Weekly Wrap Up 10/30

 Happy Sunday!  Well, BOOM October is basically gone! What happened?  Time is flying by, and before you know it, we in the U.S. will be celebrating Thanksgiving!  Then it will be Christmas in a blink of an eye.

Fall is in full bloom here in my area.  We had a couple really cold nights - but it has really been a nice week.  Today is supposed to bring some rain - which we need.  It looks like the weather will be lovely for the first week of November with highs in the 70's!  

The leaves are staring to fall A LOT!  My tulip poplar tree is basically empty now and some of the maple leaves are falling as well.  Color is in full force.

Looking at the maple tree with fewer leaves I see no less than 5 squirrel nests up there!!!  Maybe more!

Check out the size of the leaves falling from the tulip tree!  They are huge this year!

It seems birds are migrating through the area this week as well.  I usually have red winged black birds in spring and early summer - but usually only see a couple.  Friday morning there were a minimum of 10 out there at the feeders (male and female).  They were eating up a storm and they were actually shooing away the blue jays!!!!!  It was pretty neat to see. Then they were gone!  I still have the occasional stray one - but that was crazy to see so many.  I loved it.  The pileated woodpecker has been out there all week as well.

There was an incredibly beautiful sunrise this morning - God sure is a lovely artist.

I actually had a pretty busy and nice week!

• Been doing a LOT of cleaning - 'seeing' so much with these new eyes.  Cleaning lots of things that don't cleaned often (at least at my house).  Ceiling fans, walls, pictures, knick-knacks and behind and under things - oh my!!!!!
• Fixed a finch feeder that had a broken lid
• Lots of laundry 
• Made a gallon of tea (haven't made in a while) - drank it all!!!!!
• The garden patch is totally cleaned out now - okra in pots still blooming, but everything else is out
• Cleaned out an entire fence row of spent flowers and 'stuff'
• Cleaned the deck (where greenhouse is) of leaves 2X this week
• Tore apart a crumbling wood bench and replaced it with an older bench from yard.  Fluff loves her bench on the deck!!!!!  On nice days she spends lots of time on 'her' bench!
• Had the windows open a lot
• 'Picked' another bowl of cherry tomatoes - from the box of green ones!
• Trimmed my hair
• My sis took me out to lunch on Wednesday - such a nice day that was
• I received a surprise gift from a reader and fellow blogger.  I was just thrilled!

                                           Aren't these lovely?  Thank you so much Penny!

• I did run to Kroger for a couple of digital deals they had.  Yeah, I ended up with a lot more than that.  I did get choc. milk for 1.49/half gal., navel oranges 2.99/3 lbs., and seedless grapes for .99/lb.  Ended up with 5 little gifts for holiday bags from clearance and quite a few more things.  I will show you deals this week
• Mowed the entire yard and mulched leaves
• Got a gas fill-up.  It is still pricey here at 3.89/gal., but I got a .30/gal. discount, so that helped.
• My brother and SIL came by and visited on Thursday and brought me a lovely bouquet of flowers!

• I went to a funeral memorial for a longtime friend (a camping buddy) this week.  He has had a really rough time of life the past couple of years (so much self-inflicted - sadly).  It was a nice memorial and done in a way that was different from what I have seen before.  It was basically just a few hours of family and friends visiting and talking and telling old stories amongst themselves.  Very casual and really not sad.  I really felt uplifted after leaving - we just all loved sharing stories and seeing each other.  We figured that was his final gift to us all.

Meals this past week:

Warm roast beef sandwich and leftover mashed potatoes

Fried tuna patty, broc./cheese rice

Leftover rice, smoked sausage and fried cabbage

LUNCH w/SIS - fried tenderloin, fries and slaw at a little family joint

Burger with cheese, one of the last reg. tomatoes, and chips

Grilled cheese and fruit

Leftover pizza (freezer) and a salad

SNACKS - lots of fruit, cheese and crackers, almonds

This week started my 68th anniversary of celebrating life on this earth!  I got so many phone calls, cards and visits, it was really nice.  To me, it was just another day - but family and friends were so kind and made it special.

How was your week?  Are you keeping busy with fall chores?  Did you get any good deals this week?  I sure hope you all had a nice week.

I pray for your health and safety.  May your upcoming week be wonderful

Blessings from my humble little home to you and yours!

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

But the Lord's plans stand firm forever; His intentions can never be shaken.

Psalm 33:11

Thank you, Lord, for continually keeping us in Your protective arms.  Thank You for keeping us aware that You do have a plan for each of us and for this world.  Our plans change from day to day - but Yours do not. You have a design for our lives that we cannot see.  Help us to never fear our own loss of control, as You always know the ending.  Thank You for Your unchanging love.  Amen

Normal - It is what it is

 NORMAL - there is that word we keep hearing, every single day!!!!!

I hear at least once a day - can't wait till things get back to normal.  It will be back to normal soon.  Will we ever get normal again?  On and on..........

Normal is what it is today!!!!!!!!  We can't expect things to go back the way they were in the past (we can- but realistically?...), we can't even expect what we had a few months ago.  Today is your reality!

Things change - that is our one constant in life - change.

I hear talk about groceries and yes, they do cost more.  Will they continue to cost more?  Probably.  We can gripe and complain, and we can cry and be miserable, or we can figure out a way!!!!!

                                      This is still normal in my house many, many times!!!!!!!

We adjust, we recalculate, we make substitutions, and we keep going forward.  Things may never go back the way they were - so we need to make adjustments as well.  Love it or hate it!

Vickie at Vickie's Kitchen and Garden did a post a couple days ago about the price of turkeys she was seeing.  Not that .39/lb. price we here in the U.S. have gotten used to seeing this time of the year.  $1 or more a pound.  OK, not normal - but still cheap for meat!!!  I know, I don't want to spend that either, but you know what?  I can't buy lunchmeat that cheap - so if need be, I will spend the money.  I also think about what all had to happen for that bird to get in that freezer at the store.  IF you look at that - $1 a pound is cheap.

Kim of Out My Window posted yesterday about a one time (limited) deal on ground beef for 1.99/lb.  WOOHOO!  You grab those deals when you see them - whether you need it at the moment or not!  If there is a limit - get what you can.  Put that in the freezer later for another day.

