Make the Choice!

 Hello all.  Here we are at Thursday again!  Dang, the time is flying by.  It is a sunny and cooler (a bit) this morning.  Last evening we had a brief rain shower, and maybe one later over night.  It sure is wet outside.  The grass is sopping wet - I don't know if I get to mow or not today.  Sigh!!!!  The humidity is down for the day, so that is good.  It looks like it is going to awfully hot this weekend - so I will be staying in much of the time.

Right now, I am airing the house a little, while I can.

Life is busy, and it slips away quickly.  Maybe, just maybe, if you do the best you can - your light will continue to shine well after you are gone.  Even if it is a brief thought by a stranger of the person who did or said something kind.

Yesterday our high school alumni group sent out yet another memo about another classmate who passed.  A brilliant man.  I remember his brilliance back into junior high.  He graduated early to go to college (I remember no one else doing that.)  He was tragically killed by someone running a red light - he was riding his bike to work (yes at 71).  He was a doctor, specializing in hematology and cancer care.  A biking enthusiast for decades.   A split second changed so may lives.

It seems like at least once a week we get a notice of someone leaving this earth from our class.

Just mentioning this to let it be a reminder that we all need to be our best every day.  

We can have some joy and make it a better day IF we choose to.  Remember the good things.  Do the good things others will remember.  Take time to smile and laugh, and yes, try to make someone else smile and laugh.

We all have the ability.

There is enough negativity in this big old world, without adding to it.  We can each make a difference - if only for one person.  It all makes a difference.

Trust me if you make someone else smile and experience joy - you will feel it too!!!!!

Stay cool in the upcoming summer days.  Eat the fresh yummies.  Tell the silly joke.  Stay well.

Have a wonderful weekend and SMILE and LAUGH a little!!!!

A Bit of This and That - and a Question

 Hello all.  Hope you are all well.  It turned into a pretty morning here.  I woke to the end of a little rain and a little haze this morning.  We had a nice little rain yesterday afternoon as well, and the plants all got a drink.  The skies were grumbling, but we got nothing bad here.  One of these days, I may be able to get out and mow!  Hoping for tomorrow - it looks to be the best day for a bit.  Too hot, too dewy and wet, too humid, it is always something.  Not taking any chances.  I know it is very hot many places, so please take care and stay in and stay hydrated.

I want to say I watched a show this week on Discovery on the 2024 hurricane of Helene and the Appalachia area.  It was films taken by survivors and all their personal videos.  It was so sad to watch.  I cried, and I found myself holding my breath most of the show.  I cannot imagine.  People filming their homes being hit by waves of water and huge debris, watching their neighbors homes being washed away.  One family filmed a neighbor be washed away in the water (an older lady), and their husband/dad jumped in to save her.  Both survived somehow.  Landslides happening right in front of people.  I know many places are still not even close to being back, almost a year later.  Such an unusual event for that area.  I mean who had heard of a hurricane hitting the mountains?  Just so much sadness.

It is now hurricane season again, and I pray for everyone out there, that no one has to go through any bad storms.  I know many of you from Florida and up the east coast have gone through these horrific storms (some many times).  I am so sorry for that.

There is so much flooding around right now, and fires, it is heart wrenching.  

On a positive note, I got a video of my gr.gr. nephew opening his t-shirt blanket after he got home from camping.  He loved it.  He said, "I now officially have the best blanket in the house".  Isn't that cute?  The littles have their blankets I have made, mom has hers from when she graduated high school and the one she had me make with the littles clothes.  He had one as a baby, but nothing as he grew.  He is in middle school this year, and the t-shirts were all memories from 'grade school'.

I got a bag of t-shirts from my niece (his grandma) to make a blanket for her MIL.  Oh my.  I had a gal ask me if I would think about making one for her daughter too. They are fun to do, but oh my back!!  I have no place big enough to spread things out, except the floor.  So up and down.  Guess we will see.

I have a QUESTION for you all.  What do I use fig jam for?  I have a jar I received as a gift, and not sure how to use it.  I am not a big fig eater, except Fig Newtons as a child!  Not sure what to do with it - I sure don't want to waste it.  Give me your best ideas!  Maybe a holiday thing I can make?  Thanks

I picked several tomatoes yesterday!!!  They aren't totally ripe - but I am not taking any chance of critters eating them.  I am so happy they are finally ripening.

I mentioned a week or so ago about the groundhog showing back up for a couple days.  I was really worried about the garden, and it was eating a lot of my flowers.  So I came in one morning (while he was here), and got my jug of ammonia.  It was under the deck/shed - so I started in front of the deck and poured going to the front of shed.  As I walked to the side of the shed - I met him head on!  He just stopped about a foot from me and froze.  I guess he thought I was a BIG predator!!  They usually don't get close to a person and always hide.  I stepped back and off he went too and I haven't seen it since.  The ammonia works!!!!!  My brother has had a problem with them for years and he tried ammonia this year (after my advice) and finally got rid of his as well.  Just an inexpensive tip if you have them.   They don't like the smell at all. (other animals - cats, squirrels weren't bothered).  They leave, I am happy, and nothing harmed.

OK, enough rambling for the today.  Any ideas for the jam would be appreciated!  

Hope you all have a safe and lovely day.

Be a blessing to someone!!!!!

Pantry Prep for the Struggles in Life

 Hello all.  Hope you are all doing well this Tuesday.  It is sunny at the moment, they say the day will be pretty cloudy.  We will see.  It is 74*F already, so it will be a warm and humid one again!  The tomatoes are FINALLY starting to come on and ripen.  They are so good.

Today just an idea or two for stocking up for whatever may come your way.

It could be a loss of a job.  It could be an illness.  It could be a family loss - trust me you don't want to shop for a while afterwards.  It could be rising prices.  It could be a weather event or just plain old winter!

There are a world of reasons to have your pantry in order.  Protect yourself and your family.

