Money expert Clark Howard's "Living Large in Lean Times" is a resource with 250+ tips on how to save money and spend wisely during these challenging times. In his "Improve your Personal Finances in One Week" challenge, he recommends you do the following:

1) Switch to internet-based phone service.
Many have ditched their land-line entirely, and as long as you have an internet connection, you can get good service from a provider like Ooma.com.

2) Get your prescription eyeglasses online.
For as little as $7 per pair, you can find prescription sunglasses and regular glasses through the ZenniOptical service.

3) Find and clip coupons from the Sunday paper.
In the main section, the comics, or in the lifestyle magazine, search for coupons for groceries, clothes, and your other desired necessities. Howard suggests getting additional copies of the newspaper for more coupons.

4) Make your razors last by drying them off.
The moisture left behind will degrade the quality of the blade, so if you wipe them down after shaving, the razor will be effective for a longer timeframe. Howard uses his for a year!

5) Don't purchase the extended warranty, because for certain items, it's not needed.
Howard suggests that electronic items (TV's, DVD's, and the like) rarely break, and these devices last a long time with minimal problems. Also, if you use a credit cards, the card issuer will sometimes include their own warranty, so you don't have to buy the manufacturer's extended warranty.

Give me an idea on how you've saved money this last year by tweeting me. I'll collect the best into a resource on our website.

Photo by The Intrepid Traveler