The Day is Close at Hand!!

 Happy Thursday to all.  Hope you are all well.  I know some of you gals up North are getting some nasty weather.  Stay safe and stay in!

Thirties here this AM and cloudy. Already been out to feed all the critters and kitty.  My boys are curled up sleeping after having their breakfast.  I feel like I could do the same!

Thought I would show the bigger wreath indoors that I put a few lights in.  My niece in-law made that for me and the stand it is on was made by my nephew.  I added a small strand of lights (20) and it gives such a nice glow to the room in the evenings.  20 lights add more light than one might think in a dark room.

Click on the picture to enlarge to get a better view of the wreath.

I can't believe how many delivery trucks there are daily in my neighborhood!  Multiply that by ALL the neighborhoods - goodness.  There are UPS, FedEx, Amazon, Prime, USPS all everyday - and many of those are on my street multiple times!  You would think in this day of computers and electronics; they would have a better system of routing packages.  I would think it would save time and money to have deliveries on each street made once (maybe twice) a day - I mean they track that stuff.  I know I see UPS at least 6 times each day on my little street!!  Nuts.

Speaking of delivery - I got one I wasn't expecting yesterday.

This lovely tin of old-time candies came from my wonderful friend Laurie yesterday!  I so love all the old-fashioned candies.  I have already been in it this morning!

I am counting the days until Saturday and the winter solstice - because then the days go back to getting a little longer!  I so need more daylight.

I am home until Christmas Day, I do believe.  No plans to go out.  I know many have family coming in, celebrations may begin this weekend.  Baking to do, gifts to wrap (or maybe buy).  I imagine everyone will be busy with something.

I will be keeping busy with this and that - and hopefully enjoying a Christmas show or two.  I like having holiday music playing as well.

Please all stay safe and warm.  May those traveling have safe travels.

I will be back with a Sunday post as usual.

Have a great day and enjoy all the festivities leading up to Christmas, whatever they may be.

Done and Finds

 Happy Wednesday - one week until Christmas!  Oh my!

It is a cool and damp morning.  We had rain overnight - so things are still damp, and it is muddy!  Just a gray kind of day.  It is around 40*F and won't be moving much all day.

Well, stick a fork in me and call me done!!!!  I went out yesterday and got the last couple items I wanted to get for baskets, and I am DONE!  Well, except for baking and things I am making in the kitchen.

I ran to Menards and got a couple items.  I wanted to get a couple extra mushroom growing kits - why?  Because I wanted at least one too!  I was afraid they would be gone, and they didn't have many left.  So, I got lucky.  They are going in 4 gift bags with other goodies.

How fun is that?  I think everyone will enjoy - it is something different and something they can use and eat!

DEALS

If you have a Meijer grocery - check it out.  I heard from a friend about their veggie deal - so I stopped in there while out.  It is across the road from Menards.

Beans, corn and peas (store brand) - .39 can!!!  NO LIMIT.  I kept watching carts as I walked through the store, and didn't see many people with them.  No big aisle display as they used to do.  Maybe they didn't want to sell that badly.  They were with all other veggies in the veggie aisle.  I got a case of each - with what I have I am good for a long time.  They were dated end of '26 and into '27.

Simply veg, salt and water.  I love them to add to homemade soups and things.  Sale good through Saturday.

Not a price that is often seen in today's market!!!!

ALSO - if you have Kroger - check ads today.  Butter is on digital coupon until Christmas Eve 2.99/lb.

Shows up in IN and OH that I know of - check your ads!!!!  Stock up when you can and as cheaply as you can.

Still on my table!  From my garden!  This is the end of them - but I will be eating MY tomatoes through Christmas - how fun is that?

Well gang, I am off to get busy.  Mrs. Claus's helper still has some goodies to make over the next few days!  

I hope whatever you put your hands to today, that it is successful.

Have a lovely and blessed day.

STAY SAFE out there!!!

Keeping Things Light and Fun

 Happy Tuesday all.  Glad to have you here and hope all are well.  I know many are taking a break from Blogs and computer things - so this week, it will just be light info.  Next week as well, for whatever I do post.  

We will get back to learning, sharing and trading info after the new year.

It is cool this morning, the moon was vibrant, and the sunrise was a beautiful sky painting.  It isn't raining or snowing - I am happy!

I mentioned the old home my friend and I got to tour a week ago Sunday.  It has only changed hands 2 or 3 times since the early 1800's.  The folks who built it were quite wealthy, and they did care for and help slaves.  They had to be quite vigilant to be stealthy about such things or they would have been arrested and probably hanged.  There are many, many miles of tunnels under our city on all parts of towns - some say they all connected at some point.  There is rumor that they connect with the tunnels a few miles away (still fairly close to me - but north) that are under a very famous historical bar downtown called the Slippery Noodle. 

The house and the street are named after the original owner (Hanna)

Many say the house is haunted (hence why they do Halloween stuff there - that angers me).  If ever a place might be - I can see this would be.  As to not draw attention, many are said to be buried under the basement floor.  They had a huge coal chute, as they received a lot of supplies that way as well.

An older picture - see the windmill towards the right back side of the house?  There are the remains of that still there.  It kind of looks like it may have been toppled by a tornado.  

Today. Much the same.  Oh how I wish I was rich.  It needs a ton of work on the back half of the house and even inside the tour-able part.  It would be glorious to fix it up and to live there.  Now it is just for tours and events - no one lives there. It is on historic register.

The old canning is still there.  You can still tell exactly what is in each jar - no one has lived here or canned for decades.

It was really a deep basement.  Standing on the cement floor - I could not touch the ceiling.  So it was made really deep on purpose!

Not that it is obvious, but up close you can see where the tunnel was.  Behind the canning racks.  The racks were built to block it off - as many tunnels have collapsed. Right above the jugs sitting on the floor - you can see it is actually stone and not cement block - that was the tunnel area.  That floor area you see - is where they say the burials happened.  It is the one area of the basement that has cement (deep cement).  The rest is dirt floors.

