My Thoughts to End/Start Months

 Hello to all.  Last day of October!  Happy Halloween if you celebrate.  Tomorrow, we start another new month, only 2 left this year!  A short few weeks it will be Thanksgiving here in the US.  Life is flying by.

This morning is quite warm to start the day - upper 60's.  Rain, glorious rain - we get some today!  It has been an exceptionally dry month - so we end the month with some much-needed precipitation!  

I have been thinking so much about all those that were affected by the storms at the first part of the month.  There are wildfires happening all around as well - and big winds.  There is flooding happening in many places around the globe. It is all so scary and so sad.

Truth!  No one gets to the end of life and wants to say - I hope I left them guessing about how I feel.  Tell people NOW!  Let those you love and care for know how you feel.  If nothing else, be the shoulder they need.  There comes a time in life that we all need a shoulder.  When we are young, we think we have all the time in the world.  Well, let me tell you - those years seem to fly by and then you are in your later season of life.  DO things now, say things now, be there now - it is so important on both sides!

I think about all those this past month that have lost family members and friends to these horrible storms.  I think about those that lost all their possessions - homes included.  Many are now sleeping in tents as cooler/cold weather will be approaching.  Many do not have electricity yet or water.  We have gals here in our group that have gone through so much and it still continues to a degree.  I am sure there are group members that we don't know about yet, going through devastating loss.

If you are of the persuasion - PLEASE pray for them all - for all folks going through such horrible stuff.

We sure can use more love in this world - more kind deeds - more kind words.

Be the positive influence in your family, neighborhood, office, etc.  Be kind and pass on kindness. It is infectious!!!

Stop and think, as we start November, all the things that you are thankful for - big or small.

Thanks for being here and being a friend not only to me, but to others.  I love this group - you have all helped me in ways that you will never understand or know.

Have a wonderful day - stay safe - and BE KIND!

PS - THANK YOU to Cindy and to Laurie!!!!!!! You know!

Some Fun Food (and drink) for the Holidays/Winter!

 Happy midweek to all.  It is a warmer morning here.  The house was 73* this morning when I got up - all from the heat it accumulated yesterday.  Yesterday set big records here.  It was the warmest for that date in 74 years!  The house warmed up - but with the windows open it was comfortable.  It was extremely windy yesterday!  Today is supposed to be warmer as well.

Isn't that pretty?  I would love to take a walk down that track.  You can almost smell the leaves and nature.

I like fun food, especially at the holidays.  Things that maybe we wouldn't have or do at other times!  I like eating and drinking them and I like gifting them.

This sounds very refreshing and holiday like!  I think this would be great for a holiday brunch.  I do believe even the kiddos would love it.

I think if one wanted to be 'festive' a shot of rum or vodka per glass might be good as well!!  

Hmmmm - even something like a Malibu rum!

FLAVORED BUTTER!  Have you ever made flavored butter for the holidays or special dinners?

You can add anything you want to softened butter.  Soften the butter, add the ingredients desired and knead it in.  The form a roll and wrap in wax paper or parchment paper to store.

You can add bacon bits, cheese, garlic or onion powder or dehydrated, any herbs - like rosemary, thyme, basil, etc.  It is great on warm bread or rolls or just for spreading on crackers with a bowl of chili or stew!  Buy your butter when advertised on specials during the holiday months.  I have already been seeing it for 2.50 and less per pound.  You could also make your own butter pretty easily with heavy cream.

Have fun with it.  It is so tasty.

APPLE BUTTER

Click on recipe to enlarge.

I am doing this for part of the gift baskets this year!  So easy - put in the crockpot and let it do the work.  I will be canning in 1/2 pint jars and processing to make it shelf stable.

I think this will be a fun addition.

I may play with adjusting the sugar a bit (using less), we will see.

Just a couple fun things to maybe add to the menu this year.  I think it is fun to try new things.

ENJOY!!

Have a super day - enjoy these last days of October.

