It's About What you HAVE Already!

 Hello to all on this Wednesday.  Hope this finds you all well and safe.  It sounds like many of you northern gals are about to get slammed with a significant weather event - stay safe.  It is 40*F this morning already!  The temps were rising all night.  We get a couple of warmer days, and then lots of rain tomorrow, so the snow will all be gone.  I think we are on a tremendous roller coaster ride around here as far as weather goes!

Christmas is just days away.  I think the picture says a lot to all of us. We are all so blessed in this life, and we need to take time to just appreciate what we DO have and not worry about what we COULD have.  Take time to enjoy the moment.

Yesterday I got a call from my old boss and dear friend, that moved to CO many years back.  It was just like we hadn't missed any time apart - the conversation was lovely.  So good to hear her voice and her husbands in the background!  Old friends are gifts we need to stop and enjoy.  Those simple gifts are sometimes the best.  Take time to look at what is really in your life, I bet it is the important stuff!

I have finished up Christmas gifts - I made grape jelly the other day to put in some of the gift baskets.  Many look so forward to it.

It always looks pretty.  I tasted the 'crumbs' in the bottom of the pan and off the ladle and YUM!  It tastes like summer.  Funny, I always put off making jelly - and for some reason this year it just seemed so easy to make.  I did put off doing it, but it seemed more fun this year.  Not sure why - maybe just my frame of mind.

I have enough grapes in the freezer to do another batch - maybe after the new year.

This looked like a fun idea.  It could be for you or your spouse or the kiddos.  Use your cookie cutters as molds for pouring pancake batter.  Once it sets - remove the cutter and flip.  You could do this with all kinds of cookie cutters for any season.  Just a fun way to freshen up that morning meal!

What fun that would be on Christmas morning!

Take it slower today - do not get in a rush.  Look around and see the beauty in the world.  YES, there is beauty all around.  Take time to enjoy and smile.

If it doesn't get done - well maybe it wasn't to be.  Some things just don't matter.

Have a beautiful and blessed day!

Reminisce and Recipe

 Hello all and happy Tuesday.  I sure hope this finds you all well and safe!  Well, we are finally starting to warm up a little bit.  It is 20 degrees warmer this morning than it was yesterday morning!  It is 24* as I type.  We may see 40 today.  We get to have a couple days of warm up and rain - then a cold day again (Friday).  Of course, that is the day I need to go out for celebrating with sis.  Hopefully there won't be any ice after rain on Thursday night.

This is my little tree!  There is also my little stain glass turtle - which works perfect in the Christmas colors!  I just love sitting in the evening with just the tree lights on and enjoying the colors and snuggles with Bitsy.  The little table it is on has always been called the 'library' table in the family - it was grandmas.  I have a big piece of glass over the top of it to keep it from getting scratched up.  That is where I put my cards I receive now (under glass).  I get fewer these days than in the past (used to hang them).  So, it works out perfectly to display them.  I have finally started getting some in the past day or so.

Incidentally, that same table is where momma would find their tree all decorated on Christmas morning, when she was little.  Santa brought their tree!

Here is another fun recipe to think about trying.  A cranberry/nut cheeseball.  I am making this when the kids come up for Christmas.  They like a lot of different flavors and tastes, so I think this will be perfect.  I have everything here to make it.

I just love fun and easy recipes for goodies.

I have been keeping busy getting things in order for all my goodie bags.  Making things and making sure I have everything I need.  

What have you all been doing?  Are you ready?

Here is a reminisce for the day.  Who remembers the Norelco shaver Santa?  I remember seeing that on TV as a kiddo.  Probably one of the first commercials I remember seeing for Christmas.  Hope it makes you smile a little.

Go out there today and be the LIGHT that the world needs.  We can all add a bit of sunshine for someone else and to the world.

Have a wonderful day!

Weekly Wrap-Up 12/14

 Hello to all.  Hope you are all well, safe, and warm.  Baby, it is cold outside here.  My thermometer says 0* - weather says -4*F.  That is cold for here.  We have windchills colder than most of Alaska this morning!  We got 2 rounds of snow.  Thursday night - so moved a couple inches on Friday.  Most of that melted on Friday as well.  Lots yesterday - a good 5"+.  I went out last evening and moved that, so as not to have to do it in the frigid weather.

We can sure get the gambit of weather in a short time.  Subzero, cloudy, snow, wind, then sun, rain and 50's.  Yep, all that will happen in about 4 days!!!!  Hey, just a thought - spring is 97 days away!  LOL!  Shoot, it isn't even winter officially yet.

My frugal week:

• I chopped up the bottom of a candle (in a jar) to use as melts.  It smells good - so I will use it
• Made potato cakes out of leftover mashed potatoes.  Ate some and froze the rest
• Went out early one morning to get some more basket stuffers and avoid crowds
• Went to Hobby Lobby and got a couple things
• Ran across to the discount market and got fresh red raspberries - 12oz. $1, fresh strawberries - 1 lb. 1.99 (so good), one pear and one banana (for a salad)
• Made a nice bowl of fruit salad - either looks summery or like Christmas - it sure tasted good, used apples and oranges I had at home

• Got my cards mailed
• Going through the frig and frig freezer and trying to use up things that have hung around a while - doing pretty good with it
• Found a smoked sausage pkg - 14 oz. that was in freezer for a while - cooked and used some and froze the remainder cooked up
• Cleaned out crispers - had radish and carrots starting to sprout - yikes!  Cleaned them all up and repackaged - will use soon
• Turned on the humidifier on the furnace (turned dial to winter) and it sure does make the house feel warmer using the same temps
• Made up a new bottle of dish soap
• Moved a ton of snow - free exercise
• Juiced grapes (from freezer) to use for making jelly
• Insulated the outdoor hose faucet - it is close to backdoor and only the faucet sticks out - remainder is in basement

Meals this week:

Potato cakes made with bacon, cheese & onion, salad

Fried corn and fish

Chicken tenders and veggies

Chicken legs and sauteed zucchini

Smoked sausage sandwich and salad

Baby lima beans (from dry), pork chops, and Naan bread toasted

Creamy chicken/pasta/veggie soup and crackers

Snacks - fruit salad, popcorn, cheese

That is about it - except all the normal stuff.   I stayed away from the grocery store.  I hope everyone experiencing the cold and nasty weather is safe - stay in and stay warm.  So many of us aren't used to it.  I know you northern gals are old pros at it!

