A Few Hints and Tips for the Kitchen

 Happy Wednesday to all.  It is a lovely morning here so far.  AC off and the windows open for a bit.  It is to get pretty hot today for this last day of July.  I have been out to feed the birds and to check the watering holes and the garden.  I hope this finds you all well and safe.  Missing some of you!

Today just a few tips to use in and around the kitchen or things to know.  Do they save a fortune? - No.  But little things add up and we all know pennies make dollars.  Also, these are just great ways to stretch things and that is what being a good resident of the earth does!

Someone may not know the difference - and there is a difference.  Use the proper one!

• Adding tomatoes to roasts helps to naturally tenderize the meat.  The acid in tomatoes helps break down the meat - this way you can use cheaper cuts.  Cheaper cuts are great for a slow cooker as well!
• It is easier to slice meat when partially frozen
• One pound of boneless chicken equals about 3 cups of cubed chicken
• A few drops of lemon juice added to simmering rice will help keep grains separated
• To avoid tough beans or corn - do not add salt at the beginning of the cooking process

It is time for the overabundance of summer squash.  Dehydrate it.  It also makes a great snack when lightly salted - natural chips!

• Use fresh mint at the bottom of a cup when making hot tea or hot chocolate - yummy
• To add flavor to tea - dissolve and old-fashioned lemon drop or hard candy.  They melt quickly and add a zip of flavor
• Don't over cook pasta that is being added to cheese for mac n cheese or to be added to casseroles.  Cook al dente".  Otherwise, you will end up with mush and not a tasty dish
• In a large shaker add 6 parts salt and one part pepper (thoroughly mixed) for a quick and easy seasoning!
• Ice cubes help 'sharpen' edges of garbage disposal blades, and the rinds of a small piece of citrus will freshen that garbage disposal

Now no need to buy mini pie crusts if you know how to make pie crust.  You a biscuit cutter or the top of large mouth glass to cut mini crusts.  Mini crust is great for tarts or baby quiche or baby pot pies.  Super for any bite size dessert or savory for a party

• When you have just the bottom bits left in a jelly jar - add milk and shake for a fun flavorful milk drink or add to a smoothie OR add a bit of vinegar and shake for a new flavor of dressing. 
• Need a quick ice pack in an emergency - use a pack of frozen peas or other diced veggie
• When adding nuts or chips to cake or brownies - mix them into the dry ingredients to coat first.  Helps keep them from dropping to the bottom.  OR place on top of mix in the baking pan right before placing in the oven.
• Save the bags from cereal or snacks - clean and dry and keep and use instead of wax paper.
• When cooking - always make more than enough for one meal.  Freeze for another time when you are busy or for a quick lunch
• Make your own breakfast burritos, egg/sausage biscuits or sandwiches, pancakes and waffles.  Tastes better than buying out and it is cheaper!

HOMEMADE HONEY MUSTARD - I love this for chicken strips!!!!

EASY ZUCCHINI STEW

1 zucchini peeled and diced

1 Onion - diced

about 1/4 C sliced mushrooms (or whatever you like better)

about 8 oz. of diced tomatoes - juice included

1 lb. of ground sausage (fried)

Dash of salt and pepper

1 tsp. Italian seasoning

Fry sausage and add the other ingredients.  Cook until the zucchini is tender.  This is hearty and tasty alone or to stretch it, serve over rice.

There you have it.  Just a few ideas to stretch things a bit and maybe save a buck or two.

Hope maybe you found something you can use.

Do you have a favorite tip to share?

Have a super and productive day.

Be True to Yourself!!

Happy Tuesday to all.  Hope this finds you all well and safe.  It is going to be a warmer day here and it is stuffy this morning.  We have had rain the past couple days - probably none today - just sun and warmth!

Today let's talk a bit about being true to yourself and the lifestyle you choose.  We all live in different locations, and some are rural, some inner city, some suburbs and some are somewhere in between. 

Be happy where you are.  Make the best of where you are.

I know I have been asked so many times why I choose to stay here.  Well - I like it!  Maybe the locale is the not best in the world - but it is home.  I could move, but at this point in life, I cannot imagine that.  We always talked about country living, which would have been glorious - then again, it would have become very difficult to do with G's physical problems he had, and now at my age.  So, some things work out the way they do for the good.  My small home is easy to maintain and that is good.

Don't let people tell you that you should live differently.  It isn't about keeping up with the Jones's or doing what other family or friends thinks is right - it is what makes you happy.

Living a simple life is for many people.  No frills, no glitz, no fancy stuff.  That is me.  I don't need that stuff to be happy.

Living a simpler life doesn't mean you have to be in a tiny house off the grid - it just means living a calm, restful, non-complicated life where you are.  Living within your means.

It is not always about $$$, it is about tuning into yourself and not trying to keep up with others.

It is about satisfaction of achievement and creating a lovely home.  Sometimes growing and eating from what you grow.  Your environment is what you make it.  Let your home be inspirational to you. 

From my backyard.  Yes, I live just outside city proper, yet I can still enjoy views like this.  They can be so calming and glorious.  I don't have to be out in the woods to have some calmness in my life.  It is about enjoying where you are planted and appreciating the small things (which are pretty grand)!

I have a garden, I have flowers and trees and nature - not a ton, but enough to make it peaceful.

We tend to focus on the big stuff in life.  We listen to the news and we let the nastiness of the world creep into our lives.  It is normal.  Those are stressors!!  Turn it off - you can still be aware without watching it all the time.  Learn that it is the little things that matter.

Keep your home, no matter where it is, your sanctuary.  

A simple shadow on my pantry door, is a daily reminder of what is important to me.  I see this daily when the sun is shining!   Yes - it is the simple things in life that give us the biggest reminders of what is important.

So, wherever you live, make it home.  It doesn't have to be fancy or big, it doesn't have to small or off grid - it just needs to be filled with love and it needs to be YOU!

Less than perfect is just fine!!!!

