Thursday 1 November 2012

To answer a few points

Hey, Thursday lunchtime and the sun is back, don't know how long for though. I went out for an hour this morning and it was flippin freezing, still need to wrap up. I've just finished the last of the not very nice bean, carrot, and onion soup. It had gone a bit thick so yesterday I added half a tin of chopped tomatoes, and cooked two portions of wholemeal pasta, which made dinner last night and lunch today. Job done, I managed to salvage something from the yucky looking gruel, it wasn't too bad actually.

I'll have a bit of a catch up today, I see there has been a heated discussion between Anonymous and Anonymous on the post 'Bring on winter, I'm ready for it'. Not sure how many Anonymouses were involved actually, it's difficult to know who is saying what when no one is giving their name. Spose I could disable the Anonymous option, but I won't because it allows genuinely interested people to comment, as well as those who randomly pop in and have a go at me. I can take it, I have a thick skin, ha ha. If you are anonymous and add your name to the text, thank you very much. At least you have the balls to identify yourself. Right, let's look at what has been written. Anonymous writes in red.

Anonymous said...
Are you keeping your furniture warm too or expecting the decorators to arrive?
My three piece suite is covered to keep it clean and free of cat hairs. It is fabric and would look shabby if I allowed cats to climb all over it. It has to last me for the rest of my life, therefore taking care of it makes sense to me. I can remove the covers if anyone comes to visit.

In my opinion you're taking frugality to the point of being (and looking) ridiculous. Do you get many visitors - friends popping round for a cuppa? No I thought not.
Does it matter what I look like in my own home? No of course it doesn't. I can look as ridiculous as I like, there is only me to see me, that's unless I choose to post the picture on here. In which case I don't give a monkeys what people think of my appearance. My friends know me and my lifestyle, they know they won't be walking into a pristine showhouse with me glammed up to the nines. They are welcome to call in for a cuppa, but they will have to bring their own tea bags, I don't have any. I can offer them coffee. I do get a few visitors.

When I was a child there was a woman in our street who looked and acted like you, she was known for being odd. When she died aged 66 she had nearly a million pounds in the bank, hadn't left a will, no relatives. You can guess where her money ended up.
I can assure you I have no money stashed away anywhere. It is my intention to sell up and spend up before I die, hopefully. I have made a will, just in case there is anything left.

There are no pockets in shrouds Ilona! Heat the room you're in and stop being so ridiculous. 
Why should I spend money on heating when I am not cold.? I have just been to a friends house to see to their dogs, I have a key to let myself in. The heating is blasting out in there and they are at work. Now that is ridiculous. Hope I have addressed your points in a clear and concise manner. 

This Anonymous adds her name to the bottom.
I like much of what you write about, I have made a simple living choice myself and could afford to not work following redundancy at 53. I know the difference between wants and needs and prefer my pets to consumerism.
Thank you, it's nice to know you are living your life as you want to.

I do draw the line at living a cheerless comfortless life. Your photo made me sad.That is your home and it looks so cheerless.
I don't know where you get the idea from that my life is cheerless and comfortless. Where have I ever said that I am fed up, sick of everything, want to top myself, moan, whinge, and cry in my coffee? Never! My home is practical, functional, plain, and basic. I don't need fancy nicknacks, and matching this and that. I have never placed any value on owning stuff. We don't own our possessions, they own us. You can decorate your home all you like, but everything in it is borrowed, and will all be given back.

I had a vision of you on a hospital trolley with a foot or worse injury, frozen to the core.
You really have got a wild imagination. Is there no heating in hospitals these days?

There is no merit in making a virtue from using grubby ancient makeup
There is a virtue, I am not buying more because I don't need it. And if everyone stopped buying things they don't need, and stop robbing the earths resources, there will be enough for everyone. Oil is running out, trees are being ripped down, destroying animals natural habitat. The human race really is destroying the planet. I am proud that everything I own has to last me, even my grubby ancient makeup.

and eating wierd weird food combinations.
C'mon, where is the adventure in you, where is the learning new things, the exploring new experiences?

Everyday life counts and eating from a pan is the pits.Employ some grace in day to day life.
Anna
I can't see the sense in transferring food from a pan to a plate to eat it if you are alone. Eat from the pan, it achieves the same results, you fill your stomach. Less washing up, uses less hot water, less wash up liquid, and saves time.

Do you know, I love being me, I love not having to conform to what other people think I should be. I don't feel deprived because I sit in my plain and basic house wrapped up in layers of clothes, on the contrary, I feel free of all the shackles of consumerism, free of all the rules about how one is supposed to look or act. Stuff and rules are what bog you down, chuck the stuff and break the rules is what I say.
Toodle pip.

128 comments:

  1. I have to laugh at those comments! People can be so opinionated! So long as others do not infringe in the way I live my life I can care less how others live theirs. If you have time to make a fuss over the choices of others then I am guessing that you aren't busy keeping yourself content.
    I live very much like you Ilona, though by choice, not by necessity. I enjoy "making do" and live a full content live and it is obvious that you do too.

    Comfort is a trap.

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  2. Bloody good for you Ilona! Live your life without regret. FMx

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    1. Oh I couldn't agree more. Ilona you showed great restraint in your replies - more than I could manage. Why are they reading your blogs - just to pick holes ? Good Luck in all your ventures and change for nobody !

      Ps I'm only anon because I'm new to all this !!!

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  3. I probably read your posts fairly early, Ilona, before there are a lot of comments. I certainly missed all those very rude ones! Sorry some readers feel entitled to criticize so nastily.

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  4. Gosh Ilona! the cold weather must have brought all the little sad minded trolls out of their sad little holes in the ground, they've got to be trolls because they don't have the brains to be able to leave their names - you're too nice to them in your responses Ilona - here let me me tell them for you.......

    Bog off trolls and leave Ilona alone!

    Best Wishes Ilona xxxx

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  5. Hear! Hear! Well said, Ilona! You have such a full life, far more so than a lot of people nowadays and you always sound content and cheerful with your lot, I really don't think 'Anna' has followed your blog for long or she hasn't read it carefully or she wouldn't make such an arguement. Honestly, if it wasn't for still having so many of my grown kids still living at home my husband and I would be doing just like you are; saving money in some areas so we can spend it on what we enjoy instead. But it isn't so easy to keep the bills down when you have to rely on teens and 20s turning off lights, and not running excess water etc. I love that you are strong enough to not give a damn what others think and to not bow to opinion. Just carry on doing what you're doing as long as you're enjoying life. Hugs, Helen

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  6. Hi there, Ilona!

