Johanus on June 24th, 2009

Some “budget tips” are such that they may not really save money.
Saving money is more than just buying the item that has a lower sticker price. There are other costs involved that people don’t always examine.  How much does it cost to go to a certain store, versus going to the one closer? What about [...]

Continue reading about Controversial Budget Tips

Johanus on May 29th, 2009

Whenever we look at our budgets and ways to cut back, we try to think of what the most flexible part is. Most people think this is the entertainment budget. And sometimes they are right. Others might think that the most flexible budget category is groceries… food!
So how much should we realistically be spending on [...]

Continue reading about Flexing Down on the Food Budget

Johanus on March 23rd, 2009

I’m always looking for new ideas on better budgeting and saving money, and when people send me these, I’m certain to use them (or at least comment about them).
Here’s a nifty little idea that a friend e-mailed me (thanks, Helen her blog is DeeplyFelt). She says that buying prepaid grocery cards really helps with her [...]

Continue reading about Prepaid Grocery Cards

Johanus on December 1st, 2008

I’m always watching how much I spend on groceries, as this is the one area of my budget that I have the most control over. When I was making good money my estranged wife wanted $500 every two weeks for groceries and cleaning supplies and clothing. I thought it was way too much, but for [...]

Continue reading about Watching the Groceries