Grow flowers or food if possible, that can not only provide food, but it adds beauty to daily life.  Enjoy nature, the birds singing can be so wonderful.  Keep things clean - no matter where you are, clean just makes everything feel better.  Whether big or small - love your home and make it yours.

Don't feel you have to live up to other's expectations.  

Be true to yourself!!!!  That is so important.

Grow where you are.  Love your life, so matter how simple it is.  And don't be persuaded to live beyond your means.  It isn't worth it.  I hope this helps someone understand that living a 'good life' isn't just about things and money.  It is about what is in our hearts and the love we share.  It can be SIMPLE!

Be blessed and have a wonderful day.

Weekly Wrap Up 7/28

 Happy Sunday to all.  Here we are on the last weekend of July!  Man oh man, time is just flying by. 

It is a quiet morning here, a little warmer than many mornings this week.  Looks to be rainy today and probably every day this week.  The warmer temps are heading back into our lives this week.

Enjoyed the cooler days and lower humidity - it will come again.

I have noticed that daylight is getting a little shorter too!

I have 2 huge areas of the 'surprise' lilies.  They are just beautiful.  I love the soft color.  I also have tall purple phlox still blooming and the Doro lilies have started a second bloom.

                                                        Pops of color all around the yard.

It has been an interesting week for sure.  Not a lot of keeping busy, just things.

My neighbor, and my porch sitting friend had a major heart attack this week.  She had a blockage of 100% on left side and had 2 stints put in.  She is also blocked 70% on the right side - but they have to wait about 6 weeks to stint that area.  Doctors had no reason to believe she would make it (they called her condition a widow maker) - BUT God had other ideas - and she is home!!!  We had a prayer circle in a neighbor's yard this week - it was good to see all come together.  PTL

The BOOM - it has been determined it wasn't fireworks of any kind.  We have experienced those for years and it was nothing like it.  No meteor, as nothing was determined in this area (I checked).  No sonic boom - have experienced those.  It shook the entire neighborhood, knocked things off the shelves, the sound was unbelievably loud.  There appears no sign of trauma to the ground or houses.  It felt like an earthquake and sounded like an explosion.  It is a true mystery.

My frugal week:

• I picked 3 zucchini, a handful of cherry tomatoes, and another pepper (will be a great year for peppers - they are loaded!)
• Cleaned up all the firework debris from last weekend - it was all over the backyard - what a mess
• Mowed and trimmed over 2 days - the older I get the slower I seem to move!
• Pulled weeds and general yard clean-up when cool enough
• Walked the alley a few times and did some cleaning up of debris all over it
• Put together new bottles of shampoo, dish soap, foaming hand soap, and got 3 more loads from the 'empty' laundry soap!
• Another neighbor brought me a large piece of homemade fruit pizza - a real treat
• Went out one day - kitties favorite wet breakfast food was really low.  It is a flavor hard to find around here.  I ran to Kroger - no luck - and then stopped 5 places between there and home.  Nothing.  THEN I happened to think about Chewy (I get their flea meds there) - I ordered 2 cases from them and got it in 2 days (free delivery & good price).  One case had several slightly dented and 2 cans had popped open - so I let them know, and they sent another case FREE of charge.  I have plenty to make the babies happy for a while!
• While at Kroger - I got 4 lbs. gold potatoes for .99, 3 large Portobella mushrooms for 1.39, bagels 1.29, chopped broccoli 1.09 - (those all clearance) - peaches .99/lb., a sweet watermelon
• Stopped at a yard sale on the way home and spent $1 - guess what?  LOL - a church cookbook!!
• Laundry, dusting, sweeping, just cleaning in general
• Meals all from home and using what I have

Meals this past week:

'Enchilada' pasta bowl

Big veggie salad and hard-boiled eggs

Club sandwich

Scrambled eggs w/diced potatoes added, bacon and sauteed zucchini

Hard shell tacos

Chili cheese fries

Grilled zucchini steaks and stuffed portobella mushroom (used leftover chili and cheese)

Snacking on fruit, nuts and cheese

Kind of quiet really.  I have gotten some rest this week it seems, and have done some reading.  Some weeks are very busy, and others just run of the mill.  I have talked with and prayed with many neighbors this week - it is so nice how people have come together around here. 

Watched a couple YouTube videos and a couple of rehab shows (no Olympics here).

How was your week?  How are your 'grow'ceries coming along? I hope you all have great success with your growing.  Any good deals this week?

Check in and let us know what is going on in your life and your area.

I wish you all a wonderful safe and healthy week ahead.  Stay cool!  

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

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

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that in due time he may exalt you.  Cast all your anxieties on him, for he cares about you. Be sober, be watchful.  Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.  Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experience of suffering is required of the brotherhood throughout the world.

1 Peter 5:6-9

Lord help us to reach the non-faithful and to pray for the evil ones.  There is so much wickedness being done by people today.  We all know You are in control, and You will always be in control.  We have eternity with You and for that we are so very thankful.  Prayers for peace for all the people of the world, may everyone know Your love.  Amen

A Thing or Idea or Two!

 Howdy to all.  Here we are at Thursday again already - the last one in July!  It is a cooler, yet sort of damp and muggy feeling morning.  We had rain yesterday - 3 times at my house.  The last rain, in the late afternoon and early evening was such a good soaking rain.  It was nice.  Things are a growing - weeds included!

Late last night - 11:30PM - I was awakened by what sounded like an explosion!  One loud, house vibrating boom.  It scared the stuffings out of me.  No idea what it was.  Never heard a siren after - so I guess an illegal firework (?).  It sure did arouse me from a nice sleep!  Nothing on the news this morning either.  It shook the house.

Just an idea or two to help in life! I love things that make life easier.

Have you seen this?

Using your canning lifter as a baggy holder.  I saw this on the computer - and was like duh!  I tried it and it does work.  Sure beats trying to keep a bag open by just holding it.

