Happy last Sunday of February. February is the shortest month of the year - yet it has seemed like the longest! Granted, we have not had the extreme weather many have, but so much rain and winds and winds and more winds! A few more days and it will be what is called meteorological spring (3/1). We will be changing our clocks yet AGAIN (ugh) in a couple weeks. Yes, spring is coming - we just need to be patient.
I did a walk about again this week, and did see tiny red buds peeking out of the ground at the peony plants. There are poppies, sneaking out (greens), and the forsythia is getting growth. I see the daffodils getting some buds. If you stand and just look around - you can see a haze around the trees off in the distance. Red, gold, green, bronze haze - the trees are starting to set buds! SOON!!!!!!!!
I have all kinds of birds in the yard. I see the geese flying over in both directions several times a day - I love hearing them. Blackie is getting more healthy everyday. He still has a bit of congestion - but is doing so well and he is loving sunshine and fresh air!
I had damn hawk get one of my small squirrels. They usually go after birds - so this really ticked me off. Poor baby was sunning up in the tree and there is no protection. Sometimes nature makes me so sad.
We got to 70* on Wed. it was also windy and wet - then on Thursday the temps dropped and we had lows in the 20's!! We have had over 30 days in the 50's since early December. Lots and lots of rain! So happy all that rain wasn't snow.
This week:
- Had to change out a couple light bulbs - why do I mention that? I can't remember the last time I had to change bulbs!! I hardly ever turn on lights - so no need to change things out.
- Baked a batch of brownies - man I had a craving!
- I had to change out the disk in my digital camera. I have used the same disk for YEARS! It finally decided to quit. I went searching and sure enough I had a new in package one that G had purchased many years ago!
- Worked on the wallpaper some more - taking it slow!
- Made iced tea and added a couple apricot tea bags for flavor
- Got to air the house on a couple days
- Had my chime/angel on porch get blown over and chime broke. I fixed it and have it back out there.
- Paid everything I had for March
- Did more yard work when I could - just cleaning up some
- Did a walk about and picked up trash from walks and alley
- Ran to feed store for corn
- Went to library and returned and got some more books. I have looked at a couple I got before - but will re-read.
- I also went to grocery this week. I used a $5 off total coupon I had for Feb. I got a couple buys with digital coupons - strawberries 1.88/lb., cherry tomatoes, milk - 1.29/half gal., Bumble Bee tuna .79/can (limit 5 w/coupon). I have been going on Friday, when I go lately - as I use the 4X points on Friday coupon. Points give money off on gasoline.
- I topped off the gas tank and used last months points. I saved .50/gal.
- Eating from home and using leftovers
- Just doing all the normal stuff
Meals this past week:
Cheeseburger (on toasted bread), cole slaw
Fish soft tacos
Green beans cooked with potatoes and fried Spam (froze extra Spam)
Leftovers - green beans/pots, fish and chicken bites
Quesadillas
Sausage, egg, cheese sandwich (on bun)
Meatball, pepper, mushroom, blk. olive and Swiss mini subs (hotdog buns)
So there you have it. Nothing much exciting here. Just trying to do all the normal things. Enjoying the blue skies and sunshine when given the opportunity and love walking about in the yard. I have even gone out and set on my bench just to enjoy the fresh air - Blackie comes and curls up next to me each time!
How has your week been? Are things waking up in your area? I know many are still experiencing cold and snow! Hopefully, it changes for you soon.
Did you get any deals this week? Give us a shout out and let us all know what is happening in your part of the world!
Take care and be safe and warm. Enjoy each day - a gift from above.
Blessings from my humble little home to you and yours! Prayers for all.
*****************
The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him in song.
Psalms 28:7
Dear Lord, thank You for always being by my side. Many days we have struggles and battles that we try to get through, and You are always there to help hold us up and give us strength. Please be with others who are battling their own struggles and protect them with your shield. Amen
(Little Penpen) Sounds like a good week. So sorry about the squirrel ! It hurts my heart to see things like that too.
ReplyDeleteIt was a pretty good week. Yeah, nature can be cruel!
DeleteHave a wonderful week.
Yes, it's always sad, and then I remind myself "everybody's got to eat" - which is what I had to tell myself when the blacksnake got the baby birds in the nest on my potting bench. Parent birds had chosen a poor place to start with.
