Longtime lurker and finally decided to make an account. I wanted to take some time to share all of the recent improvements Mrs. Meikenstache and I have implemented over the past few months. We thought we were frugal and doing a good job but it goes to show how an honest assessment of your habits can prove to be very lucrative.
- Tightened up the budgets and cut excessive spending with the Mint app. (member since July 2015) Also, set a weekly date to review our transactions on Mint and see if we are on target for the month.
- Started to combine errands to limit driving
- Started using all of the food already in our fridge and pantry to make meals instead of buying more. Dinner last night was brown rice, with chickpeas, eggplant and asparagus.
- Ran a cost-benefit analysis on our existing phone plan
- In the process of considering moving in town to a more bike-friendly area and closer to work. I'm currently in the middle of changing jobs so I don't want to move just yet.
- Acquired 2 bikes at no cost through family and have started tinkering with them as issues arise.
- Renegotiated our cable/internet subscription
- Obtained a library card and have read 3 books in the past few months and looking to fill more free time with reading as opposed to watching sports/consumer television.
- Mrs. Meikenstache made 75% of the decorations for our daughters 1st birthday party and is now reselling it all online for a profit.
Looking forward to adding to this list and continuing the Mustachian lifestyle! Thanks for all of the ideas and input!