Have you heard that the recommended 10 and 2 has been advised against.  Not sure if this was universal or not - but we were always taught to hold the steering wheel at 10 and 2 (according to a clock) for safe driving.  Now my insurance company is saying we should be holding at 4 and 8!  This is to keep your hands, wrists, and arms safe from exploding air bags.  The lower point leaves less chance of your arms to fly up and back - even hitting you in the face.  It makes sense.  These points should be used even when turning (per recommendation) - keeping you safe.  As much as air bags are for safety, they can be very harmful as well.  I have been keeping my hands lower for a long time now, it takes some getting used to - but I feel a little safer.

I know I mainly use just the grating side - but a box grater can be used in many ways.  This is a standard tool in my kitchen - has been for years.  I have a very tiny one as well - it is great to use for things like nutmeg or just grating a small piece of hard cheese.

This is a basic at my house only I use regular milk.  You can leave out cocoa powder and add another type of fruit for a great milkshake. 

                                                      No cocoa and using strawberries!

 I also don't add quit so many ice cubes - but this sure gives a good starting point.  Nice and refreshing on a hot humid day!  It can be made into milkshake or firmer for an ice cream type treat - no sugar needed.

Ever used an Ulu?  We got this for Glen.  He had a hand that had fingers that just didn't want to work well - this helped so much.  When cutting up food with a knife and fork - it takes 2 good hands.  This allows you to cut with one hand.  It is very sharp.  It is a great tool for someone who has a bad hand.  I love it for cutting pizza!  I like it better than using a pizza cutter or knife.  It also works wonders on a cucumber or carrot or for handing chopping cabbage!  You just rock it back and forth and it cuts away!

They come in many sizes.  

Many hunters have larger ones for preparing their harvest.

So there you have it - just a thing or two.  Maybe you see something that makes life easier or safer.  Do you have any special tricks that you use to make life easier?  We always want to know.  Who doesn't want things easier?

Have a fantastic day and enjoy it to the fullest.  

Hoping you all have a great weekend as well!

Getting Help - Community

 Happy mid-week.  It is a nice morning - looking to maybe some rain or storms today.  We could use a nice rain.  Kitties have had breakfast and Bits has played a lot and Blackie has assumed the 'position'!  Birds are singing.  Windows open and fresh air coming in at the moment.  Owner already working at burn house - he sure works hard.  Hearing hammers means progress.  Squirrels are chasing each other.  School is starting today in one local berg, and many others next week. The summer is flying by.  AND all is good!!

I know we probably have a lot of people who read posts here that never comment.  We usually have a few hundred views a day - so many just read.  I hope we can reach and help someone that really needs some help.

Today, it seems many have job insecurity and that leads to a lot of other problems.  Inflation has also taken a toll on many.  IF you need help - please, please ask for help.  You have to take care of your family, especially those who have children or the elderly.  I know many feel too proud to ask for help.  But the help is there if you reach out.

Did you know you can call 211 in almost all areas in the U.S. and get a variety of options for help.  Whether it be help for the elderly, needing shelter, help with utilities, listings of food banks, mental health help, etc.  Calling this number can get you started in the right direction.

Consider if you have an overabundance of garden produce, to donate it to the local food pantries.  What a treat for someone in need, to get something fresh and home grown.

Today on the news I caught just the tail end of a story that 100,000 lbs. of fresh garden produce was being donated to food banks.  How wonderful!

If you need help with food, check your local churches or community organizations for help.  Never be too proud to ask.  It is there to help.  

If you are low income - just having basics can keep you going and full.  Get creative with dry beans (always can get at food pantries) they are inexpensive.  Rice is inexpensive.  Peanut butter is a good protein.  Keeping just the basics in better times (stock-up), can keep you going in the bad times.  Add whatever you can, whenever you can.

Learn to cook and cook simple healthy meals at home.  Get creative with your food.

Many farm markets now take food stamps (SNAP).  Granted that food is a bit more expensive than grocery stores, but it is fresh and wholesome.

If you find a great deal on clearance goods - consider not only stocking for yourselves, but to donate as well.

Most people think of the basic stuff when donating (a good thing), but more than spaghetti, rice, sauce, tuna, peanut butter is needed.

Feminine products of all types

Baby items - formula, food, diapers, wipes

Cleaning items - laundry soap, dish soap, cleanser

Health & beauty - soap, hair products, TP, toothpaste, toothbrushes, etc.

School supplies of all types

Many of our local pantries, give out donated magazines or wholesome books as well (check and see)

The holidays will be here in a jiff as well.  Think about collecting small items for the kiddos.  Color books, crayons, art supplies, (now is the time to stock up) stuffed animals, card games, etc.  Some children get nothing if not for a gift gleaned at the local pantry.

Communities everywhere have people in need.  I don't care where you live, there is someone who needs a hand up.  If we can do a little to help - that is what we should do.  We are part of this big old earth and we are all here for a reason - to help one another.

If each of us did a little thing - that would be a big thing!

If you have any ideas of ways to help someone - tips on where people can reach out - please share.

Community needs to take care of its own.

Have a wonderful day all.

Change and Growth

 Happy Tuesday all.  It is a beautiful morning here.  Yesterday stayed in the 80's but a bit more humid.  We had sun and clouds - yet no rain.  There is much activity outside this morning.  Today is trash day - so hearing the trucks out and about.  The 'burn' house got a new (#4) dumpster delivered.  Birds are singing and the blackbirds are back and are everywhere! Soon I will be taking my morning walk (once trash trucks are done), to check the daily progress at the burn house!  Yeah, I am that person!!  LOL

Change happens in all our lives, it happens to someone here, every day - we have to grow and move forward.  Is it easy - nope!  Many times, it is the hardest thing in the world to do.  But it is necessary.  Change is the only constant on the earth.  It happens with everyone and everything.

Hopefully we all embrace it and grow into a better human being.

