Pets, plants help her cut monthly bills
Corin Ocasio has turned to four-legged friends to help her save money in tight economic times.
She recently opted to cancel her home security service to cut costs.
(Richard A. Chapman/Sun-Times)
"I have two dogs," said Ocasio, a secretary who lives in Crystal Lake. "I figure they're security enough."
That move has translated into a $33-per-month savings. She's also dropped the pet insurance.
"I'll just have to take my chances," she said in hoping Steele and China avoid illness or injury.
That's saving her $27 per month.
Ocasio said she's also taken up gardening to cut costs. She planted tomatoes, cucumbers and cilantro.
"This is the first time in my entire life that I decided to plant vegetables," she said. "I figure any little bit can help."
Corin and her husband, Juan, an engineer, also have zeroed in on telephone costs, relying solely on cell phones, saving $45 to $50 per month.
Dining out is also out.
"That's a big savings of about $100 per week, sometimes more," she said, adding, "no more soda, no more junk food."
How are you saving money? Write to psmith@suntimes.com