emerys westacott explores the history of frugali frugality in his book and interviewed by michelle singleta singletary. >> i am so thrilled to be talking to you about your wonderful book, totally enjoyed it. i would like to start by asking you the simple question what is frugality? >> well as i say in the book, the concept of simplicity is not all that simple. frugality is usually understood to mean living within ones means, living on very view resources, savings being the opposite to the extravagant. but i began to realize there is more to frugality than that. frugality is considered a virtue in many cultures but it is closely associated with simple living and there is many different meanings of simple living including living within one's means, but achieving self-sufficiency, being close to nature, and being independent, enjoying the simple pleasures of life rather than requiring extravagant expenditures. >> you are a penny pincher yourself; right? >> i am rather. my family will vouj for that. i think it is worthwhile spending money on something that you really enjoy that is really valuable for you.

emerys westacott explores the history of frugali frugality in his book and interviewed by michelle singleta singletary. >> i am so thrilled to be talking to you about your wonderful book, totally enjoyed it. i would like to start by asking you the simple question what is frugality? >> well as i say in the book,