Yes, eggs have gone up in price.  Even if you pay 3.99 a dozen for eggs - that is about .33 per egg!  I don't know about you - but I still think .33 for a serving of protein is acceptable.  It is just looking at things with a different viewpoint.

Butter was mentioned yesterday - the price is way up.  I have a bunch in the freezer for baking from sales previous.  That is why we stock up.  Look at buying heavy cream and making your own butter.  It may be cheaper.  Watch for the sales (bound to be a couple) before the holidays, and stock up.

I hear stories about shortages of all things (I am apprehensive to believe).  Sure, they may not be plentiful on the shelves, or the prices are high - but I think much of that is control!  Just my viewpoint.

Potatoes - supposedly a shortage!  I have purchased for 1.99/5 lb. just last week (no limit).  I have seen that posted from all over.  WATCH for sales - that is when you buy.

Know how to COOK!  Yes, that sounds simple and common sense.  Many people have no idea.  They buy only convenience foods and they eat out - well that isn't going to get it anymore.  Prices go up, not necessarily salaries, so adjustments HAVE to be made.

Keep meals simple, with simple ingredients.  Some love steak.  Well, maybe they may have to get used to a roast or chicken or even 'steak' burgers.  

Soups and casseroles are basics in a budget strained pantry.  Using all leftovers in new ways.  Simple ingredients like beans, rice, and pasta can stretch any dinner.  Use lentils or other beans to stretch ground meat (even oatmeal).

SHOP your pantry and freezer FIRST.  Use what you have when the budget is stretched, and prices are too high.

Get creative.  The computer can be your friend.  So many sites out there on how to stretch your dollars, how to make creative recipes and use what you have.  Experiment.  Instead of a meal of meat and whatever - have a loaded baked potato (top with leftovers).  It is filling and tasty.  NOT every meal has to have meat.

Cornbread with cut up hotdogs or smoked sausage added - serve with a salad or a side of green beans or soup beans.  Tasty, stretches things and easy - creative.

There is a way to stretch things.  You just have to step out of the preconceived notion you have that you HAVE to be able to buy this or that or that you HAVE to have this or that.  Life is all about being flexible.

Buy the SALE prices - buy the CLEARANCE - buy as much as you can use in 2 months, 6 months, or even a year.  You then have a jump on inflation!!!!!!!!  We all need to take advantage of every opportunity put in front of us to save.

It is so very important now - just like it was back in the day for our parents and grandparents.  It is a lot of mindset and imagination.

Buy these when on clearance.  They can be anything!  Pizza, garlic bread, croutons, dressing, subs, sandwiches, toast - anything you can possibly imagine!!! (stick in the freezer)

Yes, the holidays may be more expensive this year.  IF you are a planner - hopefully it won't be too much of an upset for your family.  I have a turkey, a ham, and turkey roasts in the freezer.  I have potatoes, beans, baking goodies, macaroni and lots of cheeses - I can do a lovely meal and not spend a dime!

You DON'T have to have turkey or ham!  Really!!!!!  Make a meatloaf, have a chicken dinner, make a pork roast, have lasagna or an Italian feast - use what you have and be GRATEFUL!

Pantries and freezers are so very important.  Stock cheaply as you can, teach all that will listen, and be a good steward of what you have.   Look at prices with new eyes - it may seem better to you looking at things with a different viewpoint!

Lastly, be GRATEFUL - that you have a meal in front of you.  No matter what that meal may be - it is all good!

Be blessed and be creative!

Our Stuff - Oh My

 STUFF - we all have it.  The struggle is real!!!!  I know we have talked about this before - but I am still in the process of getting rid of stuff and figure I may be for the rest of my days!  LOL

Once I started this 'new' clear eyed cleaning process - I am thinking to myself "what the heck is wrong with you girl?"  I have so many things.  I love things - in my opinion, it makes a house a home.  But saying that, how much do I need?

Stuff is just an accumulation of things we buy, we inherit, we have to clean or store. then we give it away.  Yep, that is how it often works.  Much of what I have that I really love, is inherited items, my pictures, and special gifts.  I do have plenty more, and I am slowly getting rid of things.  It gets to be overwhelming.

I have done all kinds of things to help me get rid of things.  I have boxed up so many of things a day or week - then dropped off at a donation center.  I have just gotten rid of things that aren't being used, or that I have something that will work as well.  I have gotten rid of things that have been in boxes forever.  I still have tons of stuff.

There is no real value if you aren't using it or loving it.  VALUE comes from memories of people, and what we deposit into others' lives.

We can't change this big old word - but we can change our life and maybe those lives of people close to us.

If you need to get rid of things - donate!  Bless someone else - what you donate may be just what they need.  Gift to family.  If you have grandchildren, nieces or nephews who 'appreciate' family and heirlooms - pass some things on.  Give them as a special gift for the holidays.

If you are inclined, sell things.  I just don't have the energy or will to have a sale anymore, so donating and gifting are my choices.

I have things in my house that I am not even sure what they are for.  They were Glen's and I am not sure what to do with them.  I need to have a trusted friend come and tell me what is what.

I have gifted some nephews a few of G's knives.  G collected knives and had several.  They were very much appreciated by these young men - who dearly loved their uncle.  I have kept the special ones (G's uncle made for him), otherwise those are gone.

It is tough.  Even after all this time - it feels wrong to get rid of his things.  I know he wouldn't care and he is probably somehow pushing me to do it!!!!  He wouldn't want me to be overwhelmed.

Holiday stuff - oh my.  I have so many things that have been boxed up for ages.  It needs to go.  I have only used certain items for ages.  WHY keep it?

I am at the point in life that I want the house a lot emptier - just so someone doesn't have to do it later!  Seriously!!!!  I know what it is like to empty a house with a lifetime of savings things for "in case or because".

I am at the point in life I want to just find joy in other things.  Simple things, nature, family, friends, pets, - just things other than stuff!

Our family and friends and our pets are our joys in life.  They are all precious to us.

Our most precious and expensive thing is our SOUL.  I want to take care of that and be happy and content on this earth for all remaining days.

I know many of you have moved and decluttered tons.  Some of you are true minimalists (I kind of admire that).  I am not a minimalist at all - you have seen pics of my house!  Lots to take care of and clean.  I am working on it, I truly am.  It is an ongoing task for me.