The Countdown is On! (in many ways)

 Happy Tuesday!  How is everyone this new day?  I hope well and safe.  This month has flown by and here we are at the end of it.  Gosh, hard to believe Friday is November.  Here is the U.S. Thanksgiving will be here before you know it, then BOOM Christmas!

It is a warmer morning here today.  In the 60's already and going to 80* today!!  They say windy but very warm.

The time change falls BACK this weekend.  UGH!  I hate it!  Yay, it gets dark at 4PM or 5PM says no one!!!  "You get an extra hour sleep" they say!  HA - obviously 'they' don't have animals!!!!  I think here in US, AZ is about the only place that doesn't change.  Not sure about other countries.

Elections are a week away.  Big changes ahead - regardless.  NO political opinions here please - just a reminder to VOTE!  It truly is important - not something to be taken lightly.

Let us talk holidays today.  I have all my canning yet to do - much of it goes in Christmas baskets.  When weather cools, I will be ordering my summer sausage I get every year from Walnut Creek.

I have started getting smaller things for stuffers in baskets and for the littles.  I need so much more.

I LOVE the above meme.

It says a lot to me.  I think we need to get away from super expensive gifts - whether for children or adults.  I can hear people now saying "well, they will just throw things away".  That is so not true for many people (not all).  I happen to have a family that loves getting goodie baskets - teens included.  It is like a treasure hunt!!!!  They get fun things they may not make or buy themselves.

I "listen" all year to things they all say.

Small businesses are important - more than ever.  These people are just trying to support families - not corporations.  You find so many neat items too.

Don't have room for a tree?  Have pets that might get into a tree?  I love this idea.  This is in a corner - but could be done on a flat wall as well.  A tree of family pictures!  You could use family, friends, pets, moments - pictures of anything.  Little battery lights amongst them.  Just so cute!

Dollar Tree fun!  Get a pack of those little battery candle lights - paint and ribbon and you have some super cute little decorations for a little tree or for a window or around a mirror.  The ideas are endless.

Another FREE or super cheap little ornament.  I think these would be cute little gifts for teacher or office workers or the bus driver.  Just a little token gift.

Baskets (bags - whatever) can be for young or old.  Little games, treats, crayons, books, candles, warm socks, teas, cups, coffees, homemade goodies - you name it.  These are so fun to put together and fun to receive.  I know I enjoy them.

Great fun for someone in a nursing home as well - little bottles of things they can use, puzzles, word search, stamps, pens, envelopes packets of cards, warm socks, etc.

ALSO - time to start getting gift cards you might want to give.  I can buy about any card I choose at Kroger and with a digital coupon I get extra gas points for myself as well.  Win-Win!

If you need to mail gifts - think gift cards.  No extra postage needed.  If you have mailed a package as of late - you know how crazy expensive postage is.

Just a few things to get that mind motivated and thinking of maybe doing something totally different this year.  Have fun with it.  

Check holiday bazaars are well - they are starting up about every weekend here.  Lots of cute homemade items to buy!  Ideas to be had.

What are some neat ideas you all use?  What homemade gift seems to be a favorite for your family?

Love to hear new ideas. 

I will be giving 'foody' ideas over the next few weeks.

Have a great day.  May it be bright and joyful!

Weekly Wrap Up 10/27

 Happy Sunday to all.  Hoping this finds you all well and safe.  Cool morning here in Indiana.  These brisk mornings, sure make it hard to get out of the cozy bed!  I have the thermostat set at 67*, yet it hasn't turned on.  The house stays pretty comfy.

We finally have some color setting on around here.  There are reds, yellows, oranges, crimson, burgundy, etc.  It is getting pretty.  I saw my big old woodpecker out there yesterday!  I haven't seen it for a while.  Also saw a red-winged black bird, that must be flying through.  I have during the spring and early summer - then they usually disappear.  How about that big old moon this last week?  WOW

We have had 'Micheal Myers' walking up and down the street this week!!!  Neighbor from down the road - he walks slowly down the street (mask on) and sure makes traffic slow and take notice!!!! 

                                                                            YES!!!!!

