Collecting fabrics for future use is also another great idea. Even unwanted clothing can be used to create small window dressings, pillow covers, and accessories. Many people give away scraps of fabrics or sell them at yard sales. Be sure to check clearance and end piece items at sewing and fabric shops. It's really so simple to make a curtain or a pillow. Usually only requires sewing simple seams.

For more complicated tasks, if you can't figure it out for yourself, you're sure to find a how to book at any library or search on-line for free information.

I've found some excellent ideas for decorating on a budget, do-it-yourself projects, and some great decorating theme ideas from HGTV (Home and Garden Television). Even if you don't get this wonderful T.V. channel in your home, you can go on-line at HGTV.com to benefit from some wonderful ideas and projects by professionals. There's a lot for do-it-yourselfers here! You can get some great ideas for areas of your home where you just don't know what to do with it.

Before you make your plans, check out several books at library on home decorating. You will find no shortage of books on this subject. Glance through them and grab ideas to incorporate into your own decorating task. If you have a specific challenge to overcome, likelihood is someone else has already encountered it, conquered it, and written a book or web page about it. Use their knowledge! It will save you time and frustration of figuring it out.

My last words, of course, DO YOUR RESEARCH! Know your options. Remember……..Informed Consumer=More Savings.

In review of your own unique situation you might find answers very enlightening. Hopefully, seeing true origin of your desires and re-evaluating what you "need" will lead to change. Then again, you may not like what you see and in denial exclaim that it’s all baloney!

I hope you have courage to make changes needed to achieve financial security and peace of mind. Many of us forget that we do have ability to change. It's never too late! There is no truer realization of how hard it can be, and how we may need help, to change, than following well known serenity prayer……..

God grant me serenity to accept things I cannot change....The courage to change things I can and.....the wisdom to know difference.

Now whether you’re a religious person or not, above statement is true in all aspects of our lives. I often think of it when presented with life's little dilemmas. It reminds me that I do have choices. I need to evaluate situation carefully and research my options. Some things we can change, some things we cannot change. Figure this out, have courage to fix it, or peace of mind to accept it. I can tell you from personal experience that financial ruin is something you can fix. It is rarely an easy fix, but always will bring peace of mind!

So, when asked what I think frugality is.....It's Freedom. Peace of mind. Re-evaluating what life really means. Knowing difference between necessity and wants. Shedding appearances in exchange for reality. Taking control of my finances. Getting back to basics, and focusing on "really" important things in life.... family.... friends.... children..... learning....and teaching.