How was your week?  Any get togethers, shopping, deals or freebies?

I hope you are well and safe. Please take care.  Think how blessed we all are to have a warm home and bed and food on our tables.  So many do not.  Such a sobering thought at times like this.

Be well.

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

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

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?  The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?

Psalms 27:1

Dear Lord, I send great thanks for all the blessings that have been given.  You are our salvation, and we give You credit.  You are our light, and we are thankful.  You teach us love and understanding, and we are grateful.  Help us each one to spread Your word and Your love every day.  Please place Your healing hands on those in need again this week.  AMEN

A New Find and a Scare

 Hello all.  It is a cloudy morning here and about 28*.  Calm before the weather really hits.  Looks like a few days of real ICK here.  Predicting some snow tonight into morning and then again Saturday evening into Sunday.  It is also going to get really cold (for these parts).  Highs in teens (actually 12 on Sunday) and lows below zero for a couple days.  Then we get a rebound next week.  Oh, such is winter weather.

I just love all the pics I keep seeing for the holiday - so I will post a fun memory of Christmas each day until Christmas!

I forgot to mention that when I went to Aldi, I walked the 'aisle of shame'!!!  That was where I spent most of my visit - so many fun things.  I did get something for me, well, for my kitchen.

I got these liners for the air fryer.  They are unbleached and they fit the tray perfectly.  Packet of 50 for 3.78.  I have always used regular parchment, then I have to cut it to fit.  These really help keep the air fryer clean.  I have used a couple already and love them.  They also have some small holes for air flow.

I am not sure if it will be a normal item or if it is just a special right now.

I like parchment in fryer, as it helps keep the greasy mess less.

Yesterday I got a phone call, while I was busy in the middle of something, so I let it go to the machine.  It was the bank my CC is through - said they were calling to potential card fraud.  Oh my!  I have used the card a few times lately, so thinking it might be because of extra use.  I hardly ever use it.

Well, I called back (and it WAS the bank) - I also got a text on different phone - and it ended up being a once-a-year charge, that was applied to my card.  Nothing is just added to my card, without a purchase - except this one charge.  So, it raised alerts.  It was all fine, and I am glad they checked.  It makes me feel better about things.

This is the time of the year that things happen a lot more.  Keep track of things and be alert.

I keep all receipts, until I at least get the next statement - so I can check things.

I am sure glad I got ahold of the luncheon committee about tomorrow's lunch for high school.  It is a decent drive, south of here, and I just decided I didn't want to go, so I let them know I wasn't coming earlier in the week.  I do believe it may be a very messy drive for many.

I hope all affected by nasty weather, stay safe and warm.  

Have a lovely day and remember - 2 weeks!!!!! from today!!!!

Blessings to all.

                                                                       More cozy!

Ways to Cut Costs Today and Any Day!

 Hello to all.  Hope you are well.  It is raining and raining some more here this morning.  It is still dark out as I write this, so I will go out a little later to feed the kitties outside.  Weather looks to be all over the place here, in the next few days - and that isn't on my 'favorites' list!!!  If it is snowing or icing where you are - be safe.

                                                                      TRUE STORY!!!

Today just a few ideas and recipes to cut costs and still eat well.  I know many are trying not to go into the grocery for the remainder of the year - or have plans to start the new year that way.  Well, there are things that are just very tasty, that can be made with items you already have.

I was looking back to some posts from several years ago and came across these recipes again.  Just as relevant now as they were then - maybe more so.

AGAIN remember:  click on the recipes to enlarge for easier reading!!

                           SPOON BREAD

Can't get much easier.  Bread comes in all types and flavors and who says it has to be a slice?  This is like fry bread, and it really is good.  I plan to make this again soon.

                        POTATO/BEEF CASSEROLE

You can use any ground meat you have - you can use any kind of cream of soup.  Heck you could even change out potatoes for carrots, squash, turnips, etc.  Recipes are just "ideas" to me - they aren't etched in stone.  Use what you have and make a hearty winter dish!

*Use up spices and herbs to change up the flavors of things.  You can take the blandest ingredients and make them taste good - just add different seasonings. Also think bacon grease - you can sure add flavor to a lot of fried goods with a little bacon grease - that stuff is gold!

*Use up older fruits - even if you have a variety of pieces and kinds - to make a cobbler.  Kind of like a cobbler fruit salad!  You can also fry up a variety in butter (like making fried apples).  Peaches, pears, apples - even a little citrus would be so good.  This would be good over pancakes, waffles, pudding or even cooled and used on ice cream.  No need to let things go to waste!

                                           MINER'S STEW

Actually, a casserole, but it doesn't matter what you call it.  It is super easy.  Again, use whatever ground meat you have.  You can use carrots or other root veggies in the mix, instead of so many potatoes.  

Just because things are easy, doesn't mean they aren't filling and hearty.

I think throwing a handful of cheese on top would be super yummy too!

