Frugal Happenings 2/26

Good morning.  Here we are at the end of another month.  Spring will officially be here in a few short weeks, and the world is starting to awake again.  I will do a picture day one day this week and all the rebirth!

This week we found out that four more acquaintances passed away!  OMG!!!  Getting older, sure does have some downsides and those downsides truly suck!
Also found our that our old neighbors of 25+ years (moved in Oct.) both have cancer, and he is now under Hospice care.  So sad.
I think I am done hearing bad news for the rest of the year.  This year has been crazy for sure.

ON A GOOD NOTE - we got new neighbors on both sides of us this weekend.  One side is a single mom with 2 kids (3 & 10).  They seem really nice and the 10 year old is excited about all the nature we have in our yard.  The other side is a young couple with a cute little lap doggie!  I was so afraid of getting someone with a big mean dog.  They seem nice - he has already told me that if ever I need help, to just yell.

We had a tremendous amount of warm weather this week.  From Friday afternoon to Saturday morning (less than 24 hours) we dropped 43*!!  Had 73* on Friday with rain - awoke to snow on Saturday!  Crazy stuff.  This coming week will be warmer again.
I saw the red winged black birds back at the feeder this week.  Such a pleasure to see here in the city.

My week:

• Got all the spring door decorations up.  Used what I had on hand.
• dehydrated 4 bags of marshmallows (there's a story - I'll tell later!)
• Did a lot of yard work.  My neighbor 2 doors down wanted all the sticks and limbs I picked up - for his fire pit.  Saved me from putting them in trash!  RECYCLE at it's best
• Stopped by the vet and picked up my sweet kitties' cremains.  We received a lovely card and laminated copy of the Rainbow Bridge in the mail from the vet.  They are so sweet
• Cut G's and my hair
• Put a new battery in my watch - from the ones I bought last year 4/$1 at Dollar Tree.  The last one lasted months.
• Stopped at Kroger while out and found Domino powdered sugar - 1 lb. boxes - for .39 each on clearance.  I bought 6.  Along with what I had, I am good for a couple years. (It's dated 12/2018 - but it doesn't go bad)
• Removed ham slices from the freezer for easy breakfast and lunch eats
• Also removed banana bread from freezer for snacking
• Got to line dry some laundry!
• No heat much of the week and aired out house a lot
• An old co-worker stopped by one day and told me he started his own handyman business.  We were just talking about finding someone to help with some projects.  God sends what we need when we need it!

Meals and snacks
Leftover lasagna with a small side salad
Loaded hot dogs with chips and dip
Pork cube steaks and dirty rice
Enchilada casserole and salad (2X)
Pork chops, fried green tomatoes and breaded/fried onion slices
Leftover pork, tomatoes, onions and oven fries

Snacks/desserts were orange cream pudding, banana bread, a homemade sundae, real banana pudding (yum), pop corn 

How did your frugal week go?  Any deals or special projects? 
I hope you are getting to enjoy some of this wonderful pre-spring weather in your area.
I look forward to doing some spring cleaning this week.

May the sun shine upon your face and the wind be at your back.  I pray each of everyone has a blessed and beautiful week.
God bless

NO Money Prep - Part 2 FORAGING

There are many other ways to save money and spend nothing on prepping.
FORAGING is huge among many, especially those wishing to not spend much money.  OK, I can hear you all now - "We live in the city - nowhere to forage".  WRONG!  There are many ways to forage in the city as well as the country.

First when foraging you might want to educate yourself on edible plants either by reading articles on the web, watching videos,  or reading books from the library.  Check you area, as there may be FREE classes offered at parks or your county extension office.  Maybe find a mentor!

There isn't a lot of calories in most foraged foods, except nuts.  They should be considered supplemental foods and most are full of vitamins.

