Don't Make it so Difficult

 Good morning to all.  I am running a little late this morning.  I sure didn't want to get out of the bed this morning, it felt so good.  Only got up a few minutes later than normal, but it was a struggle!  Bitsy even slept in.  We had quite a noisy thunder boomer come through this morning.  It rained and there was a lot of lightning and thunder.  It didn't last none too long, but it delayed my going out to feed the animals and Licorice.  When I went out, Licorice was getting ready to come around the house to wait for me!  He saw me and ran back to the deck, awaiting his breakfast!  He ate, as I did my chores and then went on a walk-about!  He sure is sweet.

There are some pretty nasty sounding storms going through a big part of the mid-section of the country this evening and into the morning.  South of me looks to be VERY, VERY bad.  There are several of the readers here that are in those areas.  I pray you are all safe and have no damage.  PLEASE take shelter - yes, it looks that bad.

I would love to sit on that empty chair and have a long chat with that lady.  Oh, the things I could learn.  I would love to know what she feels about the times.  What are her ideas of the future?  What is a day like?  Probably chores and getting by.

Sometimes we really make things a lot more difficult than we need to.  Today people are all consumed about money.  That really saddens me.  I think we just make it so much more difficult that it needs to be.  ENOUGH - is my word.  There are so many more things that are important, that get put aside for making money, growing money, and spending money.  I guess I just think that when my day comes to leave this earth - none of it matters!!!!!!!  No amount of money will buy my salvation or my eternity.

Sure you need enough to pay your bills and get by.  Sometimes it does take making so changes in your lifestyle.  It really is about knowing about wants and needs.

All the worry and fretting and complaining does nothing.  It just makes you sick and anxious.  That is not good.

I know there are many people out there, that think I oversimplify things.  They don't want to hear it.  

I am a very simple person, always have been.  Don't need to impress a soul on this earth.  You don't like me - that is on you.  I don't really care.  

I believe in hard work and being a good steward of what you have.  Limiting yourself when you feel it necessary.  Learn how to stretch things, money and time.  SURE, you may have to learn some new things!  That is a good thing.  Learning is always a good thing.

The things that are so important in life all have expiration dates!  Make those things your priority.

Stop worrying so much and start enjoying.

Am I where I thought I would be at this point in life?  NOPE.  I sure never wanted to think about life as it is now - but things happen that we can't control.  They happen to all of us.  So many gals here know exactly what I am talking about.  It sucks - there I said it.

BUT saying that - doesn't mean I should give up on life.  My love would never have wanted that for me.  I bet yours wouldn't either.  I do believe they would want us to go forward and live the best we can and make them and the world proud.  That is all we can do.

Money is a tool.  That is it.  As long as you have enough to cover your daily life, you are doing good.  

Do your best and be your best.  Stop and enjoy life a bit and stop the worry and obsessing.

Try smiling more (even if you don't feel like it) it becomes a habit!  Smile and laugh and just enjoy each day you are gifted.  Don't waste them.

I know many think I ramble on, but I have learned some hard lessons and just want to share.

Have a great day.

💖😊😍

If you are so inclined, please pray for the safety of those in path of the nasty, nasty storms going through tonight.

I repeat TAKE SHELTER in those areas, don't be brave.

Changing Seasons - You Ready? Stocking Isn't Just Food

 Hello and happy April!!!  Wow, three months already done this year.  It sure is going fast.  

It is a chilly frosty morning here.  We will see 50's today and some sun!  More spring storms headed this way during the week.  Not looking forward to those.  March and April seems to bring those nasty storms to the interior of the US. 

They say April showers bring May flowers - boy, we better see a lot of flowers!!!  LOL

This was looking out my living room window to the West at about 7PM Sunday.  It got very nasty looking.  We did have very hard rain, pea size hail (just a bit), and 70 mph winds.

Looking North of me.  See that white tree?  Oh that thing is huge - probably 70'+ and it is just beautiful.

Yes, me and my neighbors are those people that stand outside and look up, instead of heeding the warnings!

We had some nasty storms come through over the weekend.  I seem to be right in the eye of the needle (luckily), as the worse missed me.  Many had wind damage, flooding, hail, and some areas had tornadoes.  We will soon be coming upon hurricane season for coastal areas.  Think fires in the driest area, earthquakes, you name it - it is that time.  Are you as ready as you can be?

We always talk about how we stock food, for the emergencies and just daily living.  What happens if you lose power for an extended time?  Maybe no power, no water, etc.

You need to have a plan just in case!!

