Weekend Fun and Easter

 Hello to all wherever you are.  I hope you are all doing well this Thursday.  It is a cooler morning, but still around 50*.  We must have had some rain super early as everything was wet this morning.  We did not get all the rain they said yesterday - although we did get some.  It was windy and will be again later today.  It is a little foggy this morning.  We get back to about 80* today.

By Easter evening we will get back to below freezing!  The weather, it sure does change quickly.

Everything is so green around here - it sure is lovely compared to all the brown, dead and white we saw over the winter.  The tulips blowing in a breeze!  My peonies are about 6-8 inches tall.  I have some violets in my yard, but a neighbor a few doors down has a front yard full of them.  Every time I walk, I just stop and stare - it is so pretty to me.

Do you have plans for the Easter weekend?

I will be going to my nieces for dinner and will be with brother's family.  I am planning on making some kid friendly goodies to take.  I think Cheerio/M&M marshmallow krispies.

Looks like Sunday will be rain free - but rain off and on until then.

Do you make anything special for the meal on Easter?  

Mom used to make ham every year.  Most people I know do make ham.  They are pretty cheap right now - .75 -.85/lb.  I sure hope that people add some to their freezers while they are cheaper.  A great source of protein, and frugal!

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A funny memory:  When I was a little one (maybe 4 or 5), my eldest brother bought me a couple chicks for Easter.  My parents were not amused!  He was notorious for getting things that others had to take care afterwards.  They lived on the back porch when little.  One died quickly, but the other grew up and lived outdoors.  It grew up to be a rooster!  That rooster hated me - LOL.  It would chase me around and around the house, pecking at me all the while as I cried and yelled and ran from it.  It did not do that to anyone else (all adults) - but me.  Yes, it was my chicken, but I wasn't fond of it.  

One day it suddenly disappeared - folks said it got hit by a car.  Hmmmmm, I wonder now as an adult, did he become dinner?  We didn't have much traffic on our road at all, so maybe that was a good excuse for them to use.

 Moral - animals for gifts at holidays are not always a good idea!!!!

I hope you all have a lovely Easter and weekend.  Enjoy time with family or friends if you can, and spend time being thankful for all blessings bestowed upon us.  

God is good.

Have a wonderful day!

Nature and Natural is so Good!

 Hello all.  HAPPY APRIL!  I surely hope this finds all well and safe.

It is a cloudy morning here, as rain will be coming soon.  It was supposed to rain overnight - but did not.  It was 60*F outside when I got up this morning, and now it is 59*.  50's for the day - then moving back to upper 70's tomorrow.  What a seesaw.  Yesterday was 80.  That is spring weather!

You all know I am all about natural living as much as possible.  I love nature, and it gives us so much.  Not only does nature provide us with plants that can help us, but it gives joy and laughter and whimsy in our lives.  Those things are so very important.

I believe this 100%.  I know there are many that have to take medications, but even you need to do as much as possible on the natural front to improve and manage health.

Exercise is so important, even if it is just walking.  If you can't walk - do armchair exercises of some sort.  Gardening can be exercise and it provides good healthy food. Maybe even getting out and donating your time, that is exercise, going to work, watching the kiddos - it is all exercise.

God has given us everything we need on this earth.  We just need to use it to our best ability.

People and animals and plants and flowers, etc.  give so much joy.  It is all so very important.

I know some people who are never happy with anything or anyone - always negative attitudes, and they are miserable and have the worst health of all that I know.  

We get one go around in this world - make it good.  Enjoy ALL things.

Eat the good food.  Laugh heartly.  Love your family and friends.  Rest.  Pray/meditate.   Move.

It is all FREE and it is all GOOD for you!!!!!

Nature is amazing and can do so much for us.  Fresh air and sunshine - my 2 favorite natural things.

The sun just does so much for us - not just Vit. D.  Open those blinds and let it inside when possible, or get outside and you will get both fresh air and sunlight.  Even if it not a bright sunny day - you benefit.  

I am outside 365 days a year - several times a day - regardless of the weather.  It may not be long, but at least 15-minute increments even on those nasty days.  Knock wood - I seem to have an excellent immune system, for which I am very thankful.  I do believe the sun and air have given me that!

So take time every day to enjoy all the many gifts that are presented before you.  There are many, regardless of your situation.  You may have to look (be aware), but they are there - so many blessings of all sorts.  Take advantage of nature - it is healthy and helpful.

Take care of yourselves and have a beautiful and blessed day.

Working Smarter.....

 Hello to all on this Tuesday.  Hoping this finds everyone well and safe.

It is a lovely morning here.  We were at 66* upon rising this morning.  It is partially cloudy - but nice.  Yesterday was a perfectly beautiful day - although it was windy!  Coming in tonight is rain, and we will probably have a good chance of such for the next 4 days.  Cooler as well.

Sitting here with the windows open already, listening to the birds sing.  All the kitties have been fed, and the birds and squirrels as well.  Bits is loving the fresh air. 

 

    Tiny, single hyacinth stems (been here 40 years) - but they still smell like the big ones!

You have all heard the old saying 'work smarter, not harder'.  Boy oh boy, is that the truth.  You will each one find, that as you get older, finding an easy and good way is just SMART!  It is true in about everything in life.

When doing baking, utilize that oven to its full extent.  Don't just bake one thing, make several things - not only does it save time in the future, but is saves on energy costs as well.

Cook enough for more than one meal.  You can eat during the week, or you can freeze and have a nice easy meal at some later date - when you just don't feel like cooking.  You can use for lunches as well.

When doing that big clean - do it in small steps.  I like the 15 - 30 minutes at a time style.  You don't get super frustrated, you don't get really tired, you don't get bored.  Do your stuff, then move on to something fun (set outside or read) and then come back and go at it again.

When grocery shopping - stock up on things you use often.  Look around your pantry and freezer and figure what is running low and add that to your list.  Look for the best deals that you can find - you can still find deals (you see the deals I find).  The less shopping you have to do, the better.  You are saving time and money and your energy.  

When cooking, use what you HAVE!  Substitute, re-invent, get creative.  It may means changing up your plans, but that is cool - you are being wise.  That is smart!

I love the idea of 'growing' some of your food.  Even if green onions or lettuce in a pot on the patio.  It is fresh and you don't have to buy it.  Plant a tomato plant in a big pot on the patio - you will enjoy freshness daily!  That is smart to me!