Yesterday I was out, and I noticed that ALL Christmas items were already 50% off at Hobby Lobby!  Now and immediately after the holiday is the time to buy many items for the upcoming year.  Paper products - like plates and napkins - (if you use) would be a deal.  Wrapping paper - get plainer rolls of paper that could be used for all occasions throughout the year.  Candy - that would be the time to get some candies to chop up and use in baking or to use for melting.  Candy can be frozen for use throughout the year. (cheaper than buying choc. chips)

Stock up now on all baking supplies - groceries tend to be having a lot of loss leader sales.  Ham is on sale many places as well.  I would think around New Years, cabbage and maybe even corned beef will be on sale.  You have to pay attention to the sales and watched the in-store mark-downs.  I stopped on the way home for cat litter at WM - walked around and noticed they still have frozen turkeys for .69/lb. Not as cheap as Thanksgiving, but still pretty darn cheap.

Stay warm, dry and safe today.

No matter where you are, I wish you abundant blessings.

Goodies and Toasties!

 Hello all.  I hope you are all well this fine Tuesday.  It is warming up already this morning - today will be our warmest day for a while.  It is overcast - hoping to see a little sun.  Saw sun yesterday and that is always a joy and just so needed.  A real mood lifter.  Hoping to go out in a while and try to finish up my shopping.  Taking advantage of the weather.  Just some small things needed and a few more gift cards.  Then it will be on to packing goody bags and making all the homemade goodies.

This sure takes me back to the images seen in the 50's and 60's!

Most people probably have their gifts bought. - but for those who need a few ideas - here are a couple of homemade goodies you can make.  These are always a hit and taste so good.

                                              BANANA BREAD

Banana bread is always a hit.  I make smaller mini loaves.  This recipe is easy as it uses baking mix - but you can do completely from scratch.  Wrap up in foil or cellophane tie a pretty ribbon and have a nice office or neighbor gift.

                                            STIR STCKS OR SPOONS

Coffee stir sticks (or hot chocolate) are always super easy and fun.  

(click on the recipes to see larger)

                                               SUGARED PECANS

These sugared nuts are the ones I have made many, many times.  They are just sooooo yummy and tasty.  Really easy to make.  Place in some little baggies and tie a ribbon - sweet treat.

I came across this recipe and I am going to make it this year.  Now I will kind of do it MY way.  I will use whatever nuts I find available and inexpensive.  I have dried cranberries and all the other stuff.  Nothing etched in stone that says you have to do it as stated.   Use what you like.

I am not sure what they call a bag - assuming 12-16 oz.

I know nuts are not the cheapest ingredient - but it is Christmas time!  For some reason nuts seem to go with the holidays!  I even remember nuts in shell in my stockings as a child!

Are you all staying warm and cozy?  I have been wearing my snuggy socks the past few days.  They sure do keep the tootsies warm.  I have 3 or 4 pair of these - and they are a blessing.  So many ways to stay warm.  I always wear layers in my shirts.  I have throws and afgans in several spots - for a quick snuggle up! 

If it is super cold and I have to be outside, I have one pair of 'sort of' leggins that go on under the jeans.  They help a lot!!  Or wear sweats over jeans or flannel pants.

Keep bundled up outside.  Keep your head covered and your hands and ears as well!

So, some easy and quick ideas for treats to gift or just to have at home and ways to stay warm and cozy.

Have a super great day and gift a smile or kind word to someone - it costs nothing!!!!

Weekly Wrap Up 12/7

 Hello to all this Sunday.  Here we are a week into December - 2 1/2 weeks it will be Christmas, and then NY!  Crazy to think about.  I hope you are all doing well and are safe on this Sunday.

It was above freezing this morning - that was a treat.  We have had sun a couple times this week and it sure changes how one feels.  Couple days in upper 30's and the sun has helped with melting some.

We will have a couple warmer days this week and then back to cold.  I did see a projection for weather on Christmas for around here, and it showed 40's - we will see.

This week I kept busy - but it kind of looks like a quiet week.  Some things I did, managed to take up most of the day - so it looks like less.

My frugal week:

• Over last weekend I did watch a few Christmas shows - not a normal for me anymore.  They were nice.  I still haven't watched Hallmark in several years - just too many shows all the same theme.  I do like the funny shows and the old classics and do watch those each year.
• I got several FREE channels on cable last weekend and managed to DVR some movies from those
• Froze the leftover turkey for another time
• Moved LOTS of snow!  That was almost a whole day - worked in shifts and got it all done.  So glad I am still able
• I did go shopping one day - got several stuffers for Christmas baskets and a couple things for the young-ins.  That took up most of that day.
• Lots of laundry in cold and hung most to dry in basement
• I had a lunch day with grade school gals - that was fun.  We had a gift exchange, a cakewalk, and just a lot of laughs and fun (and a yummy meal).  It was a little drive for me - so that took up most of the day.
• I have gone through all the things I had on hand and my list of people and trying to match everything up.  Making my list and checking it twice!
• Had a downspout horizontal portion (at drive) that was frozen up solid.  Not good, so a little hot water poured over it and walla - I pulled out a long ice log!  All cleared now
• Bathroom faucet was running slow again - so took apart the faucet and cleaned the filters.  I have pretty hard water.  Running good now.
• Cleaning and doing all the normal stuff

Meals this past week:

Turkey & dumplings, biscuit and small salad

Nachos

Egg & bacon biscuits and fresh veggies

Lobster (faux) mac & cheese and small salad

Lobster mac soup (mixed l/o mac and broc. cheese soup from freezer) YUM

Out to lunch - wonderful tenderloin and steak fries

Poor man's Swiss steak w/mashed potatoes

Just trying to get ready for the holiday time.  I still have cookie baking to do and I will be making jelly this week.  I am scheduled for another (high school) luncheon this coming Friday - but I think I will pass & stay home.  A lot to do and a short time to do it.

I have been enjoying my little tree, looking at the lights each evening.  I do love holiday lights.

