With inflation rising and salaries staying the same, our ability to make ends meet is becoming increasingly difficult. Therefore, we must be more careful with our money. The Frugal Five is a series that celebrates the daily or weekly activities that help us live a frugal life. This year, my focus is on Simple Abundance , so finding ways to live well while staying on budget will be challenging. Come along and enjoy my journey of elevating joy, enjoying what you have, and finding luxury in my local area. 1- Giving Back to the Community Supporting your community can take countless shapes. Some people choose to write a check, and that generosity absolutely matters. But many outreach efforts require more than funding—they need time, hands, and hearts willing to show up. I’m grateful that I’m able to participate in several programs that make a real difference for the people around me. One of the most meaningful ways I give b...
Menu Plan #334 NOTE- 1- Click on the picture and get a link to a post sharing the recipe. 2- Although all prices were correct at the time of the blog postings, the current cost of these dishes may be higher due to inflation and/or location. Published January 2026: USDA Thrifty Food Plan According to this plan, our family’s weekly budget is $198.80. Since March has 5 Sundays, our monthly budget is $994.00. However, we have specific dietary needs, so I have increased our budget to $200.00 per week or $1,000.00 this month. We elevate our dining experiences by including fresh fruits, vegetables, and higher-quality meats. Since our family has specific dietary needs, we limit our consumption of highly processed food. Grocery Shopping Tip: Take Advantage of Holiday Sales: This week the grocery sales are centered around the upcoming Easter holiday. This means ...