Don't Love Cooking? It's OK! Do What You Want

 Hello and happy Tuesday to all that have found their way here.  Hope you are all well.  It was 54* when I got up this morning!  So above average.  Another day to be in the mid 70's.  This is so great.  It is just about perfect in my view.  All above normal for sure.  Sunrise was lovely and there was also that big old full moon still hanging out!

It is great to be given nice days and evenings for being outside, doing yard work and just sitting.  The cats LOVE it; they stay out and play and play.

Ok, let's get to it.  I know for ages, I have said homemade is the best.  I like homemade, and I try to cook often.  I like cooking.  I still think that using basic ingredients is probably healthier - but not everyone LIKES to cook.  I understand!  I get it.

Do what works for you!!!!!!!

As I get older, I am starting to realize that we don't like to 'cook' the same.  I realize that cooking means different things to different people.  I also realize that many just don't like to cook.  No problem.  Do you!  It is just fine.

If you want to buy premade meals and can afford to - do it.  It is your kitchen, you can do what you like.

Maybe some might do better with some premade items that just make cooking a little easier.

Lately I have had questions about easy meals, that don't require standing at the stove a lot, maybe using a crockpot.  There are lots of things you can do.

There are many items that can be purchased that makes it easier - sort of semi-homemade.  

I ran across a You Tube station the other day call Stacey's Simple Meals - and there was an episode called Crockpot Cooking for One - you might want to look it up.  Great ideas.

Think about having a meal of simple things (my favorite): I am a big one pot fan.

Baked potatoes - all loaded up with whatever you have.  Chef salads.  Pancakes, waffles or breakfast foods.  Sausage gravy can be served over toast.  Omelets, eggs with whatever you have left added.  

                                          Scrambled eggs cooked with diced potatoes.  YUM

Pasta - with sauce (can be jarred) or in a salad with cut up veggies or meat.  Wraps or rollups - with fresh items or leftovers add some cheese and sauce and yum.  Tuna salad, egg salad.   Eggs over toast.  Add meat or veggies to mac and cheese.  Tacos, grilled burritos.

Tortillas can be purchased for next to nothing - fill with leftover meat, cheese, rice, beans, cheese - whatever - roll and slightly grill on a non-stick pan or gridle.  Easy and filling.

Mixes can be used.  It makes soup making so easy.  They can be found in lots of different stores, for various pricing.  I get several every year in my Christmas basket from nephew, and I use them.  Use as they are or add things yourself to jazz them up.  The rice mixes can be added to broth and made into soup as well.  I have done that several times.  These are super easy to make and very tasty.  Just get a little creative with a mix and you can have a fun and tasty, easy meal!  Usually all you need is water - broth works too.

If you like using the crockpot - there are lots of fun things to make.  Yummy too.

You may want a smaller pot is cooking for one.

One thing I like is pork loin - it is meaty (little fat), and I can fix in numerous ways.  I often find these little ones marked down and I get several when I see them.  They are about 1 1/2 lbs. and make a few meals.  Can cook in the crockpot, add some veggies and you have a meal(s).  Cook with BBQ and you can make pulled pork.  Cook alone with seasoning and you can do anything you want with it.  If I don't like the flavor they have available, I just wash it off and add my own seasoning.

Click on above to enlarge for easier reading

Use some frozen meatballs and add some sauce for any pasta dinner.  Meatballs and BBQ or seasoning for sub sandwiches with some fresh veggies an/or cheese.

Cook up some ground beef with onion (if you like), then add a drained can of sliced or diced potatoes and cook it up together.

Leftover mashed potatoes - add a little flour and an egg and make potato cakes.

You can add fresh veggies to a crockpot (with a bit of liquid) and have a nice fresh dish.  A little cooked sausage/meatballs and sauce and cheese w/acorn squash and yum!

There is just no end to quick, easy and delish dishes you can do at home.  You can have one pot meals and do fine.  They do NOT have to be handmade!!!!!!  Hey, I have had my share of frozen lasagna, deli chicken, pot pies, and store-bought pizza (I love Aldi & WM fresh).

There is NO shame in doing what you want to do and what you can afford to do.  NONE!