Are you all ready for the holiday?  Did you get any good grocery deals this week?  I didn't buy any groceries - trying to use up a lot of the older things hanging out here!

I hope you are all doing good and staying healthy.  Be safe - roads can be iffy this time of the year (as can walks and such).

Check in and let us know what is going on in your world.   Wishing all a lovely week.  Celebrate all the little things in life - they aren't really so little!

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

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

I love thee, O Lord, my strength.  The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my rock in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Psalms 18:1-2

Lord, I cannot sing enough praises for thee.  I am so very grateful for Your love and Your blessings.  Help us each one through rough times, health issues, feeling of being lost, and sadness.  Lift all, to know the simple joys that exist in this world and let everyone see them and appreciate them.

Again, we say thanks for all things and each day.  Please lay Your healing hands upon all those in need.

AMEN

The 'Magic' of the Season!

 Hello all.  I hope you are all healthy and snug this Thursday.  Another cold, cold day here in my neighborhood.  It is in the 20's and probably staying in the 20's today.

Yesterday for an hour or two we got a little sunshine, that was so wonderful.  It isn't often that happens this time of the year.  Today they are saying sun!!!  YAY

Well, yesterday I figured it was time to get busy and shop some.  So off I went!  My road looked ok - but it was atrocious!  ICE!  I came really close to 'owning' the stop sign at the corner!!  I started sliding sideways (even going just a couple mph) - got stopped within inches!  Luckily there was no traffic in any direction - usually there is some idiot running the stop sign on any given day.  Well, I managed to get to the main road, and all was fine.  We have a school and post office within a couple blocks of my house.  When I returned the post office area was still horrible, the school area good.  Too much excitement for me!

I did go to Aldi and NOT for groceries.  I got a lot of neat basket stuffers and some things for kiddos.  That MIDDLE aisle is fun!!!!  I met so many happy people.

I know there is no such thing as magic - but so many things seem magical, don't they?  Many miraculous things almost seem magical.

Yesterday while shopping, I saw so many people having fun looking at all the goodies.  The oohs and aahhs!  Adults and children.  The sounds in the voices of the littles - pure joy.

I see snowflakes glistening in the snow - it looks like fairy dust - magic!  

I see the twinkling lights on the tree - looks like magic to me.

The way the snow clings to the trees and they look like flocked trees (remember those?).

Memories of being a kid and 'hearing' Santas bells on Christmas Eve.

Seeing children get so excited to see Santa and watching them look at all the lights and decorations with those big wide eyes.

The smells of the holidays - almost seem magical.  They can transport you to another time.

Being able to continue a tradition from the family to another generation - and watching them get excited.

Watching the OLD Christmas shows from childhood.  Those are the best!!!!  I like the old cartoon specials and some of the old, old movies - much better than the new stuff.

Being able to get with friends from back in the day and just laugh and have fun.  It seems as if no time has passed!

Watching the young ones seeing the radar on Christmas Eve - to see where Santa is - then leaving cookies and milk.

Being out in the snow (playing or working) and coming into a warm house and hot chocolate - almost seems magical.

                                    TONIGHT!!!!!!!  Take a step back in time!  Also, next Tuesday!

It might just be what you need to laugh a little, to remember the times as a kid, to smile and make believe a little.  I hope you watch it!

So take a few minutes or even hours or days to see MAGIC in the season.  The smiles, the joys, the beauty - yes, I know it isn't magic - but FAITH and HOPE can seem so at times.

Have a beautiful day.

Take in the moments!

Simple Meals for Simple Lives

 Howdy to all.  I hope you are all well and safe, and that you are able to find some joy today.

Oh good golly, it is feeling cold out.  The news says 20* - mine says 27*.  I like mine better!

It always amazes how 'light' it looks outside in the dead of night, after we have had snow.  It almost looks like daylight.

This is the one thing I love about snow.  It makes all the evergreens look so beautiful.  Color pictures look black & white.  This is catty-corner across the street.

Simple meals - simple living.  You know me, and most of my meals are pretty simple.  Now I know not everyone likes the same things I do, but it gives ideas on ways to simplify.  I eat good - very good.  I eat more than enough.  I eat what I really like.

I do eat ONE meal a day - it isn't because I have to or I can't afford more.  It is because it is all I want.  I do eat snacks - fruit, veggies, cheese, crackers, etc.  So sometimes the platefuls I show look like a lot of food - but being the only meal, it is probably less than others eat all day.

Now with the holidays here - remember that leftover ham and turkey make great ham salad or turkey salad.  Super for sandwiches or eat with salad and crackers.  Throw in a chopped up hardboiled egg, and you have even more protein.

Add these to soups or beans or fried rice - all easy meals and uses up all the leftovers making a hearty meal.

Yesterday - bacon, egg, cheese biscuits and fresh veggies on the side.  Super good and filling and used what I had.

Oh, a hot bowl or cup of egg drop soup - just hits the spot!  This can be had for a lunch or added as a side for dinner.  It is soooooo easy to make and so scrumptious.

Enchiladas that I made.  I used leftover rice and beans for the inside/stuffing. Lots of cheese inside as well.  Enchilada sauce, cheese and black olives.  Let me tell you, as crazy as it sounds the black olives made it taste super special (almost like Taco Bell).  Tortillas are super cheap and they are also easy to make.  You can stuff them with whatever you like and roll up.  Sauce can be canned or homemade (easy to do) and cheese!  Bake until cheese is golden (I used the air fryer).  The leftover rice/beans made 4 enchiladas.

A basic guide to making tortillas and hand breads!  Super easy with a nice hot griddle.  Ingredients most have on hand.

