Saving Cents

With the economic forecast bleak, saving money is more important than ever. Consider making a few small lifestyle changes, and you'll not only show a healthier bank balance, you'll enhance your quality of life as well.

Shop Smart

According to Consumer Reports, the average woman spends about $116 on groceries per week. Becoming a savvy shopper can help to significantly reduce that average. Start with these three tips:

1. Create a meal plan and corresponding shopping list to avoid unnecessary purchases (see our article "A New Way to Eat"
   in the January archives for suggestions).
2. Clip coupons for additional savings (be careful here; don't get lured into buying an item just because you have a coupon). Check out online coupons sites like coupons.com to save on items you commonly use.
3. Scan the weekly circular for your market and plan your meals around what is on sale.

Drink Water

Consume fewer sodas, coffees, juices and bottled waters; rely on tap water instead. Keep refillable bottles on hand so you can grab one as you leave the house. I fill mine and refrigerate them as soon as they come out of the dishwasher. Wean your kids off of fruit juice (eating actual fruit is healthier). Pre-pack small refillable bottles for lunches and snacks. If you cut back on beverages by just $10 per week,you'll save $520 a year.

Eat In

How often do you eat out, order pizza, or use the drive-thru? The average American household spends about $2,533 per year on food eaten or prepared away from home, according to the American Bureau of Labor Statistics. Trimming just $25 dollars a week from your restaurant budget saves you $1300 dollars a year.

1. Planning ahead can help you avoid the temptation of take out. Make a double recipe of any freezable entrée you prepare, so you have a dish on hand if you're tired or short on time.
2. Change your restaurant night from the weekend to a weekday to take advantage of specials such as Happy Hours and Kids Eat Free nights.
3. Look for restaurant coupons in your weekly circular and on sites like restaurant.com.

Rethink Gifts

Birthday and holiday gifts can take a big chunk out of your budget, so plan ahead and consider alternative gifts. You'll see the savings add up, and you may be surprised by your friends' and family's response.

1. Create a master schedule of special occasions and accompanying gifts, making notes about what each person on your list would use and enjoy. Often a smaller, thoughtful gift is more meaningful than a splashy last-minute purchase. Carry your list with you, so when you see a great deal, you can snap it up.
2. Give a gift of service. A friend might be wowed by your offer to babysit or provide a home-cooked meal. Think about what skills and talents you have (computer support, a green thumb) and see if you can match them to a friend's need.

Easing your spending in these simple ways will really add up in the end. You may also find yourself eating more heathfully, avoiding sugary drinks, and becoming a more thoughtful gift giver. That's a win-win.