DeleteMaryB in NC
You had a great week. It is painful to see an animal get hurt or killed. I understand it is nature at work but still sad. You really find some good deals on things, Cheryl. God bless you and Happy Sunday- xo Diana
ReplyDeleteThanks. I know - nature can be cruel. It always makes me sad to see something hurt. Even driving down the road - to see an animal on the side of the road. Sad.
DeleteHave a great week.
Hi Cheryl, gees that sandwich looks wonderful! Last week was a bit cold for us in Phoenix, highs around 50-60…so i wore a shirt, sweatshirt and jacket going out ;). The winter visitors from the Midwest were wearing shorts and a t shirt. I had Stu’s celebration of life Friday, it went really well, 30 people for lunch. I was sadder than usual afterwards but yesterday was better. I know this will take time. Thank you again for your wisdom and kindness during this time. All the best, Hilogene in Az
ReplyDeleteThe sandwich was tasty - more than I thought it might be!
Delete50's and 60's - no jackets around here!!!! People think it is warm - too funny.
Sounds like a nice gathering. I can only imagine that was a sad event and yet a lovely one - with so many people showing up. I am glad you got to have a nice event to celebrate a wonderful life.
Yes it takes so much time. I still have those days MANY times! You deserve so much support and love and I can only offer a bit. Keep your faith and know you have tons of people praying for you daily!
Have a good week my friend.
Good morning! Your week sounds about like mine, although we were much colder here. My hyacinths are pushing through the soil, too, and we should have weather in the 40s or above all week. Spring is just around the corner!!!!
ReplyDeleteWe have ups and downs on the temperatures. Luckily the colder days are less and less and shorter in duration!
DeleteYes indeedy - spring will be here soon!
Have a lovely week.
A good Sunday to you, Cheryl (and all). Snow showers just started in our area this morning. It should end this afternoon. More snow is predicted for Wednesday and Thursday. Did you know Flagstaff, AZ has gotten more then 100 inches of snow so far this year? Thankfully, we haven't had nearly that much! And I keep reminding myself that the wet monsoon last summer + a snowy winter is a GOOD thing for a state that's often very dry. One thing it has brought is more elk and deer for our viewing pleasure. LOL!
ReplyDeleteI love the verse and prayer for today. The prayer is especially meaningful. It's easy to feel we're falling short and good to remember not only do we have help each day, but God's expectations for us are kinder and gentler than our own. We weren't intended to take on the weight of the world, just to be light in it. I'm grateful for all here who sparkle and shine even in the struggles. Thank you! --Elise
100" oh my! Something I would not want to even imagine! I am thinking all the rains and snows out West surely has to help drought conditions. I have heard people bemoaning the rain and snow in CA - really????? They need water sooooo badly!
DeleteThank you. Yes, we often forget, we are not walking alone on this journey. We need to let God lead!
Have a wonderful week!
Sounds like a very good week for you, Cheryl. We too like the meatballs in brown gravy even better than with a red pasta sauce. They make a great meal. I’m glad Blackie is doing better and sorry about the squirrel too. 😢 I do hope you have another good week.
ReplyDeleteThank you. I loved the meatballs - I will most assuredly make them again like that! Very filling.
DeleteThak you and may you have a great week as well.
Still winter here and will be for awhile yet, but I do enjoy hearing about the new growth starting to make itself known in other areas. I know how exciting it is when the perennials begin to show themselves. There is an aroma that I associate with the earth waking up after it's long winter nap. Or maybe it's just me. :)
ReplyDeleteSeeing you pick up garbage in the alleys and walk ways reminds me of my godmother. She did that too, but got a serious infection and was told to ensure she wore gloves.
Take care!
I am glad we can give you a glimpse of things to come in your area!!! Yes, there is a different smell to the air in spring - so fresh and alive.
DeleteGloves are needed for sure and a grabber. You can sure run into some icky stuff out there. It just amazes me how lazy people are and how stinking sloppy. If they took care of their own trash, I wouldn't need to do that!
Have a good week.
The promise of spring is in the increasing daylight hours. It's so hopeful to see the sky lightening by 6AM. -12C this morning. A great winter day vs -34C as it has been in the past week. The cold weather was cause for cancelling a walk with a friend, rescheduled for this coming week. I went to a new practitioner who practices massage & energy point work; I'm impressed. I've experienced one health issue after another (all relatively minor) for the past 2 mos; hopefully this treatment will reset my body. The other accomplishment of the week was making 7 doz pyrogies for the freezer. The best food deal - my BIL found eggs at a local supplier for $2/doz. Meals for the week: spaghetti w/ meat sauce; veggie noodle bowl; cheesy corn risotto with chicken thighs; bagels w/ salmon cream cheese; egg salad sandwiches.
