I agree, this story was NOT representative of most of us. I wish someone WOULD do a story about real people that don't get manicures or housecleaners. I don't have a starbucks, but if I don't cook everynight we don't eat, cuz we rarely go out. Though I DID like the idea of trading babysitting...

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~Missy~Mommy
Meghan8.Samantha7,Cameron4

we couldn't cut our budget in half, but we could definitely lower it. we're really bad about eating out. it's not as rampant as it used to be, but we still go out about twice a week....

I completely agree!

We do this, it is wonderful. You'd be surprised how many people how many people will seize on this idea with both hands if you suggest it.

I haven't seen the segment, but I think it can be useful for people who spend carelessly to realize exactly how much money they are spending and how easily they could save so much more. It was an eye-opener for me back when I started tracking expenses, and we did cut our budget in half.

It depends on how much you cut. So many Mommysavers live very frugally already that there's a point when you can't/won't cut more. Giving up a weekly manicure or housekeeping is easier than, say, cutting $200 out of a $400/month grocery budget. (Although some smart shoppers on here can manage that, too!)

Well I didn't watch the clip, but I figured as soon as y'all said it was from MSNBC it was going to be some swanky family that had to change their lifestyle habits due to the economy. They just had a report about Buckingham Palace being on a budget. Yep, no more private jet trips to the Kentucky Derby for the Queen. So sad.

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ROFL!!

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~Missy~Mommy
Meghan8.Samantha7,Cameron4

I'm a volunteer budget counselor and cutting the budget is my favorite part. I'm good at it. Most people can never imagine there expenses can be lowered so much, especially elderly (who often get taken for every dime they have). People eventually need to realize that they are in control of dime going out and if that means sitting on the phone for 30 mins to lower the phone or cable bill significantly so be it.