    Just wanted to let you know that I (40something German, hubs, 2 cats, no kids - and anonymus due to the fact that I'm the most un-tech-savvy person known to mankind) became an avid follower of your blog after I just quit a terrible job which was actually about to devour me alive. Have been unemployed for a couple of weeks while in search for what I really wanted from life. Now I'm back in a new job, less work, less commute, less pay, and happy as could be.

    Don't know why people come here to leave stupid comments? I came here to learn, and found sooo many pearls of wisdom. I admire your attitude and hope some of it rubs off on me while I explore your world and wisdom.

    Actually, you are one of the people out there on the interwebs that very much helped me realign my priorities.

    So, I guess what I'm trying to say is: Thank you so much for sharing! You are a true inspiration.

    And as I sit on my couch, which is also covered in blankets and towels due to my fuzzy little friends (not the hubs, mind you ;-)), wrapped in my finest 10 year old fleece cardi and eating my very own version of "experimental storage leftover soup" while holding the saucepan with a 70s potholder my mum once knitted at school, I can't help but smile at myself and contentedly think that I'm half way there.
    (Also, I'm pretty sure my cats will be just as delighted when they are allowed to "clean" the saucepan later - hey, less work with scrubbing the remains out of there!)

    Loooong rambling for a first comment, wasn't it? In essence: Here's to many, many more great years, carefree adventures and everyday updates!! Wishing you well and sending lots of happy thoughts and warm greetings (Pun intended!)from Germany.
    Looking forward to staying tuned ;-)
    Steph

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  7. Ilona,it's YOUR life... live it the way that makes YOU happy,
    By the way I'm reading a book which has a character called Ilona...I'm reading it with your pronunciation!
    Jane x

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  8. i think you are great....keep up the good work...im tessa by the way (tessie bear on mse)

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  9. There are people doing worse things in their own houses than eating out of pans. Do what you like, you are hurting nobody. People should devote their misguided sympathies to those in need. You look in fine fettle to me.

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  10. I'm not sure why they feel that you are miserable in your life..I've never really seen you complain...well except about the price of goods...but who hasn't! All we are doing is saving money in one part of lives to be able to do what we treasure and enjoy in another part of our lives. Just shaking my head at all THEIR negativity. You go girl! :-)

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  11. Well said Ilona. You are obviously a lovely person who is very caring and loving. I'm pleased you have not been upset by the people who try and knock your lifestyle.
    You have never said that the way you live would suit everybody. Your blog is one of my favourites, it's fun, informative and full of common sense. Long may you continue.

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  12. well said! why is it that people think that because you don't live your life to how they want/think you should live, that you are 'odd' or weird'.

    I'd rather have a house like yours that is a happy lived in welcoming home rather than a 'up to my eyes in debt' to pay for it show house that is just the same as everyone else's!

    Josie x

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    1. Oh well said Ilona. Im sat here being a bad girl as I havent changed out of my good going out clothes after a lovely bargain hunting trip with my daughter. But I still have my scarf on which will no doubt be staying put. I have to have a little heating on as Hubby is disabled but we rely on hot water bottles and fleece throws in our beds which are nice and snuggly, oh and a cat each for good measure lol

      Being brought up without central heating people don't realise that we are quite happy in a cool house and if you potter about a lot you dont really get cold. Seeing your posts about your holidays walking round the countryside you probably dont feel the cold as much. You obviously derive great satisfaction from your life choices and most people really benefit from your advice and the example you set.

      My house is full to the brim with craft stuff and hobby things as we are housebound a lot due to Hubbys illness's so we keep busy on a budget yet people visit and enjoy the fact thats its a home.

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  13. Crikey, I missed all of those comments. Aren't people odd, trying to put you right, or at least, to their way of thinking? They have obviously never read your blog seriously, otherwise they would know that you are not a miserable person. You seem to have the measure of them anyway, good on you for not being bothered.

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  14. Good for you Ilona. Not that you need my opinion, but I do think of you as a bit eccentric and I wouldn't live exactly like you, but then some people think I'm eccentric because of my frugality and we are all entitled to an opinion. It's your choice; you're not harming anyone else and I would say do more good than many "normal" people. I don't have to agree with absolutely EVERYTHING you write to enjoy your blog. (I do actually agree with you 95% but I wouldn't be so rude as to tackle you on every point which I would handle differently. Write my own blog is what I should do!) I enjoy reading your blog every day.

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  15. Ilona, you are an inspiration. Like Anonymous above, the other Monday I extended two fingers to my boss and left my job. The job was wonderful, my sort of thing, however,... well, least said and all that. Too much other crap going on. Life has been re-evaluated, most of the Christmas shopping has been done (I have grandchildren!) or made and me and the hubby will just get on with it. I am 57 today and totally sick and fed up of the rat race - even crappy receptionists (that is what I was doing, not a criticism of anyone else working in this noble profession) get sh*t piled on them. I am having a break until after Christmas, well, the New Year really and will then take stock and see where I am up to.

    I have enough clothes, shoes, a decent (paid for) car. The house does need some work doing on it, not to make it a show home, but to get it ready for us to retire and not need to do anything else at it.

    And it was you, dear lady, that gave me the courage to make the above decisions. So, if what you do in the privacy of your own home, keeps you warm safe and happy, then....

    Go Ilona, Go Ilona!

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  16. What a lot of unhappy people there are making nasty comments. If they don't like to read about your money saving antics they don't have to. You are doing no harm to anyone and having minimal impact on the planet too. I do think you are a little eccentric but that is meant as a compliment as I think having character is far better than being boring. You always seem to have your priorities right and to enjoy life, eating a healthy diet and taking lots of exercise. I used to worry about my poor pension forecast but now I am confident that I will be able to manage. Thanks for being such an inspiration!
    Lynne X

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  17. Why is it that people automatically assume "anonymous" commenters are trolls?

    In this great wide world of internet blogging who knows whether someone puts their own name or not and if you're not giving your real name you might as well be "anonymous" too.

    People criticise others for being critical yet they're doing the very same thing that the original commenter does.

    I think anyone who is happy to show the world that they dress up in such a way to combat the cold and admit to eating out of pans must accept that they lay themselves open to some criticism.

    Eating out of pans is seen to be uncouth. I don't do it, I was brought up to have impeccable table manners and to act otherwise would be an affront to my parents. Does it take more washing up liquid and hot water to wash up a plate with the pan? I don't think it does. I think a hint of laziness creeps in when you can't be bothered to use a plate.

    Only my opinions - other commenters are free to have theirs.

    I comment under "anonymous" as I don't have a blog or google account or any of the other things listed to comment under.
    Tom, Dick or Harry (who knows and does it really matter?)

