1) Replace the regular incandescent light bulbs around your house with compact flourescent (CFC) light bulbs. You'll get just as much light, if not more, but you'll be using a LOT less electricity, which could significantly impact your electric bill, for the better. Party bonus, less electricity usage = better for the environment.

2) You may be unwilling to do this one, and I wouldn't blame you, if I'm being honest. But, if you're a menstruating female, or have a baby, consider switching to cloth, reusable maxi-pads and/or diapers. I know the thought of having to wash those isn't pretty, but it's a lot easier on the planet, and your wallet. Plus, there are fewer instances of allergic reaction.

3) Shop at the 99 cent only store. I can't tell you how much I love this store! One year I did all my Christmas shopping there, and even the snootier members of my family didn't notice. There are dollar stores that really aren't very good, but this particular national brand is the best. Nothing is ever over 99 cents, and most stores even carry produce! Buying fruit, spices, canned goods, and so much more at the 99 cent only stores has saved so much money every month, I've just been overly thrilled.

4) Make sure you search before you buy. Even at the market, sometimes they have sales on particular brands. So, you may actually be able to save money by buying one of the more well-known brands, as opposed to automatically opting for the store brand. Always check all the prices prior to purchase.

5) Clip or print coupons for the things your family buys regularly/needs. I know this one sounds like a no-brainer, but some people get excited about a coupon and opt to purchase something that they don't regularly buy anyway. In the long run, this kind of thinking could cost you more money then it saves. Even when you do have a coupon though, check the prices to make sure that there isn't a regular price or sale that would be even cheaper then the brand you have the coupon for, even after the coupons savings are factored in.

6) Turn down your water heater, and use as little electricity as you can. If you have kids, you know that they tell you to turn down the water heater anyway, to avoid scalding the little ones. Actually, it saves money and energy too! You don't really need the water heater up to scalding temperatures, so kick it down a few notches. Like wise, if you have central air/heat, keep it at the highest temperature you can live with for the air, and the lowest temperature you can manage for the heat. All this will save on your energy bill, which helps out Mother Earth as well.

7) Save on fuel. Walk, take your bicycle out of the garage, use public transportation, or get some co-workers together for a carpool. All of these methods will save on the amount of gas you're paying for. Plus, they'll help out the environment. It's win win.

8) Buy in bulk, and freeze your extra food. I know it sounds like a no-brainer again. But, I'll admit that I don't do it as often as I should. Most supermarkets now have bulk buy sections, so you don't necessarily have to have a membership to cosco or sam's club.

9) Instead of using the city recycling bin that they provide you with, take your bottles and cans to a recycling center. They'll only give you a few cents per bottle/can, but that's extra money in your pocket! And, as my mother often says, something is better then nothing. It all adds up.

10) Consider alternatives to everything that might save you money. If you need to purchase a new car anyway, opt for one of the many hybrids available on the market. Even if you don't need a new car right now, you may want to save up for one of those. They cut your gas costs by at least half. There are other options as well for your car. A newer alternative is running you car on half water, half gas. Here's one site that you can look at for more information: http://pangeacat.amdproduct.hop.clickbank.net/ , and there are plenty of others.

For your home, consider investing in a few energy star appliances, if you haven't already. It may seem like it's costing you more money to go out and replace the refridgerator that's got a few problems, but is fine. In the long run however, the newer energy star refridgerator will save you money, paying for itself, while the old fridge you have in your kitchen is costing you more.