When I suddenly became a one-person household, when I did eat, it was cold cut sandwiches and maybe salad (prepackaged).  That was basically it.  It took a long while to get back into cooking.  I do enjoy cooking, and when I do have company, I want to be able to still cook good things.  So, I kind of keep in practice.  Plus, I really love food!

No one person has all the answers.  No two people have to do things the same.  We are each very different and unique and wonderful individuals, and we all have our own ways.  I am so glad we are all different - as life would be pretty boring if we weren't.

So happy eating.  Eat what you want, what you like and what you can afford.  Do you, it is your kitchen.

Any easy ideas you have to offer for others?  Have you found any premade items you love?

Have a fantastic day.

Weekly Wrap Up 10/25

 Hello to all and welcome, on this last Sunday of October!  Hoping you are all well and safe.  Next Sunday will be November.  Goodness sakes this year has flown by.

It is 47*F this morning and it looks like another week on repeat.  All week is predicted to be in the mid 70's here, with lows around 50*.  Incredible!  

The sunrises and sunsets have sure been pretty.  Last evening it was stripes of pink, purple, orange and blue - it reminded me of the taffy strips we got as a child!

We are a week out to Halloween, and I am already seeing Christmas commercials on TV!  I would love it if we could have one holiday at a time.  I guess I am guilty too though, as I have posted ideas for gifts already.

My frugal week:

• The week started with a neighbor bringing me a bag of homemade Chex Mix.  It sure was tasty
• I went to lunch with grade school friends.  I had a cousin I haven't seen in years show up as well - such a nice visit and mini reunion.
• After the lunch - went next door to the CCB (closeout store).  I got a big head of cauliflower for 1.50, and I bought myself a black sweater, for times I need something nice and in a dark color.  It was $5!  Teardrop opening in front with a little gold chain closure

• Cleaned the ceiling fans
• Had an old friend from school call to check on me and see if I needed help with anything.  He calls every so often
• I have been going through the last of home canned items in basement (used to keep it all there).  Sorting and bringing the balance up and putting older in front - need to use it
• I did a cat food run, found a gallon of milk for 1.18 (dated 11/2), 6 large baking potatoes - 1.50 (that's .25/meal), and 2 packs of 4 ea. yogurt for 1.75 ea.
• Made a big pot of chili and froze some for future meals
• Using what I have
• Laundry in cold and hung to dry
• Phoned in a couple bills instead of mailing
• Got to air house some.  Still no AC or furnace - just little heater when needed
• Trimmed the grape arbor
• Scoured all the watering holes for animals
• Been raking, cutting and doing general fall yard work
• Picked 6 more green tomatoes that I had missed
• Working more in the basement

Budget friendly meals this past week:

Cheese dip and crackers and fresh veggies (was plenty & filling)

Out with friends

Chili and crackers

Chili w/cheese and sour cream

Cheesy tuna mac and salad

Loaded baked potato and salad

BBQ shredded pork(freezer)/cheese open face sandwich, steamed cauliflower w/Yum-Yum sauce, sliced tomatoes

Just enjoying the lovely weather around here and trying to take advantage.  I hope you are getting decent weather as well.

How was your week?  Any deals or bargains?  Anything exciting around your area?

I look forward to hearing from you all.

Wishing you all a super lovely week ahead and hoping you all stay safe and healthy.

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

***********************

Make a joyful noise to God, all the earth; sing the glory of His name; give to Him glorious praise!

Psalms 66:1-2

Lord, thank You for all our blessings.  You are our Saviour and our Redeemer and we praise You at every turn.  Please lay Your healing and protective hands upon this earth.  AMEN

                                                                                AMEN

Weekend Coming

 Hello and happy Thursday to all.  Hoping you are all doing well.  Here we are coming into another weekend and soon the last week of the month!  Where did it go????

It was 48* upon my rising this morning outdoors and 70* in the house.  Not too snaggy!  We have been on repeat most of this week and will continue to be for many days.  The weather here is just lovely.

I saw on the news this morning that Arizona is having rain and hail, and lots of it.  Hope all you gals out that way are safe and don't get any damage.

Yes indeed.  Acquiring much, as in money can make you rich dollar wise - but you may lose a lot of other things.  Free time, serenity, no stress, family time, etc.  Desiring less lets us have less debt, perhaps work a little less, joy and happiness, no stress (about $), more family time, etc.  I like the trade off - so I am happy living a lifestyle without abundance of stuff.

