Some ways I save money...

So, people always ask me how I am able to save money and stretch a dollar so far? These days especially, that is a hot topic! Well, since I have been on my own since age 16, and had to learn the hard way, it's become a lifestyle for me. In fact, I don't even buy anything anymore unless it's on sale, or I can get a discount, or I have a coupon, etc. (you get the picture)! But, as far as things I do around the house on a daily basis to save money, and with my son? Well, here are a few things, and I'll be posting the best (most helpful) websites later:

Cut my hair and cut his hair
Color my hair (used to use Nice & Easy, but just switched to Loreal Excellence-works better and longer)!
Do my own manicures, and pedicures (including French)
Cut and maintain my own lawn and gardening, fertilizing, weeding, edging, etc.
Buy quite a bit at the Dollar Store (you would be surprised at the deals)!
Run my errands together to save gas
Keep my tires inflated well and the oil changed regularly
Buy prescriptions at WalMart for the $4 generic version and get antibiotics for free at Publix
Consistently look at the end tabs at places like Target, Walgreens, etc. There are some really great deals. Even grocery stores usually have a section of markdowns.
Do my own taxes (save you receipts in one place to make it easier at year-end)
Do my own small home repairs
Work-out at home with equipment, DVD's, and some learned techniques
Regularly review my home/auto insurance for the most competitive rate
Built my own website and maintain it
Check my favorite manufacturers website for promotions and deals and also become a member (when they keep your info private) to regularly get coupons mailed to you
Keep the air/heat at the bare minimums and use ceiling fans also
Use heat control curtains and close them when I am gone (I also recently had my windows tinted with solar film that blocks up to 65% of sun)
Change my home A/C filters regularly
Groom my own dog
Buy my dog's meds online (heart worm, flea/tick, etc). Saves tons of money!
Decorate, clean, and maintain my entire house
Pressure wash (small areas only) when needed
Use drink mixes and never buy sodas
Use my cellphone and not a land-line
Stockpile grocery/household items when they are 50% & use coupons too
Regularly go to garage sales to find items to re-sell (baby and kid items are always a hot ticket)!
Turn the water off in the shower when not needed during aspects of showering
Only eat out at places that offer BOGO deals or kids eat free deals
Go to the movies only before 5pm, and not too often
Buy the Sunday Paper from the biggest city near me (better coupons) and add to my coupon stash or give them away to friends in need
Turn off lights when not in use, and try to use artificial light sparingly
etc, etc, etc....

So, you may think some of those things are extreme, or time consuming, or not worth it. However, they become very worth it when you tally up how much you save each month, and can use that money for other needed things, and even a vacation fund! You would be amazed at how much you can teach yourself to do, if you only try!