It really has a weird eerie feeling down there.

 One of the only original pieces of furniture in the home.  Isn't that bed something?  This was thought to be the bedroom for the original owners.  Most every room had a fireplace in it.

Windows were so tall - I bet at least 8' tall.  There were picture rails in every room.  Ceilings at least 10' tall if not higher.  The original ceiling lights are in place - but have been converted to electric.

Can you imagine heating all that?

They even had a separate room for bathing! 

Well, I thought you might enjoy a tour as well.  It was kind of fun.  Years ago (over 30+), Glen and I actually got to tour the entire home - both front and back wings and the attic.  It was in much better shape back then.

Just a fun little tour of a site close to my home.  Not even 10 minutes from me.  I have lived in this area all my life, and always knew about this place and drove by from the earliest times I can remember.

Kind of neat to have such history so close.  I bet many people live in areas that have a lot of history that they never get to know.

I also live just blocks from the oldest city park in the area as well.

Well, there you go.  A little view into the past and a little history of the area I live.  Hope you enjoyed it.

Have a glorious day and share a smile and a kind word if possible!

My daily Christmas picture!

Weekly Wrap Up 12/15

 Happy Sunday to all.  10 days until the big day!  It is amazing how quickly the days are going by.

I hope you are all well and safe this Sunday.

It is a much warmer start to the day - than we have had for a high for many days!  We do have rain today - but I can deal with that.  No snow is fine with me!  I know some of you are getting assaulted with snow and frigid weather - I am so sorry for that.  

My week:

• Last Sunday a friend called and wanted to see if I would go with her to take a tour of an old 1800's home here on my side of town.  It was once a stop on the underground railroad.  It is often used during Halloween for scary stuff.  It was decorated for Christmas, so we went and caught up on talk as well.  Then we stopped at an area antique shop and looked around.  Nice afternoon
• Monday was the Christmas luncheon with my grade school gals (and one guy).  We went to MCL and had a lovely time.  Had a gift exchange as well.
• I did my last raking of the backyard.
• I did a little more shopping one day - found the couple things I was really looking for
• Cards got mailed (I had cards and stamps already)
• Made my first batch of Springerle cookies for my brother and sis - so baking has started (what little I do)
• Got a lot of stuff wrapped
• Lots of laundry and used dehumidifier water
• Used baking soda and vinegar to unclog a drain
• Used up bits and pieces of food left in new meals
• Had siblings Christmas yesterday.  Sis demanded that she get to continue hosting and she made dinner.  It was a great crockpot meal of roast and veggies.  Her first meal she cooked since she got home from rehab.  It was a wonderful day, and we are just so blessed to still have her here with us.
• Received home canned goods, snacks and gift cards
• Sis sent home roast and veggies with me as well - a meals worth +

Meals this past week:

Cheesy mac with sausage and green peas added and small salad

MCL - meal with friends

Chicken tender sandwich, oven fries and small salad

French bread pizza (froze part as well)

Taco salad

Baked spaghetti and garlic toast

Dinner with family

Been snacking on fruit, cheese and crackers, a milkshake

How was your week?  Is everyone about ready for whatever festivities you do?  Did you get any good deals this week?  What is baking in your kitchen?

I sure hope you are all well and safe.  Stay warm and cozy - I know many are having lots and lots of true winter weather.

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

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

Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow; but woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

Lord, we are so blessed to have so many wonderful family and friends in our lives to help us when we are in need, whether emotionally or physically.  May we each know that a kind word and a helping hand to others can change everything for them.  Thank You for this wonderful group of lovely ladies here, as each cares and prays for the others and all are always offering a helpful idea or suggestion to help another.  Family and friends can even be those who have never met.  I feel we are all so blessed.  Please continue to watch over and protect us all.  AMEN

Taking Care of Business and Yourself

 Happy Thursday to everyone.  My goodness, the time is just flying by.  3 weeks from now we will be in a new year!!  It seems like we just did all this stuff!  

It is a cold morning here.  In the teens and it has actually dropped a couple degrees since I got up.  I bundled up and went out to do the feed thing, and there was Licorice sitting out in the yard waiting on me.  Crazy cat - I figured he would be in his warmer house and bed - but nope!  I think he enjoys the colder stuff.  After eating, he did go in the greenhouse for a cat nap!

Everyone is busy and, on the go, and doing things.  We all need to pace ourselves and not go crazy.  We need to remember to take good care of ourselves.  This is a sad and mentally challenging time for a lot of people.  IF you do not wish to celebrate the holidays that is OK.  Do whatever is good for you.

I think these charts are so spot on.  Things we all need to remember.  Here we are at the end of another year and life has changed for every one of us in some way - more changes for some than others.  We are all in a new season of life and need to help ourselves through this new season.

Be yourself - change for no one.  Appreciate all the things you have - big and small.  

Cut loose conflicts and disagreements - try to forgive.  No one is perfect and we never know what is happening in another life.  Hanging on to hard feelings helps no one or nothing.

Do something positive for another - it will surely bring joy to you and them.

Step out of your comfort zone now and then.  The first time is always difficult - but you may find it is something you enjoy!

You are here reading this today, so you have actually made it through another year - that is HUGE!  That is PROGRESS!

Set yourself up for a good new year to come.  Make a wish or plan or two.  Find a new way to improve yourself - education, exercise, a new friend, letting go of old habits, etc.  

Let your light shine - you are unique in this world.  There is only one of you - I find that amazing.  We are each so different and special - in this big old world there is only one you or me!

Love your home, your family and friends, love your fur babies and love yourself!  

Many are going about their planning today and getting ready for celebrations, if so, have a good time doing that.  Many are quietly sitting alone and hibernating until the holidays are over, if so, you have a blessed day as well.

Whatever you do on this day you were gifted, do it with love, joy and happiness.

Have a fantastic day!!!