If you start foraging to save money or to simply help feed your hungry family - you will never look at a weed the same way.  There are many that a very high in vitamins.
Dandelions, plantain, clover, roses, wild onion and chives, wild mustard, and even thistle are just a few of the plants you can eat and use for medicinal means.
Also consider nasturtiums, violets, squash blooms, etc.  DO RESEARCH!

Battered and fried dandelion flowers are good.  Cooked greens are full of vitamins.  I have even made jelly from the flowers. (You can also use wild violets as well for jelly.)  I have also used peony flowers to make jelly.
Rose flowers and petals are edible and they are pretty in a salad.  Rose hips (part left after flower falls off) is full of vitamin C.  Clover can be eaten in salad and the very bottom end of flower has a bit of honey like sweetness (would be wonderful if no sugar).  All parts of dandelions is usable.  Golly the  list goes on and on. 

Fruit and nut trees are a wonderful find.  Notice if neighbors have trees and do not use the fruits.  ASK!  They may just say take it.  Check you parks and very wild areas for nut trees (pick off the ground) and even wild berry plants.  You can use fruit for sauces, jelly and jams, or for canning or freezing or dehydrating.

It is almost wild mushroom time in our area.  That is HUGE in the Midwest.  You do need to know what to look for - you don't want to kill someone!  I am not trying to scare anyone - but you DO need to be EDUCATED!!  Mushrooms can be froze, canned, or dehydrated for later use.

Learn to fish and hunt.  Fishing is a rather inexpensive hobby and can be a lot of family fun.  Free meat is always a plus.  Hunting takes a bit more but if you already have a rifle or shotgun or bow, you can follow the seasons.  I know this isn't for everyone (I'd have to be awful hungry to kill something), but many do it and it has been a way of life throughout history.  There is also trapping, which I have only seen on TV - so read up on your options. 

Blackberries and wild grapes grow in lots of woody areas.
If you have access to wild berries or nuts and you can get them in abundance - you might consider selling them at farm markets (using money for other items) or using them to barter for other goods.

At the end of growing seasons check with local farmers and see if you can glean from their fields.  Gleaning is picking up and using all the 'falls' that the farmer doesn't want or can't sell.  Yes, you may have to trim it up or even throw some away - but FREE is FREE.
Many times farmers that grow pumpkins and tomatoes have lots of product left in the field.  ALWAYS ASK - never just take anything.
Check with farmers after they have harvested field corn.  Leftovers can be ground and used as a meal.
Check with orchards - as many of them let you have the dropped apples for a very cheap price.
Always check farmer markets at the end of the selling day.  Many farmers don't want to take items back and will sell cheaply.

Save rain water if possible.  Figure out a way - even if you simply put barrels or buckets under downspouts (place screening over hole to use as a filter).  Rain water can water your plants - water your animals and can even be filtered and used for human consumption. (You do have to spend a bit on a good filter system if drinking).  It can be used for laundry, flushing, and cleaning as well.  You just need to be prepared for ANYTHING in these times.

It just takes a little looking outside the proverbial BOX!  If we all educate ourselves and start using what we can now - we will be fine if the bottom falls out.  There are so many ways to supplement your food pantry for free!
Never give up if you have no money to prep - there is ALWAYS a way!!!!!

Give foraging and gleaning a try.  You will love free food.
FREE IS MY FAVORITE 4 LETTER F WORD!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Salvage - Scratch & Dent

I keep hearing about folks who shop at salvage stores or scratch and dent shops for groceries.  I have always wished that we had a spot close by that provided that service.
The only time I have ever found seconds on groceries was at the little Amish store that I used to drive to in southern Indiana.  They had a scratch and dent section.

I realize that Odd/Big Lots and Ollies sell groceries - but often their prices are higher than the deals I get at grocery stores.
Between my closeouts and clearance at Kroger, Aldi, and Dollar Tree - well it's hard to find much better deals.

I got to checking on-line last week to see if there was anything in our area.  Well lo and behold I found a place that is just 10 minutes North of us.
I ran up there Saturday.  Now many of the items were very outdated - but others were fine.  They had a little of everything.  I will definitely go back and look again.