You need to remember that "pantry" does not just mean food!  It can be anything that you use on a regular basis.  There are also items that you use infrequently - many of those items are expensive, so slowly work on stocking up a little.

My main tip is to make a list or two.  A list of items you use a lot of  - every day, every week.  Things that you can go through fairly quickly.  Then make a list of things that you will need from time to time.

Keep that list with you at all times when out and shopping.

Everyday and frequently used items.

Canned or frozen foods.  Pasta, rice, dried beans, dish soap, laundry supplies, canned meats, H&B, TP, coffee, tea, there are just all sorts of things.  Pay attention when out in a store (any store).  If you find a great price on those items or a special, get some extra.  So many things last and last (well past 'best by' dates).

Think about things like furnace filters, allergy meds, sleep aids, baking goods, cleaning products (or make your own), vinegar, batteries, even yarn or craft supplies, etc.

You don't want to need something and not have it.  Of course, most of us know how to substitute other items, but not everyone does.  There are many times that you just don't want or need to go out to shop, especially if it is for one thing or for a more expensive item.

Don't limit yourself to grocery stores.  You may find a good deal anywhere.  There are dollar stores and places like Aldi and Ollies.  Now remember when buying goods at the dollar stores to look at the size of the item being purchased.  They often carry smaller sizes, and you really aren't getting a good deal, compared to the grocery.  So always check your sizes and unit prices.

I am personally good on so many items.  But things like filters and batteries are always on my list.  Over the counter vitamins, minerals, restless leg meds, allergy pills, OTC pain meds (Tylenol, Ibuprofen), cold meds or tummy aids (generally I use natural), etc..

Always be on the lookout for deals.  Having a prepped pantry can literally be a life saver.  You want to be able to provide for your family.  

You don't have to spend a lot of money at any one time.  Always keep $10 or $20 back for such reasons.  If you run into something that is a deal, and have no money - well, you have just lost an opportunity.  ALSO remember if you charge the items - PAY IF OFF at the end of the month.  Do NOT accrue interest - that is no deal!!!!!!!

Also remember that baby formula is basically the one thing that has an "expiration date".  The normal dates you find of items are NOT expiration dates!!!!  They are 'best if used by' dates.  The item doesn't magically go bad the day after that date!  Most items last and last, so PLEASE don't be wasteful.

So stock slowly and with purpose and intention.  Get the things you use and will need.  If it isn't used, it isn't a deal and it has no value.

Be wise and prepare!

Have a beautiful day and SMILE!

Weekly Wrap Up 8/10

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

August - means hot days.  We have that - but I sure find it better than below freezing and snow!  I could do without that all together.

Each morning we get up to very heavy dew and it really doesn't dry out.  I went out one afternoon, thinking to cut at least the front, and it was 3:30PM and the grass was still wet!  Crazy.

It looks to be a hot one again all this coming week.  Hope you are all finding ways to stay cool.

I was talking to Laurie in OR and she said they are looking at triple digits this weekend - heck 90 doesn't sound so bad!  Last week Hilogene said she was having triple digits in AZ as well.  Oh gosh, so glad all that isn't here.  Stay safe.

Boy last night and early this morning the moon was sure bright and full.  I thought this was a pretty picture.

You can tell it is getting closer to fall, as there are spider webs everywhere!  No matter where you try to walk outside, it seems you run into a web, around here.

My frugal week:

• I got to walk a couple mornings, early in the week.  Talked a while with the guy 2 doors down (chicken guy).  Probably the most we have talked ever.  Asked about him selling eggs, and he said he really never thought about being "egg man"!  He said maybe we could barter.  He gave me 4 - to just try.  I have tomatoes - so we may do that as a barter.  Regardless, I found a really nice young man (an old soul) to talk with!
• I got to air the house a day or so, and most mornings I turn off AC and air the house
• I had to change a lightbulb this week!!  I can't remember the last time I did that.  I hardly ever use the lights, and bulbs last forever now (I do have a nice stash of them)
• I washed inside windows, doors and mirrors
• I finally finished my gr.gr. nephew's t-shirt blanket - delivered it yesterday (he wasn't home).  Got orders for 2 more - yikes!
• Made hummingbird nectar
• Ran to Ollies to look for gift for my other gr.gr. nephew - he had a 3rd birthday party yesterday.  It was nice to see everyone.  Those kiddos sure had a good time!
• Went to the feed store while out and used my $15 discount for August to stock up a little.  Between feed store and Ollies there is an old K-Mart building.  They are tearing it down, and word has it they are building a Wa-Wa.  I have heard about them - just surprised to see one coming to this area.
• Also ran in Kroger - (all within the same block) - got 10 plums in clearance for $1.50.  Got a cantaloupe as well - 2.88 (tasty).  Needed some more fruit
• Made a gallon of blackberry tea.  Used my rich assortment of flavored tea bags I have.  Nice to mix it up now and then.
• Meals at home
• Dusting and cleaning, and just doing all the usual
• Have picked zucchini, a couple tomatoes, lots of cherry toms, and peppers.  The tomatoes are starting to really blush up - will have lots soon!
• Laundry in cold, and used dehumidifier water - hung to dry

Meals this past week: (simple)

Stir fry veggies and a pork chop

Grilled cheese/smash burger combo and some fresh veggies

Salad and cheese/summer sausage and crackers

Cheesy rice with lots of veggies & meatballs added

Beef bologna/tomato sandwich (had to have my summer fav) and small salad

Egg/sausage sandwich and side salad

Dinner at nieces - grill night & fixins!

Seems like lots of little things got done, but the big thing that looked like I accomplished something was the blankie being done.  

Just trying to stay in and stay cool.  I do go out a few times a day - but not for long.  Just trying to use what I have and only supplement small things.

How has your week been?  How are those gardens doing?  I hope you are all enjoying some fresh goodies of the summer.  Did you find any deals this week?

Give us a shout out and say hello!

I hope you all have a lovely week ahead, and that all are safe and healthy.  Prayers for all in need of healing.  

