Browsing category: Sensible Frugality

How Much Does It Cost to Feed YOUR Family? (Updated for February 2023)

How much does it cost to feed YOUR family compared to these government guidelines? The guidelines are given for four levels of spending… thrifty, low-cost, moderate, and liberal.


The Dirty Dozen and the Clean 15 — Fruits, Vegetables and Pesticide Residue (Updated for 2023)

Is it worth the extra cost to buy organic produce? According to the Environmental Working Group, if you buy organic for the twelve fruits and vegetables on its 2023 Dirty Dozen list, you can greatly reduce your pesticide exposure.


Does Frugality Mean You Shouldn’t Have Nice Things?

It’s important to save for retirement. It’s sensible to have an emergency fund. It’s essential to live within your income and not go into debt. But where did the idea come from that people who are frugal and live simply… can’t… or shouldn’t…


What True Frugality Is… and What It Is Not

Have you ever noticed how many of the same people who are trying to promote a simple lifestyle make frugality into a negative concept…


Can Credit Cards Be Used Responsibly?

Reader question… “Would you share your thoughts about the cash envelope system versus the use of credit cards? I read today that any use of a credit card is irresponsible and that anyone using a credit card will end up spending more money than if they used only cash.”