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.

How to Stretch That Holiday Meal

 Hello to all!  It is a WET Tuesday morning here. Rain is coming down, and probably will most of the day.  We do need it, but it sure makes for a dreary day.  I did feed Licorice outside - under his little table - then he went back in the greenhouse to stay dry.  I put corn out last night for the squirrels, so as not to have to do it today!  Stray kitties are somewhere other than here this morning!

Thanksgiving is coming up very soon here in the US.  I hope you have been taking advantage of the many, many deals out there.  Turkey is so very cheap right now.  Get them while you can.  Turkey is good all year long.

A big dinner tends to have leftovers.  Whether you have turkey or ham or roast or whatever - utilize those leftovers.  I will be going to families for the day - but this gal will be making a turkey breast, just so I can have the meat to use in many ways.  Probably will make some sides too!!!

Here are some ideas - trust me - over the years I have done them all!!!

• Soup - add leftover noodles, or pasta or rice - and then veggies
• Turkey Manhattan - so love them.  Hot turkey sandwich cut in half - separated and mashed potatoes in between, then topped with gravy!!!

• Casseroles - layer those leftovers like a lasagna - top with cheese or gravy or dried onions!
• Turkey sandwiches - my FAVORITE - cold turkey sandwich the day after!!!!
• Breaded turkey cutlets
• Potato cakes with l/o mashed pots - can add corn or any other veggie as well.  Can make with sweet potatoes as well
• Turkey gravy over biscuits (this would be a meal for me) - or with breakfast food (yum) - even breakfast sandwiches or burritos
• Pot pie
• Tortilla roll-ups.  Turkey, cranberry sauce, veggies, cheese, anything you want
• Dressing waffles - my favorite way to eat dressing.  Crispy on outside and soft on inside.  You can top with gravy or cranberry sauce or just a pat of butter
• Quiche
• Turkey spaghetti
• Hand pies
• Grilled cheese and turkey sandwich.  Grilled cheese and cranberry sandwich
• Turkey Waldorf salad
• Frittata or omelet
• Shepherd Pie - top with l/o mashed or sweet potatoes
• Turkey chili
• Turkey hash
• Any leftovers on a panini or quesadilla
• Add meat, veggies to make fried rice
• Cranberries can be used in muffins or sweet breads - add to pancakes
• Broth! (from those carcasses)

Goodness, I know there is more and this is just if you have a traditional turkey meal.  Depending on what meat you make - there would be other meals as well.  Ham & beans, ham hash, ham sliced for breakfast, beef Manhattan, stew, stir fry, etc.

You can make new dinners, lunches and even breakfast.  So many ways to use what is left.  You can freeze some and have it later as well.

Remember you don't have to stick with 'tradition' and you can make whatever you have on hand!!!  It doesn't have to be something fancy - just eat what you like and have.

Maybe fancy up the day using nice dishes and/or goblets or a pretty tablecloth, light some candles on the table, play some background music - dress up a little more than normal - make a nice centerpiece from greens or leaves from outside for no money.  Just make it a special day WITH FAMILY or FRIENDS!  That is what is important.  And be THANKFUL for what you DO have!

Do you have any Turkey Day leftover ideas that you do every year?  Something you just have to have?

For me it is the cold turkey sandwich and a turkey Manhattan.  MMMMMM - my mouth is watering thinking about them!

I know many also watch the parade and many, many ball games!  So, you can make a buffet of finger foods as well.  Whatever works for you!

Share your ideas and help someone else with maybe a new idea!

Have a safe and lovely day!

SMILE today - it will improve your mood (and someone else's!)

Weekly Wrap Up 11/16

 Happy Sunday to all.  Hope you are all well and safe this lovely day.  

It is a cooler morning here today, in the 40's.  We sure had a couple really nice and warm days (in 70's) now we are getting back to more normal temps.  We started the week with snow and ended with 70's!  It sure is finicky.  Looks to be near normal until after Thanksgiving.  So, I am hoping we can all make our holiday trips safely.

Hard to believe we are halfway through another month!

Had one day with lots of robins in the yard again - seems when they have showed so do the starlings.  Must be just flying through.  Having robins here in my area, is not normal this time of year.  The robins took advantage and got baths in the birdbath!

Saturday there were at least 30 doves (that I could count) in the backyard, cleaning up under the feeders.

The leaves have been falling like crazy, as we have had some BIG winds!  Same for today.  At least yesterday the leaves were blowing out towards the back - just where I need them for the garden!  Nature is helping me out a little.

My frugal week:

• My neighbor made zucchini bread and sent me a half of loaf
• I made a bowl of banana pudding and added some already opened cream cheese to it - tasted like cheesecake!
• Froze an ice cube tray of leftover country gravy (bagged after froze) - to use in soups and sauces in the future
• Made a small batch of chili
• Got the last rain barrel emptied and put away for the winter
• Raked 2X and got all those leaves out on the garden
• Got to air the house for 2 days and one afternoon - no heat or AC for 2 days now
• Laundry in cold and hung to dry - sure have been having a lot of laundry for one person!!  Seems I have been washing everything in the house lately!!
• I did get the last 3 double hung windows all cleaned - up and down and inside and out.  Did the storm doors again on outside
• Did several small repair jobs on things around the house
• Cleaned out the Blazer and washed all the windows
• Made breadcrumbs and refilled my container - added some Italian seasonings too
• I had a really long conversation with sis this week - she is doing so well.
• I ran to Kroger to get some GC's for gifts.  They had a 4X points on GC's this week.  My FIRST gifts purchased!!!!!!  I also got some bananas (been craving) and Romaine lettuce
• Stopped at thrift store and got 2 Boboli pizza crusts for FREE - stuck in the freezer

That is some of what happened around here this week.  Nothing big or exciting.  Just cleaning a lot - that never ends, does it?   I told sis, I seem to always be busy, yet I am not sure what all I really do.  I guess those daily chores just keep happening and we don't even think about them.

My meals this week:

Country gravy on toast, fried egg, and bacon

Open face cheeseburger topped with salad and fries

Broc cheese soup (freezer) and grilled cheese & egg sandwich

Chili and crackers - 2X              (froze remainder)

Baked beans, corn muffins stuffed with meatballs (freezer)

Red beans & rice, Naan bread and salad

How was your week?  Did you do any holiday shopping for your table or for gifts?  Find any good deals?  Love hearing from you all.