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

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Blessed be the name of the Lord from this time forth and for evermore!  From the rising of the sun to its setting the name of the Lord is to be praised!

Psalms 113:2-3

Amen - we sing praises for all the Lord gives us each and every day.  Every small and tiny thing to the largest, we are blessed.  Help us to pay attention to all things, and know they are gifts from You.  Thank You for all blessings great and small.  May we all continue to notice and be aware of all the treasures we are given to experience.  AMEN

All Things Old are New Again!!!

Good day to all.

It is a lovely morning here.  Sunny and cool at the moment.  We had a little rain late last night - so everything is very wet.  Yesterday the surprise lilies lived up to their name!!  So many popped up and bloomed in the past 24 hours.  They sure are pretty and a sweet reminder of mom and daddy.

I hope this day finds you all safe and well.

Actually, remember an outhouse and a metal tub for baths.  The black rotary phone was on the desk and weighed a small ton!  It was a party line as well.  We got a TV when I was about 4 or 5, and it had a pretty small screen, in a metal box and was black & white only.  Yep, those were the days!

This following clip has been around for ages, but it is so very true.  No one wants to think how 'green' life was back in the day.  Mom, grandma and all those before them dure did their part - and it was just called LIVING!!!!!  It was what they had and what they did to survive.  Think about traveling across the country by horse and wagon!  I can't even fathom that, but they did it.  I just always smile every time I read this and thought you might as well.  It is a little long - but enjoyable.

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" Checking out at the store, the young cashier suggested to the much older lady that she should bring her own grocery bags, because plastic bags are not good for the environment.

The woman apologized to the young girl and explained, "We didn't have this 'green thing' back in my earlier days."

The young clerk responded, "That's our problem today. Your generation did not care enough to save our environment for future generations."

The older lady said that she was right our generation didn't have the "green thing" in its day. The older lady went on to explain: Back then, we returned milk bottles, soda bottles and beer bottles to the store. The store sent them back to the plant to be washed and sterilized and refilled, so it could use the same bottles over and over. So they really were recycled.

But we didn't have the "green thing" back in our day.

Grocery stores bagged our groceries in brown paper bags that we reused for numerous things. Most memorable besides household garbage bags was the use of brown paper bags as book covers for our schoolbooks. This was to ensure that public property (the books provided for our use by the school) was not defaced by our scribblings. Then we were able to personalize our books on the brown paper bags.

But too bad we didn't do the "green thing" back then.

We walked up stairs because we didn't have an escalator in every store and office building. We walked to the grocery store and didn't climb into a 300-horsepower machine every time we had to go two blocks. But she was right. We didn't have the "green thing" in our day.

Back then we washed the baby's diapers because we didn't have the throw away kind. We dried clothes on a line, not in an energy-gobbling machine burning up 220 volts. Wind and solar power really did dry our clothes back in our early days.

Kids got hand-me-down clothes from their brothers or sisters, not always brand-new clothing. But that young lady is right; we didn't have the "green thing" back in our day.

Back then we had one TV, or radio, in the house -- not a TV in every room. And the TV had a small screen the size of a handkerchief (remember them?), not a screen the size of the state of Montana.

In the kitchen we blended and stirred by hand because we didn't have electric machines to do everything for us.

When we packaged a fragile item to send in the mail, we used wadded up old newspapers to cushion it, not Styrofoam or plastic bubble wrap.

Back then, we didn't fire up an engine and burn gasoline just to cut the lawn. We used a push mower that ran on human power.

We exercised by working so we didn't need to go to a health club to run on treadmills that operate on electricity. But she's right; we didn't have the "green thing" back then.

We drank from a fountain when we were thirsty instead of using a cup or a plastic bottle every time we had a drink of water. We refilled writing pens with ink instead of buying a new pen, and we replaced the razor blade in a razor instead of throwing away the whole razor just because the blade got dull. But we didn't have the "green thing" back then.

Back then, people took the streetcar, or a bus and kids rode their bikes to school or walked instead of turning their moms into a 24-hour taxi service in the family's $45,000 SUV or van, which cost what a whole house did before the "green thing."

We had one electrical outlet in a room, not an entire bank of sockets to power a dozen appliances. And we didn't need a computerized gadget to receive a signal beamed from satellites 23,000 miles out in space in order to find the nearest burger joint.

But isn't it sad the current generation laments how wasteful we old folks were just because we didn't have the "green thing" back then?"

-borrowed

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

YES, YES! I just love this. Gosh, I remember all these things.

Schoolbooks were used for several years before replacing. Hand me downs or homemade clothes, often from remaking something else. Laundry in a wringer washer and line dried. The water from washer was used on plants. Taking a bus downtown a couple times a year for shopping. Walking to the family-owned markets to get many of the groceries. Riding bikes for entertainment. Creating our own fun (no computers). We had very little trash. Cooked and ate at home.

Hope this gives you a bit of a smile and a thought back to the day when we didn't do the 'green thing'!!! LOL

Have a super great day and a lovely weekend.

Just an Idea or 2 - Using What You Have

 Hello all.  Good morning to each of you, wherever you may be! It is a sunny and lovely morning here.  Birds are singing!  Windows open for now.  Pretty heavy dew this morning, so everything has little water drops on it, and it in the sun it looks like little diamonds.

                                                         And using what you have!!!!!

Today just a couple of options, for using what you have to cook and to make yummy food.  It may be different than what we are used to - but it is good and healthy.  

Also, many have asked about using the air fryer, and I have no real set recipes that I use - but here is a chart that gives some basic times for cooking.  I use the book that came with the fryer and I just kind of experiment.  So far so good.

I know fryers can be expensive - so keep a good eye open to get a 2nd hand one.  Mine was used once and was $10 at a yard sale (and a good brand name).  Pretty good investment, especially since it has replaced the oven during the summer!

Click on image to enlarge for easier reading.

Homemade with no unnecessary ingredients!