I asked the girl how long they had been there..........wait for it...........since 1939!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  WHAT????? 
I have lived in this city my entire life and had never heard of it.  They have been in the same place and selling the same type stuff since then!  Now for the big clincher - they are going out of business as of July!  Such is my luck!
She did tell me about another place not much further up the road, that I still have to check out.

There are several other stores in other parts of our state, but not much around here.  I would think that this would be a good business venture.  There are so many parts of all major cities that are 'food deserts' - meaning there are no groceries close by.  Many people only have convenience stores to shop at and those sell lots of junk food and for a high dollar price.
Salvage stores would at least put 'decent' food options in front of people for a nice low price.  That just seems like a win-win to me.


If you are interested in finding a shop in your locale - try checking into the attached web site.  It is alphabetical order by state.

http://www.extremebargains.net/discount-grocery-store-directory/

I hope I did this right - so you can all access it.
It seems that many of the areas that have a high Amish population seem to have this type of venture.  Seems they know LOTS of things that we should all know and practice!!!!!

Do you have any salvage stores in your area that you go to?  Do you get good deals?
ALWAYS LOOKING FOR A DEAL!

Frugal Happenings 2/19

Good morning to all of my frugal friends!  I hope this finds you healthy and happy.

What a week!  I am very happy to say this past week is now in the history books.  It was difficult on many levels.
I went and said my final 'earthly' goodbyes to my friend Carol.
I said goodbye to one of my babies who took the journey over the Rainbow Bridge.
I spent time at the hospital this week with one of my adult nephews, who had a 5 hour spinal surgery.  He is now home recovering.
It has been a stressful week for sure.

Our weather has been lovely.  It has gotten warmer by the day.  We are to be on the 60's and 70's all week long.  I am sure there may be some harsh weather yet - but with each passing day we are closer and closer to spring.  I am loving the amount of daylight that we are now experiencing.
Daffodil greens are up about 4", lilies are popping through the ground, peonies are peeking out, the earth will be jumping back to life soon.
I am seeing more and more robins in the yard too.  That's a sure sign of spring in these parts!  We have been enjoying watching the finches take baths in the bird bath.  So cute!
The squirrels are a hoot!!!  They must have spring fever - as they are jumping, frolicking and playing like crazy.


Not much happening this week:

• While out one day I did stop at the Christian thrift store.  I got 2 bags of stale seeded rolls for the birds and squirrels for FREE
• I also bought a brand new looking pair of Lee jeans there for 99 cents
• I found 4 bags of holiday marshmallows on sale 2/$1 - I will dehydrate this week (to use in cereal)
• Have actually accomplished a little yard work
• Saved the green cap from a jar of parm cheese.  Will re-use it on one of my Mason jars.
• Just doing all the normal everyday things
• DVRing some movies this weekend, as we have FREE premium channels again for 3 days.
• Heat off most of the time, and doors open for fresh air.

Meals this week:
A very small pot of stew
Chicken casserole (made like tuna only using chicken) - 2X
Ate all leftovers one night - just odds and ends
McDonalds - (I bad) didn't feel like cooking at all
Poor man's Swiss steak with mashed potatoes - (big burgers smothered in veggie/beef soup)
Homemade lasagna


How was your week? 
Did you stay on the frugal bandwagon?   It is tough some weeks, as unexpected expenses come up - but that is why we are frugal the rest of the time!  Don't beat yourself up if you had set-backs.

Thank you all so much for your kind words this past week - you really lifted my spirits.
May this coming week be filled with blessings, health and happiness for each of you.

God bless!

Rainbow Bridge

I am very sad tonight, as I had to make an incredibly difficult decision today.  Our sweet outdoor boy Teegy went over the Rainbow Bridge.