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    1. That's what I like about being all grown up. I can do as I please in private, including eating out of pans. My parents would roll over in their graves if they knew I once in a while eat from my little iron skillet. But, I do it to keep my food warm in a frigid house. I don' mind being a bit lazy when it is my house. So, Ilona can save herself a chore and save a little water. I am so relieved that a person as civilized as she is can admit to a little uncouthness and still hold her head up. Neither us would likely to eat from the pan/skillet in public places.

      I don't know where you are from but here in the US, we have places that actually serve steaks on cast iron griddles on which they were cooked. Baked beans are served in individual iron pans in which they were cooked. So, pans on the table is the way food is served in public and at expensive, hoity, toity places.

      Except for the shoes, I dress the same way. And, I don't expect criticsm, just acceptance and understanding. Ilona amuses me. I laugh at her in a loving way, not in ridicule.

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  18. Well done Ilona, answering those rude ANONYMOUS people the way you have (how cowardly not to put their names!). Everyone's entitled to live THEIR lives the way they want - and you never sound miserable to me, in fact your cheerfulness shines through. Carry on being you - at least you have the courage and self-confidence to do exactly as you choose. I love your blog, it's one of the most interesting out there and frequently makes me laugh. I also admire your ingenuity.

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  19. Good for you! You are an inspiration with your earth, animal-friendly lifestyle and I applaud you for living the way you want to. I do find some of these critics rather odd though - it seems as though if you don't live according to their rules, then you must be strange. I think they're the odd ones!

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  20. Why do these people read your blog, I wonder? I can only think that they derive some sort of twisted pleasure from making these comments, Apart from being unkind, it is downright rude. Impeccable manners? Hmmmm. Not in my book.
    If your blog is not to their taste then let them go and find other blogs that are. There is plenty of choice.

    You stick to your guns gal.

    Mary

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  21. I think your life sounds lovely Ilona and your happiness with the way you live it shines through your blog. I'm a Quaker and one of our aims is to 'Live adventurously' and you are definitely doing that! I worked my last day in a lovely job yesterday through my choice and I had a fabulous send off. I don't know what the future brings but blogs like yours show us all that having less money and material possessions are nothing to fear. Love Lizzie Tish xx

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  22. Well I've read your blog for ages and don't think you are weird. You are HAPPY and thats what some people are jealous of. They have no contentment in their lives and seek to convert every one else into copying their lifestyles - and their unhappiness.

    sorry thei swill come up as Anonymous as I no longer have an identity (oops sounds painful). Used to be Sharie from Sharie's View to the Hill blog.

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  23. Silly people. I LOVE your blog and especially everything you do for the rescue cats and Rocky. You have also inspired me to think about what I spend and WHY ... Keep up the good work, check in most days. Lot's of love to you, kitties and Rocky, Barbara x

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  24. Great post Ilona. If there were more people like you in the world there would be nothing wrong with it. I'ma great fan of yours.

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  25. Ilona
    Trying to lead a more frugal life, I find your blog inspiring. Personally, I think it is a little extreme for me, But I think we all make our own choices and am impressed at your attitude.
    Good for you, I wish I could be as frugal as you, but perhaps it is a journey and I am not ready to embrace the life as completely you have done.
    Ignore the criticism, there are far more in praise of your life than the other way around.
    Best wishes
    Abigail
    x

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  26. If you ever run for Prime minister, you have my vote :-)

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  27. Hello MQ.

    I've just read your blog and all those horrible comments. I think your blog is really great. If it helps, I have not got heating or hot water. Both broke down last year and cannot get them to work.....so I am wrapped up like a mummy. However, I have a little electric fire. I always cook from scratch. I don't mind spending in small shops at all if the price is reasonable and I suppose my custom has kept a lot of market traders etc in business. What I do mind are rip off prices in big supermarkets and shopping centres. I love the photos of the pussy cats and Rocky. I am anonymous because I do not have a Google account but I am Natalie. Best wishes and forget those horrible people - they have nothing better to do.

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  28. Well said Ilona :-)

    I don't understand why people feel the need to critisise you and your life.
    There are plenty of blogs to read - I'm sure they can find something to read that they agree with.

    I love reading your blog. It's inspiring, entertaining, useful, funny and I so look forward to your next post.

    Polly x



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  29. I also write as anon as I havent a google account. You carry on just the way you are Ilona. It is your life. I like the work you do with the cats and Rocky and love your craft work.
    When I lived with my gran (and Mum and Dad and brother) we had no running water and no electricity. My gran always washed up in the saucepan she had cooked the meal in. (She wasnt much of a cook though). We didnt think it was strange. If she had used more water someone would have had to carry it from the outside tap. Probably my Dad. We survived.
    Sairy

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  30. I admire your freedom from consumerism!

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  31. Hi Ilona
    I sometimes read your blog, chuckle & think 'Bloody hell woman you must be mad' but then some of my choices are also mad, it's your life & your choice & I wouldn't dream of leaving a rude comment.

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  32. It is odd, isn't it, that lots of people want to put others down. Probably because deep down they are embarrassed about how much they waste and how you show them what they are really like by being the opposite, it probably makes them feel bad so they lash out and leave a nasty comment. What I can't really get my head around is, why, if they dislike your choices so much, do they not just click the big X button in the corner and go elsewhere. Good on you Ilona.

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  33. Ilona, what has it to do with anyone else how you choose to live your life? People are very judgmental! Each to their own and I see from your posts about walking and your pets that you do of course have joy in your life and that's what you spend your money on and why not indeed?

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  34. I answered one of the comments and forgot to include my name so apologise for that it was to support you in the way you live. What I find so annoying about the comments is that for many people this is a way of life that they have to live as there is not enough money to do otherwise. This will only get worse as the cost of living goes up as it has been doing. Some people never get the chance to have any fun as they are too busy trying to survive this life.

    You carry on just the way you are, in fact if there were teachers like you showing youngsters how to survive on very little it would stand them in such good stead for when they are older and wiser

    Best wishes midlands Annie
    The reason I sign in as anonymous is that I am so anxious to reply I can't wait to sign in to my account

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  35. You live, you love, you're content and happy. What more could anyone want? Hears to you and your life.
    Love from Mum
    xx

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  36. I post under Anonymous as a personal preference, just as you choose your frugal lifestyle as a personal preference. My Mum always used to say, "If you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all". I always identify myself when I post.
    More power to you, Ilona, for making your choices and standing by them. It's your life, your home, your kitchen, your health. If others don't like it, they can, as Frugal Living just said, click the big X button. I read your blog because I have to make some hard choices in the coming year and it brings my spending habits into perspective. I don't have to agree with everything you say but I would never be rude about it. My Mum brought me up better than that. Sign me,
    Joan in Michigan

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  37. What I love (facetious) is how upset the anonymice seem to be!!! As if your living affects them!!! Hahahahaha....it is this blog and some others that have had a profound effect on my own finances, and I am in joyful amazement as this month showed we (hubby, I and our son) are living well under his income. Woo hoo!! When I saw the post that caused a collective gasp of aghast, I loved it!!! Smiled wide, I did. Too bad I live across the pond. Today, I was in my grocer meeting folks housing 23 kin in their home from the horrid hurricane. It was that moment that I thanked God, teared up, and realized the freedom I had, secure in the knowledge that my now frugal ways have us secure to eat for quite awhile. While some of today's shoppers were literally at wit's end, not having understood pantry or careful eating. And, I have never ever read anywhere your disagreeance with your lifestyle choices. Quite the opposite. Oh, anonymice...play nice.