I hope you all stay safe and healthy this week.  Prayers for you and your families. Make sure no matter what life dumps on you, that you count your many blessings - big or small.

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

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

Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, with all malice, and be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

Ephesians 4:31-32

AMEN

Recycling and Rethinking

 Hello to all.  Gosh, here we are 2 weeks out until Thanksgiving here in U.S.  It doesn't seem possible, because then it will be 4 weeks until Christmas!

Chilly morning here, but above freezing, so all is good.  Looks to be a clear day again.  So many leaves have fallen since we had the wind and snow over the weekend.  Starting to look barren out there!

Today, let's look at a few ways to recycle and rethink some of the things that we have and that we bring into our homes.  We can get pretty crafty if we need to.  It is always fun to find new uses for things and it sure can save a dime or two.

Old fabric, old clothes, old sheets, etc. can be turned into pretty and useful items.  Not to offend 'real' quilters, but you can wing it.  Cut a bunch of big squares or little ones, you can use all shapes and sizes (crazy quilts) and just sew them together.  You do not have to 'quilt' it.  You can keep things quite simple.  Bed covers, lap throws, aprons, pillows, potholders, stuffed toys, etc.  There is no end to what can be made and made very easily!!!

An old tea pot - maybe a broken lid, or a crack and leak - use to hold your yarn.  I think this ingenious!  No need to buy something fancy.

Cut the pour spout top off a salt container to fit a Mason jar.  Add a band and now you have a jar with a pour spout.

Tops of those water bottles (or pop) - put them over the opening of a sandwich bag - pull the bag top through a bit and add the lid!  Easy pour.

I like to add squirt lids from soaps or syrup, etc. to old pop bottles (they are heavy).  They are great for making up soap mixes.  I keep any that visitors leave here!

A lot of recipes call for alcohol - namely beer.  I know many of us don't have that on hand.  There are many subs you can use, without using alcohol.   I find broth is the best sub for me, and it is something I usually have on hand.  

I love to make up Rice A Roni mixes myself.  I can control the ingredients.  I have bought Vermicelli several times to use.   It is very fine pasta and in those tiny pieces like comes in the store-bought mixes.  Sure, you can use fine spaghetti and crunch or break it up yourself (I have done that too), but these are all uniform pieces.  Sold in pasta aisle and the cost is so very cheap!!!

We have discussed this one before.  Keep those mesh produce bags - pull off the label and use it the next time you shop for produce, instead of getting a plastic bag.  Reuse the thing!!!!  They also make great scrubbers for the kitchen.  Plastic grocery bags (if you get them) use for small trash cans or pet doodoo pickup.  Many stores have bins where you can return for recycling.

Stale bread or buns make great stuffing bread!  I love using buns in stuffing bread, it just gives it a little more bulk.  My FIL used to love my stuffing, because it wasn't soggy and had substance.

You can cut up, then place on a pan in the oven (super low heat) to dry, you can air dry, or you can dry in the microwave.

Old toys or stuffed animals (maybe yours?) can be used on/around your Christmas tree or on the mantle.  Decorate with them - it adds a nostalgic touch.

Maybe pass oh an heirloom toy you had, to a young one that would love it (and parents that will cherish it).  A few years ago, I gave my childhood wooden rocker to a gr.gr. nephew - it was a hit and the parents thought it was so special.  He also got a big teddy bear (my sis gave me years before she passed).  She would have been his gr. grandma, and he never got to meet her.  His daddy thought this was the neatest thing to have.  They will keep them.

I know not all kids or parents would appreciate things like this - you know which ones that will.  It is a neat way to pass things on.

Just a few ideas on recycling and rethinking ways to use things.  I hope you got an idea or two.  What kinds of neat ideas do you all have?  We all need new ideas!

Have a great day.  Hope it is warming up where you are.

Enjoy your weekend!

It's Okay to..........

 Hello to all.  So happy to have you here.  Hope you are all well.

My thermometer said it was 40 this morning and it is pretty breezy.  Chilly but not as harsh as the past couple days. We are now back on a warming trend.  Most all snow we had is gone.  It looks to be a bright day!!  That is a treat - as sunny days have been few lately.

                 Everything about this picture makes me smile!!!   The ultimate winter picture!

Each evening, as my day is winding down - Bitsy is following me all around, then I come in to sit on the couch for a while, and he jumps up too.  He gets right up against my left thigh, and I put my arm around him, and we sit and snuggle for a while.  I watch a little TV and give him loving, and he is snuggled and sleeping.  Every evening!

Yes, it is OK!!!!!!

We all have times in our month or even our weeks, that we just wonder what the heck?  Everyone has a hard time sometimes.  We all question ourselves at times.  Some even just get to a point that starting completely over is the only option.  It is OK!

None of these mean you failed!  You only fail, if you NEVER try again.  A slump is just that - a slump.  There is always some way to get back up and go forward.  If you only go forward a little at a time - that is fine - it is still going forward!

Be kind to yourself.  Of course, we need to be kind to others, but we often forget to be kind to ourselves.  That is so important.  You are enough, you are special, and you are one of a kind.  That is pretty special.  

There are all the things in this world that God created, and He created a YOU as well.  That is just awesome.

Sometimes we just all need a little reminder.  I love having you all here, and I find you all terrific.  We are 'another' kind of family.  Family isn't just blood.

I wish you all a beautiful and pleasant day.

Fun Food Fixes and Some Cheaper Food Items

 Hello all.  Hope you are all well.  Baby it is cold outside!  We got a blast of winter weather for a couple days.  We had snow start Sunday late afternoon and through yesterday until about 11 AM here.  It covered everything.  At one point yesterday, I wasn't sure what was falling faster - the huge snowflakes or the leaves!  It was something to see.  No leaves left on the tulip tree now, and the maple lost a lot.  The ground was both yellow and white!  Some has melted, depending on where the sun was hitting.  I got the back walk cleared off as it melted - those leaves get slick.

Goodness, the sunrise was beautiful this morning.  The bright pink only lasted a bit, but it sure was pretty.  We get a little warmer each day, until we hit 70 again on Saturday!   Crazy stuff.

Looking out my west window at the tree in neighbor's front yard - yesterday morning.  It was really coming down at one point.