I have told the story before, about the fact that my laundry is in the basement.  I have fairly steep steps going down.  I empty by laundry hamper upstairs into a large pillowcase, then I toss that down the steps into the basement.  It sure keeps me from losing my footing carrying laundry down those steps.  I then hang things and fold things before coming back up - and do it in smaller increments.  Sure, it is more trips - but I feel safer.  ALSO, in have learned (ask me how) - NEVER wear slippers when going down those steps!!!!!  Go in stocking feet!!  Much smarter for me!

Use things you have around the house and garage when cleaning or changing the look of things.  Just shifting items from room to room can make the decor look different.  Use unusual things in the garage or shed for yard decorations or for plantings.  Make your own cleaning products using things you have on hand.

Paint a room - it makes all the difference, instead of a total redecorating.  It refreshes and feels new.  Cheaper and less work than buying and getting rid of old furniture.  Use throws or covers to refresh older furniture.  Add toss pillows and things to change a look.  So many ways to refresh things just are just easy.

Yesterday I made a trip to Menards - to look for some 'helper' tools.  Over the past few years, I have added some new 'toys' to make life a bit easier and cheaper over time.  As long as I can continue to do things, I will.  I can afford to hire things out, but it gives me such a feeling of accomplishment to do it myself, and it is all FREE exercise!  Think the pressure washer, the lighter weight trimmer, the new mower, etc. over the past few years.

I finally got myself a small blower (battery operated & lightweight).  I have had to rake and rake everything from leaves to grass - that is hard work.  My arms and back get so tired.  I will be able to use this whenever I need to and not be over worked.  (I see using this on gutters too).

I also bought something I had not intended - but something I will surely use.

Over the past 2 or 3 years I have gardened doing the no till method.  I have a little Mantis (very old) - but it needs work and it is hard for me to start.  No till sounds easy - but it is a LOT of work working the soil some (you still need to work it).  I have used the Claw and Weasel.  Trust me those are hard work!!!!!  Yesterday I bought a small, lightweight, battery operated mini tiller!!!!  It has an 8" wide girth and digs a good 6" deep or so - better than the Weasel.  I can go over and over an area with ease now.  I can use this between plants easily, use in much smaller areas, and heck I can even easily turn over dirt in my large pots!  It has a 90-minute use time and then needs recharging.  Sounds perfect.  We will see - but I am excited.

It wasn't a bad price at all - and I get 11% back from rebates!

As I age, working smarter not harder is very important.  I love being able to keep going and taking care of things here, but I need a hand up sometimes.  This body does NOT operate even the same as it did 5-10 years ago.  I am sure many of you can understand what I am saying.

So, as you do things around the house and yard - stop for a couple minutes and THINK.  How can I do this in a way to help me now and in the future.

There is always a smarter way!

Stay independent as long as possible - it is so important.  Not only does it do your soul and mind and body good - but it is also just smart!

Work smarter - not harder!!!!!

What are some of your tricks - I am eager to learn some new ones!

Have a beautiful day!
 

Weekly Wrap Up 3/29

 Hello all - Happy Palm Sunday.  Here we are on the last Sunday of the month again.  Time sure is flying by.

It was 36*F this morning when I got up and now up to 42*.  Looks like 60's and 70's for the remainder of the week, with a bit of rain on many days.

Loved going out this morning and hearing the beautiful songs of all the birds, geese flying over and honking hello, and just seeing the world come back to life.  There are more and more birds each week.  Cowbirds, red-wing blackbirds, variety of woodpeckers, grackles, finches, cardinals, bluejays, etc..  The tulips are blooming now.  Chucky the groundhog even made an appearance one day - came out and surveyed the yard and then disappeared again.  Can't imagine it will stick around with all the cats here - they say they don't like the 'smell' from kitties and their urine.

Sis should get to go back home sometime later in the week.  She will be back home in time for her 95th birthday.  She will have extra help for a week or two just to get back into the normal ways of semi-independent living.  So happy for her.

My frugal week:

• Worked on the front 'flower' bed across the front of the house.  I moved a bunch of rock and then worked on reseating the metal trim/edging - then all the rock back in place.  It was a straight edge before - I made it curving this time.  
• Cleaned out the area between the garage and the fence - tons of leaves were there. It looks so much better
• Transplanted my chives from where they have been for years 
• Took apart and emptied a really old and dilapidated whiskey barrel (where chives had lived)
• Got one good load of laundry done with the 'empty' soap bottle.  Amazing how much soap was left in that seemingly empty bottle when turned upside down
• Used dehumidifier water in laundry
• Changed out handbag
• Taxes are done - quick and painless
• Mowed the front yard (back is still good) - started something - the next day 6 close by neighbors did the same!
• I have trimmed sections of my hair over the last couple weeks - it still looked rough - so I took the time to do a good cut and now it looks nice and even
• Picked wild onions
• Cleaned all the floors really well
• A few walks
• After taxes were done, I stopped at grocery just to see if any deals.  Found several (only day I drove)

  Fresh goods on clearance.  Got the juice drink for flavoring my water.

                          Crackers - I eat crackers often and like these.  They are all 'best by' 12/26

80% ground beef 3.06 lb. (2), pork/beef Italian meatballs $3.16 lb. (1), 8 oz. bars of sharp cheddar 1.22 each (3)!  

These are all my way of adding to the pantry without a lot of cost

• Washed all the windows inside and the mirrors
• Just doing all the normal stuff around the house

My meals this past week:

Cream cheese/cheddar/summer sausage topped bagels - air fryer roasted, fresh veg & h/b egg on side

Tuna patty, sauteed brussel sprouts/corn and fresh veggies

Stew over mashed potatoes (both helpings from freezer) **it was yummy!

Philly steak (ground beef) & cheese open face sandwich and fries

Cream cheese/Swiss and veggie sandwich on toasted sourdough

Veggie fried rice, cukes and toms on side

l/o veg rice, jalapeno smoked sausage and cukes on side

SNACKS:  root beer float, fruit, h/b eggs, toasted Eng. muffin

A lot of little things done for the most part - the flower bed was the only biggy.  Boy was that tiring, this gal sure isn't as young as she would like to think!!!  But it is done, and the cost was zero.

How has your week been?  Any deals to add to the pantry?  Has spring sprung in your area yet?

I sure hope this finds you all well and safe.  Wishing each of you a great week ahead and a lovely holy week.

Blessings to you and yours from me at my humble little home.

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When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears, and delivers them out of all their troubles, the Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit.