How about you?

Are you still working on decluttering?  Do you need to?  Do you have a hard time doing this as well?

I wonder - am I the only one struggling?

Just looking for any tips that might help.  

Have a blessed day!!!!

The Kitchen - an Idea or Two

 Howdy all.  Let's talk kitchen tricks and tips.  There are so many things we can do to make life a little easier when cooking and baking.  I like easy!  Little tips can make a difference.  So here we go - I hope you find something you can use and offer any ideas you may have!!!!!

Anyone remember home economics class?  I loved it - as well as 4-H - learned so many fun things.

• When baking with raisins or any dried fruit - take a moment and coat them with some of your dry batter or just a little flour - it will keep the raisins from all falling to the bottom of your baked good
• Add a teaspoon of instant coffee to your liquid/water called for in a chocolate cake or brownies.  It sure does enhance the chocolate flavor.  You can also sub a little brewed coffee for part of the liquid
• Toasting nuts gives them a little extra flavor.  Spread out in a single layer on a pan and place in a preheated 325* oven for about 8 - 10 minutes.  Let them cool before using
• After making brownies - I never use icing anymore.  I remove brownies from the oven - and then sprinkle a nice amount of chips (any flavor you have) on top.  They melt pretty darn quickly - then spread over the brownies and you have the best "icing" ever.  It also slightly hardens as the brownies cool
• 
  
  
  In case you are in need of a measuring cup and don't have one!!!!!!!!  This would be a good idea when camping.
• Before dusting a cake or muffins, brownies, etc. with powdered sugar - make sure the baked good is completely cooled!  Otherwise the sugar just dissolves and disappears!
• Before measuring molasses, honey, syrup, or anything sticky - measure out oil for the recipe.  It will help the sticky item flow out of the cup or spoon.  No oil in your recipe?  Just spray the utensil with a little cooking spray before measuring
• 
  
  
  Soup recipe?  Is there such a thing?  LOL - not at my house.  I just wing it, every single time.  Here is a great chart to help you make a fun and tasty pot of soup.  Nothing like a 'refrigerator/leftover' pot of soup.  Never waste a thing - add it to a pot of soup and make it tasty yet again!  Click on picture to enlarge image!
• To thicken pie fillings - many people add a bit of flour or cornstarch - I like using an equal amount of quick cooking tapioca.  Works perfectly every time
• If your recipe calls for unsweetened chocolate and you have none - use 3 Tbsp. cocoa powder plus 1 Tbsp. butter, margarine or shortening IN PLACE of every ounce of unsweetened chocolate called for - no need for a grocery trip!
• When baking cookies - make sure that your cookies are all even and consistent in size - for even baking.  Also if needing to re-use your pans - (I always use 2 for convenience) - let the pan cool before placing another batch of cookie dough on it.  A hot pan starts the process of melting the dough and spreading - your cookies will be affected.  Use 2 pans and switch off and let one cool while using the other
• When doubling a recipe - do not necessarily double the seasoning!  It is best to start with maybe 1 1/2 the amount - then taste and adjust from there.  Seasoning seems to stretch farther than other things!!!!
• Stale potato chips?  Place them on paper towels in the microwave and heat briefly!  The towels absorb the moisture making them have a stale texture.  Crisps them up.  I have done the same with crackers
• When grilling or roasting veggies - add a little zip next time.  Instead of adding butter or a spritz of oil - try using a little Italian dressing - YUM!
• Frying chicken with a flour coating?  The coating will stick much better if the chicken is cold!
• Don't store onions next to potatoes!  Potatoes give off a gas that helps onions to decay quicker
• To heighten the flavor of cooked tomatoes - add a pinch of sugar.  It also lessens the acidity taste.
• To slice tomatoes - slice from top to bottom (stem to butt) -instead of side to side - it retains much more of the juice from the tomato!!!!  Call me a slow learner - but I just figured this out last year!  Sure saves a mess of juice on your plate or sandwich!

Just an idea or two that hopefully helps someone out.  Do you have a 'life changer tip' or a 'money saver tip' for the kitchen?  Tell us!

It is so much fun learning new things - even at this extended age!!!!!!  LOL

Have a wonderful day!  Enjoy each gift placed in front of you today - no matter how big or small.

Weekly Wrap Up 10/23

 Happy Sunday to all!  I hope this finds you well and safe and happy.  My goodness, here we are one week out from the end of another month.  It sure is going by quickly.

The temperature has been all over the place this week.  We have gone from 28* to 78*.  We had a dusting of snow on Tuesday morning and our first hard freeze this week.  Last 2 nights I have had the bedroom window open a little!  

It has been breezy most days.  My tulip poplar tree is all turned in color and about half of the leaves have fallen.  The maple is still pretty darn green, with outer tinges of color.  It will be a long while before all my leaves fall!

It is getting very pretty out.  The sugar maples and red maples are gorgeous!  I have been having 6 - 8 blue jays each day in the yard, and about 4 pairs of cardinals.  Lots of other birds still.  It seems they are all drinking a lot at the birdbath.

I saw an opossum one night - it just made a walk through the yard and left.  'Rocky' the racoon has been around for about 3 nights.

As I stated on Thursday - the surgery this week was life changing!  It is just so amazing at what I am seeing now, that I didn't before.  Dust, cobwebs, you name it.  Looking in the mirror is different experience as well - oh my!!!!  I drove to the store this week.  First time in my ENTIRE life, I drove without glasses!!!!  Amazing.  The stores were almost overwhelming.  It is all so miraculous!

I think this may help me a little with my anxiety about going very far from home.  Maybe not - but I think it will help me be more comfortable.