• Do you have water?  Jugs of water to help flush, or to just wash yourself.  Water to aid in drinking or cooking?  What about bathroom use over a long period of time?  A potty chair, or a lined bucket.  Maybe a way to collect rainwater.  A way to purify water.

• Do you have a way to get light for your home?  Make sure you have flashlights and batteries or candles available.  Yard type solar lights work great when you bring them in.  They do give off a good amount of light.  Glow sticks might be something to have on hand - you can stick them in an old milk jug for a super nice glow of light.  Do you have ANY TYPE of generator?  They sure help to keep foods from thawing in freezers.  You do NOT need to run constantly - just a bit here and there to keep things frozen (and not open the freezer much).  Make sure freezers are full - if with nothing other than water jugs.  That keeps things cold.  Generators are good if someone needs medical devices as well (think C-Pap machines, etc.).  If you have a portable generator, you will need a supply of fuel.
• Can you cook?  Many stoves today cannot be lit without power.  Do you have a grill or know how to cook over a fire?  Maybe have a piece or two of cast iron pots.  They work great on a fire.  Do you have some foods that can be eaten just as it is?  Food that doesn't need to be cooked - think canned fruit, tuna, some veggies, peanut butter/jelly, home canned goods, etc.
• Have alcohol and/or peroxide to help clean and keep germs away.  Antibacterial wipes on hand.  Hand sanitizer.  Bleach and cleaning products just in case.
• Non-electrical devices to replace your normal way of living.  A car phone charger.  A mechanical can opener, a coffee pot that can be used on a grill or fire (or instant coffee).  Non-plastic cooking tools (that won't melt).  If storm is coming, make sure to charge up phones and any batteries.
• TP or wipes!!!  
• H & B - allergy meds (remember no AC - so windows open), cold meds, eye drops, basics for cleansing yourself (you want to feel somewhat normal)
• CASH on hand - you never know.  Odds are you won't be able to shop anywhere - as they are in the same predicament as you, but you may be able to barter with neighbors, or have someone help you
• Pet foods - you can't forget your fur babies.  They will need food and water too.
• Have your important papers and items together if you think you may be in a big storm - in case you need to flee!  Papers, meds, keys, glasses, animal carriers, etc.
• Be ready to do some work!  Odds are you may have to do clean-up of some kind, so just know you may be responsible for YOU.  Everyone will be in the same boat.

There is just a plethora of things to think about to be able to survive and survive well.  Storms come in all shapes and forms, and they happen all over the world.  If you have some of the basics lined up - you will feel a bit comforted in knowing you can survive.  Some of our own readers here, have been through this with the last hurricanes.  Many areas are still not back to normal.  It can be lasting or it can be short in time - you just need to have a plan.

I pray no one else has to go through these things, yet I can almost predict someone will, sadly.  You gals that have survived these horrible times, please feel free to offer things I didn't think of.

It just makes since to be prepared for anything.  We never know what kind of emergency we may have - it could be sickness, job loss, weather, anything!  

You may need to get rustic for a while - think about that.  Life isn't always, turning on faucets, flipping power switches, and AC or heat - it may get real basic!

Have a plan!!!

Wishing you all a lovely April day!

Weekly Wrap Up 3/30

 Hello all.  Happy Sunday.  I pray this finds you well and safe.  Here's hoping that you made it through any obstacles thrown at you this past week and did it with grace. 

It is another warmer morning here and it is very damp and gray.  Looks as if we are to get some nasty storms later in the day and evening.  Prayers said that they aren't too bad.  It will cooling a bit this coming week, but nothing too bad.

The world is sure coming back to life around here.  The grass is green and growing (as are the weeds), the trees are all budding.  You can see a haze of color around every tree - it may be shades of green, burgundy, bronze, etc.  It is something to see.  The magnolias actually got to be enjoyed this year and are still just beautiful.

It has been very lovely temp wise the past few days, but windy - oh, those spring winds!

Oh, my alley got resurfaced this week!  There was a crater at one end that seriously could eat a car (2' deep and half the width of alley & as long).  It is the 2nd time in 39 years that I have seen them do ANYTHING to the alley! It is the first time in years that there hasn't been a puddle behind my yard after rain!  It sure is nice for the time being.  We are all very thankful.