Psalms 34:17-18

Dear Lord we give thanks for all our many blessings this day.  Please be with and help those who are going through illness for themselves or with their families and those who are grieving.  It is often hard to keep faith when bad things happen.  Please help each one know that You are with them and will hold them up through all things.  We ask for healing of bodies, minds, and souls.  Thank You for the most precious gift of our Savior, Jesus Christ.  AMEN

Do Unto Others

 Hello to everyone.  It is a damp morning here, after early morning rains.  Rain has stopped, and the sun is peeking out.  The grass is just vivid green, and things are starting to look more like spring.  While walking yesterday, I noticed a neighbor's yard a few doors down, was just full of wild violets.  It looked so pretty to me.  I just stopped and look at it for a few minutes - love the bits of color.  The birds are singing away this morning, the squirrels are out getting breakfast, and the kitties have eaten.  Oh, and it was 60* when I got up!!!

Today will be warmer and sunny.  We have storms coming in again OVERNIGHT.  I am so tired of the big change in storms showing up overnight.  That is scary.  At least during the day, you can see what the sky looks like!  Remember when we just used to have rain showers and not storms?   Anyone in the path - stay safe.

We all need to take time to be kind to others.  If may not benefit you in the short run, but it sure will make someone else's day nice and in the long run you become a kinder person.

I love nature and do all I can for the creatures that show up in my yard.  They DO give joy, and that is all I need from them.  

I walk and try to pick up trash along the way.  No one generally realizes who does it - but I know they enjoy a cleaner and neater neighborhood.  A simple smile or a 'hello' can do wonders for a stranger.  Reach that item the elderly person can't and give them a hand at the store.

Keep your yard and home neat and clean - it is so appreciated by others.  Trust me, I have some neighbors that take care of nothing - and it is awful.  When they do pick up, we all smile a little more.

Just be kind.  Be thoughtful.  Be caring.  Be helpful.  Be mindful.  Be prayerful!!!!!  

Prayers are done in silence and when we are alone - but they do impact others.  God hears us, even when it is just in our mind - so keep good thoughts.

Be your best person at all times.  Some people live many years, but in reality, it is very short and we need to make it matter.  Leave a legacy or memory that would make you smile if you read it of someone else!

Yes, make it a better world for others and make it a wonder to enjoy for yourself.  We ALL deserve to be happy, and we all NEED to be good people.

Love you my friends.

Have a blessed day and weekend.

Serving Good Food on a Small Budget

Good day to all.  It is wonderful to be here another day.  God is good.  Hope all are well.

It is 40's this morning and it looks like 70's for today.  I will take it. A good day to air out a little and do some outdoor work.

                                                                                 AMEN

I know everyone probably gets tired of me talking about meals and food budgets, but I think it is so important right now.  I am lucky to live in a place where many stores are discounting groceries and prices everyday (normal here).  I know not everyone has that luxury.  Even our local Kroger stores have hundreds or more of groceries at cheaper prices right now (some are higher as well).  Still not like they were years ago - but that is life.  Inflation is a part of life.

Anyway, we all need to do what we can to keep budgets low and still have good and hearty meals.  Especially those with families to feed.

Imagine in this world, that families expect 2 or 3 meals a day, every day!  The gall of them!  LOL

So, today we talk about making it good and inexpensive as possible.

PLAN - make a plan as well as possible.  You may not totally stick to it, but having some sort of plan is important.  Even if it is making a whole chicken work for 3 or 4 meals.  The more quick runs you make to the store, the more you spend.  PLAN first with what you have on hand, then add to that with sales and markdowns as much as possible.  Learn to be creative!!!

SIMPLIFY - you don't have to have a bunch of courses to a meal.  Keep meals simple yet filling.  Add bread or crackers or a salad to your main dish - which helps stretch it out.  Ex: a simple casserole that used up all the leftovers and some garlic toast or a small salad.  Chili and crackers or cornbread, etc.  Tomato soup or whatever you like and a grilled sandwich - very filling and inexpensive.  Kiddos and adults alike like a PBJ every now and then - protein and filling!

NEVER WASTE - reuse things up in some way.  It may be used at a breakfast or lunch another day, it may be frozen for later on, or it can be reconstructed into something new.

Leftover chili from freezer over mac - for chili mac and stale buns for garlic toast

Another container of frozen chili over a baked potato with cheese and sour cream
Pretty darn cheap meals and tasty too!  Nothing wasted.

 

Leftover mashed potatoes can be used with additional ingredients to make potato soup - hearty and yummy.  They can make potato cakes.  Leftover veggies can be pureed and added to spaghetti sauce (extra vitamins) or to a cream of soup (even a can of soup).  Small pieces of meat can go into soup, stir fry and added to a sandwich.  Add to a scrambled egg for a heartier breakfast................

GROW something - even if you live in an apartment or a condo - you can grow something.  Lettuce, green onions, herbs - super easy and they add to your food supply.  Look for fresh produce and local if possible.  Even grocery store 'fresh' is better than no fresh goods - see if there is a clearance section as well.

Buy INGREDIENTS - instead of packaged foods.  I know we all buy some packaged and processed things, but ingredients give you so much more of a variety on things you can make.  The 'real' food is more satisfying and filling than the processed stuff.

I know not everyone can spend a lot of money.  Some have Ramen budgets.  That is ok.  Use the Ramen, the pasta, the rice - all inexpensive and can be supplemented with leftovers and odds and ends in the kitchen.  Ramen - just don't use that little flavor packet - use your own broth, add veggie and bits of meat leftover.  You have a heartier soup that isn't all bad.  Add pasta or rice to soups and casseroles.  It expends them a lot.  Even if there is just a spoonful or two left of something, save it!!!!!!  Stick it is a freezer bag or container and at some point, it makes soup!  Or stir fry or fried rice or added to spaghetti sauce or pizza............there is no end to the way to use things.

Throw those leftovers and odds and ends together and even add a can or two of purchased soup (for broth or base).  Make it SEMI-homemade!!!!  No limits!

Buy SEASONAL MEATS!  What does that mean?  Well, when turkey is super cheap at Thanksgiving - get as many as you can for the freezer.  Heck, you can't buy lunchmeat for the prices they charge.  Buy ham when on sale for Christmas or Easter (usually less than $1/lb.).  Stock the freezer.  Usually ground beef, hotdogs, smoked sausages, etc. go on sale around summer holidays for picnics and grilling.  Chickens go on sale pretty often - get when cheaper and freeze or can for easy future use.  Fish generally gets a bit cheaper around Lent.