While the snow was blowing around on Sunday, I stayed in and did some TV watching.  I got into watching a show called Struggle Meals on the Taste network (235 on Direct TV).  It is also on You Tube.

The guy doing the cooking is Frankie Celenza.  The whole series is about using what you have, spending little and having fun and yummy food on the frugal!

The guy has some really neat tips - things I never thought of in all my years, and some really good sounding food ideas.  I got a lot of ideas.  It is worth trying to find and watching.  His holiday ideas were really fun too!  CHECK IT OUT!

I am sure you have all heard about the DEALS for Thanksgiving dinners going on.  They are everywhere - which is good.  Most all large markets and their affiliates are having deals.  Many are lasting until Christmas.

You have seen them - feed a family of 10 for $40.  There are also stores having feed 4 for $20.  Some in between.  They are all making it hard to NOT being able to afford a great dinner.

ALDI has a $40 deal - there are about 21 items on their list, and you get multiples of several - making it about 26 items.

WALMART - has a $40 deal and it has 20 items

KROGER has a $40 deal, and it has 16 items.

Both AMAZON and TARGET are advertising $20 deals to feed 4.

Seriously I like Aldi's the best - all include turkey as well as canned, boxed and fresh items.

It isn't a packaged deal - so you can pick and choose for variety.

Looking at the pre-ads for this week (starting Wed.) Some Kroger will have turkey for .49/lb. and Meijer will have turkey for .39/lb.  Not sure what restrictions there are - but dang - those are the best prices I have seen in a few years!

Just think you can get all that food, make a lovely dinner, maybe have visitors bring a side as well - and you will be eating good for a while.

You cannot buy lunchmeat or deli meat (or any meat) for the price of turkeys!!!!  It is healthy and you can use it in so many ways.

I know not all live in bigger towns and not all have affiliates of big grocers close by - but for the deals, it sure would be worth a little drive for me, if I needed any of it.

I have a turkey and a turkey breast in the freezer and a couple hams - so even if I had no other meat - I would be good for a long while.  THAT is the reason we hunt for the deals and keep our freezers stocked!!!!

If you can take advantage of the cheap turkey prices and have room - get what you can store!  You could also can the meat.

These deals are fantastic and come at a time when grocery prices have been up.  Look for baking items in the next few weeks as well - they will all be going on sale.  My niece works for a WM produce dept. in southern IN, and they have reduced all their fresh cranberries to .99/lb.  Not sure if that is everywhere or just there.  Might be worth checking.  Making sauce or marmalades or making juice - super good ways to use them at such a good price.

I will have a post of ALL the ways to eat/use T-day leftovers - IT AINT JUST FOR THANKSGVING ANYMORE!

I hope many of you can take advantage of one or more of these deals.  A lovely meal can be had for your family with minimal cost.

Have a great day.  Stay warm.  SMILE!!!

Weekly Wrap Up 11/9

 Good morning, all.  Hope you are well and safe this Sunday.  It is a chilly morning here.  We had rain overnight.  Cold weather is coming for a few days.  We will be below freezing a few nights, then back to the 60's!  I see some of you gals up north of here, have gotten some of the nasty S word this morning!  ICK!!

Early in the week, I saw several robins around - they drank and took baths.  I guess not a lot of water holes available for them.  One morning I saw a bunny running like the wind down the alley! There was nothing after it - but it sure was running fast.  Yesterday morning I heard a noise in the tree as I was feeding Licorice - figured it was a squirrel coming to eat.  Nope, there was a racoon in the tree - looking at me.  Haven't seen one in a while.  Oh nature - it sure is something.  Beautiful sunrises and sunsets some days, the huge full moon this week - God sure is amazing.

My tulip poplar is getting close to being leaf free - but the maple tree is still loaded with leaves.  Color has become apparent all over, but with the wind and rain many are now falling.

Just finishing up some stuff this week.

My frugal week:

• My key fob has been sluggish for a while.  Thought it might need a new battery - but I took it apart and cleaned really well.  Soft toothbrush gently over the circuit board, then cleaned all the undersides of the buttons (they were dirty!).  Works like a charm now!
• LOTS of laundry in cold and hanging to dry
• Finally got all the garden out and the garden cleared and cleaned.  Down to dirt
• Cut down the big row of peonies and that is all cleaned up
• Got to air the house 3 different times this week
• I did a deep clean of the Ninja blender - I use it every day and wash it every time - but I used a rag and a butter knife and a toothbrush to get in all the crevices and such
• Cleaned out the last of the sedum out front and cut back the last of front bed
• Walked the alley 2 times and picked up trash.  People don't follow the rules of the city when it comes to trash day and on windy days and full carts - things go everywhere - Grrrrr
• Hooked up the heaters for the water bowls and birdbath - for a few days
• Made up a batch of Mex. mix for a couple meals.  1/3 lb. grd. pork, garbanzo beans, corn, homemade salsa, taco seasoning - tasty
• Changed out handbags this week
• I did run to Kroger to look at chuck roasts on sale - super fatty - didn't get.  I did get 5 lbs. of apples for $5, extra cat food, and grapes .99lb.
• Using Soda Stream a lot for bubbly fruit drinks

Meals this week:

Taco pasta bowl

2 cheese (cream & cheddar), tomato roasted Naan and salad

Grilled fish (on G. Foreman), green beans and fried potatoes

Fish sandwich, mac n cheese & tomatoes

Nachos (using above mixture)

Fried chicken and salad

Homemade 'chimichangas' in air fryer (used above mix), salad

Snacks: Apple w/PB, fruit, Cinnamon/sugar toast, cheese

Still eating garden tomatoes every day at some time during the day!

There you go - just finishing up outside stuff and getting ready to stay indoors for a while.  How was your week?  Are you done outdoors?  Did you find any good deals this week?

Let us know what is going on.  Love hearing from each of you.

I pray you are all safe and healthy and that your families are doing well.  

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

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

When I am afraid, I put my trust in thee.

Psalms 56:3

Thank You for this new day and all of our many blessings.  Please give us all strength and guidance we need to face what is ahead.  Let us all keep our eyes on You and Your word, and not all the evil of the world.  Help us each to not be anxious, worried, or stressed.  May Your love, joy and peace fill us all this week.  Amen

Have a Joyful Day

 Good morning to all.  It is a chilly frosty morning here. Looks to get to 60F today, and much less wind than yesterday.  Yesterday was gorgeous - 70F and sunny, but very windy.  Looks like it will get downright cold by Monday!  Below freezing cold at night!!  That will be our first freeze.