Having Fun - Play - Boost the Mind

 Howdy to everyone.  So glad to be here today, as a new day starts.  Hope this finds all of you well.  It is 2 weeks until Christmas Day!  

It is colder here this morning - got up to the freezing mark.  Tomorrow will be bitter again - then it warms yet again.  I can do this all winter if it so happens!

I have been out of the house a lot in the past 3 days - and need to buckle down and get busy.  Still several things I want to accomplish - but will not fret, if they don't get done.  Que sera, sera!

Another little memory for me.  My brother Dick and me.  He came home on leave at Christmas and brought me my own Navy suit!  I loved it (still have it).  He was my hero, and I was sure I would marry him!!! I was so angry at my SIL when they got married, I didn't like her for a long time, as she took my brother and my buddy and my future husband!  LOL. We are good friends now!

Do you play games at Christmas?  I know lots of people have all day get togethers and games are a huge part of it.  My niece and her kids and her grand have a day of it, and they just love games.  Made up games, board games, card games, etc.  I think that is neat.

Her is one that could be a game for the family or just something to keep next to your chair, to exercise your brain over the winter!  That is what I am doing.  It is fun and a challenge - and I can't imagine finding all they say there is!!!

Now this would be something to let people do over the entire day - then see who has the most at the end of the visit.  I will work on this at home!

Another fun thing to do - might be to have everyone write down as many lines from holiday movies/shows that they can - that make the name of the movie immediately known.  Then see if everyone agrees.

Like - "you'll shoot your eye out", "God bless us everyone", "every time a bell rings...", "you're a mean one...", "I triple dog dare you".  There are so many phrases out there that instantly make me think of a holiday movie.

Can you think of any?

I think these ideas are fun - as I like trivia, but it really does help keep the mind fresh.  We need to use that old brain of ours every day to keep it fresh and alert.

Here is a bit of trivia.  I love the National Lampoon Christmas Vacation movie - it is so silly.  I just like to laugh, and I do that through the whole show.  It is just plain old silliness, with a little moral point thrown in here and there.

I know this one is not everyone's cup of tea, as there are many others that I won't watch as well.

Throw a little fun in your celebrations and winter.  Have fun and laugh!  It is good medicine!

Have a super day.  Give away a smile today!

Talking Tuesday - This and That

 Hello to all.  Happy Tuesday!  Hope you are all well.  It is a VERY foggy morning here.  Earlier it looked like you could cut the fog with a knife.  In the 40's for today - then we go back down for a couple days and then back up!  We are playing seesaw with the weather here!  That is fine with me, nothing bad yet!  Around 4AM today, I guess there was a meteor shower here and a sonic boom - missed them both!

I have had a couple fun filled days - now it is time to getting back to being serious about the holidays.  Nice to have fun.

   Me and Santa at Santa Claus Land in the 50's.  He is still there, and it is called Holiday World now. 

I mentioned last week I went to the feed store.  I walked around hoping to find something I wanted as a gift (a kit for a terrarium).  Nothing there.  BUT as I am walking around I see what is called "PRIMITIVE PLANT HOLDER" - it was a macrame plant hanger!!!!!  Primitive???

I laughed out loud, and the gal working there, walked up and saw what I was looking at - and 'yeah, can you believe that?'.  I guess macrame is a fun thing again - but oh my goodness, the word primitive just set me to laughing.  

How many macrame things I made back in the day.  I still have a plant hanger and a belt!  I guess that means we are primitive too!!!!!  LOL

*****

I just wanted to put this out there - it might help someone else.  I have over the years been gifted 2 Himalayan salt lamps.  Never used them much, but I have one sitting on my bedside table and figured why not actually use it.  I started using it a couple weeks ago and let me tell you I have been sleeping much better and more restful, and my restless leg has quieted a LOT.  I still have it now and then - but symptoms are less and last a much shorter time.

Now I know some may think that is crazy - but it has helped me.  Supposedly they ionize the air and that helps calm us.  It sure has worked for me.  Mine has a variable brightness; I keep it very low (a soft faint pink light).  I leave it on all night long.  I may try using it a bit brighter to see if that makes a difference.  I just didn't want a light that kept me awake.  It is a very pretty light.

So, you may want to give it a try.  They sure are pretty when lit. (not my pic).  This looks just like mine.

Well, I think I am going to go out and look for the last couple things I am having trouble finding.  JoAnn's may be a good place to go.  Two youngsters asked for very specific things - and of course no one close by has anything!  I will run down to Greenwood and look around - more variety there.

I hope you all have a great day.  

Spread joy and smiles wherever you go and whatever you do.

Weekly Wrap-Up 12/8

 Hello and happy Sunday to all.  Hope this finds you all well and safe.  It is a much warmer start to the day today.  It was warmer when I got up than most of the week got as a high!  We will be having warmer, colder and somewhere in between this week!

Two and a half weeks until Christmas!!!  Goodness, where has the time gone?

Yep, that is my tree this year!  Old school (I made years ago) and simple!  I do have a couple lit wreaths inside as well - one large and one small.

Friday was exactly 1 year since Bitsy and Blackie came inside to live their best lives!

Been enjoying the brightness of the moon and seeing Venus very clearly this week.

Sis, went home Thursday!!!!!  She is soooo happy to be there.  Friday was going to be extra special as she was getting her doggy back - after not seeing him for a little over a month!  The kids have brought her lots of food goodies, so she shouldn't have to cook for a while.