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  38. Hi Ilona, One comment jumped out at me, slating experimental food. I think that almost 75% of food on sale now would be considered strange by my grand parents generation. Who can remember when olive oil was sold by chemists in tiny bottles and used warm to soothe earache. Pasta was elbow macaroni in cheese sauce and rice came as a sweet pudding.
    I think that you are an inspiration to us all, between you and frugal Queen I have learnt enough to be mortgage free at the end of December and still live well. By well I mean healthy not expensive, I was always careful but needed guidance. I owe you a big thank you," keep on a troshin and mind how you go"

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  39. Thank you for posting the mostly rude Anonymous comments and your terrific answers! You always make a lot of sense and I've been reading you for awhile now though I don't comment quite so often as I used to (time management). Your lifestyle is much more frugal than mine but on the whole, I applaud you so much for having the balls to live your life on your terms. I am frugal and I am trying hard to be less and less of a consumer. I have my failures and my successes but I keep trying as I think too many people have too much and it is absolutely disgusting the amount of stuff that one person can accumulate because they want to live like the Joneses. When you multiply that in a household with families, it can truly be sickening. Sorry that is my opinion. I look around on the blogosphere at so much time, effort and money (even thrifted finds cost money and if you add them up over the year it adds up to quite a lot) that goes into decorating. I only wish that that much effort, time and money would go into helping others instead. My soapbox for the day, lol.

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    1. You are criticising the choices of others, just as Anonymous has criticised Ilona. We have renovated our house on a miniscule budget because we are a low income family. We have rebuilt, plastered, painted, wallpapered, laid carpets, flooring, renovated tatty old furniture,fitted sinks, worktops and doors and we've reused what we could.The only things we paid someone else to do were to fix the deathtrap electrics and to fit a new front door, fascias and gutters to prevent burglary and water penetration, and to repair the roof and chimney, also to prevent water penetration. It has taken a lot of time and effort for us to undertake the rest. I have also spent money on things you would see as fripparies - ornaments, pictures, fabrics - all bought at the carboot sale for pennies to turn what was a rundown house when we bought it, into our home. I also put time and effort into looking after my elderly Mum, donate monthly to the heart charity which helped me, aswell as making an extra donation at Christmas in lieu of sending Christmas cards to anyone. I share the vegetables grown on my allotment with my neighbours. The 'rude Anonymous comments' and your soapbox look very similar from where I'm sitting.

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    2. I think you're being too sensitive. I don't even know you and I haven't read your blog. Read carefully before you throw barbs.

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  40. Hi Ilona.

    I have read your blog for a while now and not commented but want to show my support for your choice of lifestyle. I think people criticise as they want some sort of validation that their way of living is "the right one" and anyone who deviates from that makes them uneasy as it forces them to question the validity of that view.
    I too was brought up with "impeccable manners" but often make bananas and custard in a jug in the microwave and then eat it directly out of the jug, and also (shh, don't tell) wear clothes several times before washing them. I spent a number of unhappy years trying to conform to how I believed I "should" behave (or how others told me I should) but one of the benefits of getting older is that I realise it doesn't really matter as long as you are not hurting anyone else. And anyone reading your blog would realise that no only do you have lots of friends (people you stay with on your travels for instance) but you do so much for others - tidying your village, walking dogs, fostering cats etc. - something we could all do with copying a bit more.

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  41. Please don't disable the Anonymous option Ilona. I have been reading you since you had age 59 on your sidebar. I started leaving comments recently as you feel like a friend to me and I enjoy reading your blog every day. I often read sections out loud to my husband, we specially like the Rocky pics/doings. I love your genius craftwork, gardening and trips/pics. I am so pleased that you intend to carry on the same as always, thats what makes us all read your blog. I could go on and on about why I log in every day!
    Wendy (Wales)

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  42. Hello,
    Sorry, this comment has nothing to do with your blog post, though I do think its really nasty of people to be cruel to you, when you share so much of your life for our benefit.
    I've been reading your blog daily for about a year now, & remember a while back you had some M&S vouchers but couldn't find anything to buy. Well I've just started a new job there, & at the end of the day, we mark all the food with dates due to expire down extremely cheaply, the majority at 10p. Perhaps this could help you spend your vouchers???

    Kia Xxx

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  43. Well we have met you and we know you are a happy person living life your own way, sometimes I think you are a bit potty but potty is fun! Carry on being the way you are Ilona, we love you for it :0)

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  44. Ilona, I like you being you! You are not like everyone else and I love that. I love your individuality, your strength, your humour, the way you get the most out of every day, the way you use things that others would throw away to make something new and useful. I love your resilience, your independence, your kind, kind heart and the way you find the best in every situation. I love the fact that you are frugal for a purpose, which is so that you can afford things you want. I love the fact that, unlike some other frugal bloggers, you DO include some treats in your budget, for treats are important. I look forward to your blog every day and I have learned so much from you.
    We are on a tight budget for food and I experiment to try and feed us a healthy diet on very litle money and sometimes the experiments don't work out too well, but the results are always eaten, sometimes disguised with tinned tomatoes or spices. I am shocked by the amount of food that people I know throw away. Nothing here is ever thrown away, leftovers are always incorporated into the next meal, or frozen to go into a meal another day. I pick and eat what other people call weeds - nettles, dandelion, hairy bittercress, cleavers and others. I call them wild food. They are local,(no food miles) organic and very fresh - on our plate within a few minutes of being picked. I forage for fruit (apples, wild damsons, elderberries, blackberries and more)to help us have our 5-a-day.
    Please carry being just as you are, you are a very special person.

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  45. 45 comments and counting - now who's in the minority?

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  46. P.S. I also love the way that, unlike other bloggers who delete the comments of their trolls, you put them on public display. Trolls thrive in hidden dark places, and shrivel up when exposed to the light of public scrutiny. I always feel that their lives must be very difficult and/or empty for them to find satisfaction in trolling. A bully is a bully no matter where or how they display bullying behaviour, and bullies don't like it if you face up to them.