This morning that big old bright orb, we call the moon was in the West sky, and pink puffy clouds were in the East.  Just so pretty.

Boy, isn't that the truth.  We are always striving for something other than the moment.  We need to take more time for those 'moments' in our lives.  You know, the ones that just make you smile!  Appreciate them more.

This morning, the kitties outside were so happy to see me - LOL - and they were all talking.  "Food now"!!  Bitsy woke me this morning, by scratching at his post and softly talking.  Jay the big old bluejay was out there calling out, "peanuts are out".  The sky was glorious.  I could see my breath - I have breath to see!!!  The sun is shining.  My house is warm.  Yep, those moments are precious.  They are joy. I am so thankful and grateful.

I hope you all have a great weekend, whether it is cold or warm out.  There are a couple of fall bazaars this weekend, not sure if I will make them or not.  I like to look but can't think of a thing I need.  I do think when the colder weather sets in for a few days, that will give me a good excuse to work on crafting some.  I sure won't be working outside.

Staying in, comfort food, catching up on shows, and snuggling with Bits sounds nice.

Bazaars, fall harvest festivals, crafting, snuggling, seeing the sites, planning the holidays, shopping, inventory the pantry and freezer.................. what is on your agenda?

Whatever you do - do it with joy and know that you are soooooo blessed to have choices.

Have a wonderful day and weekend.

GIVE THANKS EACH DAY

Sometimes We Need a New Strategy

 Good morning to all.  Hope you are all well.  It is a lovely morning here.  50's and bright and sunny.  Pretty breezy, but it is going to be a super day.  We will surely be changing by Sunday and the first of next week - the cold will be here at least for a while.  Time to get the birdbaths ready for heaters for a day or so.

Sunset last night from my front porch and what I also saw out my living room window.

Did you see the moon?  This was right at sunset, and it was full and bright.  The same this morning as well.

As you can see the trees have finally started changing color.  There are so many beautiful colors.  Lots of green too - but the colors just glow!  I am thankful for nature.

Grocery shopping can be a pain.  I keep hearing people say they are spending more and more every week.  I hate that.  Today I looked at the Kroger ad, and I see ways to change up the strategy some may have.  I know many don't believe me, but I am actually spend less when I go shopping and I think very different about things.

First there are many discount markets around today - that we didn't have years ago.  I hope some of you get to take advantage of those.

If you are in need, do not be ashamed of going to a food pantry at your church or in your community.  They can help so much.

I see chuck roast on sale this week for 5.99/lb. - that is $3lb. discount!  Do people really spend that?  Not this gal.  5,99 sounds like too much to me.  I would check markdowns - if nothing, look for a different cut.  BUT a choice that could be made for a pork loin for 1.79/lb.  Yes, it is totally different, but it is a lot cheaper.  We normally have half and whole pork loins on sale for 1.99/lb.  They sure can make a lot of meals in so many ways!

Chicken wings for 2.99/lb.  Remember when they couldn't hardly give them away?  No one wanted wings back in the day.  Anyway - you can have for 2.99/lb., or you could buy already cooked ones for 7.99/lb.!!!!!!!  Good golly, what a difference in cost for just a little work.

Chicken and pork are often quite a bit cheaper here than beef (almost always).

The other day we mentioned potato skins in the comments.  I remember they were a delicacy at restaurants back years ago - they got smart and thought of a way to make money on something they would have trashed.  Like many, I have always used the skins (kept them on).  My only exceptions have been mashed and potato salad.  I know many always use the skins.  This week they are ADVERTISED for a small box of cheesy skins for 8.99!  Good golly Miss Molly, I can buy an awful lot of whole potatoes for that amount.

Convenience foods are costly!

Fruit is another big-ticket item.  Buy what is cheaper and utilize the sales.  Apples are currently in season.  I wish they were still cheaper - but around $1 a pound is a normal sale price around here.  There are 5 lb. bag for $5 this week.  Grapes (seedless) are .99 lb. (coupon).  I find those items good - vs. 6 oz. of blueberries for 2.99.  Sure they are good - but you can get a value for your dollar subbing something else.  Buy what is in season and what is on sale.

There are eggs - 18 count for 1.99 (coupon) and you can get 5 boxes.  Great protein.  Think about making more meals using eggs.  Cheese (Kroger brand) is 2.49/lb. (coupon) - same with this!  So many ways to add cheese into meals.

Soon potatoes, sweet potatoes, and cranberries will be super cheap.  Take advantage and plan meals around those.  Turkeys and hams will be cheaper as well - much cheaper than any deli meat or packaged lunch meat.  It is also healthier.  These items can be used in so many ways.

Baking goods are soon to be on sale.

Always look for clearance items in all departments.  I recently got 5 huge peaches for 1.50 and a few weeks ago, I got 6 juicy pears for 1.50.  Much cheaper than they were selling for on the non-sale racks.  I find ground pork and chicken often for $2 or less a pound.  Cook with other seasoned items (in soups and chili) or add beef bouillon to change the flavor.  WM generally has loaves of French bread for $1 on clearance - great for garlic bread or pizza.  Freezes well.  Many church thrift stores have FREE bread days.

I know not all have Kroger - but just giving examples of how to change up your thinking and your recipes.  Use what is on sale!  FIRST use what you HAVE!!!!!!  Check your freezers and get out the things that have been lounging in there for a bit too long.  USE IT.

Hopefully many still have garden produce to use - squashes and pumpkins keep and last.  Cabbage lasts and stores well too.

Take some time to develop a new strategy to shopping and cooking.  It surely can save you funds that can be used for stocking up or for some other bill.

Have a wonderful day - get out and enjoy the sunshine if possible.

SMILES and HUGS

Let's Celebrate Thankfulness

 Hello to all.  Hope you are all well and safe.  It is a chilly and frosty morning here.  I have been out and fed everyone, and the fingers got cold!

Have I ever mentioned how much I hate the time change?  Yeah, I have.  Still do.  Gosh, I am now up an hour earlier according to the clock. (Kitties want, what kitties want, and when they want it!  They don't go by the clock).  Then it is dark so early now (and not time for bed) - the day just seems so long!