My frugal week:

• Made a small pan of cornbread - haven't had in a while
• Made some banana/chocolate muffins w/added chips and nuts
• Opened a new toothpaste!!!  LOL - It takes me a long time to go through a tube myself.
• Told you earlier about the chicken leg deal I got a Kroger, and the oranges - MY ONLY GROCERY this week
• Made a batch of apple butter and canned
• I did run to feed store for corn - I was out!
• I worked on finishing the blankie for niece.  She came and got it and loved it.  We got to sit and talk (w/no kids) for a long while.  That doesn't happen much and was truly enjoyed.  She posted on TikTok and FB a video about the blankie!!!  I think she loved it.
• Trimmed my hair
• Got out cards and will finish up today
• Ordered my jerky and summer sausage for baskets (early in week)
• Made up new bottles of shampoo and dish soap this week
• Still eating my tomatoes
• Lots of cleaning around the house
• Picked up lots of sticks and did a backyard clean-up again
• Started going through all the gifts to see just what else I may need
• Watched a couple Christmas movies - fun ones and older ones.  I can't do any of the romantic ones anymore!  Those just aren't my cup of tea - LOL

Meals this past week:

Dirty rice and red beans and cornbread

Rice, turkey and broccoli

Cheeseburger (no bread), corn on cob and side salad

Grilled burrito and salad

Pork steak, corn on cob and salad

Bacon and egg sandwich and salad

Thin chicken breast topped w/salsa and cheese, steamed broccoli and carrots

SNACKS:  cornbread and apple butter, muffins, fruit, cheese and crackers

Grilled burrito and salad.  Simple and filling meal and used leftover rice and beans in it.  Also added spicey summer sausage and salsa which I had.

How was your week?  Are you done with your holiday preparations?  I am not finished quite yet - still have a couple odd ball things to get - specific requests I am having trouble with! Baking to do.

Did you get any great deals w/ all the holiday sales?

I sure hope you are all good.  Still needing to hear from some of you - really missing your posts.  It just makes me feel better knowing everyone is OK.

May you all have a super week ahead and stay safe and healthy.

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

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

O come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.

Psalms 95:1

This is the day which the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Psalms 118:24

Lord, help us to open our hearts and hands to receive all the gifts and joy You have to offer us each day.  Let us go forward in communion with all that we meet.  Help us to cope with all our frustrations and circumstances and let us not to be overwhelmed.  May we each spread Your love and joy during this week.  Amen

Show and Tell - A Couple Things!

 Howdy all.  It is soooooo cold this morning.  I know I am spoiled.  Weather says it is 12*F - my thermometer says about 18*.  Windy too - but not as bad as last night.  I have several sticks to pick up at some point, and the chairs out back were all topsy turvy.  Trash blown in the yard picked up.  Surprised the yard decorations across the street are still there!  We had some 60 mph gusts last night.  Today's high - maybe 20*.  YUCK.  It is supposed to warm up this weekend for a bit - Yay.

Yesterday did finally get into low 40's and the neighbor 2 doors down was mowing about 4PM yesterday!

Just a couple things - one bought and one made.  Just wanted to share.

Old time candy - I remember from childhood.  I got both of these at Ollies the last time I was there.  Just a bit of nostalgia that I will enjoy.  2.99 a bag.  They also had boxes of the thin ribbon candy.

So it can still be had!

I mentioned making a throw for my niece with baby clothes from her 3.  Well, it is complete.  I just want to say I am not calling it a quilt at all.  I know there are wonderful quilters out there and would never want to insult their work.  This is a whimsical and fun throw.

A full image.  It is backed with a super fuzzy store-bought throw.  The denim is from a pair of Uncle G's jeans, and the binding I made from a top I had.  Making the binding was almost the worst part!  (So, we are also included in their memories too.)

Lower half.  Includes a handmade bootie of one, a bow tie - even zippered items.  Tried to make it a 3-D type item.  The booties could be removed at any point if wanted - not harmed at all.

Upper half.  Part of a tutu in top left corner - another bootie in a pocket and ruffles that hang in middle.

I hated cutting up the clothes - but she said do it!  It was fun to make, but tough too.  Wanted it to be totally different than anything else I had made her.  I have lots of scraps left and have a couple ideas of plans to make her something else after the holidays.  

This sure made my back hurt.  I have very little floor space to spread something that big out.  It is heavy too (and warm).  My worktable could use some improvements (an old dining room table).  Not to mention this body isn't as young as it used to be!  LOL

She is coming this morning to get it.  I hope she loves it - I think she will.

She has asked me to make her oldest a T-shirt blankie for his grade school graduation in May.  Good thing I love these kids!!!!!

Have a warm and wonderful day.  May everything you touch turn out wonderful.

20 days until Christmas!!!!!!!

Expanding Info and Yumminess

 Howdy all.  Hope this finds all well.  Another chilly morn here.  It is warmer according to the thermometer, but it feels just as cold.  The wind is blowing, and it will get much worse tonight.  They are saying 45MPH wind gusts.  Tomorrow is to be the coldest day this season so far!  THEN it starts warming - back close to 50 this weekend!  Crazy stuff.  Heck it isn't even 'winter' yet - we are still in fall!!

Yesterday I was talking about the loaf pans.  They cost me 2.99 each at Ollie's.  Very heavy and pretty.

Lots of goodies will go in them.  I also do reusable grocery bags - you can sure get some pretty ones now a days.  And then there are the youngsters - many are old enough to want their own goodies.  They get a bag as well (although smaller).

Here is a view of the pans!  Just some items for various people that will go in holiday gift bags.  I listen to the things they say they like and supply them.  Just because I like something, doesn't mean I buy it often - others do that too.

I have a nephew in law that looks forward to his container of orange slices every year (in their bag).  A grown nephew (in his 50's) also wants & expects his Bottle Caps to be in his basket!!  LOL.  Beef sticks are a fav of the teens.  My brother loves Horehound candy, and his wife loves cream chocolates.  Crazy straws for one of the littles - along with Pop Rocks, and giant Fruit Loops!!  LOL

Mushroom growing kits will go in 4 baskets - they all love doing stuff like that and love mushrooms.  This is just a small sampling - but you can see what I do.  It is fun to find all these little items and they get excited to see what is in their bags each year.  YES, even the adults get excited.

Have fun with it.

Yesterday was apple butter day!  I cook down the apples in the crockpot, while I spent much of the day sewing.  Then I canned the apple butter.  There were some scrapings in the bottom of the pot, and I ate it warm with some cornbread.  Oh my gosh, it sure tasted good.