You may need to adjust what you buy as well.  I am not a huge fan of dark meat of poultry - but I am learning.  Chicken legs and thighs can usually be found at a much cheaper price than my preferred breast meat.  I buy ground beef and other ground meats when I find marked down.  I can make burgers, fritters, meatloaf, meatballs, soup, etc.  Cheaper than a roast for sure!

I often find pork very inexpensive in my area.  I can usually find a nice packet of chops for $5 - many servings.  I also look for the sales on loins - .99-1.99/lb.  That is a good pound price for any meat. You can make so many things with it.

I get these little tenderloins when I find them on clearance and stick in the freezer.  They are 1 1/2 lbs. and make a good 3 meals or more (depending on how much I eat per meal).  They are easy to cook in a crockpot - add some veggies and seasoning and you have a meal.  This one was flavored with lemon, which I really didn't want - so I rinsed it really well before cooking and added my own broth and seasoning and it was fantastic.  These generally run $5 or $6.

Eat meat as a side like other food - not a main course!  Use lesser amounts in soups and casseroles than recipes call for.

Just remember if things are really tight - you need to fill bellies as well as possible and as cheaply as possible - it may not be a well-rounded meal - but that is ok at times.

GO to food pantries if you need to.  Please do not let anything stop you if you need food.  They are there for a reason.

Lastly - GIVE THANKS for what you do have!!!

A grateful heart and spirit make most things better.  

Even if it is a PBJ sandwich or tuna/crackers or pot of cheaply made potato soup or an egg sandwich or buttered pasta - give thanks.

My favorite phrase this year - GET CREATIVE.  It truly does save money!!!!

Have a blessed day my friends.

Food and Health and Good Eats

 Hello all, this Tuesday.  I hope this finds you all well and safe. 

It is a chilly morning here.  It is 31*F this morning, but the sun has come out.  What a roller coaster it has been here on the weather front.  Sunday, we hit a record breaking high of 88*F, then Sunday evening a storm blew through.  There were thunder and lightening, hard rain and hail.  Monday morning, we woke to 35*!!!  A 53 degree drop in just a few hours.  Crazy stuff.

Isn't this cute?  I think this would be a cute addition to the Easter table.  I have used peppers to hold dip before, but I like this idea.  I bet it would be the hit of the table setting.

I came across some charts that I thought I would share.  It is all good information for eating healthy items and tasty items.  We all look for ways to stay healthy in any natural way we can - it IS frugal!!!  Staying away from doctors, hospitals and medication is much cheaper than having to use them a lot.  I will promote healthy eating all I can.

Great ideas for snacks that are healthier than eating junk.  I do several of these regularly.

There are so many ways to get protein into our bodies.  It doesn't always have to be meat.

This is kind of fun.  I was not aware of some of these.  Those trying to control sugar levels might like this.

I like how some of the high fiber and the good protein items cross over.  Win-win.

I watch for sales and for clearance and manage to get a lot of these items for a decent price.  I am a huge fruit lover, and citrus is a mainstay in my diet.  Once summer gets here, there will be so many things to look forward to.  I do try to keep citrus and cherry tomatoes all year.  Can't wait to grow my own tomatoes again!

I love nuts of all kinds, and luckily, I was gifted a lot of the healthy ones for gifts.  I look for sales on those as well.

I do most of the items from the protein chart as well.  My only dislikes would be cottage cheese and possibly tofu (just not a fan-could eat it).

Sure, I like some junky foods - I think that is normal.  But I also notice, that they are totally false calories.  They make you full for a minute, then you end up even hungrier - and they aren't good for you and the calories aren't good ones!!!  I love comfort food as well - I try to keep it healthy, but often my comfort foods contain pasta and potatoes, so there is that!  We all have our vices.

Eating better foods, can really help a lot of medical conditions.  Everyone needs to do the research for themselves concerning whatever problems you have - and see how diet can affect things.

It sometimes pays to spend a bit more of food to save on doctors and medications!!!

Have a beautiful day and stay joyful.

Weekly Wrap Up 3/22

 Hello to all, and welcome to another new week.  I hope this finds you all well and safe and hanging in there.  This morning started out in the low 60's!  It looks like it will probably hit 80* today, then we play on the roller coaster again.  Next couple days will be cooler - but not any stupid cold or snow in the forecast.

Lilly leaves got tinged with the cold earlier in the week. But they will be fine.  Poppies and all the lilies are growing - saw red tips poking out on the peonies.  The daffies really got hit after the cold, but I will be darned, new buds came out and more flowers!!  I have a new vase of them in the house.  It is about time to think of mowing.

My frugal week:

• Made a pan of corn casserole with items I had on hand.  I have had a craving for that, and it was good
• Cut more daffodils before the cold - then got a chance to cut more that came out after the cold
• Lots of walks and picking up trash - saw the first dandelion and wild violets of the season!
• Pulled big chicken legs from big freezer and cooked up.  Ate a couple and then froze the others cooked for a quick bite later
• I trimmed the top of my hair, as it was getting so long.  Did a root touch-up as well
• Paid everything I had on hand
• Had breakfast/brunch with an old friend.  It starts breakfast and ends up brunch as we talk for so long!  We met at a little diner and meal was filling and inexpensive
• Scoured out the watering holes and the bird bath again - the robins sure love to take baths!
• Thorough cleaning of the stove top 
• Removed the secondary quilt from the bed - YAY
• Stopped at Kroger for some good deals.  Eggs - .99 doz., cheese 1.49/half lb.  Found 80% ground beef on clearance 3.73/lb.  Got 2 pounds (all they had left).  Got more fruit to last the next couple weeks
• Made hard-boiled eggs - 10
• Got the older apples out of crisper and plan on making fried apples tomorrow
• Refurbished some leaf lettuce that had wilted, by placing in ice water - really perked it up
• Getting to air the house, no heat and used a small fan in bedroom at night, instead of ceiling fan

Meals this past week:

l/o pork loin, corn casserole and fresh veggies

Chicken legs, asparagus, corn casserole

Corned beef hash and scrambled eggs

Chili mac (chili from freezer) and garlic toast

Out for breakfast - diner food - just pieced later at home

Meat, cheese, veggie sandwich on sourdough (like a sub)

Soft tacos

SNACKS fruit, corn casserole, cheese

Mainly just using up and doing things here to keep expenses lower.  There is always plenty to do this time of the year.  House in order, yards in orders, planning gardens - goodness always something.  