I finally caught him to take him to the vet, after he injured his foot.  I could see he had an infection, and he was in pain, you could tell.  The vet said his little immune system must have been compromised already (maybe feline leukemia - not sure), and the infection raged through his body.
I could have had his back leg amputated, but they didn't feel confident that even that drastic measure would save him.  They said the infection would eventually cause his death.

He was such a good boy going to the vet and all the while they examined him.  They had to drug him to totally clean his foot, so he was sleeping already when they euthanized him.  I got to pet him and hold him and talk to him and kiss him. 
We are having him cremated.
I have only had to make that horrible decision twice in my life, and would never wish it on any fur baby parent.

I know he is now healthy and not in pain anymore.  That is a comfort.
I sure will miss my handsome boy. 
We were blessed to have him for 8 years.

Run free and play big boy!
We love you.

NO Money to Prep?

We all like to have a safety net in case the worse case scenario happens.  It can be anything.  Heaven forbid, but it could be a horrible family illness, sudden loss of a job, , unexpected weather events,  economic downturn, you name it.
There are many things that can rock our world.

If you have been fortunate, you have managed to save a little money for the future and you have managed to prep ahead with your food and household items.  If worse came to worse - you could survive, at least for a while.

Many haven't found themselves in that situation, and have no idea how they can prep, as they have NO extra funds.
Is there any way to put back $10 a month?  That would help.  How you ask?

If you eat out, go to a movie now and then, buy new clothes, etc. - STOP!
Lower your thermostat.
Turn off everything that is electric and not being used.
Line dry your laundry and do not use the dryer.
Work and hour over time if possible.
Re-evaluate your phone bill or other utilities.
Sell something.
Offer a service to someone for money - mow, yard work, baking, sewing, house cleaning.........
Save ALL change.

There are a lot of ways to add $10 a month to your income.  Start with $10 a month - then try to come up with $10 a week.  Work at this slowly - it can be done.

I know $10 a month doesn't sound like a lot - but it sure will help with prepping.
FIRST and FOREMOST when you are just starting out - DON'T worry about nutrition!!!!
I know that sounds odd - but think about it.  If SHTF and you are hungry - well.....food is food!
Once you have basics put back - then you can start adding more nutritious foods.

Start out buying at the dollar stores.
Buy dried beans and legumes.  Buy rice and or pasta.  These will keep you full.
Consider buying  bags of flour, sugar, a pound of salt, dry milk, oats, and perhaps large cans of tomato products.
Consider growing a garden in the warmer months. (At least something).  You could possibly sell garden surplus to others - you could can or freeze or dehydrate food for later.

Put the items you purchase with these funds back - place them in another place other than your normal pantry (maybe a tote).  These are your emergency supplies!  Now you will want to rotate them out once in a while - but try to replace and keep them for emergencies.  NOTE- try to freeze your flour and dry goods like rice or pasta for a few days.  That will kill any insect eggs (yes our food contains them).

So the moral of the story is to NEVER SAY CAN'T!!!!
You CAN prep - you CAN save - just start out small.  Take baby steps.  It will come together.
No matter your income level, you can prepare for more uncertain times.  You will be able to provide for yourself and your family.
Will you be living the high life?  Probably not - but you sure as heck won't go hungry!

Hard work and persistence will get you there.
PREP FOR PENNIES! 

Frugal Happenings 2/12

Good morning to all my friends!  I hope this finds you well and happy this Sunday morning.
I am well, but I have had quite the blah week.

Our weather has been all over the place.  We have had 4 days this week that there was no heat on all day, doors were open and temperatures were very spring-like.  Tuesday it got to 67* and was sunny - Wednesday we had highs in the 20's and snow!  LOL  It sure has been a crazy winter in Indiana.  Sounds like more of the same this coming week.

My Teegy kitty (outside male) somehow hurt his foot this week.  I am supposing maybe a defending his yard action, and he has pretty much been in seclusion.  He won't let me look at his foot (I can see there are no open wounds), and I would never be able to get him to a vet (he is semi feral) - so I just let him rest.  Poor baby.  He is getting a tad bit more active today.