My frugal week:

• Lots of laundry and used the dehumidifier water
• Got to air the house a lot - had a lovely week
• Working on cleaning out the garden, the area between the garden and fence (flowers), the huge New England aster, the reeds on the pampas grass, etc.  Got lots and lots of yard/garden work done
• Back hose is drained and put up
• Received my 15% off coupon on entire purchase from Ollies - will use at some point for kid's gifts
• Got another negative light bill.  This has been going on much of the year.  I have been on a reasonable budget plan for years - and suddenly I am showing credit all the time.  I did go ahead and pay the budget several months - now I get a negative bill and NO envelope!!  It also won't let me pay anything by phone until out of negative.  Cool!
• Cut my hair at home and root touch-up
• No grocery shopping.  I did run out and got NON-food items to add to the panty.  Furnace filters, cat food and treats, medicated lip balms, throat lozenges, stocking stuffers for some gift baskets, etc.  Oh, I did get one thing at Big Lots for the food pantry.  A great deal - no mixing, other than water - will make almost free tortillas!!!

Clearance of .62 for the whole bag.  Will place in glass jars and be ready to go!!!!!! Love homemade tortillas!

• Did a total vacuum and dust of main floor
• Meals from home with what I have
• Finished up a half gallon of milk dated 10/5 - still tasted perfect
• Opened a new bag of A/P flour - dated 12/21 - perfect

Meals this past week:

Chicken strips, fried corn/cabbage, sliced toms

BLT and fruit

Fried green tomatoes and a fried egg

Faux Philly beef & cheese open face, fried onion slices and sliced toms

Smoked sausage, 2 small corn on cob, salad

Mexi chicken fillet, fried zucchini, sliced toms

Cheesy tuna/noodle casserole w/peas added and sliced toms

Lots of fruit and nuts for snacks

The sun has been shining, the colors are starting, nature is great, kitties are loving - super day here.  What have you all been up to this week?  Did you find any deals?  Anyone still canning/freezing?  I am going to finally start canning this week!

Prayers for all in the storm affected areas - whatever part of the world you are in.  Look forward to hearing from you all.

Be safe and healthy and have a wonderful week ahead.  Smile and enjoy all the gifts you have been given.

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

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

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

Romans 12:21

Dear Lord, help us each one to do and say the kind thing.  There is so much evil in this world today, and we see and hear it daily.  Help us to not succumb to it, and to always do the good and just thing.  If we each do that, we can improve this earth and a little at a time.  Please continue to lay Your healing hands upon all in need.  AMEN

Sometimes the Best Things in Life are Free!

 Hello this Thursday!  Hope you are all well and safe.  It is a chilly morn here.  We have ups and downs with the temps - it is that time.  Come Tuesday next week - it may be close to 80* again!  

The daylight hours are sure shorter.  Used to be about 6AM - 9PM, now it is about 8AM - 7PM.  Soon the clocks will change again (UGH) and it will be dark even earlier.  That is ONE part of winter that I despise!  I am a sunlight kind of person!

Today's post will be short.  Now that the seasons are changing, we look at life differently.  I think we all do it.  Cozy and comfort are what we think of.

I want to sit and rest here!  It looks so cozy and warm.  To sit and read a good book and to be all warm and comfy.  That just sounds like bliss.  It seems we all keep so very busy with home, yards and just going - that we get little of that sweet bliss.  We all need to take more time to just relax and enjoy!  We need to slow down and enjoy the simple things.

I do believe this with my whole heart.  I know often times medication is important and needed - but there are so many things that work well for our health and well-being.  Medicine or not - these things more than HELP each of us.

As I get older - the more I understand this.  So many free and yet simple things in life to make us each a healthier version (mental or physical) of ourselves.  I said above - I need my sunshine, that is hugely important to me.  I need my sweet kitties - they give a very important kind of joy.  I need my family and friends.

Nature makes me happy, and it lifts my spirit.  So many simple things - so much joy.

Just want to take a moment and thank you all for being some of the 'medicine' I need and have needed to keep me going.  You all have done so much over the years, to help me through stressful situations and horrible moments.  We ALL try to lift each other up and bring some joy into each other's days!  You are all the best.