This was while cooking down - this was about 1 1/2 hours in.  It cooked down about half at this point.  The apples were soft at this point, but it cooked for another 3 hours on high.  So pretty and brown and yummy after.

I ended up with 8 half pints and one pint.  All sealed immediately.  All this from 5 lbs. of apples - which were already in my crisper.  All kinds mixed together.  

Noticing I need to wash down the jars!!  I added vinegar to the water - guess not enough.

Most of this will be gifts.

I did not have cardamon - so didn't add that.  I had everything else right here in the pantry.  I also did not pack the brown sugar - just to cut back a little on sugar - not that it made any difference.  I still had some cider in the frig.

It turned out yummy and couldn't be easier.

Thanks to whomever I got the recipe from!!!!

**The peels and cores went in a bag in the freezer to make jelly at some point

Peeling apples takes time, and I just used my paring knife (not the rotating peeler).  Kind of made a game of it to pass time - seeing if I could peel the apple in one piece (strand)!  It went quickly and I got pretty darn good at doing it all in one piece.  The things I do to amuse myself!

All while listening to Christmas music.  

NOTE - if you have Direct TV there are music stations.  There are a couple that are all Christmas music - 24/7.

I am off for another busy day - Santa's workshop has much to get done.

Hope you have a wonderful and magical day.  Make it fun and special!

Posts for Dec. - a Bit of This and That

 Good morning all.  I hope you are warm and safe this morning.  It is cold here.  It looks like maybe we will get above the freezing mark sometime today!  We had flurries and a dusting of snow here yesterday afternoon and evening and it stuck, because it was cold.  Many schools are on delay today, due to slick roads.  

This month, posts will be of all types.  Maybe some crafts, cooking, baking, frugal, myths, spiritual, funny and maybe a memory or two thrown in.  It will be a real potpourri of things.   Tis the season!  It is a busy month for most of us, so I hope this will give a light moment to sit back with a warm drink and reflect!

I ran out for a few minutes yesterday to Kroger.  I wanted to get navel oranges before the sale ended on Tuesday evening.  They had 4 lb. bags of navel oranges for 2.49.  I am truly an orange fiend.  I love them.  This is my best time of the year to get them.  Always look for deals on citrus around Christmas if it is something you enjoy.

While there, of course I walked around and looked.  I am not a huge chicken leg lover - but a deal is a deal - and I will have several meals cheap.

                                                                 (sell date was for the 4th)

I got a pack of really large legs on clearance for 2.59.  It has 14 legs.  I packaged them 2 per bag.  So IF I do eat both per meal that would be .37 per meal!!!!  If I eat one and save the other for another day - it would be less!  Sure can't beat that price.

So, keep your eyes open and get those deals when you can.  Your wallet will thank you later on!

I think this is a cute idea for neighbors, office staff, teachers, bus drivers, etc.

I am going to do something similar for a couple neighbors - maybe in a coffee mug.  Just different goodies (a little sampler), then I will wrap in saran wrap.  There is no limit to what you could include.

I am also doing a snack thing for some of the nieces and nephews (adults).  I got red and green non-stick loaf pans, very cheaply (looks like stoneware) and I am filling with a lot of snack packs and goodies for their family.  It would be a good treat for a movie evening.

There are a lot of fun ideas for gifts.  You can add something useful and then fun goodies - and it is a neat gift.  Just use a little imagination.

I wish I could say I am chilling out today - but I have plans to keep plenty busy with fun things for the holiday.  I will show and tell later in the week!

Have a wonderful day.

Whatever you put your hands to today, do it with joy and love.

Weekly Wrap Up 12/1

 Happy Sunday.  Happy December.  Well gang, 3 1/2 weeks until Christmas!  Oh my!!

Oh baby, it is cold outside.  I know those way north of here are much colder - but we went from a lovely warm fall to cold overnight!    I guess the southern part of the state got snow yesterday afternoon, but I got nothing.  Happy of that!

Donna - I wanted to say thank you for the lovely card - I did get it before Thanksgiving, I just kept forgetting to mention it.💗

Well now that Thanksgiving is done - it is forward to Christmas.  I still have much to do - not huge things, but lots of small stuff.

                                                                           YES!!!!!

My frugal week:

• Visits with sis
• Stopped at Menards again last weekend and got one new metal trash can for critter feed - one of the old ones finally gave out
• Got gas for 1.99/gal. with Kroger points
• I told you about the meat deal at Kroger and the fruit clearance
• Still have and using tomatoes I brought in from garden end - they slowly turn red!
• Neighbor brought me some bananas - he works his church food pantry - and they got cases - and couldn't give them all away. So he brought me some, as well as other neighbors
• Gave myself a pedi
• I put up the outdoor wreaths and holiday flag while it was warmer at the first of week
• Tons of laundry - all furniture throws and bedding
• Baked a small boneless turkey breast I had
• Got a pack of really good Kroger coupons in the mail
• Have had free movie channels all weekend and have recorded some movies for later.  The Secret Garden (original) got recorded.  I love watching that every year - such a good show.
• Have been working on sewing a lot (nieces quilt/throw)
• I did a little indoor decorating yesterday - pretty simple - but enough for me
• NO other shopping for me this week
• Making my lists and checking them twice!

Meals this past week:

Tuna patty and leftover mashed pots and gravy

Taco rice bowl topped with fresh veggies

Cheesy/ranch fries, pork chop sandwich, small salad

Cup of broccoli cheese soup (freezer), and grilled cheese

Thanksgiving w/family

Leftover sides sent home from T-Day and cold turkey sandwich (my fav)

'Alice Springs' turkey, steamed baby broccoli spears and tomatoes

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving (those that celebrate).  Some of the neighbors have now lit their houses for Christmas - many decorated w/lights while warm.