My week:

• Much sleeping, resting and eating after the surgery.  I got all caught up on sleep!!!  LOL!  
• I am seeing so much that needs cleaning.  Started doing light work, and cleaning some things.  I have pretty much started in the kitchen.  My house is always neat looking - just seeing lots of little things I didn't notice before!  The real fall cleaning starts this week!
• My friend took me to my post-op appointment.  Got out late afternoon, so I took us out to a late lunch at Arby
• Got really chilly in here a couple nights (even w/2 quilts on bed), so I threw an afghan over the quilts and that helped a lot.  Trying to keep the heat low.
• Have gotten to open the windows some here the past couple days - airing the house!
• Went to the bank on Friday - cashed a couple checks I had rec. over the past month.  This will be set aside for Christmas funds.
• Ran into Ollie's.  Got a couple gifts there - stuffers for Christmas baskets.  Books and nuts!  Looked at area rugs - they have some really pretty ones.  I will go back when I decide what I really want to do in here.  I did buy myself 3 pretty yard flags to use over the holidays and winter!  They were on sale for 3.99 ea.
• Kroger stop (across the street from Ollies).  Got a few deals.  It had been a good 3 weeks since shopping.  I got 7 navel oranges in a .99 clearance bag.  Milk 1.29 a half gal.  Sour cream - 1.29 carton.  Got 2 bags of pistachios (date 3/23) for nephew's holiday basket.  Walking through the grocery was an awesome experience this time!!!  It sure looked different to me.
• Made a homemade pizza and froze half of it for later
• Using what I have and eating snacks and meals from home (except 1 day)
• Cleaned the laptop.  Washed the screen and used canned air to clean the keyboard.

Meals this week:

Sausage gravy over crusty bread

Potato soup (canned) and crackers 

Cream of broccoli soup (canned) and crackers

Arby's - I had a chicken/bacon sandwich and curly fries (yum)

Ground beef Swiss steak and mashed potatoes

Homemade pizza

Pizza and salad

SNACKS:  cereal, tuna and crackers (several times), a few sweet bites

How was your week?  Tell us what is going on in your area.  Any deals?  Wrapping up gardens?  Fall cleaning?  Crafts?  I look forward to hearing from each of you.

THANK YOU for all your kind words of late - you guys are all just so wonderful.

I wish you each and every one a safe and healthy week.  May you all be blessed to the max.

Blessings from my humble little home to you and yours.

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

Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you.  He will not leave you or forsake you.

Deuteronomy 31:6

Dear Lord,  

Help us to stand in faith and hope always.  Let us realize we have more blessings than troubles.  We never walk alone when we have You in our lives.  Thank You for standing by us, no matter what we face in this world.  You are in charge and Thy will be done.  Prayers for peace and calm amongst all people and countries in the world.  AMEN

Awesome Sauce!!!!

 Howdy Ho my friends!  I am back!

Thank you all for your many thoughts and prayers.  ALL is GREAT!!!!!

I cannot begin to tell you how incredibly blessed I feel.  My distance vision is just awesome sauce!! Pretty darn near perfect vision.  My close up still needs help (readers) and that is just fine with me.  The world sure is beautiful!!!

You all and everyone I know got me through this just fine.  I actually got some sleep on Sunday night and Monday I was completely calm when I went to the clinic.  I got picked up at 6:45 AM, and was getting tests by 7:15. I went through a huge battery of tests and it was decided that my right eye would be first (it was worse).  I swear they put a gallon of various drops in my eye!!!  I then went to pre-op and more drops and then the IV (shot).  Well let us say this girl was in la-la land!  I could hear and could respond - but I could not have given a crap about what was going to happen!  I do not remember being wheeled into the operating room. I remember the doc asking what kind of music I like, then asking if I liked Credence Clearwater, and he started singing.  I saw lots of pretty lights!  Next I know I am sitting in the post op room.  Talk about a walk back into the 70's!!!!!!!  LOL!!  They gave me some juice, and I was done.  They said that surgery took 10 minutes - couldn't prove it by me.

Sitting there I looked up and was reading a sign across the room!!  I covered the eye they did and could not see it at all with the bad eye.  I was seeing immediately!!!!!!!  Was home by 1:00 PM.

Day 2 - left eye.  I am ready to go.  Picked up at 6:15 AM.  Drops, drops and more drops.  Different surgeon.  I remember being wheeled through doors - I hear talking and I see different kinds of lights today.  I am back in the post-op room in a flash.  Surgery today is7 minutes!  Drank juice - saw everything around me.  Home by 9:00 AM.

I saw nothing - felt nothing - and remember little.  Awesome.

Not one moment of pain at all.

I ate and slept most of the first 2 days.  TV looks amazing!!!!!!!!!

I checked out great on Wednesday.  Most restrictions lifted.  Just no extreme exertion, no real heavy lifting, no eye make-up (woop) and no water in my eyes for a week.  Wearing eye shield (clear) when sleeping.  I do drops 4X a day.  

I can drive.  I have NEVER in my life driven without glasses!!!!!!  Amazing.

I wake up and can see the clock on the opposite wall.  I can't remember the last time I could wake up and not fumble for glasses to see (probably as a child).

The world is gorgeous.  I had NO idea how badly I really was seeing.  The fog, literally, has been lifted.  I cannot remember ever seeing this crisp and clear - at least for years and years.  Corrective glasses could never compare to this.  I just keep being amazed.  What a lovely time of the year to have this done - fall colors everywhere!  My friend that took me for my check-up yesterday - said if he didn't know better, he would think I was higher than a kite - I would not shut-up!!  I told I was high - on seeing this big and beautiful world.

Along with that note - my house!!!  Oh my.  I thought it was really clean - NOT!  I can see so much dust and cobwebs, and spots on things in the kitchen and on and on!!!!!!!  I will being doing a wall at a time - top to bottom - and scrubbing everything.  My house will be cleaner than I am sure it has been in ages.

The saying - you don't know what you don't know - is so true.  I thought I was seeing decent.  NOPE.  What a huge wake-up.  I am just amazed.  I had no idea it could be soooooo great!

So now I will be one of those saying - DO IT - it is a breeze and will CHANGE YOUR LIFE.

Funny how a little over a week, our emotions and life can change so much.  I have been so sad and lonely with my Coogy gone (still am) - to joyous and awestruck with being given a new view of the world.

Again, thank you all for your encouragement, love, prayers and thoughts.  IT HELPED so much!

Life is beautiful and glorious.  God is good every day.

I have been given a wonderful gift.  This has been an experience of a lifetime.  AWESOME SAUCE!!!!!

I will be back to normal posting on Sunday!

Have a blessed day!

Weekly Wrap-Up 10/16

 Happy Sunday all.  Here we are halfway through another month.  Goodness, the holidays will be upon us in no time and the new year will be here quickly.  My, time flies.