CHICKEN NUGGETS

You can use equivalent of fresh chicken as well - you don't have to use canned.  But if you have it on your shelf, here is a different use.  I have made these and they are good.  Fast and easy and tasty.

BLACK BEAN BROWNIES

Click on images to enlarge (2 sections)

I have really enjoyed, and they are tasty.  Just a good way to use up things you may not use much and that are sitting on the shelf. (you can also use 2 C of home cooked beans

BEAN BURGERS

Click on recipe to enlarge

I have done this before and they are very good.  It is a great option for vegetarians, or if you are short on the meat front and are looking to feed the family something healthy and filling.

Always remember you can add seasonings you like and have.

Don't forget you can make fritters from many of your garden veggies.  I really like zucchini fritters - search the files (using white box at top of blog) for recipes.  I have listed a couple over the years.  I like corn fritters as well.  Potato cakes is a great use for using leftover mashed potatoes.  I have added leftover corn (drained) to potato cakes - yum.  You can use shredded cabbage as well.  So many fun ways to stretch the budget and the leftovers - making something new.

Don't have bread?  No biscuits or tortillas?  Too hot to bake?  Try fried corn bread - love, love, love this.

I know it calls for buttermilk - but I have used regular milk before.  You can mix up powdered buttermilk mix as well (I always have that on hand).  It does give the bread a tang!  These sure are good and easy to make.  Don't have to heat the house up, and you don't need to make a special run to the store.  Win-win.

Hope these ideas give someone a chance to try something new.  Using what you have in your pantry, can be fun and can save money.  You can eat good, and you can eat healthy and still not spend a fortune.

Have fun my friends!

Have a fantastic day.  Happy Wednesday!

Summer - It is Veggie Time!!

 Good morning all. Been loving the weather for sure.  We will be getting warmer this week again, but heck fire - we got a nice break.  I will take that anytime.

Love the fresh air coming in.  Love having the AC off.  Love watching nature enjoy as well.

Woke to rain this morning - both rain barrels are full again, and everything is watered.

I love summer for all the wonderful fresh items that can be had.  Whether you grow it, or buy it, or barter it, etc. I sure hope you are using your imaginations using up the seasonal produce.  I know some say they get bored with meals, but there is just a lot that can be done, very simply, and for virtually little or no money.

My 'simple life' in summer comes in the way I eat.  I just love the growing season.

Today is just some pics and ideas of summer food using the veggies.  Not all of these are current - some from last year as well.

I eat mainly veggies during the summer, and in the past couple months with all the yard work and sweating to boot, I have lost about 11 pounds.  I like eating light with the warmer days.  Come winter there will be comfort food (any probably the 11 lbs. back!)  LOL

Not every meal has to have meat for me.  Ultimate fresh food.

Zucchini, carrots, potatoes and brisket (could use any leftover meat)

Tuna/egg salad w/crackers and fresh veggies

Zuke steaks and green beans sauteed with peppers and onions

Zuke, corn, beans, onion and meat with taco flavorings (kind of like chili) - can be eaten as is or served over rice or pasta

Pulled pork w/fresh veggies on tortillas - soft tacos.  Can use any type meat you have and any veggies

Zucchini, sausage, tomatoes and cheese.  My fav!  Can serve with pasta or rice

Nachos - made with whatever you have and like

Pasta and veg salad.  Can be eaten alone or as a side dish with anything

Cooked pasta with all types of veggies cooked in.  Peas, broccoli, onion, peppers, onion,,,,,,,,,,,what ever you have

Fresh side of assorted vegs, baby limas, burger

Salads can be anything you have - can include lettuce, but not necessary in my book

I have tons of ideas and meals I eat using the seasonal produce.  I prefer to eat like this all year - but can't always accomplish that.

So when you say you are bored, come and look around the blog - there are lots of ideas.  Use that fresh food as long as you can and in as many ways as possible.  You can add any meat you like, fish, chicken, pork, beef - use as a side or add into the veggies.

There is no end to the possibilities!!!

Whether you want to eat light or eat a heavy meal - the veggies can be eaten fresh, fried, roasted, added in - however you want.

So many that weren't even addressed here.  Cabbage, turnips, parsnips, kohlrabi, onions, celery, sweet peas, peppers....................the list goes on and on.

Get your creative on and eat that healthy food!!!!

Wishing you all a super day.  Enjoy!

Weekly Wrap Up 8/3

 HAPPY AUGUST!!  Happy Sunday to you all and welcome to a new month.  I hope this finds you all well and safe on this beautiful day.

It is a gorgeous morning here, nice and cool.  I woke to 60*F.  What a difference a week makes.  We have had a couple of fantastic, no humidity, days.  Seems the neighbors were all out working, well most were.  It has been perfect weather to get things done.  Our days have been in the 70's for the past couple days.  It won't last, as starting mid-week, it is going back to hotter temps, but they say not as humid as the past couple weeks.

The daylight hours seem to be shorter as well.  I have noticed the dusk to dawn light is on/off about an hour different now.  I just saw we lose another hour of daylight this month.

                                             The 'surprises' have started back this week!!  Pretty!

My frugal week:

