appreciate all your helpful advice on navigating this period of inflation. You're a sweetheart.
Around my area we have Amish bent n dent stores groceries ,personal and household cleaning supplies. Saves a ton!
People are telling you to keep the original windows?!
I bought a 1950s house 9 years ago. It had the original windows, single pane, wood frame. Zero screens. We opened the windows at night and closed them in the morning. It was the only way to cool the house down. But even so, the inside temp was usualy within 2 degrees of outside temperatures... Or far higher. I'm in Utah.
We bought new windows. Mostly 2 pane, but a couple 3 pane for the large windows that get the most sun. Automatically 10 degrees cooler. Then we put in roof vents. It added 2 more degrees of cooling. Last thing i want to do is add 4-6 inches of insulation to every exterior wall. Then we'll almost never need to run the AC or heater!
New windows are 110% worth it!!! 12:00
I was below the poverty level most of my life. When I drove a truck over the road is the only time I was above the poverty level and I was working 80 hrs a week.
We live in a home built in 1929. Lathe and plaster walls with ZERO insulation. We put insulation in all the exterior walls and ceiling. We have saved a lot of $$$ on our heating! Our home stays cool in the summer (no A/C) and warm in the winter (with minimal gas heat). We are so much more comfortable and the insulation paid for itself in about 2-3 years.
I don’t have a winter coat either. Last year, I put on layers under my raincoat. Worked just fine. I plan to do it again this year.
Hi PP! Ok listen up. These “long ones” are fantastic- riveting. Because they’re not only informative, they’re extremely engaging because you’re sharing your thought process, and your emotions. So we end up “traveling” with you from point to point. You carry us along with you effortlessly because your humanity is so evident and warm; you’re accessible and playful and unselfconscious. There’s no posturing, no ego; you’re not performing for effect. Your directness is so refreshing. Listen: any viewers who want short & snappy videos, they’re free to just tune out or fast forward if they feel they must. But the rest of us are here for far more than “tips”- data lol. The “long” videos are landing on, and connecting with, us, in a different way than the just-information videos. They are very welcome and as you can tell from the comments, what you offer us in these longer videos is highly compelling and interesting.
Fwiw I have edited for a living off and on, and I gotta say, with your stuff, I *never* experience the restlessness I always get when a piece (of prose or video) needs cutting.
Please take this to heart even though I’m a total stranger.
Oh gosh sister, I bet I'm living on less than $7k.
Tiny 8x12' house, no generator, off grid, growing and gleaning my own food. Hauling water, boiling it for hot water. No indoor plumbing. Composing my shit. Ido use paper towels and t.p. though!😂
I eat well but not much out of season or out of my own local food shed. I'm 60, and retired for about a decade now. I do sell lavender from my farm. It's hand to mouth, challenging for certain, but i don't look at my sitch as poverty.
Honestly, people are so fking spoiled.
Your tips throw me out of my complacent routines in purchasing food, toward frugal and more thoughtful shopping. I would add that your eating choices and habits seem healthier than mine. Thanks!
Hey, thanks for the tips and reminders. Grew up in a small log cabin with a wood stove and 7 sibs. So many life lessons well learned from those days. Poverty is a valued teacher. Now (67) facing retirement considering some out-of-country options where $1500 easily covers everything. Best of luck with California living. Being resourceful is a talent.
To use the room I built in the garage in Redding, I bought a 6000 btu Panasonic mini-split online for about $800. I then bought a GroWatt 24V inverter and a 24V battery and connected 3 350W solar panels to it. Heat and air conditioning draw is between 600W -1 kWh. ROI is about 5 years, and earlier if I use the room the way I want. So much more efficient than spot heaters.
We had to save up for every door in our house... our kitchen cabinets were heavy cardboard boxes.. .. BUT whenever we finally did complete a task it felt SO Great. Having patients is such a Gift.. we never take anything for granted. A gallon of paint becomes a big deal.. and I think that's a good thing. ❤
Ps...Nope, video not too long.. you're cheaper than Buspar. 😊
Yes and those in different situations continue to blame and shame us that we did not plan better. Who could have planned for the price of housing and inflation.