However, I do have an abundance of other things, that means more than money.  Seems good to me.

The weekend is coming up, and in the fall, there are usually fun things to do that cost very little.  Of course, we all have yard work, and final harvests, and house cleaning.  But there are festivals, and nature walks, and pumpkins fields to go to, orchards, just all kinds of things that can be done for very little.  Hoping everyone has some decent weather and can get out and enjoy it some.

I think I may do some porch sitting this weekend too!

Do you have any fun plans for the weekend?

******************

Hey, I just want to put this out here, for those that have Aldi in their areas.  Thanksgiving is coming up here in the U.S. and I am sure some are wondering how they can afford it.

Aldi has all the fixings for a smaller group for $39!  Click on above to enlarge to read easily.

Now you DON'T have to get exactly what they mention - it is not a pre-packaged deal.  You can substitute things for others - this is just a basic guideline.  Don't like peas - get corn or green beans.   Making your own stuffing from bread you have - get something to replace the stuffing mix.  

Having a lot of people - get this deal at Aldi - then have other people bring a dish and BOOM you have tons of food.

Did a cat food run yesterday - and noticed Kroger had eggs 1.39 doz. regular price now.  Couple weeks ago, I got 18 packs of eggs for 2.19 (large).  Also notice many canned veggies were lowered in price as was pasta.

Start shopping now if you are having a big family meal for the holiday.  Look for the bargains and get things from clearance.

ALSO remember there is nothing etched in stone that says you have to have a traditional holiday meal!!!

A big pot of soup, chili, lasagna, spaghetti, pork, chicken, anything at all is fine!  It should never be about the food - but family, friends and neighbors and being THANKFUL!

So there is my public service announcement for the day!!!!!!!  LOL

I hope you all have a lovely weekend and get to enjoy some good weather.  Make some memories and have a little fun.  It doesn't have to cost anything, just have fun.  Farm markets will be ending soon for most areas, so maybe go and walk around one and just look and people watch - FREE!  Have lunch at the park!  Play in the leaves!  Just ENJOY!

Have a beautiful day!

Taking Control - My Story

 Hello to all.  Happy Wednesday.  Hoping you are all well today.

It is about 45* right now (still dark) outside and it is 69* in the house.  The bed sure did feel good this morning, as it has the last few days.  I guess my body likes being all snuggled up under the covers lately!  Bitsy likes the throw I have on the bed as well - it is kind of like sheepskin, and he sure loves laying on it and making 'biscuits' on it.

It looks to be another wonderful day in my area.  Sunlight and 70's.

A good chart of different types of apples.  I love apples and eat them all year long, as well as citrus.  They are my favorite snacks.  You know the saying "an apple a day keeps the doctor away".

Today I just want to talk a bit about taking control of your life and your health and doing all you can to stay healthy or healthier.  Staying healthy is one of the best 'frugal' things you can do.  Staying away from doctors and meds (when you can) saves money.

This is my story of the summer.  I know it isn't for everyone, nor would it work for all.  

I was a sickly child - rheumatic fever, scarlet fever, anemic...that was me.  I had a couple bad years.  I had my appendix out at 4 and my tonsils out at 8.  I used to get strep throat every year, spring and fall, until I met Glen.  Then it stopped.  At 17 I was diagnosed with hypoglycemia - I was really supposed to watch my sugars.  Yeah, that didn't last long!

Years and years ago I smoked - I stopped that cold turkey.  I have an occasional cocktail, but that is it.  (that wasn't always the case when younger).  I abused my body in my younger years - now I know so much better.

You all know I hate doctors and do not take any meds.  I take my vitamins (when I think about it) and try to just do the right things.

This summer I made a lot of changes.  I seemed to always feel tired and wanted to nap a lot.  I lacked energy.  My restless leg was awful at nights.  I had constant headaches.  I mean every single day - I can't tell you how many over the counter pain relievers I took!!  It was crazy.  I was actually thinking something bad was really wrong, and I was contemplating going to doctor.  Now those that know me, know that is a huge thought!  