We have had some decent weather this week.  A little rain - not much to speak of in my area.  Sunshine, nice temps, wind, and very, very soon freeze!  The temps start dropping tonight and much cooler days are ahead - then we get back to 70 by next weekend.  Guess I can't complain - doesn't do any good!

This has been me this week - just hanging in there!  It has been a very tough week.  It is so lonely in this house.  First time in decades - no other person, no pet inside.  Just me.  It has been very hard to get used to.

I keep expecting Coogy to come bopping in every time I make noise, to see what I am doing or what he can eat!  Every noise I hear, I think is him.  Every shadow I see - I look.  I really do miss him.  It is so amazing how such a little creature can make such a difference in a household.  Been loving on Fluffy and Blackie a lot.  They seemed to have sensed something different was going on with me.

Sadly, this is all part of life.

My week:

• Took my Coogy to be cremated.  Got his ashes back on Friday
• Did a lot more yard work - cleaning and clearing things out
• Did tons of laundry - used dehumidifier water in laundry when I could
• Renewed library books online
• Picked lots and lots of cherry tomatoes - saving all I can with freeze coming

  Hoping they will ripen, and I will have fresh for a while!

• No shopping at all - stayed out of stores as to take no chance of being around people and maybe getting sick with surgery coming up this week
• Froze 3 containers of soup
• Got a rebate check from health insurance of $168 for years of 2017-2018!
• Paid everything I had again this week.  I got a $0 gas bill this month and it had a $49 credit as well.  I am on the budget plan each month - so a no pay this month!  Paid the house insurance for the year - good grief in is over 2X as much as my house taxes!!!!!!
• I partially deep cleaned kitty room - just couldn't do it all at once
• I have cleaned and cleaned and cleaned some more.  Just trying to stay busy.
• I refurbished the wood on my dining room tabletop
• Using what I have, cooking from home and using all leftovers.  I made fried green tomatoes one day and had egg and flour seasoned mix left - so I added some flour to the egg and fried - to browned and crispy both sides (fluffy in middle) and that made a tasty snack one afternoon.  Didn't want to waste it!!!!

My meals this past week:

Leftover tortilla soup

Nachos

Roast beef sandwich and salad with egg added for extra protein

Mushroom, Swiss open face burger and side salad

Pozole and crackers

Corned beef & Swiss grilled sandwich and side salad

Chicken tenders and fried green tomatoes

I am very anxious about the upcoming week.  I am scared and excited all at the same time.  I know it will all be good, as God is in control.  It is amazing to think my vision will be so much better in no time.

I will answer all comments I can by evening today - after that I will be off the computer for most of the week.  I am not supposed to read or use computer for a few days.

So don't think I am ignoring you - just following guidelines.  Hopefully I will be back by Thursday - depends on what they say.

You guys feel free to chat amongst yourselves!!!!!!!

What have you all been up to this week?  Any deals or bargains?  Is your garden all wrapped up for the season?

I pray you all have a wonderful, safe and healthy week ahead.

Blessings from my humble little home to you and yours.

...fear not, for I am with you, be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.

Isaiah 40:10

Lord, thank You for assurances of goodness and support in our lives.  We turn our worries and frets over to You, knowing that You are with us, each and every one.  Help us to trust and have faith in all we do.  Amen

                                                 HAVE A BLESSED WEEK EVERYONE

Teach, Learn and Practice

 Hey y'all!  This has been a really good week here at the 'corner'.  You never let me down, you always reach deep and give great ideas and experiences.  I LOVE THAT!!!!!!  There have been some good advice and ideas shared this week along with funny stories.  I love all the sharing.

It seems we are never too old to learn, we always have something to teach and practice new things daily.  My daddy used to ask me every day "what did you learn today?".  Maybe as adults we should have that same mentality.  Learn something new each day!

This kind of reminds me of all of us.  Each different and unique - yet still the same.   By the way - this is my favorite type of china - all mixed up and different.  I think a table looks so cute decorated with different dishes.  We are pretty special too - all mixed up and so beautiful together!

As life goes on, we all have to change at some point.  That is the one constant in our life - CHANGE.  Is change easy?  NO.  Is change fun?  NOT always.  Is change a learning situation?  YES.  Is change important?  SURE.

If we didn't experience change in its many forms, life would be dull.  I am not a big lover of drastic change.  It makes me sad.  It is inevitable, however.

So as you all go forward toward the weekend - know that you are appreciated and loved.  

Continue to go forward and teach something to someone each day.  Continue to learn.  Practice new ideas and make any changes that you need to, to make life a little easier.

RE-whatever as often as necessary to grow and adjust to this big old world.

Thank you again for all the participation and wonderful ideas this week.  You are awesome.  I just love how everyone has gotten friendly and converses back and forth with one another.

The 'corner' has become an extended family.

Have a blessed day and a wonderful weekend.  

Getting Organized

 On yesterday's post, Margaret mentioned being organized.  Being organized can save a lot of money!  IT IS TRUE!  You need to know exactly what you have and where it is - so you don't needlessly go out and haphazardly buy more.  Sure, more can be great - but if you need to be concentrating on another area of your preps - then you don't need to spend money on things you already have a plentiful supply of.

We have all had the best laid plans!!!!  Get everything all neat and organized - then we for a big shop, or we get in a hurry and stuff just gets stuck somewhere and BOOM, there we are all disorganized again!

I tend to organize my pantry according to the type of inventory.  I try my darndest to keep fruits, veggies, soups, baking items, meats, pastas and rice, condiments, etc. all grouped together.

Does it always work?  Nah - I get lazy sometimes.  BUT, I try!!!!

It makes it much easier to find things and to restock inventory when needed.

I even organize cat food by flavor - need to be aware of which types I need to look for.  Dry food is all kept together and I always have different types, for variety.

Many of the 'extras' I keep back to restock my daily pantry.  Try to keep many like items together and sorted.

I keep my home canned items all together and by item.  Spaghetti sauce, soup starter, salsa, pizza sauce, jellies, pickles, etc.  Not only does this simply my life - it makes it easy to know where things are, in case I need to help someone else out.  I know where my groceries are.  I am NOT like the store - and do NOT rearrange all the time!!!!!!!

