Don't let anything make you feel defeated, you are just starting out and have already made some good choices to help yourself and your family. Every little you save is an accomplishment, it is amazing how much all these little bits add up so don't forget to celebrate even the smallest things - some people keep a record of achievements - finding a great book they wanted for a dollar instead purchasing at full price, getting a 2 for 1 bargain on dishsoap, every savings is a victory. Think outside the box - gee, that's nice sheet but I don't need sheets, but I do need a new cover for the ironing board - use the sheet and make a cover - look at what you might be able to do with "whatever" is what I am trying to say, it's an even greater victory if you use an old sheet you already have. Christmas is coming - gosh I've got gifts to buy - so go small, make some jams, knit some scarves, bake a batch of cookies - remember it isn't the cost, it's the thought. I think loads of people will be rethinking gifts this Christmas. Do celebrate the small stuff and give yourself a pat on the back - you've made the first steps and some people won't even go that far! Budster

Something boyfriend and I have recently started doing, is splitting up some groceries. We are both one person households and found we often don't get some things used up before they go bad. We recently split a bag of potatoes, knowing that both of us often have waste b4 they are used up. Yesterday we split a head of lettuce. We can also split 'family packs' of meat that is often cheaper on the pound. A 3 lb bag of onions...the same thing.
Every little bit helps.

Sue...who now has 1/2 head of 'fresh' lettuce.