America was once the land of the rugged individualist—what happened?  We got fat and happy.  We came to expect everything to come easy.  However, I do see more and more people mowing their own lawns these days . . .

We used to do-it-ourselves, now we call someone and pay through the nose.  As someone on a limited budget that just isn’t practical.  Certainly some jobs need to be done by a professional, but many can be handled by an individual willing to take the time to figure it out or with a little assistance from a capable supplier.  As an example, do you need a room painted?  Do some research on the internet for tips, tricks, and techniques.  Ask your local paint store for advice on how to use the paint, brushes, rollers, and tools—pick their brains. Getting a room painted could cost hundreds of dollars where I live or it could be less then fifty bucks for supplies and some elbow grease.  This is true of almost everything.

When you are on a limited budget you are usually short cash, but long on time.  Use your time and effort to get the job done and save the money.  The more you learn to do for yourself the more money you can save. 

An added bonus:  While I usual tackle many of these projects when the kids aren’t around, sometimes they actually can and like to help (especially washing the car—kids and the hose . . . need I say more?).  Seriously, I figure that they can learn a thing or two in the process that will help them to be more self-sufficient adults.  What know-how can you teach yourself or your kids?