Another tasty and easy bite!  Naan bread - make or watch for sales and clearance.  I spread with cream cheese & added garlic and onion seasoning, topped with sliced tomatoes (you can top with absolutely anything you like- (like pizza), then added shredded cheddar.  Bake in air fryer for about 15 minutes at 360*.  You can use the oven as well.  Naan makes great and easy pizza - filling too.  Eat alone or add a salad.

Baked potatoes topped with whatever meat, leftovers or thick soups you have around.  Maybe add some cheese or sour cream - so filling and basically a meal.

You can do the same with sweet potatoes.  Top with hearty toppings or make them sweet.  Both can be made into fries or twice baked!

Goulash is a super easy meal - some call it Eastern Chow Mein.  I call it goulash.  Fry up some ground beef or chicken/sausage/turkey/pork, add in some onion or green pepper if you choose (optional) - add cooked pasta (macaroni) - then add tomatoes (chopped) or tomato sauce and throw on some cheese if you like it.  Season the way you like - Super easy and filling.  Serve with bread and/or salad.

Spaghetti - the basic super easy meal.  Chili is another.  Soup - another - there is absolutely no limit to soup.   Rice can be made into all kinds of meals - fried rice, stir fry (great way to use leftovers), under things, in things........... Breakfast is a good dinner.  Mac n cheese - add some meat (chopped ham, tuna, whatever you have) and maybe add a side - it is a meal!

I make of version of goulash & use rice instead and then I add large chunks of peppers - deconstructed stuffed peppers!  I do the same with cabbage - deconstructed cabbage rolls. Make on the stove top!

Easy-peasy and of so tasty.

Never forget the basic!!!!  This is a favorite wintertime meal to me.  You can add meat to sandwich as well if you choose.  Any kind of soup and sandwich makes a yummy meal.

I love any kind of Nachos or burritos. Can you tell I like Mexican food?  LOL.  The thing is, it doesn't have to be Mexican flavored - you can stuff a tortilla with anything -I like to top with a little salad and eat with a fork.  You don't have to top them.  Roll-ups are fun and easy.  Nachos can be any toppings served over some chips (or over pasta or rice) then maybe add some sour cream or dressing. Another great use for leftovers.

Think OUTSIDE the box!!!  

You can have simple meals that are very delicious and easy and economical.  Keeping things simple helps keep life simple.  I am all about that and I am trying harder each day to simplify more.

I hope this helps someone to get a few ideas using just what you have in the house.  No need to shop many times - just USE IT UP!

Have a beautiful day. No matter what you do - do it with a smile and joy in your heart.

December - The Month is Different for Everyone

 Good morning all.  Hope you are well and safe.  It is a cold and snowy day here.  We got close to 4" of snow to start the day!  Ugh.  It is pretty, but it means a lot of work for folks.  The news and the computer says it is in the upper 20'sF, my thermometer says 34*.  Cold, whichever!

I truly hope you all stay safe and off the roads, unless it is absolutely necessary.

As we think back to the old days and the Christmas's past - it often brings up bad or sad memories.  Not everyone gets into the celebrations of Christmas.  Truthfully that is OK.  You have to do what is right for you. I know many who read here, have lost loved ones during this time of the year, and it brings up sad feelings.  My only advice is to REMEMBER them in the good times, and that and speaking of them keeps them alive in your heart and in your mind.

YES, it is hard to do things so very differently, but at some point in life it happens to everyone.  Just a sad fact.

What you feel is what you feel, and it IS real!!!!!  Give yourself some grace during this time.  Your feelings are valid and they are yours.  Let no one tell you how you should feel, your feelings are real and valid.  They can just get over it!!!!!!  Don't apologize for how you feel.

I try so hard to do this.  All the little things are so important, more so now than ever before.  Watching the littles play and laugh.  To see their excitement for the holidays.  Watching the snow come down.  Seeing how anxious the outdoor animals for their food each morning.  They are happy to see me.

Curling up with your pet.  The warmth of the house.  The beauty of Christmas lights.  Food on your table.  Just seeing someone smile, even if a stranger.

Choose the joy the in those things and chose to see the beauty in everything and everyone.  Be grateful for this morning that you were given (yet again).  

I just wanted to start the month with a little encouragement.  Don't do anything you don't want to - it is your life.  You feel what you feel and you WILL be OK.  You have survived every worst day you have had so far.  That is HUGE!  

Take it slow, take it easy, and give yourself a break and some grace to get through the season.  The new year will be here in 30 days and it is a new start.  Well, actually every day and every month is a new start, but we tend to be analytical in thought sometimes!

Have a beautiful and safe day.

I am off to feed kitties outside and clean some snow.

Stay safe out there today!

Weekly Wrap Up 11/30

 Hello to all.  Hoping you are safe and well and warm!  Today we say good-bye to November.  Goodness sakes, 25 until Christmas and 31 days until a new year!  It just doesn't seem possible.  It feels it - at least in my neck of the woods.  Baby, it is cold out there.  We finally got some snow yesterday, but it wasn't until after dark - we got about 1.5 inches+ here, then we warmed overnight and it rained.  So, most of the snow is gone - just some white patches.  It is WINDY!!!!!  I really am over the windy days.  Crazy winds.  That just makes it feel so much colder.  The temps are now falling again.  It doesn't look like we will reach even the freezing mark this week.  My area really lucked out - as I know many had tons of snow.

Tomorrow starts meteorological winter here in the upper hemisphere.  I think it is here!!!  Some in the south are beginning summer! 😲

I hope all that celebrate Thanksgiving had a wonderful time with family and/or friends.    I sure did.  NO shopping at all for this gal.  I stayed home all weekend.  I did do a little decorating - not a lot, after all it is just me and Bitsy.  I don't have a lot of company - although there will be the kids coming home at some point for Christmas.  I just like my tree lights, even if the tree is teeny tiny!