I changed the time of the day I eat my main meal (yes I eat one), then I have a snack later on.  I never eat anything after 5PM.  I changed up WHAT I eat a lot.  I have pretty much cut out all sugar.  I do have an occasional sweet treat, but nothing I like I did.  I love sweets, so that was a biggy.  I am trying to eat more real food and not processed.  I have had absolutely no fast food.  I have done lots of walking this year.

With those changes I have lost 20 lbs.

I have energy, hardly ever nap, and haven't had a headache in months (since end of June).  Hardly ever have a restless leg bout anymore - and something I discovered just this week - I can sleep on my stomach again!  I love laying on my stomach, but it hurt my neck so bad - so I quit trying.  This week I rolled over and fell asleep on my tummy for 2 hours, and my neck didn't hurt when I woke up!

I have waaaaayyy fewer aches and pains.  Sure, if I overdo it, I hurt some, then it is done.  I am not hurting all the time now.  Even my feet were hurting last winter, and now they are not.

Now you can call me crazy or think I am just imagining this - but it is very real in my life.  I feel better today than I have in years, and I will soon be 72.

WHY?  Just a few simple changes in diet and activity.

I know this is totally my experience and would not necessarily work for everyone.  BUT stop and look at ways you can change things up some in your health journey - it may make a difference - a big difference.

We all want to take control of our finances, our pantries, our homes, etc.  Well, take control of your health too - that is so very important.  Diet and exercise can make such a HUGE difference in our lives.  We are what we put in our bodies.  I have always known this, but this summer it finally really clicked and now I am feeling that difference.

**You know it all started by accident too!!!!!  I didn't set out to make changes, life just kind of happened and then I saw the positive change occurring.

So, as you go forward, think about some little things you can do to change up your life.  I know there are many things that are bad that are affecting people, and I hate that.  But if a tiny, miniscule change can be made that may help, it would surely be worth it.

Just thought I would share my journey.

Have a fantastic day my friends!

Let's Get Unconventional!

 Hello to all.  Thank you for being here today.  Hope you are all doing well.  

It is in the mid 40's this morning and the house is 68*.  We should be getting to the low 70's today and all week and it looks to be a dry and sunny week.  You won't hear me complain about that!!!

The daylight hours are getting shorter and shorter, and the year is getting closer to be over!  It is so hard to believe that we are on the downward end of October.  Just yesterday (it seems) we were saying how can it be September already?!!!

This morning when outside with the feeding frenzy of cats - the sunrise was so pretty.  The sky was the prettiest shade of blue and there were just whisps and poofs of pink everywhere.  God sure does beautiful work.

I got a notice yesterday for my December luncheon of old friends - Dec. 14.  Then I realized that is less than 2 months away!  So, I really got to thinking and well, the bad news is it is about 10 weeks until Christmas - around 64 days!

Now what a cute idea for a cheese platter!!!  Cheese and pepperoni shaped to look like Santa.  You could do something similar with assorted cracker or even sliced veggies.  Get creative.

You all know that I am not a real traditional gift giver.  I like doing things a little different.  I try to make things a bit more personal and creative.

I mean seriously, anyone can go and buy just any assortment of "stuff".  For the most part kiddos are into computers and gaming and well, I will not contribute.  Besides that, I am not spending the money that all that takes!  It is way too expensive.  

Most adults have everything they need already.  So just buying to be buying seems silly.

I know we all know people who do not appreciate the homemade gifts, and think that is cheap.  I personally love something different or homemade - because a lot of time, love and THAT person is in it.

I love getting (and giving) food items.  Different things, people may not do for themselves.  I mean we all have to eat!

So let's look a little outside the box today - IT IS TIME TO GET BUSY!!!!

