photo by webg33k
Many frugal folks buy items that pay for themselves over time. For me, this includes compact fluorescent bulbs, a cooler, a cappuccino machine, a battery charger, low-flow shower heads, a rechargeable shaver, a thermos, a TiVo, quality cookware, carpet cleaner and a water cooler, to name a few.
Some of my choices have even lower-cost solutions, such as drinking tap water instead of buying a water cooler, or taking shorter showers, but it’s what works for my family. Today, readers share items that they consider investment purchases.
FOODSAVER: 1. …

photo by twid
There never seem to be enough hours in a day. Sometimes you can’t even remember the last time you laughed or simply enjoyed a moment of doing nothing at all.
Ever in your car at a stoplight and glance over at the car next to you and everyone in the car looks so happy? You know that feeling of heartache when you wonder how you got to the point you’re at — tired, overwhelmed and frustrated? Perhaps you want to slow things down so you can find your …

photo by trialsanderrors
Often, frugal strategies simply won’t work well depending on where you live or personal circumstances. For example, some people can’t hang clothes out to dry on a clothesline because of neighborhood restrictions, but you can still dry indoors.
Although you might not be able to apply some frugal tips, there are still plenty of others you can use, so don’t give up too soon. Instead of focusing on what you can’t do, concentrate on what you can. You can live within your means, separate your wants from your …

It’s time to plan ahead for the busy gift-giving season. Why not make something yourself? Homemade gifts from the comfort of your kitchen will stretch your holiday budget. They contain inexpensive ingredients and are simple to make. They can easily be made ahead of time, and, when given early, they can be enjoyed and shared during the holiday season. They’re great gift solutions for hard-to-shop-for people on your list, hostess gifts and those last-minute gifts that catch you off guard, but they are equally perfect for friends and family. Your …

photo by D’arcy Norman
DEAR SARA: How do you keep your butter soft and spreadable? We’ve switched from margarine to butter. — Carol, e-mail
DEAR CAROL: I simply take it out of the refrigerator before I need it so it has a chance to soften. I’m not very picky. I’ll scrape thin layers for bread in a pinch if I have to. You can also buy a butter bell crock. Or whip your butter by adding a bit of milk (about 1/4 cup milk to 1/2 pound butter) and beat it with …