• Well, I managed to get 2 extra weeks from my 'empty' toothpaste tube!
• Helped a neighbor out with oil and gas for her mower.  She usually has someone do her yardwork, and he hadn't shown up for a bit - so she did it.
• Cut my hair and did a root touch up at home
• Pulled out my onions and going to plant more green onion sets today
• Lots of laundry in cold and used dehumidifier water
• Deep cleaned the floors - wood and rugs - behind, under, over and inside of all registers
• Did go out the last day of the month to fill gas tank, so as to use my points for money savings
• While at gas station, ran into Kroger (same lot).  I got peaches, milk, and mandarins.  I did notice they have raised the discount produce price here as well (1.50 now)
• I received Proctor & Gamble coupons in the mail!!!  That hasn't happened in years!  Only a couple I will use, but I was still shocked
• I also stopped at thrift store while out.  Bought nothing.  Ran into old neighbors, nice to see and catch up.  I got a loaf of Italian sliced bread for free
• I got the lawn mowed front to very back and trimmed.  I edged the front walk and the drive.  I got the 2 front flower beds all cleaned up and looking fresh.  It sure makes everything look pretty
• I did get the permanent fix made to my hose.  IT WORKED!  It is a nice 100' hose, so worth saving - it is now 99'!
• My mower gave me trouble this week.  I mowed a good section, and it worked well, then I cleaned the bottom and rested.  Went back out and it wouldn't stay running.  I figured it was my fault, by tipping over to clean.  Took out the spark plug, and it seemed oily, so I cleaned everything - the plug, the socket and the opening.  Appears to have fixed the problem.  Glad I had a man that taught me things and glad I listened and learned!!!!
• I had some small tree branches touching the wires coming to house - so I cut them down.  Boy that was fun - not!  But I managed the ladder, and I am safe, and the wires are clear now
• All meals from home and using what I have on hand
• Picked 7 peppers, lots of cherry toms, and 1 tomato.  Have a couple zucchini that will be ready any day. 
• I did some more staking of the tomato plants - they are way over my head and hanging heavy with toms - I bet they all ripen at once!
• AC off for the past 2 days (and today) and airing the house - we had a lovely breeze for the past couple days

My meals this past week:

Pasta salad and breaded pork burger

Tacos

Egg/tuna salad sandwich and pasta salad

Chicken breast fillet (air fried) and air fried zucchini fries (gave that a try-decent)

Chicken (leftover), small salad and sliced cheese

Ham sandwich, peach

Italian bread pizza (air frier)

There you have it.  I took much advantage of the lovely days and got tons done outside.  I spent most of 2 days outdoors.  Bitsy has sure been loving having the windows open.  He goes from window to window and lies there for naps.  Even Licorice has been hanging out and chilling the past few days.  Sleeping on the glider or out in a patio chair - loving the coolness.  I have noticed the squirrels are sleeping in a little!

I guess we all take advantage of the niceness when we can!

How has your week been?  Have your temps calmed down any - any rain? Any deals this week?  How are those gardens and garden tubs doing?  I hope you are getting 'fresh' to eat!

I hope you all stay safe and healthy this coming week.  Prayers for all that are going through bad things and prayers for healing for those in need.  I hope you all get a little reprieve in weather, if only for a bit.  

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

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"Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself.  Let the day's own trouble be sufficient for the day."

Matthew 6:34

Trust in Him at all times, O people, pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us.

Psalms 62:8

Lord, thank You for the week and thank You for our family and friends.  Help us each to live our best each and every day. and to live as the scripture says.  Let us each live in the present and to fully appreciate each day we have and to appreciate the people we have, as we have no guarantees for tomorrow.  Keep us from worry and stress, so that our lives are calmer and we can see the all the beauty.

Please keep us all in Your loving and healing arms.  AMEN

Simplifying - Starts with You

 Hello, this last day of July!  It has been raining since the wee hours of the morning.  Seems to have stopped at the moment.  This front is to bring in a cooler front of weather - YAY!  It is actually cooler outside than inside right now.  That hasn't happened all month!  At least we start August a little cooler and getting to air out the house.  Look forward to getting outside and doing yardwork in the next couple days.  I hope you are going to get some COOL as well!

Boy oh boy, aren't these truth?  All of these things shape what we think, how we act, how we feel, etc.

It is amazing that everything in some way shapes us.  Every experience and every thought.  We need to work really hard on making the influences in life positive ones.

Click on words to enlarge for easier reading

I agree to all these things.  If you go about your day, doing little things, it all adds up to a big and more positive day.

I truly do most of these.  I get up, get my drink together, feed the cat and get dressed - then make my bed.  I let it air for a short bit before making.  I need to drink more water - but I do drinks tea or something all day long.

Probably my biggest distraction is the computer.  I need to limit my time.  I also need to get rid of the super negative people on FB.  I guess it is kind of like a train wreck - you just feel you need to look, then you are upset!

We need to take care of ourselves, especially as we get older.  Life is short, and we don't need the negative.  We need to work at being happy and routines seem to help regulate our time and that SIMPLIFIES!

I do love to get up early, and most assuredly have a routine.  I say my gratitude list and prayers first thing and lastly each day (and often many times in between).

I like 12!  Smile when answering the phone. I never really thought about it, but I do.  I do not answer the phone unless it is a number or name I know - so WHEN I do answer - I know who it is, and I always smile!

So read the lists (yes reading in on both) and think about them.  They truly can help you get a nice simple routine in order, and I guarantee if you do that - like will be more pleasant.

Wishing you all a beautiful day and weekend.

Hoping you get to harvest some yummy food or buy at a farm market.

Eat healthy!

Have a super one!!!!!
  

Can we go Back? I Think we Can!

 Good morning to all.  Hope you are all well and safe.  Thinking about so many of you that are going through so much.

Wash, rinse and repeat!!!!  LOL!  That is the weather - same old thing.  Although this morning did not feel quite as bad outside to me.  It will change.  Hot again today.  It is just what it is.

Yesterday there was conversation about teaching some of the older ways and sharing recipes and ideas to the younger ones.  It is amazing how far away from healthy eating that we come in just our lifetimes!  Seriously, the worst thing I remember having that wasn't REAL food was Kool-Aid now and then.  That was a treat.  Usually we drank milk, water or iced tea.  Mom made all our treats, dad grew a garden, mom canned and froze, meat was a side (not a main course).  She cooked from scratch.  Basically, at the grocery store, she purchased baking items, and meat.  We didn't have convenience food.

Dad grew a huge garden, and he was pretty much ahead of his time.  It was all natural, no chemicals.  He had a huge compost pile, and he would get horse manure from a place down the road, once a year.

We knew exactly what our FOOD was - it was 'real' food.

Before me they had chickens, for meat and eggs.  They also had goats, as my older brother couldn't drink regular milk as a youngster.  I remember daddy going rabbit hunting and he fished a lot.

