• Unplug electronic devices and chargers. Modern devices use electricity even when turned off. An easy alternative is to plug as many devices as possible into a surge protector, which is easy to turn off when you leave for the day.
• Fill up your refrigerator. More food in the fridge keeps the air inside cool when its opened.
• Cook in the microwave or outside. Microwaves use less energy than most stoves and using the grill will keep the inside temperature from warming up.
• Replace your air conditioner filters. Dirty filters force the unit to work harder because the airflow is restricted.
• Cover your water heater in an insulated blanket. Older models loose heat forcing the unit to work in overdrive. Water heater insulation can be found at most home improvement stores.

Reality Check -- Life Without Credit Cards

We applaud you for making the commitment to get out of debt, but realize that the reality of living without a credit card can present challenges. 

In some circumstances, keeping at least one credit card is needed for emergencies when the water heater goes out, or you find that your child needs new books for classes and they didn’t think to tell you about it until the day before they need them.

Although self-control and sound judgment certainly must enter into your decision about whether to use your card or not, there are other ways to decrease your day-to-day expenses;

• By bringing your lunch to work each day instead of going out, you are saving money on gas too!
• Get a library card and start reading books instead of buying movies or adding premium channels to your cable system. 
• Start taking public transportation a couple of times a week or begin a carpool with co-workers.  Not only you are saving gas money; you are also allowing yourself some extra time to actually read that book!

Living within a budget is one of the smartest things you can for your financial health - You want to be in control of your money not let your money control you!  But creating a budget can be a little overwhelming, and one of the best ways to start is to review your spending habits.  We recommend the Family Monthly Budget spreadsheet available on most versions of Microsoft Excel, which is designed to perform all of the calculations for you.  However, if you don't have access to a computer, don't fret.  Simply purchase a notebook and write down everything you spend over the next 30 days.  Everything!  If you buy a pack of gum -- write it down.  If you go to the movies -- write it down.  Being honest with yourself about what you spend is the keystone to a successful budget.