At least it is a sunny one today.  Sunrise was lovely. All is well.

November has become the month of thankfulness.  I mean the word is right in the holiday name!  I am thankful every single day.  There is much to be thankful for - we just need to open our eyes.

I know we are now approaching the time of the year that many do not like.  HOLIDAYS!  Not everyone has family, or somewhere to be, or someone to be with.  Many have bad memories.  Days are gray and cold.  People get all stressed out.  It is said the be the 'saddest' time of the year for many. 

Maybe, just maybe, we can all focus on the little things that makes a day better.  Maybe, just maybe, we can all find something to be thankful for every day.

You can hibernate - but still find something each day to be grateful for.

Celebrate your thankfulness.

Small things - add up to a big thing!  A happy heart!!!!

• Support a good cause in some way
• Donate time
• Donate things you no longer use - maybe a woman's shelter or a homeless shelter
• Donate old towels or buy food for an animal shelter
• Connect with your spirituality
• Handwrite a letter to someone
• Slow down and appreciate your surroundings - your pets, nature, a kind neighbor, a sweet stranger, a tasty meal, a warm bed, another day!
• Create something
• Reward good service - give a bigger tip or give a kind word
• Keep a journal or a list all month - write something each day
• Focus on gratitude = If you focus on gratitude more and more, the negative seems to melt away
• Hug more, say I love you more, smile more, just BE more

Don't be pressured with tradition.  You don't have to have a traditional meal - eat whatever you like.  You don't have to decorate.  You don't have to spend a fortune - it is more about the 'meaning of the seasons', and the people.

The earth is beginning to quiet, so should you.  You don't have to be stressed and panicky.  Just do what makes you happy.  It is OK!

I am so thankful for all of you - you make my life better.

Have a wonderful and special day.

Weekly Wrap Up 11/2

Hello to all and a happy November.  Hard to believe, isn't it? We are a cool morn here, in the mid 40's.  It will get to upper 50's today and back to the mid 60's this week.  Not going to complain at all!

On Monday, I picked a rose!  I am sure it is probably the last one of the year - but it is still smelling sweet and looks pretty, after all these days.

I looked out on Nov. 1 (yesterday) and there was a robin in the birdbath!  I haven't seen a robin in 2 or 3 months around here.  What a treat.

I changed all my clocks, except the bedroom clock.  When Bitsy comes to say "get up & feed me" - the clock still looks the same.  It's a mind thing I play every fall.  I will eventually change it, but I leave it for a while.  My head says it is 6:30AM - but actually 5:30.   The animals don't change their habits - just us silly humans.

Those little things are HUGE sometimes.  The pretty leaves, the birds passing through, 

the crunch of an apple, children laughing, hugging someone - all blessings.

My frugal week:

• Last Sunday, I did run to Kroger for a weekend special.  I got a turkey breast for .99/lb.  I spent about 6.50 for it, and it will sure be some good eating and several meals and sandwiches!  Heck, I can't buy lunchmeat that cheaply.  I also got 5 huge peaches in the 1.50 clearance bin, and 3 caramel apples for 1.50 total.  They are generally 3.99 each!
• I filled my tank while out - saved .60/gallon due to the 4X points you can get on Fridays.  I spent very little last month - but those extra points sure do help.  Even had a coupon for 300 points if spending $30 as well last month.
• Changed out yard flags
• Some walks - didn't get them in every day, but got other exercise in yard
• Re-did my weather stripping on the front door.  No more gaps!
• Did a major dust and vacuum this week. (deep cleaning)
• Washed the woodwork and windowsills
• Fixed (straightened) and rehung a couple of valance rods
• Had visitors stop by a couple times this week.  My old neighbor that moved to KY was in town for Dr. so stopped by for a few.  Sent them home w/ a bunch of tomatoes
• Pulled out more garden - have about 1/3 left to do.  Did more cutting back of flowers
• Mowed, trimmed and mulched the entire yard
• Put the area rug back in the kitchen - to keep tootsies warmer
• Actually, got to air the house 2 or 3 times this week (in afternoons).

Meals this week:

Double cheeseburger and fresh veggies

Naan bread pizza (bread from freezer)

Broccoli/cheese soup and tomato sandwich

Air fried corn on cob and fish and fries

Broc/cheese soup over rice w/sour cream & cheese

Salad topped burritos - supreme (homemade)

Pork chop strips, mashed pots, slaw

Another sort of quiet week, just doing THE stuff!  I seem to manage to keep busy, not sure what all I really do some days.  Has anyone gotten any good deals this past week?  How are you doing with winterizing and getting ready for the new season (whatever season you are in)?

I sure hope you are all well and safe.  Thinking of all of you - many missing for a while.

Prayers to all for health and safety and prayers of healing for all in need.

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

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

Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord.

Psalms 31:24

Thank You Lord for all our many blessings this week.  Thank you for Your guidance and love for us.  Please help us each to gain our strength from Your love and from our faith.  Strength in everyday matters is often hard, but we know with You in our lives, we can get through all things.  I pray that You lay Your healing hands upon all that are in need.  Amen

Just a Thing or Two to Save $

 Hello all.  Hard to believe we have almost finished another month.  One more day in October - tomorrow is Halloween.  I no longer do Halloween, just a bit scary all alone.  I used to pass out candy - but no longer.

It is a brisk morning, 45*F and a little breezy and very damp.  We had rain last evening and overnight.  It was much needed.  Been out and fed the critters and cat(s), and after eating Licorice went right in the greenhouse and got in bed!!  Smart kitty.

I sure didn't want to get up this morning - the bed felt so good.  Bitsy was having none of that!!

Just a few ways to preserve your food and save it and saving a few dollars along the way.

Hope you find something you can use.