My frugal week:

• Lots of laundry and only used the dryer to fluff
• Made several hard boiled eggs
• Picked more daffodils and some hyacinths again this week - 2X
• Made a small batch of frozen fruit 'cream' - yummy (strawberry/banana)
• I did go out and do my monthly gas fill-up.  Used my points and gas was 2.47/gal.
• Received some nice coupons in the mail from Kroger - good until June
• Been refilling baskets, bins and jars with items to replace items used (from my stock)
• Did a 'sort of' mow!  Used the weed whacker out front to knock down higher weeds/grass
• Worked in a couple of flower beds, cleaning this week
• Worked on building a platform for pots out back.  Thought I was going to visit Oz!  I was carrying 6' - 2" x 6" boards and thought the wind was going to lift me up when it would catch the ends of boards!  I bet I was a sight to see.
• Got to have windows open and air house and heat has been off for several days. Friday was 80*F!  Next week will be cooler - in 50's and 60's.
• I got some walks in and talked with some neighbors doing the same
• Using leftovers and cooking from home
• Just doing all the basics

Meals this past week:

2 chicken sliders, fries and salad

Tuna melt, Au Gratin potatoes, pickles

Au Gratin pots, scrambled eggs, 2 sausage patties

Cheeseburger and salad

Broc./cheese soup (freezer) over elbow macaroni and rolls (freezer)

Chef salad (w/everything)

Fish sandwich, tots and slaw

SNACKS:  fruit, toast & peanut butter, nuts

How was your week?  Did you get any deals this week or using what you have?  Have you stayed safe from all the nasty weather?  

I know we are all ready for spring and planting and heck, even mowing.  Some of our friends up north are still getting frigid temps and snow - sure hope spring comes to you soon!

Prayers for all the people involved in the horrible earthquakes on the other side of the world.  That is just so sad.

May you all have a lovely week ahead and may you all be safe and healthy.  Life throws us some curve balls on a regular basis, but with faith and perseverance we can get through.  May you keep going and be successful in whatever you do.

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

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

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that in due time he may exalt you.  Cast all your anxieties on him, for he cares about you. Be sober, be watchful.

1 Peter 5:6-8

Dear Lord, again we say grateful thanks for all our blessings.  We ask that You please be with each person that is suffering anxieties and insecurities, to let them know that You are in control.  May we all have the faith needed to live a happy and restful life in the love of Your arms and teachings.  We know You have the ultimate control, so please calm our hearts and minds.  AMEN

A Sturdy Foundation is Always Needed

 Hello to all.  Hope you are all well and safe on this pretty morning.  It is cool, but very pretty at the moment.  I am looking forward to a couple warmer days this weekend.

I will sure be glad when this basketball stuff is over!  That is all that is on the TV around here lately.  I don't watch a lot of new shows that are out there, I watch older TV programs when I watch, and those channels have been basketball!  Time to turn it off and read!

Just a little talk about having a good foundation in all we do today.  Your home, shed, garage, etc. needs to built on a good foundation.  Many of us believe that a good foundation is needed in our spiritual life.  Well, our financial lives need that as well.

We all need to work to have our budgets, money, finances, whatever you call it in order.  If you haven't done so already - you need to start.  You can start small and do lots of little things and it all helps.

'Finance' sounds intimidating.  'Thrift' sounds more attainable.  They are both about your money and they go hand in hand.  With the first we often think stocks, 401K, the trading floor.  With the second we think of cooking at home, thrift stores and gardening.  Well, actually we need some of both.

Your thrifty house still needs a good foundation.

You need to be aware but not consumed!!!

Newton taught us that what goes up always comes down.  Such is our financial life as well.  There will be good times and there will be bad times.  Do not PANIC - just keep on going forward.  Do not make hasty decisions.  Stuff happens in life - job loss, inflation, sickness, emergencies, etc.  If you have a stable foundation, you will manage to get through it.  You can't just sweep your debt under the rug - you have to take care of it.  Get rid of your debt as soon as you can - life will feel so much better and freeing.

FEAR is never a good organizing principle - nor is it a good way to live.  So now is the time, if you haven't done so before, to sweep out the cobwebs, open your eyes and get your home and wallet in order.  You will be able to make smart choices and not hasty ones.  You will be able to face whatever comes your way with confidence.  

Learn different ways to do things, learns old ways (they are really smart ways), stop waste in all aspects of life, and don't despair!  

Small changes in life, can make a big difference when added up.  

This is a huge thing to remember.  Getting that sale or clearance means nothing, if you don't need it or won't use it.  Buy what you use and use what you buy.  Common sense way to live!!!!!

We talk about so many things and ways to save here, I just hope they help some folks out.  Don't let your self-image be stuff!  Let it be a calm and happy lifestyle.  Let it be a simpler way.  Let it be joy and not constant worry.  When you live that way, reality can happen and not throw you off your foundation.

