by Thea Bohannon

Created on: March 16, 2009

In the early 80's the interest rate went to 20%+ and succinctly stated, construction companies and high interest rates do not coincide.

Our family of 4 went from a high-flying, traveling, no expense spared set, to a family of 6 (twin boys born 8/81) turned renters, thrift shoppers, bargain seeking bunch.

I would in no way wish our experience on anyone. My oldest children especially could join in listing the trauma and downside of it all. But let me share what I learned, in hopes that you can benefit - if only to know, that you will survive.

1. My children still shop at thrift stores. We learned the challenge and satisfaction of finding bargains at thrift stores and garage sales. Whatever city we were in, we found the best areas and hit the garage sales. To this day, I have treasures around my house from some super garage sale and/or estate sale.

2. 4 of my 6 children (did I mention the set of twin girls born 5/86?) do not own a car. They live in cities that have adequate public transportation. They long ago learned the trials and expense that comes with car ownership.

3. I've learned how to shop - groceries? circle the outer edges when you can only afford the necessities. Add in your head as you shop - difficult with toddlers, but not impossible. To this day, I can come within $5-$10 when tallying groceries. In the 80's it was cash or check - and I had very little of either. The big box stores have their bargain hideouts - clothes, always at the back of the department, end of the aisle and clearance sections. Give up brand loyalty. Try generic, it's quite possibly the same stuff, only a different label. If you like it, you've saved again. Double coupon days - really make coupons worthwhile.

4. Sell Sell Sell - my kids are always selling something on craigslist that at one time, they just HAD to have. People in NYC are having closet sales, as in - come over, have a sip of wine, and try on my DKNY, Versace, and all the other names that I really could never afford. It's spring and time to get the garage sales going. Rid thyself of stuff is the principle!

5. Bargain with the cellphone/cable companies. When I called the cellphone company to cancel, within 5 minutes I had a month of free service and free unlimited text/pix. I still think it's too expensive and am moving the number to another company when it's expired. I called the cable guys just to discuss how I could reduce my bill, and now pay $20/mo less for home phone, internet and cable - I monitor my bills every month, item by item to see if I can save even $5 more.

6. Be grateful! Open your eyes, and see what you do have! You are rich if you have a roof over your head, and something to eat when you wake up in the morning. Don't worry about next week's groceries, enjoy what you have this week. The Lord gives us one day at a time and we are to rejoice in it. So yes, our ways of life may be adjusted - some more severely than others - but 29 years later, I have never missed a meal that wasn't by my own choice. God's Best to each of you!

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