Not Just Another Cookbook

For many people, making the decision to switch from two incomes to one can be a scary experience. They know they're spending too much, but don't know where to begin to cut back.

Most people don't think they can live the frugal life and still be comfortable. I feed my family of 5 on $250 a month. Over five years my husband earned an average of $22,000 per year. In those 5 years we paid off $20,000 debt. There are countless ways you can cut, but if you are a frugal beginner, try these simple suggestions from my cookbook, Dining On A Dime, for saving on your food bill first.

Before you shop, take a tour through your pantry and your refrigerator. Be organized! Don't buy what's already hiding in your kitchen.

If you're a fan of coupons, remember this: It's not what you save, it's what you spend. If you save 30 cents on something you wouldn't ordinarily buy anyway, you haven't really saved anything.

A typical fruit item is significantly larger than one serving. Most people would be just as happy eating a small apple as eating a large one -- so buy smaller fruits!

This month, try two meatless meals a week (or one, if you're a diehard meat fan), and cut back on the juice and milk. Use the money you've saved from these two tips and buy something that's on sale. Those sale items will help you cut back even further next month.

In staying at home, it's the little things that add up. If you would like more tips and recipes or to order by credit card please visit our website at www.livingonadime.com.

To order Dining On A Dime please send check or money order for $19.95 plus $3.50 to: Living On A Dime, P.O. Box 844, Andover, KS 67002.

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