From Postconsumer Lori H:

I was delighted to stumble upon your website. I am a single mom of a nine year old son, making less than $25,000/year. I would like to share with you some of my strategies and lifestyle tips.

    • I have access to the internet at my place of employment but not in my home. We have a computer that was given to us, all our games were purchased either at garage sales or flea markets.
    • My son has PlayStation 1 which was given to us, along with games.
    • We do not have cable access, we rent free movies from our local library and watch public television.
    • I drive a 2004 Dodge Neon, which has over 107,000 miles on it. It is paid in full.
    • I obtained my single ranch home at auction and put down 20% upon purchase. My father and I renovated it in seven weeks, the monthly mortgage payment is less than $800/month.

  • My son has received nearly all his clothing as “hand-me-downs” from friends. I purchase all my clothing either from thrift stores, garage sales, or re-sale shops.
  • We own a wonderful sheltie-mix dog, she was “free to a good home”. We found her on Craig’s List, and I got her vaccinations at a low-cost clinic at a local pet store.
  • All my grocery shopping is done either at a warehouse market or a food outlet. I also receive food from our church’s food bank on a monthly basis.
  • My son loves to participate in all kinds of sports. All his equipment was purchased either at garage sales or a used sporting goods store. I purchased a “like-new” Columbia brand mountain bike for my son’s birthday at a garage sale for $15.00.
  • He has attended camps each summer with the help of available scholarships.
  • I contribute the maximum amount that my company will match into my 401K.
  • I contribute $100/month into my son’s 529 college fund.
  • I contribute and volunteer at my church.
  • I have zero credit card debt and an excellent credit score.
  • I check the local newspaper on a weekly basis for free activities, concerts, sporting events, etc.
  • I am an avid coupon clipper and user.
  • My house is totally furnished and decorated with items found at garage sales, flea markets, or stuff that was free. My friends have told me it could be featured in a magazine.
  • My #1 priority is to be available as much as possible for my son. I work (32) hours per week, which is the minimum amount required to receive full health benefits.
  • One of my lifetime mottos is, “If it’s free, it’s for me!”.
  • I don’t pay for garbage service, I take it to my parents’ house for pick up (which consists of about 2 bags/per week)!
  • Thank you for taking the time to read my list. I LOVE MY LIFE and am TOTALLY CONTENT with LIVING SIMPLY!!!