• When buying bagged produce - always weigh it.  A 5lb. bag - may be 4lb. or 6 lb.  Get the most for your money
• Make sure produce is dry when purchasing.  Wet weighs more.  ALSO - I hear a lot of bad things about those produce sprayers (icky germs), so make sure you clean and dry at home before storing
• Always check the UNIT price.  Bigger is not always cheaper.  Sometimes you can get smaller packages much cheaper, sometimes bigger ones
• Shop ONCE a week or two weeks (however you go) - do NOT go back.  Sub or use something else.  Many shopping trips means more temptations to spend
• Have lots of basic seasonings on hand.  You can jazz up the blandest things and make them very tasty
• When you find an extra good deal on something - buy what you will need until the next sale comes around.  Usually every 6 - 8 weeks
• If you don't have buns for burgers - use bread.  Shape burgers to fit.  I toast the bread and it stays together while eating the sandwich, instead of getting soggy.  I prefer bread
• Beef is increasing in price - so remember you can sub ground pork, chicken or turkey in recipes for ground beef.  I know many don't like the taste of those - so add beef bouillon to them and it really improves the taste, making them more beef like!
• Check ethnic stores or the ethnic aisle for good deals.  I have purchased many of the same products in the ethnic aisle much cheaper than in the other parts of the same grocery!!!!
• Let older stale bread get bone dry and grind it up to make breadcrumbs (you can even season).  Also cut up older bread and dry - for dressing.  I always make my own.
• Line your produce drawers with paper towels or a cotton towel to absorb any moisture from fruits and veggies (outer moisture).  Helps things stay fresh longer
• Shop with a LIST and use cash if you are easily tempted to spend.  With cash you are limited to impulse buys.  I only impulse shop for CLEARANCE.
• Remember - FIFO = first in first out - always rotate your stock
• Find a deal on peppers, onions, celery - get them and chop and freeze.  Super easy and ready for adding to recipes
• Apples getting older -- peel and core and slice and make fried apples.  Add a little butter and some sweetness and cinnamon and you have a yummy side or dessert!  Soooo good.

According to the Economic Research Service, Americans waste more than 25% of the food they buy.  If you buy it - use it.  It cuts your costs, stops waste, and keeps it out of landfills (unless you compost).  Waste is just NOT cool!!

LEFTOVER candy from Halloween? 

Use 8 oz. of Milky Way candy bars

1/2 C butter

3 C rice crispy cereal

Melt candy and butter and stir until smooth and blended.  Stir in cereal and thoroughly coat.  Spread in a greased 7x11 pan and chill.  Cut into squares!  

EASY SPAGHETTI TOSS

1 - 10 oz. pack of spaghetti

1 - 10 oz. pack of frozen broccoli, peas, snow peas, whatever you like

2 Tbsp. butter

2 C chopped chicken (can use leftover or canned)

2/3 C stir fry sauce (or what you like)

Cook spaghetti al dente - stir in veggies and cook for another few minutes.  drain, add butter.  Spoon into a bowl and add cooked chicken and sauce.  Super simple and cheap - using what you have (get creative with it).

I make lo Mein with spaghetti all the time - using leftovers and soy sauce.

Do you have any useful tips for saving your goods or stretching them into something new and savory?

Love to hear your ideas.

Have a great end to your month.

ENJOY & be kind!

A Lost Art (?)

 Happy midweek to all.  I surely hope this finds you all well and safe.  It is a blustery morning here.  We are in the low 50's, breezy and sprinkles.  May get rain later today and tonight in our area.  Looks like southern part of the state and in many other areas are already getting rain.

For those in certain areas - don't forget the time change this weekend.  Turn those clocks back an hour.  I sure wish we could just pick one and keep it!!!

I so do believe this.  Be happy and love everything you have and have been offered in this world.

I do think good old home making has become a lost art to some point.  Many of us started small, and worked hard to buy a home, and then moved our way up.  Many of us kept that small one.  Today so many want instant gratification, and they want what mom & dad worked years for - NOW!  That causes big debt and many times the loss of the nice things.  It causes a lot of stress as well.

I know many partners both work, and then they hire cleaners to come in and take care of things.  They eat all their meals out - as 'they just don't have time'.  PRIORITIES!  People need to choose.

I know several members of my family have chosen to stay home and home school, and many have jobs that allow them to work from home (and make great money).  So, they do all the 'stuff' we were taught as we grew up.  I have so many of the younger ones, wanting ideas and recipes and things from 'grandma'.  I love that.

It is also going to come to pass (in my opinion) that people are going to need these ideas and skills.

Yes, we have technology now, and everything is modernized and tech driven.  I believe that may be our demise.  I think we are going to have to take a step back and learn to do for ourselves! 

Frugal/thrifty living is a means to an end.  It helps us save some money and conserve while perhaps saving for a goal.  A vintage way of life is not a bad one.  I am seeing more and more Vlogs promoting the simple ways of life today.  They are choosing to do the 'things' over going out and spending and having that second job.  They are choosing family life and a simple life.  That really warms my heart.

We need to get more practical.  Use what you have.  Love what you have.  Take care of what you have.

Learn to be creative in all aspects of life.  Cook from home and use 'ingredients' vs. buying premade items.

We are influenced every day at all times to BUY and GET the newest, brightest and fanciest gadgets.  Seriously, why do we need them?  Keeping up with everyone else?  Not this girl.  I could not care any less about the gadgets.  I will take my easy and simple life.

My home is small, it is old.  It is MINE!  I love its charm and coziness and quaintness.   I mean how much room does one need?

My stuff is older.  My vehicle is older.  I AM older!!!!!  It all works!

Learn to be creative in your home, your cooking, your yard, your crafts, your life.  Use and reuse things - not only does it save some funds, but it also saves things from the landfill and reusing things is a wonderful way of honoring this earth.  Learn new skills - we are never too old to learn.

Value teaching others - I think that is our greatest gift to the world - impart your knowledge on others.  They can't know and learn unless we teach.

Don't let things like homemaking and cooking and creating be a lost art.

A simple life really does make for a peaceful and non-stressed life.  

LOVE YOUR LIFE JUST AS IT IS.

Have a beautiful day.

Dropping Food Budget? There are Ways!

 Hello to all.  Hope you are well and safe.  It is a breezy 50*(F) this morning, going to 60*.  I think it may stay cloudy, but at least it is a decent temp.  We have sure had some beautiful sunrises and sunsets the past few days.  God is so good.

We have come to a time that many people are having their food budgets lowered and may be struggling.  With some thinking and careful use, you can survive and survive well.  I do hope that most of you have been adding the basics over time to your pantries, in with your weekly and monthly allotments.  Basics can work in so many ways.

You know my mantra - be creative and think outside the box.