We always had "ingredients" that became our meals and snacks.

Mom 'taught' me how to cook.  I say taught - but really, I just observed and learned.  Did that with canning as well.  Learned from daddy the gardening part.  She showed me how to take care of a home.  Washing, ironing (which I no longer do), mending, cleaning, cooking, baking, etc.

I was lucky.

I know many of you that are younger, maybe didn't have that, as both parents may have worked when you were younger.  My mom didn't work until I was in Junior High - except a part-time job at night (at a bakery) or around Christmas (at Ayres), when my sister could watch me.  She did sewing and alterations for lots of the neighbors, and I remember her telling stories of doing laundry for others, before I came along.

Yep, my folks did all of these.  We didn't have a lot of money, but they could sure stretch it.  AND we never knew we didn't have a lot.  So many pretty clothes and such, as mom made them.    I have to laugh at #1!  Back in the day, a person would never be seen with holes in jeans.  That didn't start until I was late in high school.  The hippy years!  Now people spend big money to get holey jeans.  I still can't stand it.  A hole in the knee, just drives me crazy and is so uncomfortable.  I mend jeans!

There was no GMO stuff, daddy saved seeds from heirloom things.  If it grew, it grew - if it didn't, well you didn't have it that year.  We didn't have preservatives and chemicals in OUR food.  I just cannot see good things happening in people's bodies with all the garbage that gets put in them.

Most of the things we buy today, would never have been considered food back in grandma's day.  All those words you can't pronounce?  They aren't food.

Sure, I do eat snacks one in a while - but I try my hardest to eat real food and to cook it myself.  Since I have really concentrated more on that way of eating, than all the junk, I feel better.  I have less aches and pains (really) and can actually do more.

I love that some are really taking back their health and that of their families.  I love that folks are wanting to learn some of the old ways.  Hopefully each of us, can impart some wisdom to help.  That is one of the reasons I blog - it isn't just about stretching a dollar, but just living a better, healthier, and more fulfilled life.  I hope someone comes here and learns something each day.

Teaching and learning are both so important.

Well, off to get busy.  Hope you have a great Wednesday.

Be safe and well - and SMILE!

Learn something today!!!!!!

Just Randomness Today

 Hello all.  Hope you are well and safe this Tuesday morning.  Gosh, here we are in the last few days of July.  Amazing!  Township schools start here this week.  The State Fair starts on Friday.  Gardens are starting to take off and produce.  Life just goes forward.

It is a muggy morning.  The dew has just saturated everything.  It is wet out there.  Walk out the door and you are literally wearing the air!  I know I have complained about the heat and humidity, but don't get me wrong, I am not looking forward to winter at all!!! Not this girl.

I just want a little break from the mid 90's - and three-digit heat indexes. It is coming - yippee!!!  By the end of the week, it should be so much more refreshing outside.

I look at the garden, and the tomato plants are just loaded with green tomatoes.  Last week I got some ripe ones, the first to come on, now it may be a bit again before more.  Lots of cherry ones though!  Zucchini is going through a second phase of getting ready to pick.  Peppers are popping!

The weeds and the grass are just growing like crazy!!  We had rain over the weekend and a lot of rain yesterday morning - so things are going to town.  I can't keep up!  It is almost overwhelming.  It is too hot to be out there, so it has to just keep growing. Mornings the grass is way too wet to cut, and afternoons are just too hot. (nights are full of mosquitos - so a no there). Sigh!!!!

This picture screams summer to me.  There are so many wonderful things that we receive during the summer months.  Fruits, veggies, flowers, nature of all kinds.  Life is just beautiful in the summer.

You see different things and experience all kinds of stuff.  

I noticed last evening about dusk; the sky was gorgeous and gave a glow to everything.  The purple phlox looked to be iridescent and glowing!  I wish I had tried to get a picture of it.  Such a lovely sight.

I had a groundhog visit for a day or two, just checking things out.  When scared it would run under the shed.  Funny, I think it was too busy under there to stay.  LOL!  Opie the opossum lives under there, and a couple of stray cats hang out in the shade during the heat of the day.  It seems to have just wondered on its way.

The golden finches and the hummingbirds are so pretty and give pleasure during the summer days.  Butterflies - oh they are beautiful.

Just the many sights of summer.

Yesterday I had a great niece reach out to me, wanting to learn some of the 'old' ways!  She is in her early 30's and she and her man and kiddos, are starting to 'homestead' (live in Arkansas).  They have chickens, she is baking breads, and she has taught herself to can and is trying to make everything herself.  They are talking about getting some goats.  She is a nurse, and she has really started realizing just how our food system is harming us.  She wants things to be natural for her family.  I LOVE IT!

She wants to learn.  She wants many of the old family recipes that I can share from her grandma and aunts. 

That just made my day! 

I told her, I prefer to write the recipes down and mail to her, as I just think it is important to have things that aren't on the computer - just in case.  She liked that, as it is also a keepsake!  

I hope each of us here, can pass on some of the past to our families.  The young folks need to learn these things.  I know some people might think that is crazy, but you just never know.  It could be very important someday in taking care of their families.  I kind of think there is a resurgence of wanting to know that knowledge and wanting to know about their ancestors.

I went out to feed all this morning, and I got busy with one thing after another.  Came in and washed my head and started piddling around and was like "oops" it is blog day! Almost forgot. It is funny how all the random things in life seem to catch our attention sometimes, and we just get into a different groove!

I am learning to go with it.  Life is never predictable, so just go with the flow and take it a day at a time.  If it gets done, it gets done - if not, well......................it isn't the end of the world.

I am finally learning this, after all these years.  I can only do so much.  Things are different than they were even last year.  I get tired easier now.  I need naps more often now. But it is OK.

I don't have to keep up with others, I only owe it to myself to be ME! 

I hope you get it too!

So, there you have how my mind works, when I get into the random crap that shows up and flows in!!!!

