09
Feb
Waste not, want not…
As I reflect on the state of our economy, I can’t help but feel convicted in the way I use the provisions God has given us. Seems like everyday we hear about another big company closing down, or laying workers off to make budget cuts. So while I have no way of knowing what the future holds for this country as a whole or for my own family personally, I can either choose to worry about it (trusting in myself) or allow God to show me His faithfulness once again (trusting in Him). Daily I choose the latter.
In this mindset, I am working on being a good steward of the things God has blessed me with. I have to confess… I am kind of lazy waster in the little things. Here’s where I am trying to do better:
Clipping coupons
Shopping sales
Buying generics (where quality is equal to name brand)
Using the food I have in the pantry before buying more
Eating leftovers
Wearing the clothes I have in my closet, instead of buying more (and more, and more)
Cutting the boy’s hair (don’t tell me if they look goofy!)
Turning off lights
Eating out for a treat, instead of for lack of preparation
Potty training Noah (down to one kiddo in diapers!)
So I’m not reusing tin foil yet, but I am in progress. Any other “waste not, want not” tips out there? Do share!
I make my own house hold cleaners….so 1950′s tree hugger I know but it is so much cheaper! I also don’t use and paper napkins or paper towels, I bought a bunch of small white towels that we use for everything….I have a clean basket and a dirty, and I just bleach them once a week. Its an adjustment at first but now its so nice not having to buy all that stuff! Let me know if you want cleaning product recipes.
——————————————————
Amber,
That is so great! We use way to many paper towels. Please do send the cleaning product recipes, or post them on your blog. I’m sure a lot of people would be interested too.
Julie
I have been cooking lunch at church instead of going out – see my blog.
——————————
Now that’s a good Mama! So much cheaper to make your own lunch (just takes a little thinking ahead), and I’d take a Trudy Maples meal over fast food any day!!!
Julie,
Do you and your friends use moneysavingmom.com anc couponmom.com? At the first site they walk you through saving big at CVS and Walgreens. It is so much fun and I always have plenty of extra toothpaste, deoderant, razors, etc; to share with anyone who needs them. I just keep a box for giveaway. It is fun to be a blessing for free!
Aww, thanks friend!! I love Amber’s idea too. I will keep checking back to see more ideas. Love you, the boys are precious!!
Cloth diapers, anyone?
I know it’s a BIG change, but well worth it in my opinion. Also, we use those reusable shopping bags (or go without a bag if I’m only getting one or 2 things) when grocery shopping so we don’t use so many plastic bags. I LOVE the no paper towels and napkins, idea from Amber–what kind of towels did you get??