Did you get any deals this week or did you stay home from stores?  Any Black Friday deals?  Have you started or finished your decorating?

I really am missing some of you guys.  Sure would like to know that all are well - please check in and say hello!

Wishing you all a lovely week ahead - stay safe, healthy and warm.

Blessings to you and yours from me at my humble little home, as I sit here with 2 kitties all curled up and sleeping! 

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Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised, and His greatness is unsearchable.

Psalms 145:3

May we sing praises to our Lord, through good and bad times, which He helps us through.  May we keep our minds set on Him.  His love is steadfast and endures all.  We know He is beside us always.

Thank You for our every blessing.

Help us to practice kindness, listen to our hearts, and to let go of what we cannot control and just to live our best lives.  AMEN

Friday - and Shop Small Saturday

Howdy doody to all this morning.  I hope you all had a lovely Thanksgiving yesterday.  Or maybe you are celebrating today or tomorrow or even Sunday - whatever you do ENJOY.

I had a super day with family.  It is always nice catching up with everyone.  Yesterday, I felt like a couple of barriers were broken as well.  I have a couple of nephew-in-laws that hardly ever talk to me or anyone.  Yesterday I had great talks and laughs with both.  It sure didn't go unnoticed!  

I also had a tiny gr.gr. niece that doesn't make up to hardly anyone other than mom & dad & grandparents - grab ahold and cling to me most of the day!!  She kept telling me 'I love you' and hugging and giving smooches.  We played a lot too!  LOVED IT!

It is cold this morning.  I have been out and fed all of the creatures out there.  I have a small turkey breast in the oven.  It appears I am the only one in the neighborhood that is up!  Many are gone for the weekend, and the rest have dark houses and days off today.  Surprisingly none seem to be out shopping this morning.

Just a reminder that tomorrow is considered shop small Saturday!  I hope more people take advantage of the smaller shops this season and actually, always.  Small ethnic groceries, boutiques, craft bazaars, small antique shops, indoor farm markets, bakeries, restaurants, etc. 

It is so important to those small businesses.  It is actually their bread and butter, so to speak.  They need the sales to take care of their families - not to just get richer as the huge retail shops do!

Little shops on Main Street sure do deserve your business.

For me today - it is NO SPEND Friday!!  I have no intentions of going out shopping today at all.  It is Black Friday here, tons of sales and deals - and TONS of crowds and people!  Too peopley for me!!

I will be staying in and keeping warm and working on projects.

Christmas is 26 days from now!!  Yep, it is just around the corner.  It really is hard to believe.

Are you ready?  I am not - at least not completely.  I still need a few gifts for kiddos and some items to make.  I got some ideas yesterday, for 2 or 3 kiddos that I just couldn't decide on.  Now I have a better idea.

So just help out a small business this holiday season if you possibly can.  It means so much to their families.  Let us all try to 'shop small' all year round when can.

Hope you are all warm and safe - and have a super weekend.
 

Thanksgiving and Memories

 Happy Wednesday to all.  It is Thanksgiving Eve here in the US.  Chilly morning, and we are to get rain and then a little snow later today and overnight.  Supposedly, it will be safe by travel time.  The temps are starting to cool, then boom come the weekend - cold!  Oh well, it is time.  Guess that will be December saying hello!!! We have been so fortunate in our area on warmer temps.

Many, many of us have people we have loved and lost, and that are no longer here on this earth.  It is always hard and sad, but it seems the holidays make it feel even worse.  I want to put it out there that we all need to remember the good times.  How fortunate we were to have those times and those people in our lives as long as we did.  We need to make sure they are talked about, and memories are shared - keeping them 'alive' in everyone's hearts and minds.  I am a true believer that talking about them - keeps them alive in a fashion.  Laugh at the stories.  Celebrate them.

My family is really good about this.  They are always sharing funny stories or things they remember about those gone.  We all enjoy the conversation and laugh together and sometimes we cry together (yep).

Just don't let them disappear.  It is OK to laugh, to share and to cry.  

You are making memories right now, that hopefully someday someone will be telling.  Make them fun memories.  I hope each and every one of you enjoys your family and/or friends.  If you decide to stay home - spend a day of refection and do something that brings you joy.  I know many want to be alone.  Maybe watch a good movie, watch the parade, read a good book, curl up with the pets, eat the junk, just do what you need to do.

Remember and smile!

Safe travels to all.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO EACH AND EVERY ONE!!!!!!!!!!!

Not Listening to Myself!

 Happy Tuesday to all.  The days are quickly ticking by.  The end of the month will be here in a few days.  It is a cold morn (but sunny) for sure.  It is 25* colder this morning from yesterday morning!  Come the weekend, our temps aren't supposed to get above the freezing mark at all!!  Have fun Black Friday shoppers.  Boy oh boy, am I glad I don't do that anymore.  I will stay warm and cozy and safe at home that day.

He-he!  Yep, I think that may be good advice for those of us celebrating turkey day.  Lots of goodies to eat and try - and leftovers and well, usually we all eat more than usual.

I went out Sunday to visit sis.  By the way, she is doing much better each week.  They say maybe a couple weeks before she goes home.  I really hope it is a little longer, so she gains more strength.  But I digress, she does get to go out for Thanksgiving!  She will be going to her daughter's and all her kids and most of her grands will be there.  I love that for her. (the boys will go get her)

It was quite nice by the time I left her, so I decided I best make use of the day.  I stopped to do my monthly gas tank fill-up.  I needed to use my points before they expire at end of month to get a discount.  After the discount, I paid 1.99/gallon!  WOO-HOO.  That is the best price I have paid in a few years.

Well, I was at Turkey Hill gas station - Kroger's gas station.  It sits right in front of Kroger.

Let's see - I said stay out of stores this week!  Yeah, well the lot was about empty, so I ran in to see what I might find.  I got 2 nice grapefruit (red) in the clearance for .99/2.  Then I walked to meat department.  I got 3 1lb. packs of pork/angus mix ground for 1.75/lb.  I had to get it - 1.75/lb. meat is basically unheard of now days.  So many uses.