Things grow as well.  Now is the time that our yards and gardens are alive.  Things are growing, they nourish us and provide for our families.  This is such a wonderful time.  All the lovely fresh goodies, at our fingertips.

One of my tomato plants - such big tomatoes.  I have 4 cherry tomato plants that are loaded with green ones and tons of blooms.  I have 4 other tomato plants that are more regular size tomatoes and 4 of these.  If things keep going as they are - come August I will have tons of tomatoes to can and eat!!!!

The grapes are hanging thick this year.  They look like this all over the vines.  They have filled out nicely and so far, we have had enough rain.  Looks like jelly will be a go this year!  Much of it will be gifts for the holidays

I mentioned a few weeks back - finding cabbage worms and they were devouring the cabbage.  Those heads are getting huge!  I have a couple close to ready to cut.

***Reminder if you grow cabbage.  Don't pull out the plant, when harvesting.  Cut the head and leave the plant - it will continue to head with smaller heads!!!!!  The gift that keeps on giving. (same with broccoli)

Yesterday I was taking a walk down the alley, as I noticed they were pulling off the siding from the burn house.  It was sure looking like a lot of work.  I got to talking to the young man out in the yard.  I asked if they pulling off all the siding and he said yes, he wanted all new everything.  So, I asked if he owned it, and he said yes.  Then I asked if he was going to live there, and he said YES!  YAY - it will not be a rental.  So happy to hear that and to see that particular area being revived.  It gives me hope.

We have ups and downs in the neighborhood, and it seems like we are now going through a revitalization - a great thing for property values and for homeowners.

(many rentals in our area have been abused in the past - nothing against people who rent in general)

Remember the pink house?  

Well, it aint pink no more!  Just in the past few days it has received a total paint job.  I was apprehensive at first, but I like it.  From the front (I walked around the block to see), it reminds me of an big old colonial house from the East coast.  I will take a picture from the front soon.

Here is a picture from my drive.  It is now charcoal gray - it almost looks black.  I guess I like the gray, as I have looked at the one across the street for several years now and it has grown on me.  Once they do trim and finish up the outside it will be great.  They have added new windows and doors, a new roof and they added a roof over the patio area all across the back. (see where ladder is).  It sure beats looking at hot pink!!

Slowly they are getting things done.  The young man that bought it, has guaranteed us all that the whole place will be great when done.  So far so good.

It is fun watching the neighborhood change - for the good.  I have seen a lot of bad over the years and now we are looking upward again.  I live very close to a couple areas that are considered the new up and coming places to be!  Both have homes that just a few years ago were riddled with violence and rubbish and you didn't want to be there.  Now those areas are selling homes for $300,000 and up!

Two Chicks & A Hammer (HGTV show Good Bones) had much to do with that.  They have redeveloped homes north of me, west of me and south of me (all about 5-10 minutes away).  

So always be ready to embrace change.  It helps us grow and to develop into a better version of ourselves.  

Hoping you all have a wonderful Tuesday!

Weekly Wrap Up 7/21

 Happy Sunday to all.  Here we are on the start of another new week.  I hope this finds you all well and safe.

It is cloudy this morning but, in the 60's.  It has been nice for a few days and stayed less humid and cooler.  What a treat.  They are predicting that there will be no more 90F+ days for the remainder of July in my area!  Woohoo!!  This coming week looks to be in the lower and mid 80's with many chances for rain.  Wonderful for the garden.

                                                Love the pops of color all around the yard.

The 'surprise' lilies (naked ladies or whatever you call them) have started making their appearance.  SURPRISE!  The phlox is still going strong and smells so wonderful.  Everything in the garden is going strong.

The grapes are hanging thick and still going strong.  I love it.  Some years are good and some not so much.

The bright golden finches have been loving the sunflowers out front as well as the echinacea.  They sing so pretty.  It appears the neighbor 2 doors down has claimed the chickens as his.  They were in his yard a lot and his girls just love them - so guess what?  It appears they live there now!  They graze, and he has built shelter and cleaned areas for them.  Good for him and them! At least they are safe now.

Saw a groundhog several times again this week - it appears smaller and rougher looking than the other one.  It is staying across the alley under their shed - my bet it has been rousted from the burn house yard.

Always something to see around here!

Last night appeared to be July 4th - part 2!!!  Grrrr.  The neighbors across alley shot fireworks off for 3 straight hours last night - non-stop.  So much money blown up!  There is stuff all over the yard - which will get picked up and no longer be in MY yard.  They can have it back.  Just crazy and very frustrating.

My frugal week:

• Picked basil to dry
• Mowed finally and trimmed and trimmed some more. Finally got cool days to work outside and boy, did I work.
• Picking up tons of sticks from the wind and rainstorms
• Cleaned out parts of flower beds
• Made hard boiled eggs
• Cut hair and did a light color
• Lots of cleaning, lots of laundry and deep cleaned area rugs and floors
• Pounded stakes and staked up tomatoes - you can walk amongst them again!!
• Neighbor shared dinner one evening - she is so nice
• Trimmed bushes
• Picked one nice bell pepper and my first cherry tom!  I ate that little tom right there on the spot!  LOL
• Ran to the library to drop off and pick up
• Been getting to enjoy fresh air and AC off a ton this week

My meals this past week:

Chicken breast filet, fried smashed red pots, salad

Meat/cheese/veggie wrap, fruit

Egg salad sandwich and side salad

Green beans w/baby red pots, corn on cob and fresh veggies

Cheeseburger and salad

Small homemade pizza

Beans/rice, salmon patty (from neighbor) and fruit

It sure was nice to be able to spend time outdoors from Thursday on and not feel like I was breathing water!  So much nicer out.

It was just an overall nice week.  Did some porch sitting and visiting as well.

How was your week?  What has been going on in your world?  I hope those with any garden plants are having success.  Did you find any great deals this week?  No shopping here.

I wish you all a safe, healthy and productive week ahead.

Blessings to you and yours from my humble little home.

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

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.