ReplyDeleteYes! Increase daylight - I love it. More sunshine - love it! It sure helps a mood!
DeleteBrrr - I would have canceled the walk too. Oh your massage and energy point work sounds heavenly - one of these days! I so want to have a massage - it just sounds blissful. Hope it helps reset everything.
You go gal - great stocking that freezer and homemade to boot! Great price on eggs.
Your meals sound so yummy.
Have a great week.
After my eye exam a couple weeks ago, I looked at glasses there at the doctors office. Was quoted over $800 for the pair I picked out. No thank you. Did some checking around and with the deal going at Costco I got two pairs (one sunglasses) for $340. So that was MY savings.
ReplyDeleteI haven't tried the online dealers and I'm nervous to try them because I need progressives and have astigmatism. Has anyone, who has a more complex prescription tried online? Thanks.
Ellie
Central Az
What a great savings. I thought about trying for an extra pair - in case. I have those same conditions - so have wondered as well. Hopefully someone will let us know.
DeleteHave a great week.
Good Morning. I have changed to Friday's for picking up anything we may need for the 4x's fuel points also. They really add up.
ReplyDeleteWe have the same weather so yes I'm starting to see things bud and pop up here and there. The frogs and birds are very vocal in the early mornings now. Spring is definitely coming. Have a great Sunday!
Yes mam, those 4X points add up quickly. I love it. I used for GC's during holidays and got extra points, now the Friday deal is great for me.
DeleteIt is just lovely to see things waking up. I go out at 5:30 or so every morning to feed Blackie, and the birds are now singing then! Mainly cardinals - but singing early none the less!
Have a fantastic week.
Too bad about the baby squirrel. It's all part of the cycle of nature but still...
ReplyDeleteThe Father is always right beside us as we go through trials. I pray for His guiding presence.
The Urban Farmer is making black bean soup from the Preppy Kitchen's YouTube channel. Looks really good so far. We had black beans that needed to be used. I found some guacamole in the freezer to add as a topping since we didn't have fresh avocados.
This weather seems so much like the beginning of spring. I am loving the sunshine.
He sure is with us - every moment of every day!
DeleteThat sounds good. Enjoy it.
It is a lovely sunny day. Cool, but it sure is pretty.
Have a great week.
The hawk getting the squirrel is sad, but it's survival. Now human cruelty to animals makes my blood boil.
ReplyDeleteWe haven't had any rain! January was unbelievably wet, but in February we have barely seen a drop, a couple of days of light drizzle and that's it.
I have had windows and doors open again, I do like some fresh air through the house. I even managed to line dry a little hand washing! Now that's exciting to me.
My snowdrops and crocus have all burst into flower, daffodils will be about another month, but my tiny cherry blossom is in bud.
I have had some decent food reductions, though we are now (in the UK) having a veg shortage! I kid you not, supermarkets are restricting purchases to 2 or 3 depending on the supermarket. Officially it's down to poor weather conditions in Europe but apparently Europe is well stocked with fruit and veg, so now Brexit is being blamed. It's not really affected me yet, I can be pretty flexible with my veg, there's not a lot I don't like and I have stuff in the freezer.
Hope Blackie continues to improve, my old dog Betty, she's 16, is beginning to show her age and slow down, but she's still very happy.
Anyway, good week everyone.
I love being able to open the doors. Hanging laundry is great.
DeleteI have heard that there are limits on some veggies in Europe. We have all become so used to eating whatever we want whenever - we seem to forget there are seasons for things. I appreciate all goodies - but if it costs more or I can't get it because it is out of season - it won't bother me.
Hope your Betty stays healthy and safe and happy.
Have a great week.
Ok Tribe. A search here did not bring up a Brown Gravy Mix. I thought I would find it in the bulk section of Winco but no. I don't want to buy little packets and I don't want the huge container from Costco. I only use it a few times a year.
ReplyDeleteThoughts?
I get McCormick Brown gravy mix. I have a jar that is 21 oz. -so you might think too big. But it lasts a long, long time kept in a cool space. I don't use it often either - but it is also good to throw in stew or soup to thicken it. I have a poultry mix as well. They are just handy to have on hand. I got mine at Kroger - but I know Sam's sells it (and probably Costco). It is good stuff. Hope that helps!
DeleteHave a good week.