G got to feeling poorly this week, and had stomach issues.  I have felt like I need to be near by, and I have had to stay quiet, as he has slept  tons.  He is doing better now, and is finally starting to eat again!

I got a phone call on Friday that one of my sweet long time friends passed away suddenly.  I can't imagine not having our "hummingbird sighting" phone calls, and not meandering through her beautiful flower gardens.  She has left a beautiful family, lots of good friends, and a beautiful flower garden for her neighbors to enjoy for years.  Carol worked very hard to beautify her little corner of the world, in a very down trodden area.  It was infectious, and others started following suit in the neighborhood.  She was so active in her church, and worked to feed to homeless.
She left a great legacy - hopefully we can all continue it in our own way.   I feel privileged to have been able to call her my friend.

Not much going on  - so the week was pretty darn frugal.

• A neighbor threw out a wooden kitchen chair that had a broken seat.  I went and claimed it.  I will repair the seat and paint in a bright color to use as a plant stand in the garden this summer
• 4 days no heat - air out house
• Did my own mani and pedi
• Colored my hair at home with supplies I had on hand
• I did run to Aldi.  I had another $10/$40 coupon.  I got some fresh items we needed, then used the balance to add back into my long-term pantry.  $32 spent.
• Haven't fixed many meals this week - so just piecing on this and that.
• Been re-reading some of my 'living frugal' books this week and watching 'frugal living' YouTube videos
• Just doing all the normal every day stuff
• Only left the house one day - so very little gas used

Meals this week:
Super Bowl - wings, pizza rolls, and pickle cheese spread and crackers
Meatloaf, mashed potatoes and homemade biscuits
Meatloaf and oven fries
G sick - so no cooking for 3 days
Chicken noodle soup
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My version of PICKLE CHEESE SPREAD
1 - 8 oz. package cream cheese at room temperature.  Dice up 3 dill pickle spears, Chop up 1 - 2 oz. package of chipped beef (or your fav type).  Mix all together and add a dash or two of garlic powder.    Serve with crackers.    YUM!!!!!!
This is definitely a do over!!!  We both loved it.
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What have you been up to?
Any good deals or fresh ideas we need to know about?  Check in and say hey!

God bless you all in this coming week.  I appreciate you all so much.
Take care and stay frugal my friends.

Credit/Debit Safety

We have all heard the stories about people getting their credit/debit cards skimmed at various locations.  Heck some of us have even had it happen.
It is really scary that this can happen.  Crooks get your info, then go on a spending spree.

Credit card and debit  card companies have changed their technology to prevent this from happening.  We all used to "swipe" out cards in the machines, now the new cards have a "chip" and they are pushed into the machines.
Stores and businesses were supposed to have the new machines operational by January 1, 2017 in the U.S.  Many stores still do not.

I was told by a store owner the other day that the crooks have figured a NEW way to get info and skim your card with the new technology.  Geesh!

Here is what you need to watch for:

When you get ready to slip your card in the reader - feel the bottom of the machine first.  You should feel JUST THE BOTTOM of the reader below the slot.  Scammers are now adding a  second level to some machines.  If you feel TWO  layers  (or bottoms/lips) below the slot - DON'T USE IT and ALERT THE STORE IMMEDIATELY.     That second lip is a card reader.

We check our card balances several times a week, and can quickly find any misuse.  It has happened to us 3 times over the years.  The banks have always graciously removed the charges and issued us new cards - but it is just a hassle and takes time.  Luckily we found the problem quickly upon it happening.

Be very aware when using your cards at stores, gas stations, even at ATM's.  This is happening every where.
Keep close watch on your balances, and notify the bank or card service immediately when you see a problem.


It's really sad that people work so hard to cheat hard working people out of their money.  If everyone worked as hard and used as much talent to make an honest living - the world would be a much better place.
BE AWARE ALWAYS!