I am off to do laundry and then sew some.  Enjoy your day - take things as they come - don't rush or sweat the small things.  Stay cool and hoping all is going well in your life.

Que' sera, sera!

Have a lovely day to all my blog family!!!!!!

Weekly Wrap Up 7/27

 Happy Sunday to all.  Hoping this finds you all well and safe today.  The last Sunday of the month - can you believe it?  They say time flies when you're having fun.  We must be having a ball!  LOL

It is another hot and muggy start to the day and week.  We did get a couple showers over the past couple days - nothing huge, but the plants enjoyed it, I am sure.  Temps would drop for an hour or so, then climb back up.  I am so looking forward to the end of the week and the first of August - they are predicting cooler temps.  From all I see, our area will be below normal in August (normal is about 85).  YAY!  Looking for 70's come Saturday - oh happy days!

                                                                     My front walk!

My frugal week:

• Started week by visiting sis - that is always fun
• Mowed all the yard - front to back (early in week)
• Finally got all the limbs and branches from past storms, broken up and gone
• Found evidence of tomato worms - ugh!  Got that taken care.  I like nature - but I aint sharing my tomatoes with the buggers
• Managed to get in a couple really good walks, when temps were cooler and picked up trash on one walk, as I saw it
• Got to air the house a couple mornings early in the week (AC off & gave it a break)
• I hit the hose when mowing - oh my.  I did a temp patch (so I can get water to garden with soaker if needed), have what I need in garage to do a permanent fix and will when it cools off some
• Cut back some flowers that looked drab, deadheaded and cutting weeds one morning
• Cleaned out weeds/grass between the drive and fence one day - sat on cement and it was all in shade while working
• Staked and tied up tomatoes - that was a hot, hot job.  It was early, but boy did it get hot and sweaty!
• Made a batch of s/f vanilla pudding - topped each serving w/ some choc. syrup and a crushed graham cracker - tasted like an eclair!
• Made a big batch of pasta/veggie salad.  Mainly veggies - using every kind I had on hand
• Picked 5 tomatoes!!!!  FINALLY!  6 banana peppers, 16 cherry toms, and 1 big (hidden) zucchini.  There will be a lot of zucchinis this week.
• Laundry in cold and using dehumidifier water in wash.  Hanging to dry
• NO grocery at all this week again - using what I have
• Paid a couple bills by phone
• Just doing all the regular stuff

Meals this past week:

2 homemade burritos

Pintos (freezer) and rice

Lasagna (freezer) and salad

Zucchini/onion/salsa/sausage skillet & fried smashed potato

Swiss/angus burger w/ sauteed peppers & onions (no bun) & baked beans

Baked beans & smoked sausage on bun

BLT (MY tomato!) and a small salad

SNACKS - pudding, PB sammie, popcorn, fruit

Just trying to stay cool, which isn't easy, unless you are inside.  I am so thankful for AC.  Even working outside early, gets hot in a minute.  Looking forward to cooler days.

How has your week been?  How are those gardens doing?  Did you get any good deals this week or yard sale finds?  Give us a shout out and let us know how you are faring.

I hope you all have a wonderful week ahead, and please know I pray for you all and your families daily.  I wish you all the best.  Blessings to you and yours from me at my humble little home.

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

Count it all joy, my brethren, when you meet various trials, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.  And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

James 1:2-4

Again Lord, we send thanks for all our blessings and gifts received.  We ask guidance in all our trials, that we may know You are always with us, and Your will be done.  May we each have the strength to continue our faith daily.  AMEN

We are ALL Refillable!

 Hello all on the 24th day of July!!  So hard to believe.  I hope you are all well and feeling blessed on this lovely day.  Prayers and good wishes for all that are under the weather and for those who just feel lost.  We are here and we are praying for you all.

It is a pretty morning.  Warmer than the past couple days and a bit more humid.  It looks like the "muggly" will be back with a vengeance as the weatherman says!!  Appears it will all stick around for the remainder of the month.  

Make sure you stay hydrated and inside if possible and keep water out for ALL the animals as well.

We have heard about 'half empty' and 'half full' all our lives.  Until I saw this I never really thought about this saying - "the glass is refillable".

Boy oh boy is that the truth.  No matter what is going on in your world - whether you see things sort of bad or sort of good - always know that you can make decisions, choices and live in a way that you get more!

Don't let life drain you of all your goodness.  There is always hope.  Never give up.  Pray, work hard, and put one foot in front of the next.  You may not get the answer YOU think you should get, but you get the answer that God and the universe provides.  I know there are non-believers here, and that is OK, but this is how I think. 

 

I do believe we have control to an extent, and yes, you need to ask, you need to try, and you need to step forward.  Never give up.

Have hope, have faith and if you are inclined - PRAY!

Many things are just perspective.  You may see yourself as poor - but another will see you as rich.  You may see yourself as rich - another will see you poor.  We all look at things differently and we all live differently.  Never judge yourself against others.  You are you and that is enough!

Do your best and move forward inch by inch.  That is all anyone can do.

I hope you all have a lovely ending to your week.  Stay cool if at all possible and do good things.

SMILE and spread CHEER!

YOU Can Control Some Things - Save Where YOU Can

 Howdy all.  Another cool morning here - it is just so delightful.  That will change drastically by the end of the day!  Tomorrow looks to be a icky day for sure.  July and August are always the hot ones!

Groceries are the one place we can control our spending - REALLY!  I know many prices have gone up in the past few years.  Often people don't have salaries that increase as well.  There is the problem.  Like we mentioned last week, groceries are variable, as you chose what you buy and how you shop.

Having a pantry and a freezer with goods, is a protection for your family.  It keeps you afloat when times are less than perfect.  Having the basics can keep you from ever going hungry.  

I call basics - dry beans/legumes, rice, pasta, potatoes, canned meats (shelf stable), sauces, oats, and baking supplies.  It may not be balanced, but you would not be hungry.

