I would suggest getting a visa backed debit card (most major banks offer those) - I know of no purchase nowadays that HAS to have a credit card. Its way too easy to make higher priced purchases when you have a comfort zone of a credit card. Only pay cash - period. In the 6 months since we stopped using credit cards, hubby & I have found many many purchases we could cut back on because we thought twice about spending the cold hard cash (we found out those purchases weren't truly "necessary" at all).
I would also suggest paying the $50 towards your credit cards instead of mortgage - especially if you have a high interest rate (have you checked on having the rates reduced??). Unsecured debt should be gotten rid of first and foremost.
Do you have ceiling fans? Ceiling fans make a place cooler with less electricity. Do you have an automatic / programable thermostat? The 39$ one we got at lowes last summer was the best purchase we've made for our house by far (for winter and summer savings).
Have you examined any unecessary fees? Bank fees, ATM fees, miscellaneous fees, late fees, maintenance fees, over the limit fees, overdraft fees, unneeded cell phone service add ons (i.e. unlimited text messaging), electronic phone voice mail for land line fees.... all of this stuff is uneeded and can save you a bundle!
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