How was your week?  Any good deals this week?  Getting ready for a new season?

I hope those that were having such nasty weather are doing good.  I wish you all a safe and healthy week.  May you all get to enjoy the beauty of spring.

Blessings to you and yours from me at my humble little home.

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I love thee, O Lord, my strength.  The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Psalms 18:1-2

Lord, we sing Your praises today for all the gifts that You give.  As we feel our lives are sad or hard, help us to see all the beauty that is presented each day.  Let us give glory instead of grumbling.  Help us each one to be surprised each day with a bit of beauty or joy.  Have us truly pay attention and be joyful for tiniest of wonders.  AMEN

Spring is Coming and we are Moving Forward

 Hello all - hope this finds you well.  Tomorrow will be officially spring.  YAY!!!!!  I sure hope the weather changes for the good from here on out.  It is 40* this morning, so that is a plus.  It looks like decent temps and warmer days for a bit here.

A nice bouquet from the garden before the cold weather and snow hit.  I still have some in a vase - they last and last.  One of the first signs that spring is coming - they give us cheer and hope.

I hope as the weather changes for the best - we do too.  May we all do things and say things that brightens a day for someone else.  May we all do just a little more for the world.  May we all take care of nature.

Winter is going or gone - thank goodness.  Whatever it brought is done and now spring gives hope the life returning to everything around us.  

I hope you all have a wonderful spring season.  

I am going to a late breakfast/brunch with an old friend.  I may do a bit of grocery shopping tomorrow, only to pick up some specials.  They are having customer appreciation days - and my special coupons are good only through Friday.  They have some good deals on those.  Looking forward to airing the house again and turning off heat, as it will be warming up.

I hope you all have a lovely weekend.  Enjoy the first days of spring.

May you have lovely weather.

Nostalgic Foods from Growing Up

 Hello to all and midweek wishes for health and safety.  Yesterday we woke to a covering of snow - then it was mainly gone by the end of the day.  Had nothing to do with temps, but we had sunshine for a bit.  It is cold this morning, but no snow here (so far), and not as cold as yesterday's high!  Making our way back upwards!

I have had a couple people ask if I saw the brief post from Linda (PP) that Tommy passed.  So very sad.  I can't help but wonder what she will do now.  Such a sad situation.

Yesterday I read an article about nostalgic foods from days gone by, and that they said most don't do today.  Hmmmm - I still do some of these.  I do remember every single one - and the thing was, we just thought it was all good, we had no idea it was frugal food because we didn't have a lot of money (even though mom did)!

1.  Catsup and spaghetti - I truly don't remember mom doing this - we did have tomatoes and pasta often times.  BUT catsup and macaroni was a staple for me in my single days.  It was what I could afford.  To be honest I still do this every now and then.  I really like it - my sister does too!

2.  Sugar sandwiches - I didn't do this, but I remember hearing that my siblings did once in a while, when money and food was low

3.  Fried bologna - I was never a fan of it fried but did and do like bologna sandwiches once in a while in the summer with a big tomato sliced on it!  Glen loved fried bologna and so did my dad

4.  Peanut butter & syrup - oh golly, I loved this as a kid.  It was such a fun treat.  Mom would mix the two and I had it with crackers or bread.  I thought this was the best thing ever

5.  Hotdogs cut up in mac and cheese - remember this and have done it back in the day.  It is a great way to extend a little meat and make a simple meal out of what you have

6. Cereal with no milk - LOL - this is the only way I have ever eaten cereal!  I do not like my cereal soggy!!  I drink milk on the side, but eat cereal more like a snack and it is always dry

7.  Powdered milk - Mom may have served us powdered milk - I really do not remember.  I have never made it just to drink but have made and used in recipes.  I have extended a short gallon with it, but never made it just alone to drink

8. Cinnamon sugar toast - LOVED it and still do this for a snack sometimes.  It is easy and quick and so very tasty!!!

9.  Buttered noodles - yep, mom did these and I have too many times.  I really like buttered noodles - don't have to have fancy gravy or sauce

10.  Tuna and crackers - sure enough.  I still do this.  It may be part of a meal or just a snack.  I don't have to have tuna salad - I like plain old tuna

11.  Egg sandwiches - of course.  Still a staple for me.  Easy and fairly cheap and tummy filling

12.  Mayo sandwich - I know dad did this once in a while and I think mom did.  I have never just had mayo - but have had many a tomato or onion or cucumber sandwich with mayo.  A summer treat still today

13.  Biscuits and gravy - duh!  Not sure why this is on the list.  Are there actually people that have never had them?  I love biscuits (scones) and gravy.  Truly a favorite and comforting meal for me

14.  Rice with sugar and butter - I was never a fan - but Glen used to LOVE it.  He would ask for this many times as a breakfast meal.  I know mom served it a lot for my siblings.

15. (adding this one myself) - Cornbread or crackers crumbled up and eaten in milk.  This was a big thing with dad - he loved it.  I remember my siblings saying this was a breakfast or lunch many times, when things were tight.  My brother still does this but uses buttermilk.  Oh, I shudder!!!!!  LOL

Do you remember some of the odd ones?  Have you had any or all of them in years past?  Do you still eat any of them today?

It is always fun to go back and think about the ways food got stretched when the budgets were low and food needed to used up and nothing wasted.  People found a way to eat what they had.  I know there are people today that would just cringe to think of some of these things.  Hey, you ate what you had, so as not to be hungry.  Many of these were what we considered 'fast' food!!!!!  Quick, easy, cheap and used it up!

Have a great day everyone.  

Spring will soon be here!!

Finding Our Enough

 Hello all and Happy St. Patrick's Day!  I hope this finds you all well and safe.

Boy, has there been some weather to end our winter around these parts.  Blizzards in many areas, cold in areas that don't usually get too cold and winds!  We went from 70's on Sunday (windy) and windows open, taking walks, and picking flowers - to snow covering the ground this morning and very cold!  Good golly.

I am so ready for warmer days!

I would like to talk for a moment about finding our ENOUGH!

We can have very little, just enough and too much (in my opinion).  What s enough?  I guess we all have a different view of that.  For me it is basic - a roof over my head, food for my belly and warmth.

Movies, TV, magazines, media - it all tries to tell us that we need more and that we aren't good enough as we are.  Don't fall for it.

I think knowing how to survive on less than the norm is a blessing.  It could possibly serve us well someday.  It lets us live and enjoy the small things and have pleasure in different ways.

