we are eating at home more often or better said not eating out as often. We are eating more beans, rice, potatoes and less meat. We are have turned down the heater and this summer will not use the AC as much. We are watching every penny we spend or save. That being said we are not in danger of losing jobs or facing hardships but just think it wise to tighten the belt during this recession.

 My "pot garden" is being expanded this year, too ;-)

Have cut down plenty on meat consumption, and am just eating a little less in general.

At least once a month, a restaurant still gets a visit, but you know, the portions they serve are good for two or three meals. Don't have to sit there and stuff it in until it is gone. I conciously eat only half of what I'm served, though I'm usually brimming by then anyway, and it makes one or sometimes two meals out of the "box". That way I can tell myself the little indulgence isn't overpriced for the bit of satisfaction and enjoyment it provides: it doesn't work out too dearly if the price turns out to be the price of two or three meals.

 I have had to cut back to only hiring the girls on Craigslist for 30 minutes, instead of 60 minutes.

So true Bakoblue. 

 I love the container gardening idea, and we may start that ourselves soon. Another option is to eat a little less meat. It wasn't that  long ago that meat was considered a luxury item. There are plenty of lower cost options for protein. We started dropping meat one night a week a few months ago, and will probably step that up to another night or two of meatless living. It's better for you, it's better for the environment and it's better for your pocketbook.

 You know, this is a real problem.  My son and daughter both have five children.  My mom is on a very fixed income and it is only getting worse.  Gardens are a great solution.   Even small container gardens can help.  (I couldn't bring up the word "container" the other day and I told my neighbor I was putting in a "pot garden")  I also know people who are raising slaughter animals.  I emptied my freezer and shut it down to save energy last summer, but I'm considering firing her up again so I can stock up when I find a good deal on beef.  I'm weighing the pros and cons between high food costs and high energy costs.  It's a conundrum. 

 Buying off brands or generic on what I can. There are somethings I won't substitute but may find myself having to do so if prices continue to rise.

 Since working is not letting me make ends meet and I'm just going in the hole, I'm quitting my job and applying for food stamps.