1 Corinthians 15:58

Lord, thank You for this past week and letting us continue in this life.  Please help us to each know that all we do, we do in Your name and honor.  May we each one continue to do good works to help others.  Please watch over us and protect us in this coming week.  Amen

Just A Weekly Chat

 Happy Thursday to all.  My goodness, the week and month is flying by.  It is a gorgeous morning here in Indy.  The sky is blue, the air is cool, and the humidity is gone!  It was 63*F this morning when I got up.  Looks as if the next many days will be lovely as well.  I guess that means I need to get busy and work outside!!  The rain sure has made everything grow.

I hope those who need rain, get some.  Those who are so hot, get some relief!

I wish I could bottle days like this and send them to everyone!!

This week as I was looking for things on my past blog posts, I ran across many older blog posts talking about days with Glen, and showing pictures and telling stories of kitties that are no longer with me.  Those things bring back so many memories.  I got sad, and cried and it also made me smile - as I had all these wonderful souls in my life.  Gosh I miss Glen.  I just have a hard time believing it has been over 5 years now that he has been gone.  I miss our talking and laughing so much.  He could always make me laugh.

He is still around, as there are pictures everywhere, and even some of his things.  But it is soooo quiet and yes, lonely at times.

I sure miss all those kitties I have lost in the past 5 1/2 years.  Five of them.  Each one had a sweet personality and they all were special.

But now I have an older guy and a young buck in the house!!!  They are just so sweet.  Blackie is my bud, and he is so laid back.  So mellow and just living his best life!  Bits - well that bugger is a hoot.  He loves to play, and he loves to love on me.  I am so happy to have them in my life.  It sure keeps things interesting.  They make me smile.

The neat thing about having a blog is that it is sort of like a diary!  The story of my life.  I can look back and remember and laugh and cry and just enjoy those moments again.

I don't think I will grocery shop this week.  I just don't need a thing, and really nothing looked to appealing in the ads.  It just amazes me how often some people shop.  I often wonder why they just don't buy everything all at once - instead of daily.  My neighbor does this.  It sure would save money to go less often.  Less temptation, less gas, less time, etc.

The house on the other side of the alley that burned 3 years ago, is being worked on this week!  Amazing.  Two years ago they reroofed and put in some new wood on the roof - there was a huge hole in the roof.  I had seen inside, and the house was totally gutted and there was a huge hole in the floor into the basement!  They have filled 2 big dumpsters in the past 2 days, and I imagine a 3rd one will show up today.  I cannot even imagine for a second that all that fire smell could ever be eliminated in that house.

I mean it would be nice to have it livable again, but unless the slumlord sold it, it will never be well taken care of.  But I digress - it is being worked on and fixed - so that is a good thing!

Well, I am going to enjoy this incredible weather for a mid-July day.  I will be working and accomplishing this today OUTDOORS!  Yay!

The garden is growing and growing.  The birds are singing such sweet songs this morning.

I have already been out and fed all the critters, cleaned the watering holes, and filled the feed containers back up.  Checked the garden and all is good.

The AC is off and the windows are open filling the house with fresh air.

It is a GOOD DAY!

What is going on in your world?  Anything exciting?  Do you have any big plans for the weekend?

I plan on yard work and porch sitting!

Have a beautiful and blessed day.

Abundance - Time to Use, Gift & Get Creative

 Good morning this Wednesday!  I hope you are all well and safe.  Missing many of you - check in when possible.

It is dry this morning.  Didn't get that rain overnight.  It still feels very muggy out - the news guy lied!!  LOL.  Supposedly after today the humidity goes away for a few days and we will see sun and dry.  It will be time to get caught up outdoors!

Even though humid still, it is sunny and pretty out.

Today let us talk about the gift that keeps giving from our gardens.  Zucchini!  It is about that time for everyone.  There are just a ton of uses for it.  I have had quite the repertoire of uses and recipes for years.  Glen used to call me Bubba - as in Bubba Gump Shrimp! 

I have used squash in so many ways - including grating it and using in jam, making faux pineapple, breads, and just about every dish you can think of.  I love it, because it takes on the taste of whatever you cook it with, it is abundant, and it is cheap if purchasing.

Here are a few ideas!

Click on recipe to enlarge

Click on recipe to enlarge

These are both great vegetarian uses for zucchini.  Replacements for meat, and taste so yummy.

Click on recipe to enlarge

This is one of my favorite dishes to make in the summer.  The combo of ingredients just tastes so good together.

Click on recipe to enlarge

Love cream of zucchini soup.  I keep grated and chunked zucchini in the freezer, so I can make this during the winter as well.  You can always throw in some rice for more substance.

Grill it

Add to eggs or quiches

Bread it and fry

Add to brownies, muffins and sweet breads

Add to soups or casseroles

Great raw in salads - both veggie or pasta

Use in place of lasagna noodles in lasagna

Add grated to any dish - to add extra vitamins (you can hide from kiddos)

Zucchini boats - wonderful and you can make to suit your taste

Replace apples in pie with zucchini slices (same seasoning) for faux apple pie

Dehydrate for use in soups and casseroles in the winter

Make chips from it - tasty!

Roast it

Make zucchini rolls - kind of like rolled lasagna

Yep, there are just an unlimited amount of ways to use it.

Again, I know it truly doesn't have a lot of flavor on its own - but it does take on flavor well.  It is adding a nutrient rich veggie to the diet and can actually be hidden well from those with an affinity to the idea of squash!

Now is the time.

Gardens are growing and starting to produce.  People are leaving gifts on doorsteps and unlocked vehicles! Whether you are growing, gifting or just using - get creative.  It is a very inexpensive way to add vitamins to your diet.  Such a prolific veggie.

Get zucchy with it!

Have a fabulous day!

Maybe Lower Expectations - Living Well on Less

 Happy Tuesday to all.  Hope this finds you all well and safe.

