Making Little Changes

     This past spring I decided that we needed to do something about how much we were spending just to watch television.  We had the basic cable package for our area, and a DVR through the cable company.  All of this came to about $70/ month.  After some careful observation I realized that most of what we were watching was on the 3 main networks and those were all being recorded on the DVR and held months before we watched if we watched them at all.  Then on top of that we spent $10- $15 every week or so at Blockbuster renting movies.  We were spending so much money for what.  To sit in front of a box.  So, much to the dismay of the men in our house I announced that we needed to eliminate the cable TV. 

     At first I was met with looks of shock and horror, but then I made my argument.  For less than the cost of one months cable bill I purchased a set-top antenna and a digital converter box.  As luck would have it where we live we're able to pick up about 16 channels.  Then I connected to kids Wii to our home network so that we can stream Netflix, which has TV series and movies.  Instantly we went from spending roughly $100/ month to spending $8.  It took a little getting used to but it has worked out great.  I have also discovered that Netflix has a lot of discovery channel and  history channel shows that tie in nicely with what the boys are covering in school. 

    Now that we have all gotten used to that change I'm going to change things again.  Although, I'm probably the only one who will notice this change.  I'm going to start using homemade laundry detergent and household cleaners.  We use all organic farming practices so I don't see why our home should be full of chemicals. 

     I have been doing quite a bit of searching online to find recipes and testimonials and I think this is the way to go.  Not only will our home be a healthier environment but from what I have been finding I will be able to save a good deal of money as well.  The trade off is that I'll need a little time to mix up my cleaners and probably a little more elbow grease when I'm cleaning.  I'm really excited about this change.  I think this is the sort of thing that would make my grandmothers proud.  Wish me luck.