After reading the PYP blog post series Is Couponing Worth It? made me think about how sometimes when we get too involved in couponing we let it dominate our life. And it shouldn’t! I have always loved couponing and I always will! But sometimes life happens and a few months go by when I can’t devote the time I would like to towards it. If you find yourself in that place, here are some suggestions for you. Even if you cannot coupon (or don’t want to) you can still save money, cut back on expenses, and live frugally.

1. Menu plan. By sticking to a meal plan and buying only what is necessary, you can cut at least 30% off your monthly grocery bill.
2. Don’t buy extras. Do you really need that box of crackers or that bag of chips? Nope. Skip the packaged snacks and you will also save big.And not just your wallet…but your hips too.
3. Don’t always be on the go. Just because there are good deals doesn’t mean you have to hit every one. Stay home more often and you will cut not only your gasoline bill but your wallet will thank you.
4. Skip eating out. The average family eats out at least twice a week. Yikes! That adds up fast. Make homemade pizza instead.
5. Start cooking from scratch. It really doesn’t take much more time. You only think it does. Give it a try.
6. Be thankful! When you appreciate what you have instead of always wanting more, you will be content and not desire more, more, more. We already have so much!

Pinching Your Pennies has several forum to help you out with this! Check out the following forums to get ideas, recipes, and advice!
One Penny at A Time (includes budgeting, getting our of debt, and more!)
Pennies Per Serving (includes freezer meal recipes, cooking tips, homemade cleaning recipes, and more!)
Preparedness Tips (includes food storage, emergency preparedness, and more!)
Planting, Gardening, and Landscaping (how to do it on a budget!)