It's sell date was 3 days out.  Repackaged and in the freezer.  I really had no plans to get anything - but when you find a deal - well, you get it.  Sometimes, I believe we are moved to go places or check things.  I love it when I am put in the right spot at the right time.

So no, I didn't follow my own advice, but there was no crowd at all - the store was basically empty.  Maybe because it was a Sunday morning.  

I am now home for the duration, as far as shopping or driving myself somewhere.  I will go out with family for Thanksgiving.

Yesterday turned out to be such a warm day - although cloudy.  I walked over the neighbor's house - they were having a tree cut down - and we talked for a while.  Windows actually got opened for a bit.

I imagine many of you are readying the house and all the goodies for the holiday.  Tomorrow, I have a small boneless turkey breast I will remove from the freezer - I will bake it Friday - got to have my leftovers!

Thanks for being here.  Hoping you all have a good day.

I will post something tomorrow as well.

Blessings to all.

Weekly Wrap Up 11/24

 Hello to all.  Happy Sunday.  Goodness, here we are at the last Sunday of November!  One month from today is Christmas Eve!!!  Time flies when you're having fun!  So they say.

I hope this finds everyone well and safe.

It is cool this morning, maybe going into the 50's.  Looks to be the best day of the week.  Come Tuesday, temps start to fall, and it will get much colder for Thanksgiving and Black Friday.

We finally got our first freeze of the season this past week.  They said it had been 229 days since the last freeze!  We got snow on Thursday, maybe an inch or two - then Friday morning it was gone.  Yep, it warmed up overnight and it was all gone.  I can do that kind of snow!

My frugal week:

• First of the week was warm- so I put the garden all to bed for the season.  Soakers put away, and garden weed shield removed.  I did leave a couple cabbage plants in - just to see what happens!
• Raked all the leaves again, and got those and the previously raked leaves all on the garden
• Rain barrels emptied and put away
• I did get out the cords for the heated water bowls and the snow shovel out
• Cleaned the filter of the kitchen faucet as mentioned earlier in week
• I cut 4 roses on Sunday, and they lasted almost all week.  So sweet smelling
• I mowed the entire yard one more time
• Put extra bedding in the greenhouse for Licorice
• I did run to Ollie's to use my 15% coupon on entire purchase.  Got some basket stuffers, a couple things for kiddos.
• Made a small pot of chicken, noodle & veggie soup
• Changed out handbag
• Doing a lot of cleaning - moving some things in the kitchen around
• Had 3 days that I got open windows for fresh air
• Made a nice fruit milkshake for a treat one day
• Working on some sewing

Meals this past week:

Roast & veggies

Pasta w/sauce, pork schnitzel, toms & cukes

Homemade rice a roni, fried green tomatoes

Leftover rice and salad

Soup - homemade

Cup of soup and a tomato sandwich

'Poor man's' Swiss steak and mashed potatoes

I want to say a special thank you to Mary B and Cookie for the lovely cards I received this week.  So thoughtful of you.

How was your week?  Is the nasty weather of winter in your area?  I guess it is time - it held out here past normal time. Have you done any crafting or shopping for the holidays.

Are you ready for turkey day here in the US?

I will post on Tuesday, probably something light on Wed. - most people will be getting ready for Thanksgiving and not looking to read blogs!  No Thursday blog - then maybe a Friday one!

If you are so busy this week that you don't make it back - have a great holiday with family and/or friends.  Safe travels to all.

Prayers for all that you may stay safe, healthy and warm this coming week.  

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

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

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

Colossians 3:17

Dear Lord, as we enter this week of thanks for all that we have, we humbly ask that You hold each one tight and keep them safe and healthy.  May each person take time to say thank you for all the wonderful gifts received in life, as we are so blessed.  May we all be thankful every day, not just this week.  Thank you for all the beauty of the seasons and joys of families and friends.  AMEN

Thankful Thursday

 Morning all.  Well, our streak of good weather came to a screeching halt!  I woke up to 60'sF two days ago, and today it was 32F.  The grass is white!!!  Well crud, I guess I knew it had to happen sooner than later!

Now playing in my neighborhood - "it's beginning to look like Christmas".

We set a record of not having a freeze yet this late in November of 100 years!  Well, so much for records.

At least the snow is only on the grass right now.  Streets and sidewalks look clear.

More snow tonight - but none of this will last too long, as it warms some this weekend.

I had a couple posts in mind for today - one on stretching food, the other on being happy where you live, but have decided to just take a day to be thankful.

So many people have gone through so much this year and have lost much - if not everything.  I cannot fathom.  We all have lost people over the years, but here we are - OUR job isn't done!

So many little things that we just never think about and take for granted - flip and switch and have light.  Turn a knob and have hot water.  A place to lay our heads at night (inside).  Food, no matter how simple it may be, to eat.  A snuggle from a pet.  Friends and family to love and love us back.  Money to pay our bills.

I look out my window this morning, and it looks pretty.  The white of the snow and my neighbor has a bright yellow tree that looks to be glowing.  Where I sit at the moment, that is what I see.  That one burst of color!  Do I like snow?  Not really - but is part of nature and it is all necessary and to be expected.

I went out to feed the birds and squirrels this morning and Licorice too!  He didn't seem happy!  He has lived his whole life outside and should be used to it.  The neighbors have insulated boxes for the kitties, but I think Licorice must feel he hit the lottery!  After eating a bit ((under car out of the snow) he went to the greenhouse and curled up in his blankies - no wind or snow in there (and no one to share with)!!!  I snuck the rest of his food through the kitty door.  He knows a good thing when he sees it!!!!  LOL

No matter what you put your hands to today, take time to be thankful for everything - big and small.  Whether you sit in a cozy place like above with a cup of coffee, or you bake, or you sew, or you just curl up and read - do it with a thankful heart.