My freezer - I try to keep frozen veggies together, chicken, fish, pork, beef..... in areas together.  This is one of my downfalls for sure.  I get it all cleaned and organized, and in no time, well, it is a mess again.  My frig freezer has items for weekly use and I tend to keep my containers of leftovers in there, so that I never forget them, and I can grab and make a quick meal.

Extra spices in alphabetical order inside the daily pantry.  Had the rack made by my nephew.

It isn't just groceries.  I have my books sorted by type.  Cookbooks, self help, old classics, fiction, crafting, how to.........

I have a sock and undie drawer, my health & beauty supplies all have a place, bed linens, extra blankets, etc.  Now, does this mean my home is all perfectly organized - HECK NO!!!!  NOT even close!!!!!

I will be the first to admit that I have waaaayyyy too much stuff.  Still working on needing to get rid of things.  There is so much stored in my basement, and it truly needs to go and bless someone else.  My craft room stays a mess!  UGH!!

The struggle is real!

What are some of the tricks that you use to stay organized.  I guarantee you that we can all use tips and help in the endeavor.  I don't think most of us are minimalists - so we all have extra stock of all sorts and we are just preparing and hedging ourselves what might be.

Throw out your best tips and ideas.

I can't wait to hear from you all.

She looks well to the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness

Proverbs 31:27

In With the Old - AGAIN

 I think most people that are here reading, know a great deal about gardening and preserving, or have places that they can get fresh produce at a deal.  We also know how to cook from scratch and use our pantries.

There is so much more that we can do.

Today inflation is hitting everyone.  Budgets are being strained.  Shrinkflation is happening with all products.  It seems we need to maybe go back to the ways of old to stretch those dollars and those goods we have.

We all know about REDUCING and REUSING and RECYCLING.  We need to do this more and more.  There is absolutely no shame in it - it is just wise.

Using your pantry, cooking from home and scratch, and getting creative is number one.

Learn how to stretch those dollars in every way possible.

Everything - can pretty much be made at home and for cheaper than buying!!!!!

It is time to get busy and learn!  Get the books, read the articles, watch the videos, etc. on how to stretch things.  Learn how Grandma did it!  This is going to be necessary for a while as we traverse through this recession (which we have done before) and have a need to stretch those dollars.

We all know we can cook anything we want from scratch.  Read recipes, share recipes and get creative.

We can make most household items ourselves from basic ingredients.

• We can make health and beauty items.  Shampoos, conditioners, skin softeners, natural herbs for health, toothpaste, mouth wash, deodorants, body scrubs, etc.
• Household cleaners can be made from simple ingredients you probably have in the pantry.  Vinegar, peroxide, water, baking soda, salt, dish soap, etc.  Keep it simple and chemical free - this saves a lot of money
• Make your own potpourri - using citrus peels, apple peels, cinnamon, other herbs - can be used for fall or spring scents. (Lavender, peonies, lilacs, etc. for spring)
• Crafty items for kids can easily be made.  Finger paints, homemade play dough and clays, salt doughs, etc.  Blank paper or comics, or used printer pages can be used for coloring and creating
• Keep seeds from flowers and plants for planting next year.  If you have heirloom garden plants - you can keep and dry seeds for next year's garden.  If not heirloom, they will probably still grow plants - you just won't know exactly what you will get.
• Jewelry cleaners and eye glass cleaners can be simple ingredients.
• Soaps and laundry soap can be made at home.  Use vinegar for softener.  Peroxide can be used instead of bleach.  Wool drier balls can be used to reduce static.  Air dry clothes.
• Use nature as craft items or for decorating
• Compost for good soil - or use eggshells, coffee grounds, banana peels, etc. for fertilizers
• Ferment just about any veggie out there.  Yes, most things can be fermented with some salt and a little water.  Makes veggies last longer
• Use old clothes for rags for cleaning or drying hands.  Use old clothes for material to create new things.
• Use less and water things down (you don't need to use as much as most things say)
• Keep jar mixes on your pantry shelves - natural, few ingredients and ready to use (cheaper as well)

Learn from books - also keep plenty of cookbooks and canning books on hand.  Books are a wonderful thing to have on hand - you never know when this computer thing may not work!!!!!!!

It just takes a little research and being willing to DO IT yourself, and we can have a wonderfully abundant home and life with little money.  Using what we have not only saves money, it saves on waste and just makes sense.

We live in a world that is full of technology, easy ways, non-work ideas - yet it seems like so little to me.  I want to be able to survive when those things fail (I believe they will) and I just want to have a nice life.  I think that is what we all want.

Sometimes taking a step back is a huge way to move forward!!!

I read my horoscope this morning (for fun) and I think it applies to each and every one of us!!!

"It is rarer to be wise than it is to be smart.  You may be among the wise minority now as you focus on what's truly important."

WOW - isn't that the truth?  You can have all the book smarts in the world and not be the slightest bit wise.

  

So friends, be wise and look outside the box and prepare and stock and learn.  It is the way of the world and something that just may help or save you and your family!!!!!

Mom and grandma did it - so can we!!!!!!

Weekly Wrap Up 10/9

 Happy Sunday to you all.  I hope this finds you safe and healthy.

It is a chilly and sunny day here.

I will start with the sad news first.  My sweet darling Coogy, crossed the rainbow bridge this morning.  I knew yesterday, our time was very short.  He slept on the bed with me all night.  This morning, I just knew this was the day.  I picked him up and held him, and talked and kissed him, and within an hour he was gone.  This just breaks my heart.

He has been my constant companion, 24//7, during the roughest time in my life.  He was Glen's cat - he picked him to be a house cat.

I feel so blessed that he let us be his humans.  He sure gave us both so much joy and happiness.

This will be the first time in about 4 decades that I will not have a cat in the house.  It will be strange, for sure.

              My sweet boy, just loved to cuddle in my bed and slept with me every night!

Now you know about my upcoming eye surgery - I still think I will have to wear glasses.  Not sure I believe they can correct my vision that well.  I have had an extremely strong prescription for decades - it is hard to believe I wouldn't need glasses.  We will see.  I will be fine with it either way, at least things will be clear and not cloudy.

This past week hasn't been that busy.  Next week - I will keep very busy.  I first, will need to, just to keep my mind occupied.  Then I want to get a lot done, because the week of surgery is supposed to be a week of rest.