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  47. Hi, I just wanted to tell you that although I couldn't live as frugally as you, people shouldn't post cruel and nasty comments about your way of life. You are hurting no one and no animals or plants by living so frugally. And if it is alright for you why should they judge. I have been reading your blog for a while and you are not a hypocrite. Some people post frugal advice and then they complain about it etc. You say what you do and you do what you say and you are happy. I admire that. Some of your advice I can apply to my life and circumstances, but some not, the almost no heating would be too much for me. Overall, you are a happy person and this is your life. We shouldn't judge only consider and learn from you.
    alexandra

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  48. you dont have to justify yourself to anyone!!! You are who you are and stay that way, why conform to what other people think.
    love
    Jayne xxxxx

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  49. You go Girl.
    Firget the nay sayers and live the life that you choose.
    Power to you.
    Mary

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  50. Anyone that has followed your blog and/or met you knows that you are living a good life, that you are very happy with the choices you make and you are the most down to earth kind of person anyone could ever meet. I`m impressed by the way you manage on your pension and like all other readers have learnt an awful lot about frugalities I never even considered before. Carry on inspiring us and be who you truely are. Don`t let those intolerent no-marks spoil your fun and brilliant outlook on life. They could do well by going back to schoolto learn a how to behave in cyber space and beyond, me thinks. Social eticette is certainly not one of their strengths. And, as all other comments here show, they are in the minority and not worth worrying about. Their comments don`t matter as we, the true followers still support you and admire your gutsy high spirit. Carry on as ever. You`re ok lass, so don`t worry!!

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  51. Those anonymous comments made me laugh out loud! I love your blog and admire your attitude to life, sod the miserable buggers and their issues, it's your life and no one is forcing them to read your blog! Jan

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  52. All brilliant stuff Ilona. I can understand that people may not want to do all the things you do but I just dont understand why they need to be so bloody rude. I am sitting here wearing a similar amount of layers and a wooly hat (I took my gloves off to type). I am doing this because like most people on a low income I have to make choices. My internet connection is more important to me than heating. We all have different priorities, and thats the way it should be.

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    1. Eileen,
      Cut the fingers out of a pair of old gloves, even the brown work gloves.

      Delete
  53. Ilona I love reading your blog, you are wonderful just the way you are, ignore the critics and know thats lots of us love your blog and love the way you share your life so generously with us.( and I love your food combinations) ((hugs))

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  54. I find that the people who have to do what everyone else is doing are rarely the interesting ones. Keep on being unique, Ilona!

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  55. I love your blog. Take no notice of the critics. Look forward to hearing from you tomorrow.

    Love, Dianne - Hereford

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  56. Just caught up on a few day's posts, I second all your supporters who have already posted. Your life, your money, your choices, not all of them would suit me, but you are not telling me how to live my life, you are just getting on with yours. Keep on having fun, enjoying your travels, being a good friend and neighbour and an animal champion. More power to you. I too was brought up to live and let live.
    Ali.

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  57. All the anonoymous people seem lovely today! Your biggest fans!

    Now don't tell me you don't get a little bit of pleasure winding these people up, knowing they can't cope with your unconventional lifestyle..

    I know I would.

    I, like everyone else, love your blog.

    Maybe they should find a blog about sheep...if we are all meant to follow one another (mind you I wouldn't want the sheep upset, I like sheep).

    Sft x

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  58. OMGosh! I have to remember to click on the comments. Didn't realise there was any drama going on. LOL!
    Ilona you are my hero. You are living my dream life. You have given me some great ideas,lots of laughs, and many 'ahhh' moments with Rocky and the kitties. I always feel cozy and comfortable in your home when I 'visit'. Who with cats doesn't cover their furniture? Don't even get me started on eating out of a pan. Ha! Ha! It really bugs people to see someone living a rich fulfilling life on their own terms. I bet anonymous came upon this site the same way I did a few years back...they were disatisfied with the way life/work was bogging them down and wrote something desperate in the seach line like 'I have too much stuff'. Those negitive posts were tinged with envy. I am glad you don't disable the anonymous feature because I can't remember my password. Cat W. from KCMO

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  59. You are making the life you can on very, very little money. If you had an extra, say, ten thousand a year, what would you spend it on ?
    Sometimes I think it is a bit strange to feed your animals animal protein but not eat it yourself but I guess if you are a vegetarian that figures. I couldnt eat out of pans but I suppose that is the benefit of living alone, you can do what you want.
    You are a glass-half-full kind of person and that is what counts.
    Sometimes people feel threatened if you do things differently from them - insecurity I guess ?

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  60. Oh my word, I'm gobsmacked. Such a lot of amazing comments from a lot of amazing people. I do apologise for not replying to each and every one of you here, I will respond tomorrow with a new post. I am overwhelmed, I need to go to bed and think about it. Thank you everyone.

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  61. Having had the lovely pleasure of meeting you Ilona, I would just like to say that you are delightful and funny. You are the same here on your blog as you are in 'real' life. You are not miserable at all. I have learnt stuff from you. For example tonight I cooked my meal in one pan and ate it out of the pan too.
    As you know I have a bit to go on learning to be frugal, but you never judged me on that.
    I am proud to call you my friend. John x

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  62. Ilona, I'm quite sure you wouldn't like to live my life -- it's very boring and predictable compared to yours. But I'm very happy in it. But then I wouldn't want to live my life the way you do -- too frenetic and living on the edge. But what does it matter if we're different in life-styles? As long as you're happy and are making others happy that's the important thing. I visit your blog and enjoy hearing about someone else's point of view.

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  63. Never stop being yourself, dear Ilona. You are one of the happiest, most contented, creative souls I have ever (not) met. Hugs, Elaine

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  64. Gosh, I can't believe how rude people are ! I love your posts, I don't live the same way as you do in all things, but some things (including rugging up like crazy in winter in a cold house, this is Australia but winter can be cold here too!) I read your blog because I find your frugality inspiring and IMHO you are always so cheerful and get out and enjoy your life, you seem happy with who you are and what you are doing ! good for you. You are an inspiration in many ways and I thank you for it !
    ((())))
    Mabel

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  65. Ilona, I just had to chime in too. I stumbled upon your blog somehow or another a while back and loved it so much I went back to the beginning and read your entire blog! Love it! I meet you here every. :)

    While I'm here I will tell you a story I think you might like. I live in the country (in the US) and someone dumped a dog off by my house. My first response was to run it off (I know I'm horrible), but then I thought of you and all the good you do for animals so I feed it. It was straving, poor thing. Needless to say she has a home with me now. She is so sweet and loveable! I named her Rue. :)

    Hope to see you here same time same place tomorrow! :)

    Lindy

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  66. That should read, I meet you here "every day". ha.