Now I am not saying this should be a daily or normal way of eating (it can be), but today there will be ideas how to get through the rough times and eat and fill your families' bellies and not do without.

• We always talk about dry beans.  They are super cheap, they are healthy and good protein, and they can be cooked in a crockpot during the day while you are at work.  You can add rice, potatoes, bread etc. and have a very filling meal.
• Along those lines there are split peas - Mmmmm split pea soup.  Lentils are a great addition to soups and they can take the place of meat in many meals.  Lentil tacos can be made, add to chili, so many uses.  Both of these are cheap sources of protein as well.
• Soups - so easy to make.  Throw in whatever you have - can be canned, frozen or leftovers and make a hearty veggie soup.  Cream of soups are super easy to make and can add variety as well.  Think potato, broccoli, cauliflower - whatever you have.   Tomato soup and GRILLED CHEESE are a standard!
• PASTA - so versatile.  Spaghetti is everyone's first thought.  Yum - you know you can add veggies and not meat and still have a yummy spaghetti dinner.  Lasagna - again, you can go plant based instead of meat.  You don't even need lasagna noodles; use a layer of whatever pasta you have.  I one time added a random can of Ravioli as a layer to lasagna - tasty.  It still tastes the same.  Pasta can be added to any soup to extend it.  You can pour many things over pasta.
• RICE - again cheap and versatile. It too is a great extender of soups and casseroles, served under gravy or soups, fried rice (add in all leftovers), add to eggs for an extended scramble.
• Chili is always a winter favorite.  Add lots of beans and less meat.  You can serve over pasta or rice or add pasta to it.
• Breakfast for dinner - think pancakes, waffles, biscuits and gravy - all are super cheap to make and they all use basic pantry items.  Nothing fancy needed.  I love a dinner of biscuits and gravy - great comfort food!
• Pizza - a yummy and filling food.  It doesn't have to be just a pizza made on pizza crust.  You can use bread (I have used stale for this), buns, Naan, tortillas, bagels, English muffins, Italian bread (my favorite pizza), etc.  It is a great way to stretch bread products.  ADD any topping you have - leftovers included.  Chop leftover meat, make a veggie pizza, add mac & cheese, any sauce you have, you get the idea.  You can top with anything and have a hearty and filling pizza
• Leftovers - ALWAYS use in some way.  Soup, on pizza, Shepherd's pie, pot pies.  Recreate leftovers and fool those who say they don't like them!  Make stir fry - no limit to what you can use.
• Jello - add fruit (canned is fine).  Makes a nice treat.  Top with yogurt if you have some.
• Smoothies - add fruit to milk and ice or yogurt.  You can add greens or oats whatever you want to add bulk.  A smoothie can be a meal.
• Canned, fresh or frozen fruit can be a dessert.  Mix together some oats, a little flour, butter and brown sugar - to top the fruit and bake until golden.  You have cobbler.  Add fruit to muffins or sweet bread - they can make a nice breakfast.
• Oatmeal - can be topped with anything.  It can be served sweet or hearty.  Make baked oatmeal (only way I will eat it).  Baked is so good, add fruit, nuts, chips, anything you have.
• Peanut butter - NEVER forget this!!!!!  Peanut butter sandwiches are filling and a good protein.  You can add a slice of fruit and grill - oh nummy.  Add to stir fry and make an oriental flavored meal.  Add to oatmeal.
• Wraps or rollups.  These are great for leftover veggies, meat, cheese - even fruit.  They are fun and easy to eat.  Make a great quick breakfast or lunch.  You can also grill them and make a warm meal.  Don't forget EGG ROLL wrappers.  Make any kind of egg roll you can.  Again, add leftovers, fruit, shredded cabbage and soy sauce, etc.  I make them in my air fryer - 350* for about 15 minutes (turn once).
• Baked potatoes - super cheap and filling.  Top with anything you have around
• Cabbage is very versatile.  Fried, steamed, in soup, egg rolls, slaw, salads, cabbage rolls, etc.
• Never underestimate a pot of mac & cheese with a can of tuna added or a couple hotdogs cut up in it.  You can actually add any leftover meat you have.  Add a salad and/or some crusty bread and you have a meal.  Same with baked beans - add some cut up hotdogs and have beanie wienies. 
  

Just a few ideas to help stretch the food budget.  Nothing glamorous, but it will fill a belly.  THAT is what it is all about!!!  Not saying you have to eat like this always, although there is not a thing wrong with it, but it will stretch what you have, and it will help save money.

IF you are need, please remember there are food pantries in almost every community - GO!  There is no shame to feed your family.  I know many of the smaller ones around here, say they can't give away all the fresh items each week, and they give it to the volunteers.  So go and take what they give you.  Use it or trade it with someone.  Barter is still alive.

Remember you can have meatless nights - there are so many other proteins available.

Check out sites that give ideas on how to use what you have.  There are many out there.  My favorite has always been MyFridgeFood - there are others.

Many thrift stores offer bread products for free - check around.

While the stores have holiday foods on sale - take advantage of those.  Many items are much cheaper like potatoes, sweet potatoes, turkey, etc.  A super cheap turkey is a deal - you can't buy lunchmeat for the price you can buy a turkey.  It is healthier too.

Pasta, rice, beans, potatoes are all great extenders to just about any food.  They can make a 'couple servings' into 3 or 4.  Do what you need to do to feed your family.

I hope others add some of the ideas they have used to stretch their food.

YOU CAN DO THIS.  DO NOT PANIC!

I wish you all a lovely day.

PS - Gentle Reminder - NO POLITICS at all - just useful tips.

Weekly Wrap Up 10/26

 Hello to all.  Can you believe we are again on the last Sunday of another month?  It is less than 60 days now until Christmas!  You are welcome!!  LOL

It is finally fall in my area.  It feels it - although for the most part, it is nice fall weather.  The colors are finally starting to change some.  There is still a lot of green out there too.  Temps are cool, and not as many full sunny days.  Daylight hours sure have shortened.  I notice it the most in the mornings - it has changed my outdoor schedule.

Mr. Hog (groundhog) still has not gone into hibernation!  Amazing.  It is huge.  Probably because it is still eating and NOT hibernating!  Goodness, it is building up its winter fat.

It has been a fairly quiet week and just small projects again.