Stay safe everyone.  I know snow is hitting many areas.  Stay warm and stay the wonderful folks you are.  I am thankful to have you in my life.

Have a blessed day.

Don't Stress - Tis the Season

 Hello on this midweek day!  Hope you are all well.  A cool morning here, just waiting on rain to move through this morning.  It's funny, we went all October dry as a bone - now we get rain and more rain.  We need it though.  Tomorrow looks to get much cooler here with snow later in the day.

We are now in that busy time of the year for many people.  Holiday gatherings, gifts to buy and wrap, plays and musicals, office parties, you name it.

Many thrive during this time and others really prefer to hibernate.  I can understand that, as it can all be overwhelming.  Some just feel that there are too many expectations to be met and to many people to see, and for some it is just a sad time.

However you handle it - know IT IS OK!!!!!!!  If you don't want to do - don't do!  Take care of you.

If indulging in the events of the holidays - just remember a few things that will help make things a bit easier.

• Make you list and check it twice or three or four times.  I am a huge list maker - it helps
• Check for sales and loss leaders at the grocery stores and get the deals for meals.  Most things we all serve will be discounted at some point during the holiday time
• Stay OUT of the grocery store the week of a holiday!!!!!  Generally, the people in the stores the week of - are panic shopping and things get crazy and lines get long, and peoples tempers flare
• Make sure you have everything for your baking needs - so as not to make lots of emergency store runs
• Maybe bake fewer things.  2 or 3 favorites is all people need - not dozens
• Prep what you can ahead.  Chop veggies, dry bread, bake what you can and freeze - do whatever you need to - to make your holiday easier
• Consider having others pitch-in some of the dishes - it is cheaper and easier when everyone does their part
• When it comes to cleaning - dust and vacuum, clean the bathroom and call it a day!  Don't worry about the closets, behind the beds, etc.  Some folks about kill themselves doing a deep clean.  If people are being nosey - they aren't your people!  I do the basics and that is it.  People should be socializing not inspecting!!!!!
• Simplify the gifting!  The holidays should be about the people and NOT the stuff
• DO NOT go in debt to buy gifts for others!!!!!!!  No sale, no deal is worth going into debt for.  PLEASE don't be one of those people that are paying off charge cards for months all because of one day.
• If you have extra gatherings (other than main meals) - consider doing things buffet style.  Finger foods, appetizers, a common drink - use crockpots to keep things warm.  Keep it simple.  I have a gathering every year - that I utilize a couple crockpots, a nice charcuterie board and maybe some chips, crackers and dips.  A few homemade sweet goodies and it's done.  We snack all afternoon and just enjoy each other!!!!!  

Whatever you do - don't let this time of the year get you down.  If you need to avoid people and gatherings - then do it.

Simplify what you can and don't feel bad about it.  As we age, it seems to make more sense to simplify, as we truly know what is important.

Pass on stories from your childhood and from family now gone to those that will listen.  I like to think that as I speak of those not here anymore - it is keeping them alive within the family.  Laugh and enjoy memories - they are important.

MAKE new memories!!!!!

So as the song says - "Don't worry - be happy"!

I hope as we enter this holiday season - that everyone will take care of their mental health and reach out to someone if they need help coping.  Be well and do what is best for you.

Have a super day everyone!

A Pretty, A Fun, A Creative

 Happy Tuesday to all.  Hope you are all well and doing good.  It is a wet morning here.  We had rain overnight and it is still misting out.  The temps when getting up were still in the 60'sF.  It will get close to 70 today, then it appears that temps will be slowly dropping the next few days.  I guess it is time. Sigh!!

I am so tired this morning.  I slept last night, but starting at about 2AM I managed to wake and look at the clock EVERY half hour!  I went right back to sleep, but each time I slept I dreamed some of the craziest dreams.  I dreamt of people I haven't even thought about in decades and just weird things.   My mind was very active, for sure.  The covers were a mess this morning, so I must have moved a lot too.  I do believe today may be a short nap day!  You ever have one of those nights?

This was Sunday evening at sunset.  So pretty - but look at that cloud formation in the center.  It really was strange looking, which is why I took the picture.  I looked out and saw that 'funnel' looking cloud and had to grab the camera.  Last night was gorgeous as well - it looked like mountains with pinks and oranges behind them.  Yeah, we don't have mountains nor hills where I am!  Such beauty - the best art right outside.

Click on the picture to see it larger.

This is my kitchen clock.  I 'inherited' this from a neighbor that passed a couple years back.  This summer her BIL was finally letting go of her things and he knew what a cat lover I am.  What you can't see is that the tongue moves back and forth every second.  It is such a fun addition and a reminder of Rosemary.  Isn't it fun?

It reminds me of the old Felix the cat clocks!!!

I told you in Sunday wrap-up about cleaning the filter in the bathroom faucet.  Well, for a long time the kitchen sink seemed to have low pressure.  I couldn't understand as nothing has been changed underneath the sink.  I decided to try and remove the filter from it - NOPE, that wasn't happening.  So, I got a little creative.  I took a small juice glass and put vinegar in it.  Then I place a rubber band over faucet and wrapped it a time or two - then placed the little glass over the end of the faucet (to cover the filter part on spicket) and wrapped the rubber band around it.  Clear as mud now?  LOL.  I forgot to take a picture.

Anyway, I left it that way for about 3 hours while I worked outside.  Came in and removed and turned on the water - after a few sputters I had full flow of water again!  My pressure at least doubled.  I guess it was really clogged up as well.  

Sometimes we may think things are all messed up - and just a little creative thinking can remedy the problem with NO money spent!

Have you got any FREE fixes that worked for you around the house that saved having to hire help or buy something new??  Inquiring minds need to know!!

Well, I guess I need to get busy.  I truly need to sew - I keep talking myself out if it!  Sometimes I can be such a procrastinator - that is one of the things about me I need to work on!

Wishing you all a great day.  Stay safe and stay healthy and be productive!

SMILE