Here's my best tip: Don't spend money! Sounds simple, right? Well, there is this little phrase called "I WANT THAT." I always ask myself, do I really need that? It's hard, but I survive! 

Make a list when you go to a store and stick to that list!  Don't impulse buy.  If you see something you want, don't buy it right away.  Write down the price and work it into your budget for your next trip to that store.  Next time you're there, look at it again and decide is it something you really need to have?

I also have set a limit for myself for impulse buying, working it into my budget for my trip to the store (whatever store it is).  Sure, I'm going there for specific things on my list but I may budget in an extra $2 or $3 for that trip to buy myself something I like.  I do that once a month or so because we all need a treat now and again.  Sometimes I don't even find anything I want that trip so I end up saving that money too.

The trick is to find the method that works for you and stick to it.

Ask yourself 3 times is this a need or a want.  If after 3 times buy, on sale if possible or from a thrift store.  3 usually gives me time to say no if it is a want.

"The best way to double your money it to fold it over and place it in your pocket."  My sister said Ben Franklin said this.  I don't know who really did, but it is good advice!

Don't eat out. We stopped eating out at restaurants most of the time.

We got sick of the food and started searching the net for good recipes. Now it's fun

to cook from scratch and try new things. I can't wait to garden this year so we can

save more money.  My teenage daughter actually patted my shoulder and said

good job finding new recipes  mom. That's the best praise I could ever get.

It's healthy food, and tastes great. I shop at the store 1 time a week, I make a plan and

stick to it. Everyone is asked what item they want to eat this week. Then I find

the best bargain. They feel like they are getting a treat, i save money and we are all happy.

Guess what my kids wanted this week  - apples, and almonds.

It takes the teens a little getting used to but now they prefer to eat at home.

My goal for this year- If we have left overs-take it to work for lunch. I'll save more money.

What I need help with weaning myself away from diet pepsi. I like it and can't seem to

find an alternative I like.