How can I reduce my bills?

Downsizing__for_sanity

If you change nothing else, you can definitely reduce your grocery bill by a huge amount (proportionately) per week. My kids are 2 and nearly 7, and I am also a full time student. Pop across to the Old Style board - look for the Grocery or Storecupboard Challenges) with a list of what you have in and what you all normally eat. I find I can manage on about £20 for a week when I really try, although this is because I usually have full-ish cupboards and freezer. Most people have tons in that they never use. You have to be a bit creative sometimes and be prepared to use up those things in the back that you never normally would. I know, people get all excited saying it's impossible to and still get your 5 a day etc, but you have to think about using tinned, dried and frozen fruit for example instead of just popping to the shops for say bananas and spending £20 straight off.

So, start by looking at what you already have in. Make a list of fridge (use up first) contents, freezer and cupboards. Then write a meal planner for the week trying to buy as little as possible. Have a look on the "A Girl Called Jack" blog for inspiration. She managed to survive healthily and with delicious food for herself and a 2 year old for £10 a week because she had no option.

Don't feel guilty about the **** food you have in- tell the kids you are playing at Pizza Night, MacDonalds Night and let them play cafes or something with a DVD while you write the meal plan for the week and use it up. It's paid for at least.

Come and visit us on the OS Board - we are all a friendly bunch and welcome all newbies. PM me if you like for a virtual chat if you are finding the studying and parenting a bit of a balancing act. And just think what you could do with another £70 or so a week!

Ellie

DFS