I LOVE THAT.

I look forward to being able to that in the future as well.

So as the days get shorter - let the love and friendship lengthen.  

Take a moment to bring joy to another and to appreciate the simple things, and you will receive much in return.

Have a wonderful day my friends!!!

Using Surplus to Make Great Meals

Midweek - here we are again.  It is a lovely morning here.  Looks to be another nice day.

Today's chat is more about using what you already have and the gifts of fall as well.  Whether you grow food, are gifted surplus goodies (I am seeing that a lot), or finding produce deals - let's have fun and eat those goodies up.  There are so many ways to fix things - there should be no boredom in meals.  Do some new things and you may find a new family favorite.

Right now many have an abundance of various things.  Winter squash, cabbage, potatoes, beets, greens, you name it.  USE IT!

When it comes to all fall veggies - roasting is a favorite for me.  Cube, slice, do whatever you like and roast them with some oil and seasonings and yum!  

You can roast individually or several types together.  Love me some roasted Brussel sprouts - or halved and sauteed in a bit of bacon grease - Mmmmmm good.

POTATOES

Think about all the many ways you can fix.  Fried, hash browns, scalloped, Au Gratin, fries, baked, boiled, in soups, in roasts w/other veggies, potato soup.............  Great for breakfast, lunch and dinner

CABBAGE

Can be fried, boiled, roasted, added to stir fry and soups.  Cut cabbage steaks and broil or roast or grill.  Make sauerkraut or slaw.  Again many uses

TOMATOES

Red or green - both have uses.  Use in your salads or just slice for a side (or a snack).  Make sauces of all kinds.  Add to pasta salads.  Green can be breaded and fried (a fav of mine).  You can make pickle relish with them.  A green tomato pie is fabulous.  Add to any meal.  I have even diced and added to veggie soup for a little different taste.

OTHERS 

Add to soups, have as sides, add to casseroles.  Add veggies to things like tuna noodle casserole or to mac n cheese to raise the level a bit.  Fresh veggies in pasta salads.  Mix together and make a new taste sensation.

What I call mixed veggie hash!  Green beans, potatoes, carrots, and ground beef all simmered (fried) together.  So good and filling.  Kind of a meal in itself.  I am a huge fan of one pot meals.  I think that would be handy for moms with kiddos and a busy schedule.

Just about all veggies can be fried.  Sure, we all make fries with regular and sweet potatoes - but other things can be fried too.  Green beans fries are a treat!  Bread and fry and you will be amazed.  Of course there is zucchini, green tomatoes, okra, carrot strips, just about anything.  I have even made fried cucumbers and pickles.  Have fun and try new things.  I also sauté corn, peppers, onions, green beans, cabbage, carrots, radish, turnips, just about any veggie.

MEAT - well use what you have or find cheaply.  Poultry and pork are decently priced right now most places.  Make up small meatballs when you can - they can be used in sauces and soups or use in kabobs with those veggies.  Chop or slice a chicken breast or a couple pork chops to use in stir fry or fried rice or soup - sure makes the meat go farther.

Think about making wraps instead of sandwiches.  Lighter calories and super easy to handle.  You can use tortillas as wraps, for burritos, enchiladas, tacos, quesadillas, all sorts of things.  You can buy them cheaply or they are super easy to make.

Think about making biscuits - great as a bread for a meal, can make super breakfast sandwiches, good for a quick snack, they can be a topping to a dessert or casserole, and easy and cheap to make.

Here is a fun version of cornbread!  I love fried cornbread.  I have even eaten with butter and syrup with a side of eggs for a meal.  Cornbread is another easy and yummy bread to make.  You can eat as a side, you can put over a zesty mix-up (like chili or taco meats) and bake into a casserole.  My daddy was a fan of cornbread and milk.  I even remember my siblings talking about that being breakfast or lunch some days when times were tough.  Makes great polenta as well - I love fried slices of polenta.

BREADS of all sorts can be used in many ways.  You can use for sandwiches - I am still a big bread slices over buns kind of person.  You can make bread pudding - this can be so easy and you can add about anything you want to fun it up.  