MORE Foodie Fixes

These recipes and ideas are for those of us who are in the middle of cooking and realize we are out of a product we need.  Also for those who live out in the country and too far to make a quicky run to the store, for those stuck in the house for various reasons, and for ALL of us who just love saving money!!!!


COCKTAIL SAUCE
1/2 C catsup                     can also use part chili sauce
1 Tbsp. horseradish
1 tsp. lemon juice
5 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
1/4 tsp. tabasco (optional)

Mix together and chill.  I make our cocktail sauce all the time. 
*I always have a jar of ground horseradish in the frig for various uses, but I also have horseradish powder on hand.


LAWRY'S SEASONED SALT
2 Tbsp. salt
2 Tbsp. sugar
1/2 tsp. paprika
1/4 tsp. turmeric
1/4 tsp. onion powder
1/4 tsp. garlic powder
1/4 tsp. cornstarch
Make up a lot and store in a spice container or jar.


SUPER EASY BBQ SAUCE
1 C grape jelly
1 C catsup
Mix together and serve over meat.


HOMEMADE CATSUP
1 8 oz. can tomato sauce
3 Tbsp. sugar
1 Tbsp. plus 1 tsp. vinegar
very small dash of cinnamon

Pour tomato sauce into a small saucepan and boil - till it starts to thicken.  Add sugar, cinnamon and vinegar.  Simmer 3 -4 minutes longer.  Refrigerate.
**Go easy on cinnamon - it's real easy to get too much in recipe.


ARBY'S HORSEY SAUCE
Mayo
Horseradish

Mix to your taste preference.  Great with beef.


EASY PEACH JAM
2 C peaches
2 Tbsp. water
2 C sugar
2 Tbsp. cornstarch
Peel and slice peaches.  Put into a saucepan with water and cook peaches down to pulp and juices.  Add sugar and cornstarch and boil till thickened.  Refrigerate or freeze.
This is a great way to use up fruit that may be past it's prime.


I hope this gives you a few ideas and helps save a grocery trip and a dollar or two!  Small steps on the frugal front can add up in the long run.  Take care of your pennies and they will take care of you.
HAPPY COOKING!

Frugal Happenings 2/5

Good morning everyone!
Well here we are in a new month, albeit a shorter month.  We are supposed to gain over an hour on sunlight this month!  YAY!
It seems that we are finally getting a little more sunshine in our daily lives here.  January is always such a cloudy month.  I always feel so much better when the sun is shining.

Our temps have ranged from decent to cold this week.  I see many are headed for another nasty weather week.  I feel for you.  We really haven't had winter here.  The next few days will be above normal with rain.  I will take rain over snow any time in Feb.

My frugal week:

• Doing more de-cluttering.  It just never ends - we have soooooo much stuff!
• I ran errands all together to save on gas this week
• I used the bits of candle at the bottom of a jar (I loved the smell) in my melt pot - not wanting to waste the lovely scent
• I ran across our old Dirt Devil dust buster. (small hand held).  It had a broken belt.  I ran to the vacuum store and got a new one for $3.  Sure makes it handy to clean up little messes, not having to get out the big vacuum.
• Came home and realized I had no bags for the dust buster (never even thought of that).  I checked my stash of bags and found some larger ones for a full size Dirt Devil we NO longer even have.  I got creative and cut the bag down (it fastened to cleaner the same way for both) - stapled and duct taped it at bottom.  Now I have a new bag and another one for later!
• Aired all my tires up for FREE
• Stopped at Kroger to look at clearance.  I got 6 full size Colgate tooth paste for .49 each, and 2 - 8 packs of select-a-size Viva towels for 2.99 each!  (That will last us a couple years).  I CAN'T FOR THE LIFE OF ME UNDERSTAND WHY THEY CLEARANCE THAT STUFF OUT!  (They say they want NO back stock).  Crazy!!!!!  My gain!
• I have Roman shades on 2 front windows.  One hasn't rolled evenly for ages.  I moved furniture and got in there and fixed it!  Now all rolls up fine.
• G did our taxes here at home.  We owe - but not a bunch.
• Stopped at Marsh while out.  Ground beef was on sale for 1.99/lb.  My freezer stash is getting lower - as I haven't bought any in ages.  I had a coupon for $5 off $20 - so I bought $20 worth of ground beef for $15 (making it about 1.33/lb.)
• Other than toothpaste, paper towels, and ground beef - NO groceries bought.

