What have you done (sacrifices) to save for a down payment?

[Spenser Murphy]

I want to start investing in real estate bad. I still need to save up a 25% down payment. I'll do whatever it takes to save up $40k. I've cutback on eating out almost entirely and downgraded my internet to a much cheaper package. I'll applying for second jobs to work part-time in the evenings. I've talked to the only person I know with money, the Bank of Dad. He would invest with me, but he plans to retire in a year. At the moment, I'm on my own. I know there are creative financing options. However, you still need some startup capital for repairs, fees, etc. Instead of giving up, I'm going to grind harder. My question for you is, what have you done/doing to get started in REI?