My frugal week:

• I sliced and cooked up a pound of "fresh/recently harvested" sausage my nephew gifted me.  Yum - it is tasty.  I did freeze most of the fried-up slices.  I rec. 3 lbs. - the other 2 got put in freezer
• I got the spikes of the pampas grass all down.  Those things were tall - 8' to 10' tall.
• I raked the remainder of the leaves before the rain and wind hit again, earlier in the week.  Then on Friday I cleaned the drive again -- as leaves had blown and collected there again
• I got my jerky and summer sausage order on Monday.  I call them direct.  Last year I almost didn't get it in time for the holidays, they were so busy.  I ordered a couple days earlier this year and it was on my porch less than 48 hours after ordering!!! (these are gifts)
• I did go out the first of week to fill my gas tank for the month.  With the little amount I needed and my discount - I spent $6!
• While getting gas (in Kroger lot), I ran in to look for basket stuffers at the store.  Got a few things for gifts. I also found a discount bag of smaller summer squash for 1.50.    When I came home and unloaded, I had cupcakes that I did not buy!  I called and told them - they said keep them.  It was 2 containers worth $10 

• Did a root touch up
• Put out holiday door decor and flags while warmer - then yesterday I put up a few things indoor
• Froze 2 bananas that were looking sad
• Baked up my turkey breast - it turned out so juicy and tender.  Enjoying it for meals and sandwiches!
• Plugged back in the mini frig downstairs to store the jerky and any extra supplies for the holiday
• Brought home several delicious sides from my nieces.  She sure cooks a ton of food!
• I did a fix on the toilet - the flapper chain broke
• Washed out 2 - 1 gallon bags niece sent things home in.  I never buy those so nice to have around!
• Made a batch of biscuits
• Paid everything I had 

Meals this past week:  (easy)

Chimichanga (freezer) and Mex. fried rice

Chili (freezer)/cheese topped baked potato, fruit

Pizza (freezer) and salad

Stoup (freezer) and crackers

Thanksgiving w/family

Turkey and leftovers 

Biscuits with turkey gravy and sliced turkey, salad

That is my week in a nutshell!  Nothing big or exciting, just doing what needs done.  Crazy to think that last Sunday and Monday I got to air the house a little in the afternoons and now it is so cold.  It sure changes quickly.  We had so much wind and rain earlier in the week.  The outdoor kitties were not happy!

I still have shopping to do - but this year it will be simpler.  I also have to make jelly - that just dawned on me today! Time to get busy!

I hope you all are safe - so many places got a lot of snow.  Stay in if possible if in those areas.

How was your week?  Did you enjoy your holiday and a long weekend?  Did you do any shopping this weekend?  Any great deals at the grocery?

Give us a shout out.  Always look forward to hearing from everyone.  It has been fun seeing 'new' folks post this week!

Have a safe and healthy week ahead.  

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

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"Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and will not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and my song, and he has become my salvation."

Isaiah 12:2

Lord, as we approach the holiday season and the celebrations of Jesus, I do know many people are alone and they are sad for various reasons.  Please hold them all close and let them know they are loved so much and they need to put their faith into You.  Heal those in need - in body and soul.

Help us to all be kinder and fuller of love for all others.  Let kindness rain over all.

Thank You for our many blessings and for each and every day we have.  May we celebrate each day and all experiences.  AMEN

Now we Count Down!

 Hello all.  Hope everyone is well and safe.  Hope you all full bellies, and tons of gratitude in your heart.  Well, Thanksgiving Day is over (for most).  I know some may not celebrate until later this weekend.  It is a cold morning, yet bright and sunny.  Been out to feed the animals and have a small turkey breast already in the oven.  Staying home!!!

So much food, so much family and friends, so many memories.  Love it.

Before leaving yesterday, I watched (again) The Secret Garden, probably my favorite old movie.  I watch it every year and never tire of it.

My niece did another bang-up job this year.  Looked like she was feeding the entire neighborhood!  AND it was all so tasty and wonderful. (she had been up all night).

Got to meet my newest gr.gr. niece - baby Bella, who is just a month old.  Oh, my goodness, what a precious little soul.  I snagged her up as soon as they came in and held her for the longest time!  She is probably the last one for a good while.

All the littles were wired, to say the least!  They were having a ball.

A fun day had by all.

It sure is starting to feel like Christmas is near.  It looks to be cold for the foreseeable future.  Snow is predicted tomorrow afternoon into Sunday.  I really don't think my area will get that much - but it will be what it is.

Are you planning on getting your holiday decor out this weekend?  Or have you already done that?

I have been watching the news this morning and they are showing the malls and such - it really doesn't look that crazy out there.

Just a few weeks until Christmas, then the end of the year - it just doesn't seem possible.  The countdown has begun.  You ready?

I know I will be quite content staying in today.  I guess it is time to get the snow shovel out - just in case, so I will do that.  I will be filling up the portable containers of critter feed.  Maybe some decor for the holiday - not sure.

This is the remainder of my tomatoes from the garden!  I figured I would make it to Thanksgiving with them - and it looks like I will be eating them until Dec.1 at least!!!!  They still taste good - better than the grocery store stuff.  How cool is that?

Wednesday was a crazy windy day.  It seemed like that wouldn't end.  We had 50+ mph wind gusts and steady heavy wind.  It was gloomy and we had a few flurries.  Then came sundown and my gosh it was just amazing.  The sun had popped out, and we had another fantastic sunset.  The wind started to settle some after dark.  Yesterday ended up being a nice, but chilly day.

The above pic is through the window and doesn't do the sky justice.  It looked to be on fire - and the brightest pinks.

As you can see, not a leaf to be seen on the trees after that wind.  They are ALL down now!

Sunrises and sunsets just absolutely amaze me - the beauty of God's hand.