The more YOU control your life, the less vulnerable you will be in a crisis or emergency.

ONLY you can reduce your stress levels and emotional turmoil, thus being a bit healthier as well.  Life is short folks, so do each day as best you can - PLEASE don't spend it in a panic.

You are NOT living a second-class life by living a frugal or thrifty lifestyle.  You will be living a good life.  Thrift is good for the person with money and the person on a tight budget.  

Do not feel sorry for yourself.  Know you are surviving and doing your best.  Your life is what some people strive for in this world - we tend to forget just how much we DO have.

You can do it.  Baby steps, slow and steady - any of the old cliche's sum it up.  Don't panic, don't be hasty, think and plan, and just keep on trucking!!!

Today is a gift - make it good.

Have a wonderful and blessed day and weekend.

(you all know my rules!)

De-Clutter in a Fun Way!

 Hello and happy mid-week!  It is a cold morning and a frosty one here!  About 10* colder than yesterday morning.  I guess compared to many places it could be called chilly, but yuck on the heavy frost.  The sun is shining, and the birds are singing. Licorice had his breakfast and then went to do a walk-about!  Bits is sitting here next to me bathing (he is sitting like a people!).  My house is warm.  So really a good day here in my book!

Today I thought I would show this little chart I came across about de-cluttering.

Click on the picture to enlarge for easier reading.

This is a good chart to use for APRIL de-clutter.  Many are just starting their spring cleaning and de-clutter.  I don't care how much I do, there is always something I come across that needs to be organized.

Now I know some of the items on the chart may take a lot longer (in some homes) than it says.  But it is a guide to use.  You can change activities to different days, you can spend just a few minutes, you can spend a day.  It just gives us things to think about that we may ignore on a regular basis!

A drawer, a closet shelf, a closet floor, a box, a clothes rack, a bureau or dresser, the laundry area, the toy box, a cabinet, a pantry shelf...............

Start somewhere and do something each day.  You may not have a thing to get rid of, but you can straighten and sort and organize.

Take 15 minutes or a few hours - whatever you need each day.  Just do a little and get a lot done.  Baby steps!

Come May, pretty much everyone will be spending their free time outdoors.  April is still a month of ups and downs in weather - so use those down days to organize inside.

No one but you may know what you accomplished, but that is OK.  Every time I open a drawer or cabinet that is all organized and cleaned out - I smile.  It makes me happy - so it was a good job done.

If you have items to go - perhaps you can sell them or give away on Free cycle pages or donate - and bless someone else.  You make yourself happy clearing it out and another happy by donating.  That is a good thing.

Have a super day to all. 

Spring IS coming!!!!  I promise!

This and That - Some Fun Ideas

 Happy Tuesday all.  Hope you are all well.  We are still having a chill in the morning hours.  Well, actually we have had a chill all day for a while - the winds!  Oh goodness, it has been windy.  Yesterday was crazy.  This morning seems pretty calm for a change, just cloudy.

Just plodding along here - nothing too exciting.

Thought I might show a couple ideas that help me out, and maybe you as well.

Side door decoration.  Simple and easy.  A big bouquet of silk flowers and a kerchief tied around it.  It is bright and pretty.  Use what you have and make something sweet and colorful.

When buying produce - make sure you keep those fat big blue rubber bands!  Those things are strong and come in handy so very often.  I have even known people that cut them into two pieces - but I like the strength they have as is.

Do you have a hunter in the family?  If so, get the fat that they trim from their harvest, and render it down.  Pure clean tallow - can be used in cooking or in homemade salves.

I always keep bacon grease.  That is pure gold in my opinion.  Not only does it work as grease, but the flavor it adds - oh yum.  I have a jar in the frig as well for the grease I keep from ground beef as well (before seasoning).  Beef grease can be used as cooking aid as well.  With the cost of oils at the store, it is nice to have other options.

I saw this idea on a FB group I follow.  A semi-clear tote can be used as a mini greenhouse.  It helps guard plants from birds, and it also helps keep them warm.  Easy to open.  You can also use plastic milk jugs - cut the bottom out and set over plants/seedlings.

I am a big ChapStick, lip gloss fiend!  I don't waste any, as it is kind of expensive.  I generally get a good brand and not the cheaper ones.  When you can't get more out, keep the tube until you have another the same way.  Use a toothpick and dig out the remainder from one tube and add to the other.