Very wet morning here.  It started raining/storming in the wee hours this morning - basically done now - but gloomy and wet out.  I haven't had to water for days - we just keep getting rain each day.  We are ready for a 'cold' front to come through tomorrow (and more rain).  It will be in the 70's and low 80's after that!  YAY!!

I have been watching some You Tube and reading some articles that just has me befuddled!  

People are saying that they need about $186,000 a year to live a comfortable life!!!!  WHAT?

Now I know location makes a big difference in the cost of things and the availability of things - but this seems outrageous.  (I would be way MORE than comfortable).

I am thinking people better figure it out quickly!  The economy isn't conducive to this!

Do people have too high of expectations? I think so.  The average household in America makes around $60,000 a year.  These are the people that think $168,000 would make life comfortable.  The higher the average income was, the more people thought they needed.  I just shake my head.

The more people make the more they spend, the more they want and then BOOM!  It all falls apart.  It only takes one thing to totally mess up THAT plan!

So many people today are VICTIMS of lifestyle!  Yes, they are.  Sure there are those that live a humble life, that have stuff happen as well - but so many have visions of grandeur in their heads and when a catastrophe happens - their bubble is popped.  Then they wonder what happened.

These items need to be remembered and practiced!

Needs and wants - many don't see a difference.  There is a HUGE difference.

It seems so many value things and money more than experiences and simple pleasures and lives.  I really do feel sorry for them.

So many want the latest new gadget and new app, the fancy big homes and cars, the nicest clothes, the fancy schools, etc.  Those things may be nice - but they mean nothing in the big scheme of things.

I guess I am not even average when it comes to all the above figures.  Now I clarify, I have a smaller PAID for home, a PAID for older vehicle that is still nice.  I have no debt - just basic stuff.  I live on about $1,000 a month!  Yes, I have property tax once a year (I pay at once, but it is low), I have property insurance once a year, and vehicle registration once a year, and car insurance 2X a year.  Add those all together - and that is only about $2,000 extra.  

I know it sounds low - but that is because I have an older vehicle and don't live in a high-income area. I live a simple life!   You know what?  I am fine with that!

P.S. - I do have a nice savings and investments - so no I am not destitute.

Could I live in a different area?  Yes.  Could I buy a fancy new car?  Yes.  Could I spend more a month?  For sure.

BUT I don't need to.  I am more than happy here and doing what I am doing.  I do without nothing - truly.  I live a very nice life.  I am comfortable and I am secure in knowing that I can do home maintenance or car maintenance, or pet maintenance or cover whatever I need in an emergency.

There is so much more to buy today than when we were growing up.  (Just in the area of tech and techy stuff - not to mention other stuff).  There are more ways to buy it and it is so easy!  THINK TWICE!  Seriously, if you want to get ahead and not feel tied down with debt - you have to stop and think and get a grip on things.

I know this is the start of Prime on Amazon.  If you are struggling - stay away from this temptation.  I have never once purchased something during this time and have no plans to.  Yes, I know I am weird!  I know people get great deals and good for them.  This is a warning for those with debt and that are struggling - not everyone.

Don't let lifestyle make you a victim.  Don't let keeping up with others make you a victim.

THINK!!  You can have a wonderful life with so much less.  You really can.  Many of us here can attest to that.  There is so much more to a happy life than stuff!

Be wise if you are trying to get it together.

We are here to help.

Have a lovely day to all.

Weekly Wrap Up 7/14

 Happy Sunday to all.  Hoping this finds you all well and safe.  I sure hope those in the heat dome are finding ways to stay cool.  It is quite warm here, with extremely high humidity.  That is what bothers me the most.  Humidity numbers have been in the 70's - that is high.  It will remain uncomfortable until mid-week, then we are supposed to get a refreshing cooler period.

We had rain for a few days this week.  Somedays it was just a shower, but still rain!

The chickens returned a week or so ago - not sure if they had been pinned up or what.  Yesterday there was also a new chicken in town!  It isn't nearly as street savvy as the other 2, silly thing just about got hit yesterday morning.    I just wish they stayed home.

I told you about cabbage worms - well I took care of that problem, and the cabbage is heading very nicely.  This week I noticed a tomato plant looked off - geesh - nasty big tomato worms!!  I got 3 off the plants - can you see me shuddering?  Nasty.  I got them sprayed with a natural tomato spray and problem seems to be gone for now.  One thing after another.  But things are growing and getting bigger.

My frugal week:

• I took 2 days to mow and trim the first of the week.  It needs it again, but it will wait for the cool down.
• I cleaned a fence row between my house and the empty house
• I went to P.O. to mail a card and got postage before the price increase 
• Trying to use up things and not waste.  I had a couple older apples & a handful of cherries that went into dinner one day.  4 peaches and some old strawberries got used.  Half of jar of salsa used in cooking.
• I have been filling, condensing containers and jars this week.  Prepping things ahead.
• Used the air fryer when needed, not oven
• Neighbors across had yard sales this week.  I got 18 vintage cloth napkins, 2 Christmas throw rugs (for door mats), 2 pretty towels, and a new looking shirt.  Also got a lot of votives and melts - everything for $8
• I used the peaches and older strawberries together to make 3 quarts of sugar free ice milk
• Store - to get melons for 1.99 each.  Got cantaloupe and watermelon and both are like candy sweet!  Corn .25 ear.  Found hickory smoked mild cheddar cheese on clearance for 1.20 for 8 oz.  Got the last 3 they had.  Not a lot else.
• Gasoline purchased for first time in 6 weeks - paid 2.89/gal. with points
• Cut flowers again this week
• Just doing all the regular stuff

It was a good neighbor week - lots of visiting and talking.

Meals this past week:

Fried apples w/cherries and pancakes (from freezer)

Fried zucchini, cabbage patty and salad 

Chicken strips, home fries, corn

Lasagna (freezer), garlic toast and salad

Ital./pizza type burger fresh veggies

Taco pasta skillet, cukes & onions

Leftover pasta, corn on cob, and cukes & onions

SNACKS: sorbet, ice milk, popcorn

                                            Small pancakes with fried apples/cherries - oh yum!