Well, I am going to jump off here and try to maybe accomplish something other than baking a turkey.  It is starting to smell good!

I hope you have a great weekend, no matter what you do.  Whether eating, shopping, decorating, movie watching or just snuggling - ENJOY it thoroughly!!!

Blessings to all.

THANK YOU - SO BLESSED

 Good morning all.  I hope this finds you all safe and healthy my friends.

It is a windy, windy day here.  We reached our high around midnight - will be in the 30's all day.  That looks to be the normal temps for at least the next week - yeah, winter is here!

It will be a busy travel time this week, and I hope you all stay safe and have a wonderful time.

I am so grateful for my health and for my family and friends and fur babies.  

I am thankful for all the things I have.  My home and a warm bed and food for my table.

I am blessed in so many ways, that I cannot mention them all.  Blessed in every way.

Thank you, God.

I am grateful for each of you.  So many are so loyal and are here every day.  I am not sure how that happened, nor how people found their way here.  

I am so thankful that you all did.

I am grateful for all the kind words, friendships, love and help that everyone offers, not just to me, but to others.

THANK YOU - we are 'family'.

Enjoy your holiday.

Just Doing the Stuff!

 Hello all.  Here we are in U.S. 2 days out until Thanksgiving.  We are now exactly a month from Christmas, and about 5 weeks from a new year!!!  YIKES

Weren't we just celebrating all these things a couple months ago???  Sure seems so.

It is a wet, wet morning here.  Temps are the 50's and rain.  No outside kitties yet this morning!  Smart kitties.  That has upset Bitsy, as he like to greet them each morning (and yell at them) at the door.  So, he had breakfast and is now curled up with me.

Well, it looks like the weather is going to change up in a day or so.  We will be colder and windy.  It is almost December, so I guess it is to be expected.

I have been doing the things one doesn't want to do in the rain, nor in the cold.  Outdoor stuff been getting done, more each day. Things plugged in.  

Things being hung, to avoid the cold.  You all know I am not a fan of cold!

I have been making the lists and checking them twice.  Trying to figure out what I do have for gifts so far, and what needs to be gotten.  Placing the order for yearly gifts that all look forward to.  So glad to get that done.

I did run out for a few errands yesterday morning (early).  I got my monthly gas - a whole 1/4 tank (actually less) and used my points.  I was in the Kroger lot at that point, so I did run in to look for a few basket stuffers.  Got a couple things sis said she really like for her gift bag in the way of snacks, got a couple other odd ball gifts.  It was early, so no real traffic in the store!  In and out.

Got kitty litter at WM market on the way home.  Good for several weeks now.

Trying to eat up things that are easy this week!  Using freezer meals and stuff from frig.  Keeping it simple - looking forward to that turkey!!!!  I will do a turkey breast here on Friday. 

I will NOT be going out on Black Friday at all.  I am thinking about going to a craft/holiday bazaar close by on Saturday.  I guess it depends on the weather - they keep talking rain/snow conditions.  If I do, I do.  If I don't, no big deal.

It is "Shop Small" Saturday - so if you get the opportunity, shop those bazaars or small family-owned businesses.  You are helping folks in your community - not corporations.

What is everyone up to?  You getting that bird (or whatever) and the kitchen ready for the big day?

Do you shop on Good Friday?  Be careful if you do!!!  The bad people will be out too.

Just DO the stuff - whatever it may be!!!!

Have a beautiful and blessed day!

Weekly Wrap Up 11/23

 Hello to all and happy Sunday.  I hope you are well and safe.

Here we are starting the last week of this month already.  Soon we will be starting the last MONTH of the year!  It is just hard for me to wrap my head around this.

We have had all kinds of weather this week.  Luckily no snow!  We have had warm days, chilly days, lots of rain, fog, wind and basically one sunny day.  It sure was nice to see the sunshine.

We got a LOT of rain on Tuesday.  Showers a time or two after that.

Most leaves are down now - you can see small spots of color.  They trees are pretty bare.  The grass is very green - that is about the only color now (besides brown).

Looks like turkey day will be colder - but no snow or rain (as of now).  I can handle that.  

THANK YOU - to Donna and to Cookie for the lovely Thanksgiving cards!  So appreciated.

 Just a fun thing to tell.  My gr.gr. nephew signed his intention letter this week for a full ride scholarship for college for his baseball prowess.  So very proud of him. 

This week has been a normal kind of quiet week.

My frugal week:

• Using up leftovers and things in frig
• Raked on Monday before the rains came.  Tuesday afternoon you sure couldn't even tell!  So many maple leaves fell from the heavy rain and wind.  I did go out yesterday and got a bunch more raked up.  You can SEE the grass again!  Literally you could not see the grass or sidewalk.  All leaves out on the garden now.  I keep finding huge oak leaves while raking.  There are no oak trees close by - I notice all trees when walking.  The wind sure does carry a lot of things from a distance.
• Cleaned the trapped leaves in the drive as well.  They blow and swirl between the car and the house.  All clean now.
• Trimmed my hair
• Ran errands one day.  Bank (gifts & my allowance), feed store and Ollies
• I got a couple kiddos gifts and some basket fillers at Ollies and used my 15% off coupon
• Cooked up chicken for use in a couple meals
• Froze leftover enchilada sauce in ice cube trays
• Froze 1/2 a pizza for another time
• Laundry in cold and hung to dry
• Just basic cleaning and doing all the normal things
• Cooking and eating from home
• NO grocery store this week

Meals this past week:

Homemade enchiladas (filled w/leftover beans & rice)

Homemade pizza

Tuna patty sandwich w/cheese/lettuce/tomato, banana milkshake

Enchilada and side salad

Chicken/veggie fried rice

BBQ pulled chicken/cheese open face sandwich and salad

Cheesy fries and salad

Nothing fancy this week as far as meals go.  Just easy and basic things.  Using up items.