    Lindy

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  67. Good on you. Live life on your own terms.

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  68. After checking my e-mails, my next port of call is to your blog Ilona:) I love reading your posts, you are a little ray of sunshine who has a huge heart♥ So many wonderful comments. You are truly an inspiration to many Ilona. Linda xxx

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  69. Great answers Ilona. You are being a good steward of the things God has blessed you with. You are rich indeed. Sorry you were called ridiculous for being wise with your money.

    If you were living in a house hoarded with garbage and collecting your own waste in bags(think Hoarders on A&E)then and only then could you be called ridiculous.

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  70. Hi Ilona I have finally caught up on your complete blog and I have to say you come across as a kind, independent and happy soul with great life skills. I love that you are frugal so that you can go out and about walking and doing things that you really enjoy. Sometimes I am quite envious that you can choose to do exactly as you want. I still have sons at home and husband. One thing your blog has made me realise is that living alone can be happy and joyful and productive. I was always a bit worried about ending up alone but now feel that I would be okay if that eventuated. You are an inspiration and I thought of you this morning as I ate my porridge out of the pan that I cooked it in.
    Love Sandy in NZ

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  71. Wow, it sure is easy to criticize when one leaves no true ID! I love your blog, you lead a full life and who should give a rats behind what others think! I go by Cheapchick and blog but my real name is Tammy :)

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  72. Ilona, to thine own self be true...love your blog, especially Rocky and Henry.

    Oh, I'm Deb from Hernando MS USA

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  73. Ilona I love reading your blog every day...your spirit and joy with life are impossible to resist...making do with less is a fun challenge...I have you to thank for keeping me on track most of the time...I ask myself what you would do...

    What sad lives those folks must have to take the time to criticize you...

    Living alone I'm happy to dress like a bag lady and eat soup from the pan...who cares??? the house and I clean up nicely when it's called for...

    Anyone would be lucky to call you friend!

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  74. Hi Ilona Great reading your latest coments. Be your own person stand by what you believe, not what other people think you should be. Good on you!!!. Kind Regards Jean

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  75. Hi Ilona, I love your blog and look forward to reading it every day, it always makes me thankful that wonderful, warm-hearted people like yourself exist. You are an inspiration and your love of 'getting out and making the most of every day' always shines through. Thank you for kindly sharing with us so many useful frugal ideas; for allowing us to feel as though we are with you on your walking journeys and for being there for the many animals who are fortunate enough to find you.
    Warmest wishes
    Deb - Far North Queensland - Australia

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  76. If your blog was a moany-moany-grumble-grumble kind of blog, then possibly the comments you've addressed here from Anonymous might have some value. However, to me, it is clear that you are living your life in a way that suits you, in a way that you enjoy,and in a way that can teach the rest of us quite a lot about consumerism and waste. While I wouldn't want to live how you live, I can admire you for choosing this route and I can learn things too. You give to your friends, you don't (I am guessing) suffer fools and, above all, you CARE for the environlment, for animals, and, I think, for yourself. Thank you for what you are teaching us.

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  77. How can anyone that actually reads your Blog think that you live a mean and miserable existence.

    Your home may be basic, but it and your heart is full of love for your (and everyone else's) cats and dogs. There is always a plate of something hot and filling, there is always the warmth of snuggly blankets and cuddles to be had.

    You write with a sense of fun and joi de vivre and these Anonymouses are clearly not seeing that, they must be so bogged down in their little consumerist and conformist worlds.

    Keep up the good work and the brilliant writing Ilona and keep telling the Trolls exactly where to get off.

    Sue xx

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  78. Wow what a response Love reading your blog Lots of people feel as I do you are a friend to us all and I for one would be very lonley without you. Thanks for being you.Ivy.PS I dont have an account so I am Anon

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  79. Great comebacks Ilona. As for those "what will your friends think" type of argument, well if those so-called friends are judgemental and materialistic enough to judge unfairly about your home decor and lifestyle, then they are not true friends. I say good day and good riddance!

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  80. Live and let live, I say. As long as you are happy, that's all that matters. I will never be as frugal as you are but that has never stopped me from reading and enjoying your blog. Cheers Judy xx

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  81. Keep on living as you want to. Britain is known for it's eccentricity and to me that means living life the way you want to. As long as nobody else is hurt by it then what does it have to do with anyone?

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  82. Eccentricity rules OK! Keeping being yourself, which of course you will do as you are not beholden to anyone, or their ideas.

    I have only had heating on once, for 2 hours after I had sat on a cold train for two hours on Saturday evening and husband who had picked me up had sat outside in the freezing cold waiting for me. He also works all day in a huge unheated industrial building which he can't afford to heat and as he is dealing with metal, feels the cold awfully. Still, back to the gas fire at moment until it gets cold again.

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  83. Well, I've just been through a terrible hurricane here in the Northeast USA (NJ) and I can tell you that nothing matters but the people you love. Being safe is key. I wasn't thinking about any material objects during the storm. The only thing I was thinking about was my family and that they were kept safe. We got lucky and the only thing we didn't have the next morning was power. We were so happy that nothing horrible happened to us that we laughed out loud about not having power. We had batteries and put a portable radio on to hear what was going on. We had candles and some food and water which was alot more than some people had. We had no flooding in our basement but others had horrible flooding and even washed away homes. So, Ilona, I think we can say that nothing material matters much and that if you are happy with your life and the way you live it, go for it! Love your blog and read it all the time. Keep doing your thing every day and you will be happy the rest of your life. There will always be people with not much to do I guess who can't stand the fact that you are happy with your life and they are not. I try not to judge anyone and try to live like that every day. Great chatting with you.

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  84. I've had to come on again as re reading the negative comments about the way you live plus eating out of pans. I had to stifle a giggle as no one mentioned your slippers which even you had a pop at. Hilarious. I know you can laugh at yourself as well.

    Never ever stop writing as you lift my spirits

    Midlands annie

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  85. I aspire to be like you, Ilona, what a lovely life. I have a husband so am not 'allowed' to be so wonderfully frugal. But we do live on a joint income of less than a £1,000 a month and manage quite comfortably, so am part way there. Well done, Ilona, I worship you.