When making fried zucchini, I had egg and breading left - so I shredded a little cabbage and mixed it all together and made a great cabbage patty.  Had a couple meatless days.

How was your week?  Did you get any good deals?  How are you stretching the things you already have?  How are those gardens doing with all the heat and/or rain?

Look forward to hearing from you all.

Have a wonderful week.  Stay safe and healthy.  Stay cool!

Blessings to you and yours from my humble little home.

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

Love is patient and kind; love is not jealous or boastful; it is not arrogant or rude.  Love does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrong, but rejoices in the right. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.  Love never ends; as for prophecies, they will pass away; as for tongues they will cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away.

1 Corinthians 13:4-8

Dear Lord, Today, sending up many, many prayers for our country and our leaders.  May all that are hurting be comforted and may the evil stop.  Prayers that we turn our country back to You.  Amen

And the Surveys Say.......

 Good morning and happy Thursday.  Hope it is a lovely day where you are.  Hope you are all staying in and cool in those blistering heat areas!

It is quite lovely here this morning.  Sun is shining and not too hot yet!

I have been reading a lot of surveys being taken by various places, and it seems there are many food items that people have suddenly discovered are better to make at home and cheaper!!!  Go figure - there is a thought!  LOL

There are several basics that seem to have made the list.  It seems, as prices continue to raise, people are finally getting it.  Homemade and scratch is so much better and generally less expensive.

Here are several that were listed:

• Coffees, cold brew, and iced teas (flavored)
• Mac and cheese - a little mac, butter, milk and whatever cheese you have/like
• Oat milk - oatmeal, water - blended and strained and a little sweetener added
• Hummus
• Fried rice - rice and any leftovers around
• Spaghetti sauce - sooooo easy
• Herbs - dried and crushed.  Pesto - so expensive at the store almost $0 at home
• Breakfast - meals, sandwiches, pancakes, waffles - going out for breakfast can easily be $10-$20+

                  This would cost a bit at a restaurant - homemade pennies - having all on hand.

• Pizza or loaf pizza - can be made for pennies using what you have

Delivery pizza is a fortune anymore and not that great - making your own with it being 'loaded' for pennies at home

• Pickled items or fermented items
• Soda Pop - many are using a Soda Stream for carbonated drinks - use fruits to flavor
• Mexican foods - tacos, burritos, enchiladas - so many options

• Calzones, hand pies, quesadillas
• Sweets - cookies, cakes and sweet breads & muffins
• Fries - regular or sweet potato
• Veggie burgers - instead of the new no meat options (and less ? ingredients)

People are deciding they want fewer questionable ingredients, they are looking to save some money, and they seem to be deciding home cooking just tastes better.

We have been preaching this forever - but it finally seems to be the 'new' best thing!  Hey, whatever it takes to get people to start eating better - is all good to me.

Folks are using air fryers and Instant Pots and slow cookers more and more and finding they can get as good of or better results at home.

New trend?  Whatever you want to call it - it is great to hear.  I hope it keeps on going and more and more decide to do this.  It sure can save money from eating at restaurants and buying all those highly processed goods at the grocery.

Keep it simple and keep it affordable and keep it tasty!!!!

Have a lovely day and weekend!!

Good Words for Us All

 Good morning to all.  It is a windy and gloomy morning at this hour.  The winds are supposed to stick around all day (some up to 45 MPH), but the sun is supposed to shine later.  We had quite a rain come through last evening.  It poured!  Nothing flooded this AM -- which is good.  AC is off this morning, with a nice breeze coming in for now.

I hope you are all safe and well this morning.  So many having so much happening.

Today is just a couple memes I saw that just say so much to my heart and thought you might like them as well.  Much in our life is attitude - how we look at things.  Take time to look at your life with new and different eyes - you might like what you see.

So true.  Only we can make the change in our lives that we to see.  No one else can do it for you.  Pull up those big girl panties and get busy.  You can make change!!!!!

HOME - such a lovely word.  It is my favorite place to be.  Lying in bed this morning, it felt so comfortable and snuggly - I felt I could have laid there for a long while.  Then my babies showed up and began telling me it was breakfast time - when I ignored the 'talking' I got soft gentle pats on the face!  I love those moments.

Yes, it can be a busy place with the cleaning and the laundry and the cooking and the yard/garden - but it is your/my place.  We can do as we wish, when we wish.  Home is comfortable.  Home is security.  Make the best of it.

Take a little time to just be happy you have a home - many don't.  Take time to be thankful.

If it is not what you want - do something.

We are all so fortunate and WHEN we are happy with the small things, the simple things - life is good!

Have a wonderful day to each of you!!!

Life is good.

My Public Service Announcement of the Month!

 Howdy all.  Hope this finds all well.  Hope you are all staying cool and thinking of those in the path of Beryl.  It has now come onto land and is moving north and east.  Looks like we will get rain today and overnight.  Needed, just hoping it isn't too much.  I know many areas are so dry and needing rain - then others are getting socked with some doozy rain!!

It is a very cloudy morning here and MUGGY!  Temps aren't bad - but it sure is humid.  It is starting to sprinkle a little.

My PSA is for everyone who needs some supplies.

Sadly to say, back to school time is just around the corner for many.  Year-round school sure has changed things.  Anyway - now is the time to start looking for deals on supplies for the kiddos.  Whether they are your children or grands or whether you might to help someone who is in need.  Many area stores are having some sales.  Last week I ran in WM marketplace to get cat food and noticed they had their supplies on clearance!  I am sure is was the stuff they have had for a while, and not this years new supply - but it was still clearance.  I mean a notebook is a notebook!  Right?

You can donate supplies to help children out.  No one should have to be ashamed when starting school about not having supplies.  We have a 'pack the backpack' program in our area that helps many.  You can also check with local libraries or the area schools to see if they are taking donations to be handed out.

