3. Trade it
• If you'd love an evening out but can't afford to pay for both a movie and a babysitter, get a friend or neighbour to watch your kids and pick a date to do the same for her.
• Want to travel? Instead of breaking the bank on accommodation, swap houses with a friend in a different city. Not only will you save money, but you'll probably find it more comfortable staying in somebody's home than jamming the whole family into a small hotel room.
4. Borrow it
If you've had a baby, you know that not only is the stuff that comes with them costly, it's also big. Exersaucers, playpens, high chairs and baby swings are all space-eating devices you use for a limited time and then wonder where to put until the next baby comes along. If you ask to borrow items like these, you may be surprised at how many people would rather lend them out than stuff them in a corner of the basement to collect dust. Take care of anything you borrow and return it by the agreed-upon time, and you can probably count on being offered it again the next time you need it.
Pay it forward
Remember that OshKosh snowsuit Hall received for her daughter? She'll take care of it and pass it on to somebody else next year. So be prepared to offer what you can, and in return, you'll be amazed what you can pick up without shelling out a single penny. And finally, remember -- a heartfelt thank-you goes a long way.
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