The temperatures got really chilly and the leaves are finally starting to color.  I covered my cherry tomato plants a couple nights to keep from frost and freeze.  The critters are scurrying around collecting food and hiding it for winter!

My week:

• Of course there was eye exam day.  Many phone calls with surgery clinic and got paperwork yesterday to fill out.
• Worked on cleaning more in the flower beds.  Removing and deadheading a lot of stuff
• Removed some garden plants
• Had many squirrel planted corn stalks - picked the corn for them - and removed stalks
• Have started emptying rain barrels
• Covered cherry tomato plants
• Laundry with dehumidifier water
• Made a pot of tangy tortilla soup - used a soup base I received as a gift and added a bunch of stuff
• Brought in rechargeable batteries for lawn equipment from the garage.  Don't want them freezing
• Got to have windows open some this week
• Only turned on heat a couple mornings for one rotation

Meals this past week:

Sauteed fall veggies served over leftover cheesy rice

Schnitzel, Au Gratin potatoes and sliced tomato

Leftovers

Beans & rice with ground beef added, sliced toms

Burrito with leftover beans & rice

Omelet, toast and tomatoes

Homemade tortilla soup

I am sorry that so many posts lately have been 'me' oriented.  I try not to do that, as this is OUR group.  But you guys are like family, and I know you care.  Thank you for all your support, love and kind words that I receive.  

How was your week?  Any good deals?  Any craft shows yet?  It is about that time.  Give us a shout out and let us know what is going on in your area of the world.

I pray you each have a wonderful week.  May you and your family all stay healthy and safe.

Blessings to you and yours from my humble little home.

Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.

Psalms 19:14

Dear Lord, here our prayers and help us through each and every day.  May our hearts be full of hope and our actions be full of love and giving.  We need you so much in every action and thought and deed.

Amen

Well, the "Eyes" Have It!

 I posted that chart on Tuesday on how we think life will be, and how God's plan for our life will be!  I even mentioned that saying "the best laid plans of mice and men...".  Yep, we can plan and think what we like - not usually the way it works!!!!

I went to the eye doctor on Tuesday for an exam for new glasses.  I am wearing older glasses at the moment, as my last ones broke beyond fixing.  Just need to see clearly again!

Well, that is where the plan changed!!!

NOPE - doc says no new glasses!  It aint happening.

I have to have cataract surgery - period.

OK, I knew that I need surgery - yes I knew that.  He said that they are substantially worse than they were last visit.  Did I want that to be my only answer?  NO!

I guess giving me no other option is one way of making me do it!

I know that probably thousands of people every week have this surgery.  That doesn't help.  It scares the beejeebus out of me to have someone mess with my eyes.

Even with being terrified - it is a good thing.

I just can't imagine waking up each morning and being able to see without reaching for my glasses.  It will be wonderful to not see halos around lights and even the moon!  It will be great to not see ghost figures around things on TV.  It will be great to see distance well and to see clearly.

Yes, as scared as I am - it will be wonderful to see clearly again.

I have worn glasses since I was 7.  The prospect of maybe not wearing glasses at all is amazing to me.

It will be a 3 day process.  VERY early mornings.  They will pick me up and deliver me home.

Exam and surgery #1 on day one (longest day).  Post op and surgery #2 on day two.  Post op on day three - at which I will be released to drive if all is well. (I can drive until surgery).

This is going to happen on Oct. 17, 18, 19.

It is amazing to me to think that in less than two weeks from now - I will be able to see clearly again.  It is amazing to think I may get to start my 68th revolution around the sun - glasses free!  I never would have thought that could happen.

I guess I will see how well Medicare and supplemental insurance work as well.  I have never once used either!

Scared - yes!  Excited - yes!  

I just pray that the doctors and all involved are guided by God and do a perfect job. 

Just thought I would let you know!

Have great day everyone!!!!!

An Apple A Day

 I love apples!  It is that time of the year that apples are plentiful and generally a little cheaper.  There are so many varieties to choose from - from super sweet and juicy to tart and crisp.  There is no limits wo what one can do with apples.  Breads, cookies, cakes, sauces, jellies, fresh, you name it!!!!!!

I am a huge fan of fried apples.  A little butter in a pan, peeled and sliced apples, a sprinkle of cinnamon and sugar and cook until softened.  YUM!  I love fresh apples with salt or peanut butter.  Apples and peanut butter are a favorite treat or snack.

There are so many more varieties than this.  Different regions have different types - just always buy what you love.

You can make several things that would make lovely Christmas gifts from apples.  Super easy to make and can.  Here are a couple ideas.

APPLE BUTTER

Super easy - place it in the pot and let it go.  Water bath.

APPLE SCRAP JELLY

Waste not and want not!  Use those peels for making jelly.  Really easy to do and super yummy.  

APPLE ORANGE CRANBERRY SAUCE

I do believe this will go in my holiday baskets this year.  That is my plan!  It sounds so yummy - I am imaging this with hot biscuits!  Probably not the idea they originally had - but it sounds good to me!

Apples are easy to get, yummy to taste, and healthy.  So many uses.

Give me apple desserts any day - forget the pumpkin stuff for me - just give me apples.

Now is the time to make up some fun and yummy goodies for the holiday gifts and eating.

Have an apple and keep that doc away!!!!!!!

Some Random Thoughts

 Today I go to the eye doctor for an exam - so I got this ready on Monday night.  

Somedays we just need to plan ahead and get in front of the ball and make things happen!

And then some days - the best laid plans go haywire!!!!!!

Now I don't care who you are - you know this is truth!!!!  It seems we have our ideas of a plan - then we get told to hold tight - the ride might get bumpy.  Yep, God is in the driver's seat, and we need to understand there IS a plan!  I will trust in it!

This weekend, I picked up the paper and was randomly reading this section and then that section.  I came across a story, that sent me back in time!

The story was about 'one' of Indiana's serial killers - Orville Lynn Majors.  He was a nurse in SW Indiana, and was found guilty of 6 murders on the elderly in area hospitals.  It is suspected that he killed dozens.  He injected them, then tried to act like the hero to save them when they crashed in many cases.  Just really sick stuff!!

