Tightwaddery

I'm able to help people because I've made all of the mistakes, short of bankruptcy! I've been there and done that.... and learned a better way.

My slogan: Tightwaddery equals freedom and freedom equals joy!

Just imagine what freedom from debt, paying yourself first, and living simply can do for you. Keep more of what you make and experience the joy of true freedom!

Reader Feedback:

My husband and I sold our (high stress) business three years ago and are now semi-retired. Also three years ago, our then-10-year-old grandson came to live with us.

I feed us extremely well on $50-$60 per month, per person. Actually, I could probably do a lot better, but our grandson has LOTS of friends who like to eat LOTS (what 13 year old boy doesn't?) and our four-year-old grandson also visits us often. So I'm frequently feeding 4-5 people on that expenditure.

We retired on purpose (our CHOICE). We accepted that our income would be cut in half, and that from then on, thrift would be a way of life. We not only took that challenge, but have been wonderfully successful in meeting it and far healthier and happier out of the rat race.

Despite our frugal circumstances, we're still able to save and donate monthly to charity

I think most financial difficulties are created not so much by true lack, but by ignorance. How can those in reduced circumstances be taught to live better with less? It can be done. Yes, it takes time, but how many hours would one work to earn what one can save with the same investment of time?

My food budget doesn't include colas, chips, candies, cookies, ice cream, steaks, prime rib, convenience or fast foods any more than our clothing budget includes Tommy Hilfigers (unless we can find them used, at the thrift shop) or $200 Nikes.

Yes, I cook from scratch, and yes, we ride our bikes or walk on many of our errands. We're healthier and wealthier for doing so. We wear our second-hand clothes with great elan, don't watch TV, turn off the light when we leave a room, and manage most days without the A/C, even here in South Central Texas. We grow a small garden, read a lot of good books, (gasp!) TALK to each other, and hang our wash to dry.

I guess my greatest wish is that we can find a way to teach others that one can choose deprivation in the midst of plenty, or abundance on even a small income. It's a matter of spirit, and in our cossetted, materialistic society, the spirited realize that simplicity is the last great adventure.

Thanks for your article.

Sally Rogers