Broke ? Really

 Far too often lately, I hear complaints of being financially drained by those folks, when I am looking at their fake eyebrows, gel  nails, mani/pedi addictions and coffee bar drinks. It's hard to feel empathetic seeing those used to these luxuries, telling me about how difficult their times are. Others, the wise ones, say they are avoiding implulse purchases or damping down their usual high cost grocery items for ones, just as nutritious that are not as the top grades. Cutting back is hard to do but also an interesting project that whole families can practice. Why not get the kids involved in the effort? They partake of family funds and should, therefore, learn this skill. Maybe instead of the packaged treats they find in their easy pack lunches, an apple will appear, not those cute cheese sticks with pretty little crackers. Cheese and crackers are easy enough for them to make up themselves. Put out the workings and make a bunch for the whole week. Great weekend job.  Dessert doesn't have to be a chocolatey nutty wrapped bar but a cookie instead. And why aren't kids involved in making their own lunches. They with guidance can chop up veggies maybe with a peanut butter/honey  dip. Mom's need to stop being miracle women and get down to showing kids how to become responsible adults. Clothing purchase doesn't need to start with popular labels. If your child thinks that big labels mean big popularity, a discussion is called for. Parents need to get together and decide to make that change so that no kid suffers embarrassment. Some of my near and dears, are now going to second hand stores to enjoy the fun of searching out perfectly good clothing.  It's in fashion to do so. Let that be known. Having a family bread baking session or meal grids where there might be a competition amongst family members of making a nourishing meal that is cheaper to put together but that is just as nutritious. At the cost of fuel, driving kids two blocks to school is outrageous. Walk with them if you must and the business of driving the family here there and everywhere all week should be pared down. That wastes. These moves will also prepare your offspring about caring for themselves when their school days are over and they have to face the world at large.