• Used book stores are a great place to shop.  Find a subject they would like.  Many used books look new and then the old classics are just beautiful books.
• Puzzles - I know many of you love puzzles - lots of people do.  A gift that is used over time.  Also think puzzle and word books
• Don't overlook the Aldi aisle of shame!  They have tons of cute ideas (especially fun things for youngsters) for little money
• Sample size health & beauty products in a cute little basket or tote with a bath scrubby
• CVS - deals - you can get a lot of inexpensive things on those daily deals at CVS with their card and their coupons
• Warm socks (we all love warm feet) - maybe some hot chocolate mixes and a mug to go with it.  Or for the right person some mulling spices, and a bottle of wine
• A pretty Christmas ornament - can be used year after year.  Homemade or a pretty you buy.  If you buy one - get a paint pen and write the year on it or a sentiment
• At yard sales or thrift stores - buy pretty single plates for gifting home baked goods or candies. They can keep the plate or pass on to someone else
• A cold/flu/cough kit - lozenges, herbal tea bags, small bottle of honey, tissues, Pepto, soup mix, etc.
• Garden and flower seeds - you can find at garden centers now - marked down.  They will be good next spring - garden gloves, a trowel, bulb planter, etc.  Get some paperwhite bulbs and a small planter to give - fun inside project.  Amarylis bulbs.
• Kiddos - a little basket with a cute toothbrush, toothpaste, bubble bath, cute soaps, and fun sponge or scrubbies, etc.
• Think vintage - it is the new thing again.  Many people are getting back into vintage everything - usually find at thrift stores.  Older kitchens utensils, salt & pepper shakers, fabrics (for the sewer), hankies, bowls & baking items, cookbooks, etc.

Fire starters are easy to make from pinecones - great for a fireplace or for folks that camp. Dip in wax (or colored wax) and place in a basket

Another use for pinecones.  They are FREE and can be turned into all kinds of pretties.  I think these are wonderful!  So cute and cheerful!

Candles - scented or votives or melts are always a good gift.  Everyone knows I love scented candles, and I always get a few to enjoy during the winter months - I think of the giver each time I use them.

Fire extinguishers are a great gift - you can now buy super easy to use ones and they are disposable after use.  I have been gifted several and have them in various areas of the home.  Also a fire blanket - that can be thrown over a fire to extinguish.

Anything that provides safety is good.

This is a great idea for people who live alone - an extra feeling of security.  I have 2 - one for front and one for back door.

It just slides under the handle and helps keep the door from being opened.  Easy to use.

Gift cards are now available for everywhere - If you know someone having difficulties - this is a great gift - they can use for anything.  Think about stores that have food and other goods - they can get what they need.  Coffee lovers - a GC to their favorite coffee spot.  You can buy Visa cards that can be used for anything.  Amazon cards.  The list goes on and on - and they can get exactly what they want or need.

I will give more ideas in the coming weeks, but this gives folks ideas on ways to get started and buy ahead.  We all need to get motivated - even if we just gift to neighbors and friends or maybe an office gift or the teacher.

What unconventional gift would you like?

What unconventional gifts do you give?

Tis the season to get busy!!!!!!!

Have a fantastic day!!!!!!!!!!

Weekly Wrap Up 10/18

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

Very chilly morning here.  It is 40* outside at the moment and was 68* inside when I got up.  It is the coldest morning we have had in months.  I tell you that bed sure did feel good this morning (and yesterday).  I did not want to get up.  I got out the longer jammie pants the past couple evenings and added a heavy throw on top of the bed.  That made sleeping very enjoyable and restful.

It finally feels like October is here.  It will get chilly again tonight, and then we go back to above normal temps for at least the next week, maybe the remainder of the month.  It does look as if my car has some frost on it, from looking out the window.  It is dark still and I haven't been out yet.

My frugal week:

• I still had a little leak in the kitchen (after the neighbors' work) but not as bad.  He came back over and we both noticed at the same time, that the flashing on the chimney looked loose.  He fixed that and tarred around it and did a few more shingles and I am happy to report NO more leak (we did have a big rain to test it).  YAY!
• He blew the gutters out again while up there - the poplar is so close to the house & has dropped most of its leaves
• I did some leaf clean-up in the yard and around the garage (kitties loved that)
• Walking around the street and picking up blowing trash and items (it has been windy)
• I mowed and trimmed everything & did a bit more yard work
• HARVEST - I finished it up.  One last cuke, lots of tomatoes and peppers (plants still in). The basket below is the size of those grocery baskets.

• I got started on the basement clean - did a lot, but nowhere near done
• Cats all got flea meds (I had already)
• Laundry cold water and hung to dry
• Cooked up the last of the fresh broccoli that needed used and froze for later (for soup)
• Hard boiled some eggs for snacks
• Did a real deep vacuum 
• Been using up leftovers and cooking from home
• NO grocery this week - using what I have
• I did get out a little heater to use, instead of using furnace.  I got several little heaters two years ago on clearance and have kept them for in case (or gifts)!

