To: RKBA Democrat; jan in Colorado
First of all, it's about giving up cultural prejudices. Many "middle-class" Americans live lifestyles well into the luxury range, and to talk about "surviving" socialism economically is an insult to many who have it far worse off. Socialism has killed tens of millions of innocent people, and simply lowering our thermostat and wearing a sweater isn't a fight for survival.
But for those who are ready to face the harsh world, here are a few pointers, some of which I've employed...
- Dry your razor blade after use. Oxidation between uses can dull your razor blade more than the act of shaving, and leaving water on the blade will accelerate the process.
- Reload ammo...but note that surplus can often be cheaper
- Consider other factors in menu selection. Eating rat and dog seems to raise the body temperature, so they can be good choices for winter meals (but in moderation, as too much rat is claimed to cause nosebleeds and may raise blood pressure). (Another advantage is that it's "exotic," and exotic cuisine is often priced with a premium.) Insects are plentiful in the summer and are a good source of protein. (Do a Google search for recipes...I'm not a good enough cook to give advice to others.)
- Put more perishible items back into the refrigerator, rather than on the door, so they are closer to the cooling elements and remain fresh longer.
- Cancel cable TV, or keeping just basic for Internet access (e.g., Skype)
- Use half the flavor pack for each package of ramen noodles. Use the other half for your next meal of rice, to give it some flavor. Red (kidney) beans can be added to provide variety, but also protein and fiber (and lots more).
- Avoid having children. They are one of the biggest drains on the wallet out there, and it can take many years to recoup any investment.
- Inspect packages of meat before purchase. Select the less-lean grades and try to get those with the most fat, as it has more calories per unit weight so you get a better deal.
- Add borax to each wash load. You can often use cheaper detergent if borax is added, and get the same result as more expensive detergents (though I use it even with Tide).
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- When weather permits, don't wear clothing unless needed (e.g., for personal protection against cooking grease, for going out, etc.) Fewer washes means lower costs, both for electricity and lower wear.
Well, that's just a few...many more out there, once we stop getting caught up on what is a "must have."
And lastly, while the point I make up above is serious, I don't really mind the catch title of "surviving socialism"...as long as we don't forget the blessings we do have.
124 posted on
11/15/2008 1:11:30 PM PST by
Gondring
(Paul Revere would have been flamed as a naysayer troll and told to go back to Boston.)
To: Gondring
Something I’ve started just recently is to dilute dishwashing liquid by 1 part to 4 parts water. Dispenses more easily, is easier to rinse off and there is less waste since it’s easier to use only the amount needed. Also I always wash out my plastic sandwich/storage bags instead of discarding after one use.
Experiencing the Great Depression honed my parent’s frugality, much of which has rubbed off on me.
134 posted on
11/15/2008 1:30:44 PM PST by
VAarea
To: Gondring
“Socialism has killed tens of millions of innocent people, and simply lowering our thermostat and wearing a sweater isn’t a fight for survival.”
Yup. There are a few books that I recommend every conservative read. One of which is the “Black Book of communism” which details what the communists did.
297 posted on
11/15/2008 6:24:26 PM PST by
RKBA Democrat
(Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner!)
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