My WinCo in eastern Washington had the gravy mix in the bulk section. I buy it there all the time. lol near the chicken broth powder and the salt
DeleteNancy, I'll ask when I go back in a few weeks. Otherwise, I'll get the big one that will last 5y like the one I just emptied ;-)
DeleteI'm glad Blackie is doing better! That is so very sad about the hawk getting the little squirrel, that's so horrible. Many will say "nature" and all of that but it doesn't help our heart.
ReplyDeleteLove the Psalm and the prayer, very, very comforting!
I appreciate you, I hope you're doing okay. I appreciate you! : )
Thank you. I know it just made me so sad. I love my squirrels and birds - they give me joy. I feed them and they come running to me when I go out! They aint stupid - they know where the food comes from!
DeleteI set out on the back steps this evening talking with my neighbor - haven't seen him out since Christmas. Blackie come and curled up in my lap - and kept looking at me - as to say "where is my dinner?" It was so funny. He finally got fed!
Thank you so much. I appreciate all of you so much.
Have a wonderful week.
It sounds like you had a nice evening....I'm so glad, that's so nice to talk with your neighbor, that sort of thing kind of makes us feel as if the world is sort of normal right? That's cute about Blackie, those little fur angels are so precious. I know my kitties each have their own personality. I put birdseed in my feeder today so I could see my birds too...That is so neat that your squirrels run out too! How wonderful! Our squirrels eat from my feeder but I don't mind. : )
DeleteHello all!
ReplyDeleteCheryl, our chime broke, too! The wood piece that said WEALTH broke off. I told hubs that couldn't be a good omen!! I'm sorry about your squirrel. I get that whole circle of life thing, but I'd prefer them to play National Geographic away from my vision and backyard!! Speaking of nature, I'm also watching an Owl Cam out of Corona CA. There are 4 owlets and they're just adorable!! Fortunately, when dad brings in the dinner, momma's wings keep the dinner's identity a secret from me.im just happy that the babies are being fed.
Lazy day, today. It felt good! We have that weather maker that just whomped Cali in western Kansas so I expect tonight isn't going to be very restful as it comes our way. Several of my L.A. friends sent me snow pics from places it very rarely snows. And the rain!!! My friend said that there was probably a run on canoes!!
It seems like the cough might finally leave me alone. I felt much better this week and got pretty close to getting back on schedule. Did great on Tu and Wed, dragged a bit on Th and then crashed on Friday. I probably slept 5 hrs. midday. I'll start again tomorrow and try again! On the bright side, I got a lot of little things done and that felt great.
I made dinner all week. Got a couple of frozen meals back in.
Dinners were tacos TWICE!, Mac n cheese, pork hoagies, pulled pork sandwiches, spaghetti, and tuna melts.
Reading
On my nightstand - Unintended Consequences by Stuart Woods.
In my craft room CD player - music. I'm still organizing.
With my Bible study - a Lenten study by Matthew Kelly.
By my reading chair - Executive Power by Vince Flynn. Almost done.
Watching a loaner of NCIS DVD, season 8.
Glad you're feeling better, Debby. Hubs and I are slowly (very slowly) shaking the crud and getting back to normal. Our son on the Central Coast (CA) sent a photo of snow in Atascadero Friday night!! All of our snow in AZ is coming from the CA storms... a few inches today and 7 inches more due Wednesday. So, on this cold Sunday night it will be spaghetti dinner and berry cobbler.
Delete--Elise
Glad to hear you are on the mend Debby. Ups and downs - but at least you have had good days. Naps are always nice and sleep helps us heal.
DeleteI am with you on Nat. Geo. stuff - I sure hate to witness it in real life. I bet those owls are cute.
I hope all that rain and snow helps the drought situation out there.
We are warm here today - rain and storms and lots of WIND again!!!!! Saying up to 50 mph. wind gusts. UGH
Your meals sound just right to me. Continue to heal and feel better. Have a good week.
Elise all that snow!!!! That is just so amazing to me. I can't imagine having to move that much snow. Please stay in and stay safe!
DeleteYes, Cheryl, it's been quite a lot! Yesterday's snow will mostly melt off before more arrives, as has been the case (for us). What's laughable is predictions for this winter were for a milder, drier winter in the west. Mankind predicts. God laughs.
Delete:-) --Elise
Those mini subs look scrumptious.
ReplyDeleteGod bless.
Thanks - it was a lot yummier than I thought it would be!
DeleteHave a wonderful week.