It is about having what you need to get to point B.  I mean you can't take the leftovers with you!

It means less stress.

A smaller home gives you shelter as good as (or better) than a McMansion.  It is easier to take care of as well.  A WM watch tells time as well as a Rolex.  Basic, healthy and natural foods are better for you than all the caviar.  Secondhand clothes keep you warm probably better than designer clothes.

It isn't about the stuff for most of us.

The old saying 'he who dies with the most toys, wins" - is ridiculous!  Not sure how that is winning anything.

The money trap can be like jail - it traps you, and it is hard to break free.

Give me memories and daily simple joys over millions.

It is freeing to not worry about making tremendous wealth.  It is freeing to just love life and take it slower and enjoy all the small pieces.

It is freeing to release stuff and have a cleaner, less cluttered life.

I am really working on this.

Wealth should be what is in our hearts and how we share that with others.

THAT is golden.

Have you found your ENOUGH?  What does it mean to you.

Have a lovely St. Patty's Day.

Many blessings to you all.

Weekly Wrap Up 3/15

 Hello and happy Sunday to all.  Hope you are all well and safe.

It has been a crazy weather week all around.  Friday, we had winds that didn't seem to cease!  I was out actually 'catching' trash as it blew! Powerful winds.

They are coming back again today, with thunderstorms coming late tonight.  Some areas north of here are predicted to have blizzards!!  Winter isn't done yet!

Trees are budding all over, and flowers and bushes are popping out and being pretty.  The magnolias are just starting to bloom, but will be DONE within the next 24-48 hours, as we are to get in the teens once more.  We will have the coldest St. Patrick's Day in nearly a century!!!!  Crazy stuff.  I hope all getting winds, storms and lots of snow stay safe.

My Licorice cat has been MIA for 2 weeks now.  Within 2 days of him not coming to eat his usual treats - I was out scouring the roads.  I walked our entire street, the street behind us, the cross streets, and the alley - no signs of a hit kitty.  I looked at all the yards as well - no Licorice.  I have not given up total hope yet, I sure miss that feller.  He has been a mainstay around my house for a couple years now - and lived across the street before that.  There are many black cats around, so I may have seen him and not known it, but he hasn't been 'begging' at the door as usual.  He has a funky ear, which is how I can pick him out - but at a distance I can't tell.  I sure hope he returns at some point, I just hate not knowing.

My frugal week:

• Lots and lots of walks - free exercise
• Spent some time doing yard clean-up, raking, bagging, cutting and pulling - and moving some things around
• Picked a big bouquet of daffodils - since they will be gone after tomorrow.  Probably need to pick more today (70* today)
• Aired the house out and had furnace off for a good bit of the week
• Used the air fryer and the crockpot this week to avoid the oven
• Lots of laundry in cold and hung to dry
• Fixed a spot on the awning out front that had a loose piece of metal that banged like crazy Friday in the wind - that was fun being on a step ladder in the wind!
• Refilled all the feeder bins with feed on hand
• Had to plug in the watering holes again - when not raining as cold coming back
• Using what I have on hand and making new meals from leftovers
• Pulled out a mini pork loin from freezer and cooked in the crockpot (will give 3 meals)
• One day I was chilly and I also wanted something sweet - so I made a big mug of hot chocolate w/lots of marshmallows - so nummy
• Did a little sewing
• NO grocery shopping
• Doing all the normal stuff

Nothing exciting here!

Meals this past week:

Baked potato topped w/chili, cheese and sour cream

Chicken strips, brussel sprouts, and sauteed carrots strips

Dirty rice (homemade spicey rice) and fried cabbage

Bean, rice, cheese enchiladas (done on stove top)

Fish sandwich, mixed greens cooked and carrot sticks

Pork loin w/carrots and potatoes

BBQ shredded pork sandwich topped with shredded cabbage and l/o greens as side

SNACKS: toast, fruit, nuts

There you have it.  Nothing real exciting here.  Counting down the days until it gets warmer and stays!  

How has your week been?  What kind of weather are you getting?  Any good deals this week?

Let us know what is going on in your life.

I hope you are all safe and stay safe with all the weird weather that is happening this weekend.  

Prayers for your health and safety.

Blessings to you and yours from me at my humble little home.

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I will give to the Lord the thanks due to his righteousness, and I will sing praise to the name of the Lord, the Most High.

Psalms 7:17

Dear Lord, thank you again for all the many blessings that we have had this week.  Help us each one see the light that comes from our darkest moments, and the joy in little things.  There are many things in life that are sad and depressing and worrisome, but with You we can get through all.  Prayers for all our family and friends, and prayers for all everywhere.  Help us to remember that things happen as part of Your plan, and we need to have faith.  AMEN

 

Be Careful - Don't Get Scammed

 Hello all.  Hope you are all well.  We are back to feeling like winter this morning.  It is about 40 degrees cooler this morning than yesterday morning!  We sure had the winds and rain yesterday, but nothing like some areas had.  There were many tornadoes that touched down north - just so sad to see all the damage.

Talk about a roller coaster of weather - we got it!  We have winds of March, April showers, summer storms and winter cold and snow - all in a few days!  It is nuts.  Sunday we may hit 70* again and by Tuesday morning they are saying lows in the teens!!  And SNOW!  It is the season of change for sure.

We have wind warnings around for late tonight and tomorrow again - I sure do love calm and pretty days!!!  I guess the nasty weather makes us really appreciate the good days.

This is the time of the year that damage starts happening due to storms.  It goes on until fall for most of us, and in different forms in different areas.

With damage the scammers come out to prey upon vulnerable folks.  It is awful.  Some folks will do anything they can in a dishonest fashion to make a buck!!  Geesh, if they would work as hard at doing good work it would be wonderful.

Whether you are having repairs made due to weather damage or just doing remodeling - take your time and check people out.  Even with storm damage - TAKE YOUR TIME to decide (I know that seems hard to do).  People are anxious and scared and worried, and they can make rash decisions. 

NEVER pay for a job up front!  You have nothing to guarantee they will be back and do the work.  Pay in increments, if necessary.  Let insurance pay when possible.

ALWAYS check the businesses out.  Call the BBB and check on them, call the attorney general, do the work - so you aren't scammed.

I like to use people that family or friends have used - word of mouth.  Put the word out and listen to people you know.  I would never use someone that just shows up at my door, soliciting business.  I love using small family-owned businesses, but I still need to know they can be trusted to do good work.

