The same pioneering spirit that rose in the American citizens after the Homesteading Act was signed into law by Abraham Lincoln, is still alive and well in today’s society. The Homesteading Act was abolished in 1976, but the spirit that motivated it is alive and well in the technologically advanced day we live in. It is the dream and wish of many people today to own a bit of land and live off of it by being self sufficient. This begins with a total change in how you think and how you view the world. There are quite a few simple steps you can take to lower expenses and save money.
One of the first steps to take is to sit down and evaluate your financial situation and decide how to start cutting out frivolous expenses. One of these can be cutting out buying a lot of pre-packaged foods or eating out instead of cooking meals at home. It is cheaper to buy foods in season and when possible to buy from the farmers whenever possible. When you do visit the supermarket, calculate the price per pound of food and keep an eye out for specials to save more. If you have room, convert part of the yard to a garden area and grow your own vegetables. Canning and freezing food to be used later is also a great way to save money.
If you have enough land, consider raising your own chickens or other animals for food. Chickens do not require much room but it is best to do some research as to the best types that will work for your area. A local co-op or 4-H group may be able to help you in making these decisions and give you tips on how to keep and care for animals raised for food.
In the home, use cold water to wash laundry with and if possible dry clothes outside on a clothesline. This saves electricity and wear and tear on your dryer. If you have rooms that are not being used in the house, close the doors as this will save energy. Energy efficient houses are able to be heated with wood or in some places with solar energy; these supplement the gas or electric bills and help economize. There are discounts and tax advantages to using bio-fuels in heating your home.
Thrift stores and garage sales are great places to find low cost clothing and other household items for far less than they cost new. Clearance racks at stores are also a good place to find clothing for less. If you are willing to learn how to sew, you can make your own clothing. You can organize a clothes swap with friends or neighbors.
Low cost education can be found if you establish residency in the state you want to attend the college or university at. The use of the local library also is one way to learn new skills and find information on many topics including ways to further stretch your money and cut expenses.
Deciding to save money and energy by using homesteading is like any other life skill, it takes willpower and a willingness to change the way we think and live. Grab your paper and pen, sit down and start planning how to regain your independence and freedom.
More Resources:
Frugal Homesteading Blog
Mom’s Budget
45 Ways to Save Money on Groceries
Live on Less and Love It, 75 Tips from Mother Earth News
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