I have everything on hand for Super Bowl feasting today!  G always wants wings.  I will make up other finger foods and we will enjoy during the afternoon and early evening (not wanting to eat too late).  I could care less about the game - I like the commercials.  However, it seems they have gotten less enjoyable over the past few years.  G is not a big sports fan - but he always watches the Super Bowl.


Meals this week:
Cheesy Harvest potatoes and chicken strips
Cheesy potatoes, fried Spam, and salad
Beanie wienies and potato chips and dip
Beef and veggies served over rice
'Unstuffed cabbage roll' skillet dinner
Leftover cabbage and jalapeno burgers
Taco nachos

How was your week?  What have you all been up to?  Give us a shout out!
I have Spring cleaning and Spring on my mind.  I love seeing the world come back to life.

Visions of Spring at the park up the road.  Excited about seeing that beauty soon!  It won't be long.

Wishing you all a great and frugal week.  Hope to hear from you.
Blessings to all.

Decorating on a Dime

Does anyone else remember the HGTV show Decorating Cents with Joan Steffend?  I absolutely LOVED that show.  I got so many ideas from her.  I found out today that you can actually watch ALL those old shows on-line!!!!!  I may have to go back and watch again, as it has been years.

I also love all the ideas I get watching the tiny house shows.  They have so many creative storage and decorating ideas.

I can't imagine hiring a designer to decorate my house.  First, it  is their ideas - not yours.  Second, it costs a fortune.  Third, what fun would it be?
There are so many ways to change out your décor for little or no money.  I know in the spring, lot's of us get antsy and want to change things up a bit.
Here are a few inexpensive ideas.

• Paint - just painting a room can change the whole feeling of the atmosphere
• Sheets - can be turned into curtains, pillows, valances, and furniture coverings.  Think outside the box
• Quilts - repurpose into throws, window coverings, pillows, etc.  (I would use quilts that have worn spots)
• Towels, cotton hankies - great for cute valances
• Make your own art work.  Use and frame things kids have made.  Use old vintage jewelry in new ways.  Frame newspapers from special occasions.  Frame the fronts of pretty holiday cards for holiday décor.
• Sweaters/shirts - they make cute pillows.  Can be yours or bought for pennies at thrift stores
• Frames - love the look of frames in frames.  They can be painted the same color - or use a variety.
• Flowers and leaves can be turned into art
• Baskets, crates, ladders, benches, etc. can be turned into neat décor ideas and great storage.
• Vintage linens are wonderful repurposed
• Family pictures - an inexpensive way to decorate (color, black & white, sepia)
• Antiques - items from family.  Having your heirlooms out to see is great

Family pics old and new in our hallway

More old family pics, old books, and family heirlooms

As spring comes in, think about changing things up in your home.  Use what you have, and also check out yard sales and thrift stores.  There are so many cool ideas on Pinterest.
Doing a bit of re-decorating is a good way to work on de-cluttering as well!  Get rid of what you don't LOVE any more!

You guys might want to check out reader, Nancy's new home, on her blog Cozy Thyme Cottage.  There is a link on the right of my page.  She has some really cute ideas she has implemented in her new home, using vintage items she had.
Her blog posts of January 22 and 29 show some of her decorating.

What neat things have you repurposed for your decorating?  Any neat ideas we should try?
REDUCE, RE-USE AND RECYCLE are great words and ideas for decorating as well.