Saving Money On The Home Front

I am so excited to be part of the month long challenge to become more self-sufficient. My husband and I have been living a self-sufficient life style for many years. We raise our own food and preserve most of what we grow. We have also raised our own meat chickens and have had chickens for years. Chickens not only provide entertainment but you can’t beat the taste of fresh eggs. We have taken many steps to save money.

 

There are numerous ways to save money on the home front.

 

One of the easiest ways to save money is to make your own rather than buying store bought food. Some of the items I make all the time are granola, bread, yogurt and chicken broth. If you have not tried making your own bread give it a try. I make three loaves at a time, one loaf to enjoy and two for the freezer.

 

Groceries

 

Another way to save money is on groceries. One of the best hints I was ever given to save money on groceries is to pay cash! Determine what your budget is and take only that amount of cash to the store. Yes you will have to keep track as you shop but you will have such a feeling of accomplishment when you get to the check out and stick to your budget!

 

Plan ahead.

 

By planning what meals you will be cooking for the week you can shop for only the items you need. You can also plan meals around items you already have in your cupboards and freezer.

 

Buy in bulk. Even though our household is only my husband and I there are still certain items I purchase in bulk. I am part of a local food co-op and an order is placed once a month. By knowing my prices and I can determine what items are a good deal and what items I can get cheaper elsewhere. I purchase items like bulk oatmeal and wheat berries.

 

Have a garden!

 

I wrote a post last week on Why Garden? By growing your own fruits and vegetables you can save a lot of money and enjoy fresh tasty good that you’ve grown yourself.

 

Make your own cleaners and laundry detergent.

 

Homemade cleaners are easy to make and so much healthier than many store bought items. You will be amazed at the money you will save. Check out my blogs about making household cleaners and laundry soap.

 

Being self-sufficient has many aspects and saving money is one of the components. If you have no debt and your expenses are low you can save money and be prepared for the future.

 

If you’d like more information on being self-sufficient check out these wonderful bloggers. We are all taking part on the May 2018 Self Reliance Challenge.

AnnMarie – 15 Acre Homestead

Nancy – Nancy On The Homefront

Kathi – Oak Hill Homestead

Robin – A Life in the Wild

Candy – Candy’s Farm House Pantry

Farmgal – Just another Day on the Farm

Ashley – Practical Self Reliance

ShawnaLee – Homegrown Self Reliance

Frank – My Green Terra

Maria – Maria Zannini

Lisa Lynn – The Self Sufficient HomeAcre