Make your own croutons, breadcrumbs, or dressing/stuffing bread.  Stale bread is great for many of the forementioned ideas.  Think about French toast or cinnamon toast.  Covered with gravy.  many, many options. 

If you aren't a meat eater - think about adding lentils or beans to dishes to hearty them up.  It will give you protein and add that hearty feeling and taste of meat.  You can use lentils in about anything - stews, chili, soups, tacos, etc.  They are super cheap too!  Would stretch those meat dollars.

Now when you add in all the normal things we keep on hand - baking supplies, rice, dried beans, pastas, etc. - you can make just an enormous amount of meals.

NEVER turn down 'gifted' produce.  Take it - use what you can, preserve some if you are of that mindset or share with others.  Just NEVER say NO.  I had a wise elderly gentleman tell me once - whether you can use it or not - take it if offered.  One day you will need something, and if you say no enough times, you may not be considered!!  True words.

So enjoy those end of garden goodies, those last of the season farm markets, store clearances, surplus stores, etc. and get you some cheap goodies.  Hopefully you have friends and family offering fresh goodies as well.

Get creative and make GOOD EATING!  Try new things and USE WHAT YOU HAVE.  It really does help to SAVE some $$$$$.

One of my favorite meals of the summer ALWAYS!  Don't even need the meat.  I just love all the veggies and fruits I can enjoy.

Eat the COLOR and eat HEALTHY.

Have a super day!!!

Food, Oh Fabulous Food

 Happy Tuesday to all.  Hoping this finds you safe and well.  I seem to be on slow this morning.  I laid in the bed longer than normal this morning, kitties came and curled up with me, and it sure felt cozy.  Now I am in catch up mode.  Funny how just a few minutes out of your routine can throw you for a loop!

It is nice outdoors - about 50*F and looks to be a sunny day.  As soon as the sun started to pop out - the birdies were singing so pretty.  What a great way to start the day - kitties and nature.

Food - the basis of life.  Every living thing needs some type of nourishment to thrive.  

It is now time for all the wonderful fall produce.  Whether you grow it, find it on mark down, or go to farm markets, or are gifted goodies - use it and love it.

If you have an abundance of 'whatever' make the most of it.  You can - can and freeze and dehydrate - but if you aren't in the mindset to do that - find new ways to eat it up.

This is time for cabbage, brussels, broccoli, potatoes, onions, beans, some peas, greens, tomatoes (both green and red), parsnips, turnips, winter squash, etc.  There are tons of variety out there, and right now can be had for pretty cheap prices.

Get those kitchen basics as well.  Flour, sugar, all baking products, spices and herbs, eggs (they seem to be getting cheaper), butter, oils etc.

With these basics you can make not only sweets and yummies from the kitchen, but also lots of good hearty food.  Biscuits, noodles, dumplings, pancakes, breads, crusts, etc.

Our options are limitless really.  Poultry and pork seem to be the cheaper meat products at this time.  Turkeys, they say, will be at least 15% less in cost this year.  When you find them cheap - buy extra if you have the room.  If you don't have room to store whole turkeys - thaw and cook - then wrap and freeze for later.  Cents per pound is cheaper than any lunchmeat or deli meat that can be had.  Ground chicken or pork can be used just like any other ground meat.  You can always add bouillon to change the taste. 

Buy the deals when you find them - stock up.  Tis the season for lots of great food finds.

Holidays will be upon us soon, and that always makes for some great sales.

Tomorrow, I will give lots of ideas for using 'normal' veggies and fruits in new and different ways.

Food is such a beautiful thing.  It truly is.  Look in your cabinets and frig and freezer and see what you have.  All those labels, and all those fresh and yummy things - THEY TRULY ARE BEAUTY!  

Isn't that something?  Things of such beauty are full of nourishment for your body.  I find that so amazing.  Color is huge - learn to eat the color - it is full of vitamins and minerals that you need in your body.

Until tomorrow and lots of fun ideas - have a beautiful and joyful day!