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  86. all this makes me hoot with laughter. No one has truly read the original string of comments. Quite a number of commentators kindly hinted that the taped slippers were dangerous - I also meant Illona would be frozen to the core if she unfortunately ended up in hospital if she slipped, as she could be lay in a cold house until help arrived - not that hospitals weren't heated. But people read what they want to read. Nowehre did I suggest that Illona wasn't kind, happy or fulfilled, but I can see the ambulance mens/womens expressions when they entered the kitchen full of boys pants drying on every kitchen knob. Trust me, I've helped deal with and empty some sad homes along the years.
    BTW, I lead a lovely frugal life and retired at 53 as I was debt free and I had helped my daughter train to be a midwife then a health visitor. My days are happy and fulfilled - I have a rescue dog and 3 rescue rabbits abandoned on the side of the road and local hillsides. I just don't choose to eat from a pan. end of.


    Anna the anon

    Anna

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    1. Give it up Anna the anon. You are in the minority - and why are you still on this site anyway ? You've had your say(s) now toddle off and find a site that is more to your liking. WE like this one and the lovely lady who owns it.

      Tara the Anon !

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    3. Helping your niece through medical school is relevant because? Totally unrelated to this thread.

      Your previous comment showed exactly the sort of person you are - you didn't need to say you're uncouth, your language confirmed it. Totally uncalled for. Bad language is used by uneducated morons who are unable to express themselves without swearing.

      In respect for Ilona I'm not going to make further comments on this post, morons have hijacked it for their own satisfaction. Although I'm surprised that Ilona didn't delete your original comment, I wouldn't have thought she approved of your comment due to it's content.



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    4. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  87. Anna the anon: it was more hilarity-causing that you and others felt Ilona needed to read your thoughts, than the actual thoughts themselves. Even in clarifying your original comment, the need to prove yourself by the success of your daughter flummoxes me. What does one have to do with another. Be at peace, Anna...one of the anony-mice.

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  88. Oh Wow, what strange people! Wonder why they think like this. I am NOT putting the heating on until I'm freezing my absolute knobs off, and I expect you feel the same, Ilona. What do they think people used to do back in the day?? It's called insulation!

    I'm sure you won't let the negative comments get to you! :)

    Hehe, I'm still smiling at the comments, they're quite entertaining!

    P.S. I think your home looks fun, not cheerless!

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  89. I'm an environmental scientist Ilona and I'd like to commend you on your frugal/non consumerist ways. If only every body else would wake up and smell the coffee , stop buying crap they can very well do without and take care of the planet a bit more. P.s keep being you I think you're wonderful and your blog really makes me smile . Julie

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  90. I'll happily add to this to get the comments up to 100. This is a blog, and expresses Ilona's own opinions if people don't like them then they don't have to read them. I'm a self confessed fan of Ilona's straight forward approach to life and know her well enough to know her life is full of joy and very much of her own choosing. Keep doing exactly what you want Ilona and we'll happily keep reading about it.

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  91. great blog ilona, as i've said before. keep it up. ann, edinburgh

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  92. Just want to add my $.02 worth (USA). I read your blog every day, and if you posted three times a day I would read it. I envy you your walks; you have such interesting places to visit in England, and think you are a nice person. Looking forward to seeing what you do next.

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  93. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  94. I love your blog im 25 and really enjoy reading the things you do. i think you have some great ideas and although some of them may not be for everyone it doesn't matter! If we were all the same the world would be a boring place!! I often use grey water to flush the toilet with we live in Australia and water is often scarce in summer especially in the country were most people have rain water tanks and are not connected to the mains. It costs a lot to get your tank refilled if there's no rain so making every drop count matters :) Keep doing as your doing :)

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  95. I cannot believe those anonymous you spoke of and answered their comments. You do look a little strange all wrapped up. But, so do I when it gets cold enough. I wrap up because it saves on heat. Honestly, when it is terrible cold in February, I cannot get the house warm. I wear a hooded jacket in the house sometimes.

    My sofa is covered with a velvet cover I made from upholstery gotten cheap. Before that purchase, I used a pink bedspread...tacky look, but I had it! My sofa is horrendously worn, so I am not saving it; I am hiding it. Why would anyone care how your covered sofa looks. It seems like the British with their love of indoor animals use more coverings on their sofas.

    Your strange food? And, anonymous,what's your point? I remark sometimes that Ilonaa's combinations are strange, but even Americans think my peanut butter, Miracle Whip, and banana sandwiches are weird. Your toast spaghetti and scrambled egg picture made me gag, but it is your right to eat what you wish. I would have eaten the egg and then the spaghetti separately. If it suits your palate, who am I to excoriate you?

    And, I have eaten from a small iron skillet, right from it, no plate. But, it is not something I do anymore, well not often. I just wanted my food to stay hot in a frigid house. It is my house and my money, so unless someone wants to come and pay to heat my house, shutup. I hope my remarking on a strange combination is seen as a remark and not criticism.

    I actually cannot stand a hot house. I become ill. A house a bit warmer than I have would be nice.

    You are right. We lay waste our powers, spending and getting. Recognize that? "The World is Too Much With Us" Wordsworth. The only people who can save this planet's resources are we individuals.

    I can no longer carry buckets or do many things I have done in the past to save resources. Hopefully, after I have back surgery, things will change.

    People criticize me for not using tp, keeping hens for eggs, washing my car in the rain, and various other parsimonious and earth-friendly practices.

    Of course, other people may think I am just another strange, old lady defending you...lol.

    Often, I leave anonymous posts that are just so silly.

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  96. Good on you Ilona for living the life you want to live and sod anyone that doesn't like it....

    If I lived on my own I would probably live a lot like you do but my hubby wouldn't allow it and we have to have the heating on as I suffer with Osteoarthritis and need the warmth in my bones or else i suffer something wicked with pain,so we have to pay the huge price for that comfort but save money in other ways...

    I have followed your blog for a couple of years along with Frugal Queens and they are both at the top of my favourites list...

    Please ignore those nasty people because you are an inspiration to many of us as we stuggle through life with lifes challenges and I admire the fact that both you, FQ, and many other bloggers have shaved off large amounts from your mortgages/paid off debts etc,through your frugality...

    Keep up the good work and I shall enjoy reading your posts and comments for a long time to come...

    Wendyx {Havn't got a Google Account}

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  97. I for one am slightly jealous of your so-called "cheerless comfortless life". You are not beholden to any employer, your time is your own, you to have fantastic adventures. And you can do this because you don't waste your money keeping up appearances and you count your pennies.

    And let's face it, if you were not so original, we all wouldn't keep coming back to read your blog. It's your originality and quirkiness and great sense of fun that makes you one of my daily blog reads. And why you get invited to speak to different groups.

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  98. The truth is Ilona those 'ignorant people' are just so jealous of your lifestyle. Which is honest, frugal, happy, wonderfully fulfilling and sometimes eccentric and kind to animals. What else can I say.
    Tell them to get stuffed or even better get lost.

    From Shelly and her ginger tom, kitty I found in the front garden, her elderly confused dog and the special needs dog. Not forgetting the elderly rabbit. . .

