5 Smart Upgrades for Tight Times

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What experiences have people had with this? I need to decide quickly whether to buy new or repair old.

NANCY of CT 2:05PM February 02, 2009

Having gone through 40 years of 'right sizing' and recessions, I'd amend your 'upgrade' suggestions to include
1>Investing in a high quality, countertop water filter system (Nikken PiMag, Multipure or equivalent) It is paid for once (around $400) and pays for itself in healthy water without bacteria, heavy metals, etc.
2>Invest in changing your outlook via a healthy attitude that does not need to rely on externals.
That's done by deepening insight. Take up a meditative practice - it could be silent strolls in a park, alone....it could be reading E. Tolle's books on life purpose.... anything that enables you to slow things down, enable you to detach from the fear factors projected by the media.
IMHO, adding expenses like an animal, entertainment center, sheets is more of the same that can add torc to the 'tightness'.

Carlotta Tyler of MA 1:18PM February 02, 2009

My older double-frame aluminum windows leak badly. I had planned to replace them this year, but I am going to have to postpone that for at least a few years. So, to cut back on my fuel bills, I bought some inexpensive 1 1/2 X 1/4 wooden slats from Home Depot and constructed a wooden frame the size of the window opening. Using double-stick tape, I covered the opening in the wooden frame with clear plastic sheeting, purchased from the Wal-Mart fabric dept. Then using tiny brads, I attached a second wooden frame over the top of the first one, sandwiching the plastic sheeting in the middle. In essence, I made a large screen door with plastic sheeting instead of screen wire. I then applied 1/4-inch foam insulation around the outside edge of the frame and inserted it into the window opening. Voila, no air leaks! And I can remove it if I want to open the window in the spring.

Diane of AR 11:07AM February 02, 2009

My mom wanted a new kitchen but didn't have the money for a new kitchen, so she repainted all the cabinetry...and voila brand new kitchen!

Veronica of NY 1:35PM January 30, 2009

I can say from experience that having an "entertainment center" has been well-worthwhile. We were just talking this morning about how we would rather cozy up to a Nextflix movie, and snacks than go out to the theater. It's more user-friendly and cost-effective!
While we're paying off my husband's outrageous amount of business school loans, investing in short-term comforts like having nice sheets, a furnished apartment and owning our 2001 Honda Accord, life has been more enjoyable for the duration of being held captive by the lenders.

Grace of VA 12:35PM January 29, 2009

I certainly agree about the dog, but adopt a small one if you can. I love big dogs, but small ones are more "doable" for most people and will more likely KEEP you in the doggy-love game.
Petting that little mutt on the couch by your side will lower your blood pressure, increase your empathy and make you a better person. If you're in a couple relationship, the doggy will also be a constant topic of conversation and laughter.
It's amazing how you can bond with someone while discussing what "Fifi" thinks and does.
As for sheets, 100% polyester, tight woven from Spain and bought in a deep-discount store for $20 (King, no less) were one of my greatest investments. Unlike cotton, they do not wear at all. I've been on the same ones for three years, many many times washed.

of 11:15AM January 29, 2009