When getting ready to shop:

• Inventory what you have on hand.  Shop at home first - always!  You may not need to go at all
• Know NEEDS and WANTS - you don't have to go for 'wants'!!!!
• Use a list - fill in only.  Buy what you don't have or are about out of
• Stop convenience shopping.  Sure, we all have a few convenience items - but don't make ALL your items that.  Cook your own!
• Use store cards, coupons, discounts, - look for clearance and manager deals - they save money
• MY rule is pay CASH.  Try not to use debit cards or CC's unless you can control yourself!!  I often wonder when you use those - how do you know when to "brake"?  With cash - you have X$, so that is all you can spend.  This is mainly for people REALLY needing to watch their dollars.  I just prefer cash myself for most all things - that is just me.
• Don't shop daily!  You will overspend in a minute.  You may not realize it - but will spend more money this way
• Take lunches and snacks when you go out - stops impulse buying & NEVER shop hungry!
• Shop the cheaper stores when possible, and not the high-end stores
• We always say shop less - which is a great rule.  BUT, each week, there are specials - those can be great loss leaders, so you may want to take advantage of those - try to get the limit if possible
• Plan your meals around what you have and what is on sale
• Learn to do without some things and substitute and get creative
• Use it all up!  Use the leftovers and bits and bobs in some way
• If you can get fresh goods at farm markets, co-ops, etc. - do it.  If you don't grow your own, there are great ways to get fresh in season goods.  Also check your produce dept. for a markdown bin.  Here, we have Kroger, and they have .99 bin.  You can great deals in it.  They have a section in most departments for clearance.

TRUTH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  Just because something is cheap - doesn't mean you should buy it.  You need to buy things that you will use ONLY.

So, take control where you can.  If you are actively trying to save money for a specific reason - these ideas will help.  I know not everyone will like these ideas, but for those really trying to cut back and save - they are wonderful!

Along with other small things - turning off the lights and water, turning up the AC, turning down the heat, being mindful off all you have and using it up, and just getting CREATIVE - you can help yourself save some.

Best of luck to those who are truly trying to save and cut back.  We will be your cheerleaders!!!!  If you wonder about something or have questions - just ask.  There is plenty of experience here, so hopefully we can off a good idea or word!

Have a wonderful day my friends.  So happy to have you here.

Simple Pleasures

 Happy Tuesday to all.  It is a beautiful morning here.  It is the coolest it has been in a couple weeks or more.  Humidity down this morning as well.  Yesterday was pretty nice as well.  We need to enjoy it to the max, as the HOT and HUMIDITY come back big time starting tomorrow.  It is July - so to be expected.

Today I just want to tell you of some simple pleasures I have enjoyed the past few days.  It can be the simplest things that bring a smile and a giggle.  They are just moments - but they can be beautiful.

Have you ever seen a Luna moth out in the 'wild'?

This is not my pic.  They are just gorgeous and very special.  I had never seen one other than in a picture or in a controlled environment................until the other day!!!!!  I didn't get to get close, but I saw it and got a distant picture.

I was siting on my couch and looked out the window and saw white on the neighbor's bush out back.  I got the binoculars and realized what it was. This is the best picture I could get from my yard.  It stuck around about half of the day.  What a neat and rare thing to experience!!!

On decent mornings, I open the bedroom window a bit for Bitsy to get some air.  I go out to feed the critters and when I walk back up the walk, this is what I see!

There he sits and watches Momma.  He loves watching the animals as well.

I saw Bun-Bun on Sunday. (rabbit).  It played in the neighbor's yard for a couple hours in the rain.  It was having a grand time, exploring everything.  Pretty good size - so sweet.

Yesterday I went to see sis's new place.  I will say it is small - about like a really nice hotel room.  Has a kitchenette, huge bath, lots of storage area, and she has room for some of her nice things and lots of pictures and her doggy.  She has her big bed, a couple comfy chairs for sitting, and small table and chairs, and bureaus (one is a TV stand).

She has her crockpot, air fryer, microwave, toaster and coffee pot - no stoves.

They take folks to WM, Kroger or other shopping several days a week - if they want to go.

She took me on the grand tour and the place is really nice.  There is a library, nice laundry, small movie theater, dining room (w/fireplace), a bar, game rooms, a great cantina (lots of goodies for the taking) and tons of areas for family seating and visiting if you choose to use.  She and I walked all around (great therapy for her) and we even went out and sat on the beautiful patio.  The place is just full of light and cheerful, and the staff seems lovely.

She said she went to cocktail hour one night.  She loves the food in the dining room - they have a really good chef.  Her favorite is their shrimp cocktail and their onion rings!  She said she had the best Rueban of her life the other day. She is waiting for Bingo!  All the staff knew her by name.

Of course, she would be happier back at home but understands this is the season in life that things change.  People check on her a couple times a day and she has a dog walker 4X. She has had company every day!  She already has a buyer for her home.

I felt so much better after going there - she seems happy.

Last evening I was sitting on the porch, and the young man across the street came out with his little one.  She is the middle one, probably around 2 or 3.  He was showing her how to bounce a ball.  He waved - then a few minutes later she saw me and waved.  I waved and said hi - and she got so excited!  She told daddy - "she say hi!!!".  She just kept waving and saying hi!  So stickin' sweet.  They have 3 girls, and they are always dressed so cute in their little dresses.

This past week has been the first time of summer that I have heard the cicadas at night.  Just the normal sounds - we have no swarms or anything.  I find them quite calming to hear.  Still have the lightening bugs as well.

One of the crazy squirrels - they come running when they see me.  Take nuts from me.  I have seen the huge red bellied woodpecker a lot lately and J-J the bluejay yells at me every morning for peanuts!

Licorice came this morning and had breakfast - he has been MIA for 2 days - so I was happy to see him!  At least I know he is OK.

What has made you smile lately?  Take time and enjoy those simple little things in life - they aren't really that simple.  They are special moments that are gifts we get to enjoy!

Everything that is lovely is but a brief dreamy kind of delight.

W.B. Yeats