I remember back in the day we just needed pencils, paper, crayons and maybe a couple folders.  Then when we started using ink it was pens - remember cartridge pens?  I loved those.

So if you see a great deal - think about stocking up for the kiddos (or yourself).  There will be many kiddos who will appreciate it.

** You might also check with schools to see if they have a clothes closet!  Winter coat, shoes, socks and basic clothes can sometimes be donated to help.  Yard sales and thrift stores can provide so much!

2nd PSA

July 14th, postage stamps go up again in the U.S.

They will go from .68 to .73 each.  I still use a lot of stamps - I know I am a rare animal!  I like to send cards and some letters, and yes, I still pay my bills via mail. 

I ran in yesterday to the post office and got enough for my year.

This is the second increase this year.  I know it seems like a lot, but it is still a pretty darn cheap way to send a letter or card across the country!! 

Both of these items can be costly if one isn't prepared.  So save where and when you can.

Hoping you all have a great day.

SMILE!

Weekly Wrap Up 7/7

 Hello to all and happy Sunday.  Hope this finds all well.

Well, the 4th is over and the fireworks are still ongoing by all the 'want to be' professionals!  Geesh.  Thursday got really noisy, especially across the alley.  They kept it up until 3AM with the big fireworks.  No police will bother coming out, even though many laws were being broken.  Continued Friday and Saturday - although not as bad.  I guess it has still been better than years past - as it all started in May before.  I just see dollar signs - gosh the waste of $!!!

My days were all off kilter for a while too.  Thursday seemed like Sunday, as all the neighbors were off work and home.  Friday seemed like Monday.  I think I am finally back on track!

We had a nice soaking rain on Thursday (during the day) - it sure was great.  Also had some rain Friday.  My garden looks like it has tripled in size in the past week.

I have had a bunch of black birds around this week, and they have sure been cleaning up the 'fall' from squirrels eating.  Nice - as I don't have to clean up, and nature is getting fed.

Yesterday was a glorious day - such a nice breeze, and blue skies.  I had the AC off all day.

My frugal week:

• Finished dead heading the hundreds of finished blooms and stems of the lilies
• I noticed my cabbage getting eat on (a lot) - so sprayed with Neem oil and sprinkled with fine cornmeal.  Worms eat it and can't digest - so they die.  The plants are getting big, so I want to protect them
• Mowed and trimmed
• All laundry done and used dehumidifier water
• Cut 2 different bouquets this week
• Made some watermelon sorbet with the end of watermelon in frig
• Picked up lots and lots of sticks from a storm that came through area with wind
• Picked my first zucchini and bell pepper this week!!!!  YAY
• Lots of porch setting when the temps agreed
• My neighbor brought me a nice helping of corn pudding 2X this week.  Some of the best I have ever had!  What a treat.
• Same neighbor gave me a brand-new HP printer that they were gifted and didn't need.  I checked it out online and it has a retail of $299.  I haven't had one for 3-4 years now after mine died.  So excited to get it set up.
• Used up cheese from a couple meals to make a 'new' flavor cheese spread for another
• Cooking from home and using what I have

Meals this past week:

Egg roll bowl

Soft tacos

Pork chop, steamed cauliflower/carrot w/cheese sauce, cukes & onions

Cheesy roll 'pizza' and salad

Jalapeno burger, corn on cab, cauliflower/pea salad

Cheese/beef nachos

Grilled pork smashed burger sandwich and salad

SNACKS:  lots of fruit and corn pudding

How was your holiday?  Did you do anything special?

How are you coping with the weather?  I know the south and the west coast are in an extreme heat advisory.  Temps in 100's - oh my.  That has to be miserable.

How are the gardens doing?  Did you find any grocery deals this week?

Inquiring minds need to know!!!  LOL

I wish you all a wonderful week and that you all stay safe, healthy and COOL!

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

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

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.

1 Corinthians 15:58

Dear Lord, please help to hold our faith within our hearts and not lose it, due to outside pressures.  Help us to do Your work each day.  May we all hold steadfast to the word and ways of Christ.  Amen.

It Isn't Always Free

 Happy Thursday to all.  It is Independence Day here in America.  The day we celebrate our independence from England.  I hope you all take a few moments to reflect on that independence (no matter where you live) while you are celebrating festivities with family and friends.

We all seem to take freedom for granted - we can do just about anything we want today.  Things our ancestors would never have imagined.

 

We seem to expect more and want more.  We want it now and for next to nothing.  Many children have no idea where their food comes from - other than the store.  They have no idea what sacrifices have been made in the past for them to have the life they have today.

Kiddos today don't read nor learn useful skills like we did back in the day.  They are too busy with video games.

People eat ALL the junk, not the healthy food and we live with obesity and diabetes running rampant.  We do not take proper care of our bodies or our minds.  A pill will fix it!

Everything hurts everyone's feelings.

I want to say thankful and how in awe I am of skilled workers, laborers, farmers, military members (both past and present), health care employees, small business owners - all people who work so that we can have a good life.

I am thankful for farms of all types, factories that produce items and the stores that sell these things so we can have them.

Thank you for police and EMT's that help every day.

I am thankful for all who have sacrificed so much and at times everything so we can have freedom.  I am sorry they have had to do that - but thankful as well.

YES I am thankful for all who want to work and those that do.  I am thankful for all things in my life today.  Some may be sitting here reading this today thinking that their life stinks - but always remember there is someone out there with so much less and whose life stinks even worse!  They would be grateful for your life.  

It amounts to perspective.  Be grateful for all things - big and small - and life will be good (or at least better).

Prayers for wars to end and for leaders to get along and do right.

No matter our differences in thoughts about the world - we are still the same.  We want a good life.

We all want peace and joy.

Freedom isn't free in any way.  Thank you to all people that makes our lives as free as they are.

Have a wonderful day.  Stay safe.