Warmed up the living room, so when I am on couch it feels great.

Meals this week:

Cheese/rice/broc/ham skillet and biscuits

Enchiladas (used l/o rice)

1/2 enchilada and bean/cheese tostada

Tuna salad and fresh veggies

Fried green tomatoes and chicken tenders

Sausage ravioli (freezer) in sauce (homemade), garlic toast

Fish, fries and veggie slaw

That is about it for me.  We did get a lot of rain on Thursday evening and Friday morning.  The ground sure needed it.  I did turn on the AC on one late afternoon for a cycle - it got to 87* that day, and now the weather is frosty.  Crazy stuff.

It did frost some - but the annuals still look fine.  It is now daylight and I have been out and fed all the cats.  Boy, are they happy to see me in the morning!!!!

How was your week?  Is your garden done now?  Are you doing any after harvest stocking or canning?

Let us know what your weather is like.  I love hearing from you all - heard from several new people this week and many regulars that have been missing some.  Love it.

Wishing you all a wonderful week ahead.

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

*************************

And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.

Colossians 4:17

Lord, we come to You in thankfulness for the week past and blessings on the upcoming week.  You have again gotten us all through another week, and we are so grateful.  Guide us each one on our paths this week to do good and be a good representative here on earth.  Continue to lay Your healing hands on all in need, no matter their need, whether mind, body or soul.  Thank You for all our blessings.  AMEN

A is for Apple & Yummy Fall Eating

 Hello all you lovely folks.  So happy to have you hear this morning and hoping all are well and safe.

It is pretty cloudy out right now, yet it is 66*F.  Yesterday got back to about 80*.  We have rain coming into tonight and overnight.  Yesterday I got a little shower in the afternoon, but all it did was make it humid!

I did do a bit more yard work early yesterday, and may go out this morning and get a bunch of peppers and green tomatoes - we have a small chance of frost on Saturday morning.

It is really supposed to cool and get windy after the rain for a couple days.  Back to good by Monday.

I slept horribly last night - not sure what was up with that!  I looked at the clock at 5:30 this morning, and thought I will get up in a few minutes - then woke up at 6:30!!  I never get up that late.

Fall is APPLE season!  I love me some apples - I like several different varieties.  I tend to lean towards a good crispy one that is a combo of sweet and tart.

Apples can be fixed and eaten in so many ways other than just fresh.  I am a fan of fried apples, mom used to fix them often in the fall.  We had a couple of apple trees, so that was a free food!

You can make cobbler, crisp, pie, or sauce.  Apple cider is also a fall favorite - Mmmmmm.

A good fresh apple and peanut butter is a tasty treat and it is filling.

Apples are full of vitamins and minerals and like the old saying states - "an apple away keeps the doctor away"!  I eat apples often (all year) as well as citrus.  I do love my sweets at times - but give me fruit and I happy!

Now there are also fun and maybe some not quite as healthy ways to eat apples as well.  Lots of people have campfires and fall gatherings and I think either of these would be fun, for children and adults alike.

I saw this on FB and thought it was a neat idea.  Water in a crockpot - add jars of chocolate and/or caramel for dipping and apple wedges on sticks.  A muffin tin with toppings.  How fun is that?  I think this would be a great way to have a festive display of apples and goodies.

I have shown this one before - but it is a fun one as well.  Slice apples and insert sticks, then drizzle with melted chocolate and add goodies and let them set up.

Simple and fun ways to make the fall season a bit more festive.  I think youngsters would love to come home from school to the slices for a snack!  

I really like a good caramel apple.  I don't get them often, and I usually cut them up to eat - oh those things are messy - but so good! 

I hope you can get some good apples this fall and enjoy them in your favorite way.  Now is the time to get good pricing.  Stores are even carrying multiple varieties.  Maybe you have your own tree and can get them for free.  I wish I had an apple tree.

What is your favorite way to eat apples??

I remember as a kid I used to sit behind the garage and stuff myself with green apples - mom always told me I would end up with a belly ache!!!  I sure did love apples, even back then.

Have a super weekend and relax and enjoy each other.

Have a great day!