Surviving a Tough Enconomy
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Host a movie night. Instead of going out, encourage your friends, and even your kids to join in watching a movie at home. For the price of two movie tickets and snacks at a theatre, you could host a whole party. Rent a new release and ask participants to bring their favorite beverage or snack to share.
Drink at home. Whether your drink of choice is soda, sweet tea, cappuccino or beer prepare to have your drink at home rather than going out. Luxury lattes can add up to a significant amount in your monthly budget. Make coffee at home and add a flavored creamer for a tasty treat or make iced coffee at home, using the same combination. Beverages purchased in quantity are cheaper than picking up a drink at the drive thru. If you spend time on the road, pack a cooler with your favorite beverages and snacks.
Brush up on your cooking skills and buy local produce. Eating at home is far cheaper than eating out, with the great weather we have had so far, local farm markets are well stocked. Preparing fresh meals from local fruits and vegetables will help your budget and your waistline. Pack your lunch. At work, consider a carry in meal rather than going out for lunch with colleagues, then share recipes.
Dress lighter in the summer and layer in the winter. Adjust your thermostat by just two degrees and you can save on your utility bill. An adjustment may mean peeling off a layer of clothing in the summer or wearing a sweatshirt in the winter, but it would be well worth it in the long run.
Work together to save money. Sit down with your family or housemates and determine how much money you spend on a monthly basis, and then see if you make enough to cover those expenditures. It is time to make a budget, regardless how well you might be doing.
For more information, contact Jayne Cubilla, Extension Agent, Family and Consumer Sciences at the Extension office 989-5380 or jayne_cubilla@ncsu.edu.