Yesterday as I stood outside after raking, I was looking all around.  You can sure see ALL the squirrel nests around now.  I can see trees for quite a distance in all directions and stopped counting at 30 nests!  It is amazing how those critters survive and how industrious they are.

I hope you are all ready for Thanksgiving.  Just remember you can have and do whatever works for you - you don't have to be traditional at all.  I will be going to my nieces for dinner that day, riding with my brother/SIL.

Did you get any deals this week?  Now is the time to get deals at the grocery.  Do anything exciting?

I hope you all have a wonderful week and that you all stay safe and healthy.  I will be posting Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday this week.  If any of you are traveling away from home, safe travels.

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

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The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face to shine upon you, and to be gracious to you;  The Lord lift up his countenance upon you, and give you peace.

Numbers 6:24-26

Thank you, Lord, for all our many blessings.  Please continue to hold us each in Your loving and protective embrace.  Heal those who need healing, whether in body, mind or soul.  Please keep our friends and family safe this week and let us each be so very thankful for all we have.  We are truly blessed.  

Through You all blessings flow.  AMEN

Helping to Lower the Utility Bill

 Hello all.  One week from today we all (in US) celebrate Thanksgiving.  Goodness, the time has just flown by. It is a very overcast and cloudy day here.  Feels damp out, as we had fog and just a tad of mist.  It sure is muddy out now!  Looks to stay close in temp all day, to what it is right now - upper 40's.

I did go out and ran a few errands yesterday and had a very nice day.  Nothing but sweet and kind people.

As winter approaches and the temps are falling, and utility prices are rising - it is time to think about a few ways to help yourself and perhaps get the bills a bit lower.

• Try lowering the temperature on the water heater.  Most people keep it about 140* - but 120* is plenty hot
• Use cold water washes when possible
• Try air drying laundry and just fluffing.  Or dry for a lesser amount of time
• If using a dishwasher - open after wash and let items air dry.  It also allows humidity back into the house
• Unplug things that are not in use.  TV's in rooms not used, chargers - only plug in when needed, etc.  The only small appliance I keep plugged in, in the kitchen is the microwave, as the plug is very hard to get to. Nothing else in the kitchen (other than major appliances) stays plugged in.  TV's and chargers today, are actually pulling electricity even when OFF - as they are never really off
• Ceiling fans - have them on a low speed going clockwise.  That pushes the heat from the ceiling down into your room
• Turn down the thermostat.  Lower a couple degrees at a time, until you get used to lower temps
• Set your freezer to 0* - that is the optimum temp.
• On sunny days, keep blinds or curtains open to allow the sun to naturally warm your home
• Keep furnace filters clean
• Insulate everything you can.  Make sure your walls and attic space is insulated.  Insulate around windows and doors and even light switches.  Fix all leaks - around doors and such.  Even using a draft dodger at the door bottom helps a lot.  You can easily make one.
• Use your oven wisely.  It draws a lot of energy.  Think about using air fryer, toaster oven, or crockpots
• If you use the oven, when done and you turn it off - leave the oven door cracked open a bit to release the heat into the house.  **Watch out for children and pets
• Use LED light bulbs - they use way less electricity - like 80% less!
• Dress in layers - you can take things off if you get too warm.  Enables you to be able to keep the thermostat down.  You can layer bedding as well.
• Don't over fill the refrigerator!! If you tend to cram things in - it has to use more electricity to stay cool
• Thinking about using heavy or thermal curtains.  You can also use those films over your windows to keep out air
• Drink warm things - tea, coffee, hot chocolate
• Turn off lights in rooms you are not in!
• Take shorter showers - the water heater will work less.

Oh gosh, I am sure there are dozens of more things that you can do.  Every little thing helps.  I know our electric company has really raised its rates, and I have read that is happening elsewhere as well.

Do all the little things - they add up.  We all need to participate to keep our bills lower.

I have what is called a budget plan - I pay the same amount every month of the year - but even that increased this fall.  I want my usage to be lower, so I will continue to do all I can to can do.

Do you have any tips that I didn't mention to help?  Let us know.

May you all have a lovely day and weekend.  

Spread cheer and joy!

Hoping This Covers You!!!!

 Hello to all and a happy midweek to you.  I hope this finds you all safe and healthy.

This morning, we are in the 40's and not going too much higher. It looks to be a cloudy day, but that is to be expected this time of the year.  I so enjoy those sunshine days!  Yesterday we had a lot of rain.  Somewhere between 1 1/2" and 2" in my area.  At times it just poured.  We even had lightning and thunder.

I think it wore Licorice out.  Dinner time, just as he started to eat, it started pouring and he was hiding from it under the side steps/landing. So, I helped him out and put his food down there, so he could eat before nighttime.  He was all curled up sleeping this AM and came out to eat, then went right back in the greenhouse after!  Him tired!!

I know there is someone (many someone's) that need a hug.  I can't be there in person, but I can send virtual hugs. 

Some have been through a lot health wise; some have had family go through health issues.  Some have healed and others are just starting the journey of medical procedures.  Some have lost jobs, and some are dealing with other money issues.  Some are just lost and lonely.

Whatever you are going through, know we all care and we are praying for you and your loved ones.

You are loved.  You are SPECIAL and deserve good things.

                                                   I truly believe this with my whole heart.

Just wanted to take a moment to say BELIEVE and PRAY and know you are loved.  I hope that no matter what you are going through, that you never give up.  You can do anything.  We have each survived all that life has thrown at us so far in this life, and our strength will get us through the rest.

Wishing you each a beautiful and lovely day.

Say a special 'thank you' for every person and thing in your life.  Today is a new and special day!

Blessings to all.