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  99. Well, Ilona, are there not some absolute tossers in this world?
    You are you and I for one love you and your lifestyle and find you informative, funny, loving and not a 'planet robber', my words for what most people are these days including my nearest and dearest but, i love them too!
    I'm considered weird, i myself call me 'different'. It would be a sad old world to all be the same wouldn't it? Having said that, I do wish people would stop and think what their consumerism is doing to the planet....
    As for anonymusses...i guess they are entitled to their opinion like anyone else, but, they do piss me off a bit LOL!

    In the words of Billy Joels' song, Don't go changing, just to please me....You please yourself!

    Hugs,

    Sandie xx

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  100. I watch my pennies as much as I can do. However I would not be able to be as extreme in my moneysaving activities as you are Ilona, nor would I want to be, but you are not doing anyone any harm, so really, it's nobody's business how you choose to live. There's no need for folks to be rude, good luck to you, you seem to be very happy. I like to read moneysaving blogs, sometimes I get advice which is relevent to me, sometimes not, so I will just read away and let the person get on with things as they like, that's what I say! Read it if you like, if you don't move on to the next blog and LIVE AND LET LIVE.

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  101. The hell with them all Ilona, keep on trucking I say - it works for you. Also people are enriched by you sharing your experiences, animals are rescued by you and because you inspire others to be kind to animals and the world loses a little less of it's resources because of the way you live, I say that if you wanted to eat off the floor, let alone out of pans, you're one of the most civilised people I know!

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  102. Did you live this when you were a truck driver? You must of spent money some where/some time as that is a good paying job. You have no savings! no kids! where has the money gone?

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  103. Anonymous. It's none of your business.

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  104. I love your blog Ilona, it brought it home to me that I don't have to wait for other people to solve my problems, I can do it myself. I used to get annoyed at all the litter in my village until I read how you dealt with it - and now I pick it up myself. As to the money, well you can only spend it once, if you want to spend it on walking holidays and looking after homeless animals - good for you :) I don't have a google account so I'm anonymous Sou.

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  105. Live and let live I say! I have stumbled across blogs etc that I either did not think were interesting or which contained sentiments etc with which I did not agree so I don't follow them! Some people just seem to want to be antagonistic, pity they cannot be more positive about life!

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  106. I think that you are an amazingly talented and creative lady. You are an inspiration to so many people in a time of hardship during this recession. Everyone has their own ideas and levels when it comes to frugality but everyone gets to choose how and when to be a saver. You march to your own beat and have embraced individuality.Your obvious fan base is a testament to your cheeriness and passion for getting the most out of life on a very tight budget. I think that what some folk fail to see is that for the frugally-minded we get a kick out of making do and mending and do not feel ashamed of our lifestyle choices and do not feel it is deprivation but embrace our sense of achievement! I send very best wishes and thanks for the sharing of your life and your fabulous photographic talent.

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  107. Some people have nothing better to do than judge/compare others lifestyles to their own. I also think its inappropriate to do so on a blog. A blog is primarily for the writer and Ilona you find so much pleasure in writing how you feel on YOUR blog. I don't think you are tight or miserable, I see someone who is careful with their money. You love to get in the car and go away a few days here and there. How could you do that if you weren't careful. Your friends know you Ilona and respect you too, so you have it made. Oh and yes us lot think you have some great ideas and I when I think of ILONA...I a smiling happy face. :)

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  108. I'm a long term lurker & MSE'er here Ilona - like the others just wanted to add my support. You are an inspiration and a voice of reason in our horrid consumerist world. So long as you and your pets are happy that is all that matters. You tell 'em!

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  109. Well that's put them in their place! Brilliant post.

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  110. Hi hope it is not too late to reply, My life is very different to yours, I have husband, grown children and grandchildren, but my lifestyle is very similar to yours. I am called many names but I rose above these people many years ago. I despise waste and if I find something useful on my daily walks I take it home and if I can't use it I try to think who can use it and give it to them or I donate it too charity. I often wonder what the word 'normal' means as people often say 'they are not normal'. Our 'careful lifestyle' allowed us to leave the workforce young and allows us to travel in our now caravan at our leisure. Most days I read your blog and then Frugal Queen because you both live frugally but differently. Frugal Queen loves to cook and you do not. I like to cook frugally but also like to find bargains and use them as a base for my cooking.
    Keep blogging and I will keep reading.
    PS I can't get into trouble for not heating my home as I am fortunate to live in Queensland Australia where heating is unnecessary and just on the odd occasion we run our air conditioning (usually only for a several hours each summer)
    Melinda

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  111. Hi Ilona.
    You certainly have my support your blog is one of my favourite's.
    I really look forward to reading it and you are an inspiration.
    You answered your critics admirably considering "they" were so rude. If they don't like your blog why even bother to write in the comments.. I could say a lot more but won't waste my time on negs.
    And I for one do not want to be normal it's sooo boring lol.

    Evie

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  112. Oh my gosh Ilona, you shouldn't have to put up with this stuff. Don't you just hate it how just because we do things differently from what someone else thinks is the norm, they get all troubled? The reason you have 500+ followers on your blog is because people admire your ways and incredible resourcefulness. Don't change a thing.

    You know what? I was a bit down the other day and when I saw that picture of you on the couch with those slippers, it made my day haha!

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  113. I just love it and you...live how you like...if people want to read a blog on consumerism, fashion, home decoration or makeup, I am sure there are plenty out there but they are here on your blog. And you do have a readership. My blog gets hardly any visitors, so you must be doing something right. And you are also very civil to your detractors. You should skip along to Frugal Queen's blog as she is exceptionally insulting to anyone who disagrees with her. She has toned it down of late since she had a nasty scare that nearly ended up at the lawyers.

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  114. Hi Ilona - this is a couple of years later from when you first posted this post, but
    I had to leave a comment nevertheless.

    I admire you greatly -- I love that you don't care about how others see you. Some of
    those posters sounded horribly judgmental - you're living a sweet, simple life and if
    they can't see the beauty in that (and in your wonderful individualism) then who cares
    what they think!

    :) Keep up all the wonderful work you do on this blog. I've told you before and I'm sure
    I'll tell you again - your blog is a wonderful place to come and linger and learn and see
    so many sights that I'll never likely see firsthand (your travels, I mean.)

    Big hugs from across the sea in Canada,
    Christina

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  115. Keep being you Ilona and ignore the critics. As for eating out of a pan I can one up you there, my partner and I sit on the sofa in dressing gowns under duvets with 2 forks eating dinner from the same pan!Hahaha, no one see's us and we are both disabled, it is a struggle enough to cook a meal, nevermind having to wash up plates! :)

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