It is very sad that we have to consider things like things - but there are so many bad people out there.  Listen to your inner self and your gut.  Listen to people you know.  Don't be a victim to anything else.

Common sense is so important.

I hope you all have a lovely day and a super weekend.

Reminiscing - What I Remember and What I do!

 Hello all.  It is about to be a nasty weather day here.  I know many have already had nasty stuff going on.  It is very windy here, with a tornado watch until noon.  Storms have flown through as I type this.  Major wind gusts and lots of rain.  Skies are black!  It was72* when I got up at 6AM.  Now it is 63*.  Tomorrow morning will likely be 40* less than this morning!!!!!

I truly hope those in the affected areas are safe and stay safe.

Yesterday I watched a Vlog talking about things people used to do, that they no longer do.  I had to chuckle, as I still do them.  I live very much below my means (my choice).  I don't really care about stuff.  I do not have a fondness for travel, so I stay home a lot.  This is me - what you see and what I write is authentic.

Here we go.  Remember these are my memories, and I know not everyone grew up this way.  I was born in 1954 - the last of a family of 6 kids.  All were quite a bit older - so they and my folks truly remembered tough times.  I remember things being simple - but thought that was just how things were.  No one really had a ton of stuff (except a few).  I was happy.

• We grew a good part of our food and put it away for the winter months.  Dad also liked to fish, he wasn't a big hunter.  They did have chickens, rabbits and goats when the others were younger
• My parents had a budget, and they knew where every penny was to go.  Dad was the main bread winner - mom only had a part time job now and then.  She did sewing at home for others very often.  So, one income for the most part.
• Entertainment was pretty much free stuff.  No one shopped when they were 'bored'.  We play games, played outdoors, had homemade birthday dinners and cakes, picnics, etc.
• WHEN my parents bought something new - it was quality.  They knew it would last and not need to be replaced any time soon.  Today, everything seems to be throw away - you really need to do research to get quality.
• NO credit cards.  They didn't exist much back then.  My parents paid cash for everything.  No payday loan companies, no CC's, no shopping on a whim.  If you wanted something and didn't have enough funds - you used lay-away!  We always had a Christmas Club account for holiday spending. Mom would get a part time job sometimes, to have a little extra money for Christmas or to pay on something they were saving for.  She worked at Ayres (dept. store) downtown or worked at the bakery a couple blocks away - she would work the 4PM - midnight shift at the bakery and walk home!
• Along those same lines - they had no debt and didn't want any!  They did pay for the house on a contract ($4,800!).  If they needed a new appliance or bought a new car - they saved and paid cash.  When my parents went into business for themselves in the late 60's - they were given a line of credit, which they never used.  They paid for everything (with their little savings) to get started.  Times were lean, but they had a big goal.  I remember daddy trying to get a CC in the 70's, because they were taking a trip to Florida (a first) and wanted a little security.  He had a hard time getting it, because he always paid cash and really had no credit.
• Community was huge.  Neighbors looked out for each other - people babysat, watched out for other's kiddos, helped if someone needed something mechanical done, brought dinner when someone was really ill.........
• Fixed everything.  Shoes were repaired, clothes mended, fixed the car or the mower if it went out
• We had one car!  Mom never did learn to drive.  We would make trips downtown on the bus.  Otherwise, daddy took us when he wasn't working
• Mom cooked at home.  She pretty much made 3 meals a day every day.  Lunch was light, something simple.  We didn't go out to eat.  I remember the first-time having pizza (not homemade), was with a friend's family at a small restaurant.  It was exciting but I still remember thinking moms was better!  Maybe a couple times a summer we went to A&W for a frosty mug of root beer or stopped for an ice cream or malt at Linders - but those were treats.  I was in high school before I ever had anything from fast food.  I also remember we didn't buy pop; we had water, milk, tea or Kool-Aid.  One time a summer daddy would get a case of Nehi bottled drinks - they had to last all summer, and they were a very special treat!
• They saved back 'something' FIRST.  ALWAYS.  It may not have been a lot, but they saved.
• They spent less than they earned - just how it was.
• Took care of things themselves.  Yard work, mowing, gardens, shopping, cooking, cleaning - we never thought about hiring someone for those things
• Used the library.  You didn't have the opportunity to look things up on a computer for a school project - you went to the library and researched it
• We went to the grocery once a week - mom had a very strict budget she set for herself.  No stopping at a store whenever there was a 'desire' for something

These are just some of the main things I remember, and many/most I still do.  I absolutely hate debt.  With buying our small home and buying our first and only new vehicle - we paid them off as quickly as possible.  We both came into the marriage with some debt (stupid stuff) and paid it off and vowed to keep debt minimal from then on.  We concentrated on saving for a time in life that we kind of knew was inevitable (Glen being unable to work).  We neither one made a lot of money, we just managed what we had well.  That is still serving me well.

We had fun, just not expensive fun.  We had friends we did things with, we camped, had get togethers, wondered Indiana, just spent quality time together.  That was all that was truly important.

Do you still do any of the lifestyle that your parents did or that your grandparents did?

Do you have other memories, that bring a smile to your face?

Let us take a trip down memory lane!

Have a blessed day!

A This and That Tuesday

 Good day to you all.  Hoping this finds all well and safe.

Spring is in the air!  It is already 66* here this morning and cloudy.  Looks to be dry for most of the day, but getting to mid 70's.  Yesterday was a glorious day here in the neighborhood.

I had windows open yesterday, flip flops on, and of course no heat.  Today should be much of the same.

I still am not used to this time change thing.  It will take a while.  Not sleeping the greatest and then I have been having weird and bad dreams.  Not sure I am totally enjoying the change in daylight hours yet - seems too soon.

Tonight, again overnight, we have storms coming in and some could be strong.  rain most of tomorrow as well.  UGH.  Wish I could send it to you who are so dry right now.

Now mind you - here in Indiana weather can flip on a dime.  Near 80 and a couple days later below freezing.  Rain, sun, thunderstorms, threats of nasty weather, and a chance of snow flurries!  Yep, all of that is in store for this week!!!!  

I have a daffie almost open this morning and the forsythia is just starting to flower.  Birds are singing and the day is good.

Now that spring is at hand here in the US - it is the time of the year that gleaning can begin.  I know there are many who will turn their noses up and say eeewww - to this, but there are so many edibles just growing out there wild AND in your yards.  You should not go hungry!

