1. turn your AC up til it is warm, but comfortable
2. I drive one of my daugters cars, instead of my Suburban; 25+ miles per gallon as opposed to 12-14 MPG.
3.water just enough to keep your yard green.

My dad and cousin fed the whole extended family out of a 1 acre plot and gave a lot of it away. Farming is hard work but if you make a small manageable-sized plot, it is doable I grew corn and pole beans for a number of years. Hydroponic is easy and low maintenance too. It is perfect for those who live in an apartment.

We have 5 kids and a family friend living with us, so we don't have to split our Costco bulk purchases. You might consider going to the local wholesale produce market. You can split the produce up with your neighbors. it is amazing how much markup there is by your local grocery store.

Charlie