Well, we met this guy.  He was from the small town my niece and nephew live in - in southern IN.  He had a shop there in town.  We visited that shop often, when we went down for visits.  He was usually there, always remembered us, and was so nice and kind.  We had many a conversation with him.  

One night Glen was watching the news and yelled at me to come see.  There on the TV was Orville, being arrested.  It was beyond hard to understand at the time - then the stories all came out.

I mean WHO KNEW??????  Oh my goodness.

It just goes to show - you never know about people you meet - no matter where it might be.

A person that seemed so friendly and nice and kind was secretly killing people. (yes at that time).

Not a proud thing - but not many can say they met a serial killer!!!

Another thing that struck me - made me sad - was while reading the obituaries (my first read each day), it just dawned on me, that we have obituaries, and we have death notices.  I have seen this so many times - but it just made me so stinking sad this weekend.  The obits tell about their life, family, careers, etc.  Maybe not in the paper, but there is a link for online reading.

The death notices are people that died and maybe all the county knows is a name and age or just a name.  They have no idea about family or life.  This still amazes me, considering all the red tape everyone I know must go through, just to get admitted to the hospital.  They ask for anyone knowing this person to contact the coroner office.

How sad - you leave this world and there is no one to tell you good-bye or I love you, as you are leaving. They list these names for a few days, hoping for a response.  Some of these people are newborn babies!!!!  That makes me want to cry.

I guess they get buried in a pauper grave if no one claims them.  I have seen stories before of folks stepping up and having a service for some of the babies - and I have heard of that happening for a couple veterans.  Just showing a little dignity and gratitude for life.

I find that all so sad.  We all need someone!

Told you this was random!!!!  LOL

Sometimes my little brain goes off on this or that tangent.  I never know where it may take me! 

 

I guess life is still a mystery to most of us.  We think we know what is going on - but do we really?

Things happen that make us go 'wowza' all the time.

This big old world is actually pretty small in the scheme of things, and we are even tinier!

Just my silly ponders!

Have a blessed day.

Weekly Wrap-Up 10/2

 Howdy doody my friends!  Can you believe we are now in October?  Crazy how fast this summer has gone by.  We have been having very chilly mornings - still no frost here yet.  Days have been in the 60's this week and we are to get some 70's during the day this coming week.  Bright days, blue skies and breezy.  Love it!

I hope you are all well and safe.  I know we have gals who live in Florida, and probably others from the East coast.  I have been praying for your safety and those of your families.  Please check in when you can and let us know you are OK.

It is October, yet I still have some flowers of color out in the yard.  Phlox is still going, geraniums and roses, and the New England asters have started blooming.  The butterflies sure do love those.

We have had a neighbor down the street (about 4 houses down) that has their kid out on a 4-wheeler every evening and all weekend.  This has been going on for ages.  No muffler and flying up and down the street.  Others from the house have jumped on board recently, so several of them out.  The noise is stupid, and the risks are nuts.  Not legal on streets - no helmets - going too fast.......  Everyone has called non-emergency police number over and over.  Yesterday it started real early and was crazy.  4 people called non-emergency, and nothing has ever happened.  This 'momma' got nuts and call 911 and played every card in my deck!  Widow, children in danger, noise ordinance, scared, etc.  I stood on the porch talking to dispatcher and she heard them going by.  As I was standing there one almost wrecked and came close to hitting a car - told her.  Within 30 minutes police came out and it all stopped!!!  WOOHOO!

I have been meeting neighbors that I have not talked with before, and we have all decided to be on the same page.  We are taking out neighborhood back from this family!!!!!  Sometimes we just have to get our 'drama' on. I have always left my neighbors alone to do their thing, but this was just getting crazy.

The remainder of the day was so quiet and nice, and kids were out riding bikes and using their scooters (foot powered), and people were on their porches.  Hasn't happened much on the weekends lately.

The ice cream truck has been coming by in the early evenings as well.  Funny, how that is just happening now that it is fall!

The family behind me had a big party for their young daughter's birthday Saturday as well.  They asked about a month ago, if they could use the back 40 for parking.  Sure - no problem.  They had lots of people and many from out of town.  They had a tent for dining and music and a bounce house for the kids.  They had a live Mariachi band much of the evening - that was really neat and enjoyable to listen to.  What a birthday party to remember!

The week was not super busy here.

• Picked the balance of regular tomatoes from the vines.  Still have lots of cherry tomatoes growing and ripening and okra
• Aired the house a lot
• Canned 2 batches of salsa

• Made an appointment for an eye exam for this coming Tuesday.  I am wearing very old glasses, as the most recent broke beyond wearing a long while back.  Just want a good prescription and glasses that fit well for now.  Cataracts at another time
• Paid everything I had here
• Put out some misc. table coverings that were fall looking
• Did some cleaning of flower beds and misc. yard work
• Changed out handbags
• Neighbor called and said house a few doors down, had people moving.  They had stuff in drive for the taking - did I want to see if anything I wanted.  I walked down there and only found one thing.

                                                                This is what I got

• Mowed the yard
• Just doing all the normal stuff.
• No groceries

Meals this past week:

Mex. chicken (freezer) over rice

Beef and cheese nachos topped with lots of veggies

Fried green tomatoes and tuna patty

Smoked sausage and spaghetti with butter and parm

Grilled beef and cheese sandwich and side salad

Rice with broccoli and cheese and chicken bites

Soft tacos

SNACKS - fruit and cheese/crackers

Not a lot of exciting stuff happening.  Just piddling around and doing odds and ends.

My Coogy is getting to the twilight of his life, I sadly have to admit.  We have good days and not so good days.  I go above and beyond to feed him whatever he may want.  We sit and cuddle a lot.  He has lost a lot of weight over the year - so slowly I didn't notice until I did!  We just enjoy those good days and he is the sweetest.  I love each moment for now.

How has your week been?  Any deals or bargains?  Canning or freezing?  How is your weather?  Give us a shout out - love hearing from you all.

I pray for the safety of you all.  Prayers for good health.  May God help those who are sad and broken at the moment.

Blessings from my humble little home to you and yours.

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

Dear Lord, we ask Your blessings upon each of us.  Please help us each conquer or fears and the sadness that comes into our lives.  Help us to know that there is a reason for all things - great and small.  May You continue to keep us each in Your loving and protective arms.  May we continue to honor You in all that we do.  Amen