I pick purslane often and use in salads and chop for scrambled eggs, I have made jelly from dandelions, violets and clover.  My mom used to make dandelion greens.  I need to use other 'weeds' (free food) as well.  This may be my year of trying.

You just want to make sure your yard and probably the neighbor's yard isn't sprayed with chemicals.

It will soon be morel mushroom season as well!!!!  Oh my gosh they so yummy.  They are my pick of best mushroom.  I don't get the opportunity around here to hunt them - they generally grow in the woods - this rainy damp season will be great for them.

Do you have any edibles that you can/do glean in your area?

***********

We have talked about 'shrinkflation' some in the past weeks.  We all know that items are shrinking and the price doesn't.  I noticed something very subtle this week.  Of course, we know TP has less sheets per roll.  I had pretty much used the end of my older stash and got out some of the newer inventory - and one thing I readily noticed was the actual cardboard roll (in the center) is now bigger!  Not a lot, but it is bigger.  I guess that is why you can have less sheets and no one really pays attention.  Now you wouldn't see that or notice when purchasing because of the packaging - subtle.

***********

I also noticed something that really got me to thinking.  I have been trying to pay more things over the phone (still not totally trusting computer).  Now I put in the utility company acct. number or the last 4 digits (only) of my CC#.  Then they ask me to prove who I am.

Now mind you I did not put in the whole CC# - no one can use my utility acct. - so why?  Is someone trying to pay my bill for me?  If so - LET THEM!!!!  You can only get balance and pay on these phone numbers (no buying).  I just do not understand all the silly things that go on anymore.  I guess I am old fashioned and not technically smart.

**********

Yesterday I did yard work - it was such a glorious day.  It seems each year - I get tired a lot quicker!  Go figure!!  My poor hands are so sore this morning.  I was pulling, cutting  and grabbing things.

I do find it amazing how just a few little things done, can make such a difference.  I wish more people would do bits here and there - golly, things would look so much prettier all over.

Even just walking and picking up any trash they see.  I noticed the last time I was out in the car; how much trash accumulates in greenery close to the roads.  I can't imagine throwing something out the window - yet people do it daily.  So sad and really nasty.

What goes on that makes you go hmmmmmmm?

My head is just all over the place today - no method to my madness!  

I hope you all have a lovely day and storm damage or problems.

Weekly Wrap Up 3/8

 Hello and happy Sunday to all.  I hope this finds you all safe and well.

Are you all spung forward????  I sure wish we would pick a time zone and stick with it!

It has been a wet and warm few days around here.  Lots and lots of rain.  Just as the back yard 'pond' was about gone - then more rain yesterday.  It smells so wormy out there!  The robins are loving it - a major buffet for them.  The squirrels have been gathering leaves and rebuilding and building nests.  Yesterday I saw my first red-winged blackbirds of the season.

The grass is getting greener, the daffies are about 6" high, poppies and lilies are popping up, spring is at hand.  Yes, we will have more cold weather, but for now it is a lovely change.

Friday, we set records for the warmest March day!  Later in the week, we may have flurries!  You never know.

My frugal week:

• Made a pot of chili and used the last of the taco lentils (freezer) in it.  It was so good, some of the best chili I have made in ages
• Did a lot of walks - free exercise
• Messed with my other sewing machines (I have 3 total).  Haven't used those 2 in ages, and one doesn't have a manual, so I did some You Tube research and got them all going and functioning well.
• Did more sewing (blankie)
• Trying to use some older items from the pantry
• I unplugged all the watering holes this week - at least for a while
• Super cleaned the storm drain - first went out and just pulled back a bunch of debris with a stake.  Went out later and cleaned and shoveled all the gunk away from the drain - it flowed and flowed for hours.  People had sump pumps draining out front and it was just sitting in street, until the drain was cleaned
• Picked up sticks that blew down in the winds
• Heat off and windows open for a few days - refreshing the house
• Made some sugar free instant pudding with an older clearance mix I ran across in the pantry - tasty snack
• Cut up more cukes and placed in pickle juice for flavor (great use for older cukes)
• Ran to Kroger - I had a couple coupons that were about to expire.  FREE ice cream (48 oz) and nice dollars off on dry cat food.  They had brisket on sale this week (last week was Aldi) and I got one more for the freezer (3.99 lb.).  Also had a .65 off gal. of milk to use as well
• I stopped at the thrift store on the way back home - got bread (free) and I bought some fantastic tasting dip.  I got a jar the last time I was in to try, and it is yummy - so I got more (I couldn't make as cheaply)

FREE BREAD

                     Enchilada flavored dip for $1 a jar!  Still not even close to use by date

• Froze 2 containers of chili for later
• Doing all the normal things and general house keeping
• Visits - sis and with neighbors

Meals this past week:

Chili & crackers

Chili cheese fries

Chicken & noodles (freezer) and sauteed zucchini

Sauteed green beans/corn/onions and a Swiss burger

Mac & cheese w/broc. and faux lobster added

l/o mac & cheese and salad

Grilled 3 cheese sandwich and a cup of potato soup (freezer)

SNACKS - pudding, popcorn, Eng. muffins toasted, fruit

I am so over rain, but more is coming mid-week.  It is so muddy outside - almost impossible to not get your shoes muddy.  I wash the soles of shoes after feeding critters each day - only way to get rid of the mud and not track in! (they come off at door)

I shouldn't complain - earlier in the week when we had 4 1/2" of rain in a couple days - let us just say I was so thankful it was NOT snow - that would have been a ton.

I know I have several people here, who were in line of the rain and storms - I sure hope you did not get flooded or have any damage.  I have been seeing a lot of sad pictures.

How was your week?  Any deals?  How is your weather?  Reach out and say hello and let us know how you are faring.  I keep you all in prayer - I know so many are going a lot right now.

I hope you all have a safe and healthy week ahead.  

Blessings to you and yours from me at my humble little home.

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Blessed is the man who endures trail, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life which God has promised to those who love him.

James 1:12

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives to all men generously and without reproaching, and it will be given him.  But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea that is driven and tossed by the sea.

James 1:5-6

Dear Lord, thank You for this past week and for the many gifts that we have received.  

As we each go through our own different grief and frustrations, help us to each know that we are able to find bits of joy in the smallest things and even in our hardships if we look.  Help us each to understand "thy will be done", as we most often do not.  Help us to live Your will and not ours.  Give us strength to endure all things and faith to know the love that You have for us.  AMEN