25 Ways We Save Money

Recently, I've spent some time reading different articles and web sites about saving money, and financial goals for 2008. It's been very interesting and informative, so I thought I'd share some of those links with you, along with our 25 ways we save money. More and more, I'm surprised at how many people are in debt or married couples that are totally independent of each other financially. But, I also am realizing that there are many, many ways to handle finances, and it all depends on the family and what works for them. I do believe, no matter who we are, we should do our best to handle the finances God has given us in a responsible way....something I am still learning to do. :)

So, to start off, here are 25 ways we try and save money:

1. Take leftovers for lunch at work
2. Use one vehicle, I walk to work
3. This summer, try to bike to work at least 3 times a week
4. Wash our own car
5. Buy certain foods in bulk at the local co-op store
6. Use the library....for books and videos
7. Watch the grochery ads for good sales
8. Only buy what we need...either that week, or things we use alot, like juice
9. Use coupons
10. Use the internet
11. Re-use paper (that has been printed on one side)
12. Make our own birthday and get well cards
13. Polish our shoes
14. Turn off the lights when not in the room
15. Unplug appliances that aren't in use
16. Keep a budget (a record of reciepts on an excell spreadsheet)
17. Pay local bills by dropping them off, not mailing
18. Check thrift stores and garage sales
19. Save money for emergencies in a fund
20. Plan ahead for trips as much as possible
21. Use CFL lightbulbs
22. Wash clothes in cold water
23. Save extra change
24. Hang laundry out on the line to dry
25. Learn to mend

Here is the link of other people's "25 List"
25 Ways to Save Money

Here is a list of books to possibly read:
Financial Books to Read

Christian authored financial books:
Christian Ministry Book Resources

Simple Homemade Bread: (I personally haven't decided if this really is a money saver, or just yummy!)
Bread Baking

Interesting list of free software:
Online Resources

Insulating your home ideas:
Detecting Air Leaks

This link has alot of great articles and resources:
Money Matters