My frugal week:

• Made a small amount of green tomato relish (for me)
• Made a nice big bowl of tomato/cuke/onion salad - ate for meals and snacks
• Using the Soda Stream for carbonated fruit water
• Made a batch of brownies (had a sweet tooth)
• I went to lunch with grade school chums this week.  That is always a fun thing.  We had a really nice group this month.  Took several red and green tomatoes for who ever wanted them.
• Added extra bedding to the greenhouse and the little house for kitties
• NO grocery store this week
• Pulled out about half of the garden - remainder to follow in the next few days
• Cleaned out my closet, especially the floor
• Did stop at the feed store while out and got squirrel and bird feed
• Finally had to turn on the heat this week, as we had a couple nights of 30's.  It is set at 67* - and it has felt perfect
• Made a big pot of veggie/hamburger soup/stew (stoup).  Ate and froze some for later
• Put up the hoses for the winter
• Filling baskets, bins from supplies on hand.  Brought up some freezer goods from downstairs and took others from up to down
• A neighbor brought me a few slices of banana bread she just made

Meals this past week:

Cheese topped pozole over rice w/crackers

Grilled cheese/ham/tomato sandwich and l/o pozole

Hamburger hash and salad

Cheesy potato soup (freezer) salad

Homemade hamburger veggie stoup (threw in l/o hash)

Out to lunch w/friends - (House of Tokyo) - brought extra home for later that day

Veggie stoup and end of salad

Nothing exciting much, just daily living.  Oh, I did pay everything I had due, up through even November dates.  The house insurance and umbrella were in there - oh my!!!  At least that is done for another year.

How was your week?  Did you do anything fall-ish and fun?  Get any deals?  Fall cleaning?  

Give us a shout out and let us know what is going on in your world.

I hope this finds you all well and safe.  Please know I pray for you all and there are many that need those prayers - unspoken requests.  I hope you all have a lovely week ahead.

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

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

"Ask, and it will be given you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you."

Matthew 7:7

Lord we know that You are always with us, and You guide us.  Help us to realize that all things are answered, just not always as we expect.  Your will be done.  You know the reason and the outcome.  You are placing us everyone, where we need to be to do what we need to do in this world.  It is not always understood at the time.   Thank You for all out many blessings.  Amen

Progress

 Hello all.  Prayers all are safe and healthy.  It is a very chilly morning here.  It is definitely fall!  Sweatshirt and sweater weather is here.  I got up to a light frost in our area.  It was 38* and the coldest it has been since April!  UGH.  I know it is time, but I sure don't like cold weather.

Life changes for all of us, sometimes as often as daily.  Things happen that we just don't expect, things happen that we anticipate, and it is normal for things to change.  Change is our one constant!

As we are ready to enter a new season, we do things differently.  We prep for the holidays and for winter (spring in other places) and we can be guaranteed we get older each day and things change with us as individuals as well.

As we age, things move slower.  We move slower.  We look at things differently as well.  Some things are not as important as they used to be.  That is normal.

You gals with kiddos, notice change as well, as your children age.  Nothing stays the same.

Progress - any progress - is good.  You don't have to change overnight.  Baby steps and slow and steady are just fine!

Adding to your pantry, lowering a bill or two, paying off a small bill, rearranging a room, decluttering a little, it is all progress.

Be proud of what you get accomplish, it all matters.  Just keep plugging away.  Some days we all feel like what is the point.  That is normal too.  

A calm home (a decluttered home is calmer) a simple meal, peace of mind about finances, being in LOVE with your life - it is all progress.

Just keep putting one foot in front of the other and you will get there.  It isn't a race.

May you all have a blessed and peaceful day.

Whatever you put your mind to this weekend, ENJOY!

Magic - Material Misfits Can be Fun!

 Hello all.  Hope you are all well.  It is a brisk morning here.  I actually put the hood up on my sweatshirt when outside this morning - not that it did much good!  It is still very breezy out there.  Yesterday it looked pretty to start the day, then got cloudy and we had spitting rain and WIND!  Like 40mph gusts.  Licorice was scared of the wind and hid a lot.  He did eat some - but boy was he hungry this morning!  He ate and ate, then went in the greenhouse and curled up on his blanky.  Sweet boy.

It is still windy but not as bad as yesterday.  Supposed to be sunny!

Ok, I have resisted talking about holiday stuff now, but it is getting closer and closer, and some things need to be started now.  I know we have a lot of crafty folks that stop by here, so today is about some 'plans' I have and some ideas on what to do with odds and ends of material pieces.  You can make magic!

I have 2 littles that absolute love Disney and Mini (ages 5&6).  This is kind of what I am thinking as making as a special gift from Aunty - only in more of a patchwork design - in pinks, reds and peachy colors.

They have their blankies I made them and use them all the time - so I thought they might like these cute little pillows.

I have a 5 yr. old girlie that loves kitties so much, and her little brother is a dinosaur fanatic.  So here are a couple of ideas I found that I will give a try as a special homemade gift.  They love to cuddle and carry things around, so I thought something like this would be cute.

There are so many fun things you can do with fabric.  Make aprons, lap quilts, a bed quilt, pillows, a patchwork vest, hot pads, coasters, etc.  The list is endless.

To make hot pads - I usually line with some jean material, as it is thicker and will help absorb the heat.  I have heard of people using material from an ironing board cover!  Brilliant - heat proof.

I like this idea, and you may not need to sew.  You could probably use fabric glue.  

These look sewn, but I am thinking you could use carboard scraps, and cut out letters, then glue on fabric and add a piece of magnet to the back.  This is a great learning tool and cute too.  I have often made magnetic items using those magnets we get that are just flat advertising slabs of magnet.  I then cut and use.  ** Do be careful that kiddos aren't so small that they may try to put magnets in their mouth.**

There are just so many fun ideas out there and you can make some really cute and one of a kind holiday gifts.  You may have old clothes that can be cut up and used for projects, old jeans that are beyond wearing, material scraps from older projects, t-shirt material, there is no end to what can be used.  Maybe even old pillowcases or sheets (think thrift shop).  Even an old quilt that needs a lot of work from a thrift shop - use the good areas and you have old material and a patchwork already!

It is time to start getting creative.  Adults get food items and/or GC's from me, but the littles need something cute too.  

Get your thinking cap on and start getting creative.  Have fun and make a memorable gift.

Have a super day.