I got a tube of Chapstick as a 'gag' gift in Oct. at one of my luncheons.  The gal that plans them, always has little gift bags of misc.  Well, it has been some of the best I have ever had.  It says 100% organic, but no brand - it was decorated on tube for Halloween.  I asked her about it, and she ordered from Amazon.  Turns out it is coconut oil.  She gifted me a couple more tubes in Feb. - that she had left!  You just never know where you might get something good.  YES, you can use regular coconut oil you have at home.

I also keep some of those near empty tubes and dig it out and add to the contents of a near empty tube of lipstick.  Dig them both out and mix together.  (you may need to microwave for 30 seconds or so to get them to blend).  I keep in a tiny little plastic container and use as lip gloss.  Subtle color and softens too!

I have been making lip gloss this way for years.  Use a lip brush or a Q-tip to apply.

I saw a new site listed that allows you to enter your ingredients you have on hand, and it gives you recipes that you can make.  I have always followed YourFridgeFood, but checked this one out too.  It looks decent.  It is https://www.SuperCook.com/recipes

You might want to give it a look.

It is always kind of neat to "use" someone else's imagination to get new recipes!  List your ingredients and get ideas and even recipes.  How fun!

If all you have is canned soup to serve for a lunch or dinner, add some pasta or rice to extend it and a little more filling.  Heck you can do this to homemade soup as well.  It sure does make it go a little further.  Add crackers or bread and you have a filling meal.

Well, that is it for today.  Just a few fun tips.

What little things do you do the stretch items at home?

Have a beautiful and blessed day all!

Weekly Wrap Up 3/23

 Hello to all!  Happy Sunday.  I hope this finds you all doing well.  Goodness, here we are starting the last week of the month.  It sure doesn't seem possible.

It is a cool morning here, with chances of rain and winds today.  I am so over the windy days!  It seems to be normal anymore - I guess that is March, huh?  We are in what they call third winter here!!  We go from those wonderfully warm days to cold overnight.  Looks like most of the week will be in the 50's.  Very seasonal.  The sky was a pretty pink this morning as the sun was rising.

Things around here are coming back to life.  I see buds on so many trees.  The rhubarb is up, and the peonies are poking upwards.  The Indiana magnolia trees are starting to bloom.  Maybe, just maybe, this year they will get to be enjoyed, as it doesn't look like any nights at freezing or below for this week.  It is always a joy to see them.

My week was fairly quiet around here.

My frugal week:

• Last weekend I caught up on TV and research
• Did a little more yard work, on the nicest and driest days
• Got to air the house a couple days and have heat off for a couple days
• Picked a lovely bouquet of daffodils - they last so well

• Cooked up fresh asparagus, and saved the tough ends in the freezer for asparagus soup at a later time
• I thawed and cooked a pound of sausage.  Fried into patties and then refroze for future use
• Did a root touch-up on hair
• Did go to feed store and Ollies.  Ollies I got a new longer hose for the front of house and a pair of jeans for 9.99!
• Feed store - stocked up on feed and refilled all the cans
• No groceries to speak of.  I did run in for 2 more strawberries at 1.88/lb. and oranges.  Found a gallon of orange juice (marked in April) for clearance of 3.50.  That is it.
• Kind of going through the pantry goods and re-analyzing what I have for the long term. Will post about this later in the week.
• Cleaning continues and working a little on declutter
• Looked for a device I knew G had and just happened to think about - didn't find what I was looking for but found another thumb drive that is just a wonder to me.  So much work and info he did is on it.  He is still giving me presents after all this time!  I know, who would think such a small house could hide so many treasures?  Still going through things and finding little goodies!  He is still making me smile!

Meals this past week:

Pork chop, Brussel sprouts and mashed potatoes

Grilled Rueban sandwich and fries

Veggie fried rice

Leftover rice, 2 sausage patties and asparagus

'Taco flavored' goulash and leftover asparagus

L/O goulash and fruit

Tomato soup and grilled cheese/summer sausage sandwich

Sis is doing pretty good.  She is home with her doggy, has some help coming in each day, and PT 2-3 times a week.  She is in such a better frame of mind being home.  Just chipper!  Time will tell what happens in the future.

Today may be a nap day.  I slept terribly last night for some reason.  That doesn't happen often, and I am thankful.  It is now cloudy and dreary looking now - so a good nap day!

How was your week?  What have you been up to?  Any good shopping deals, or are you finding new ways to use what you have?  How has your weather been?

I hope you all have a safe and healthy week ahead.  

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

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

Keep your life free from the love of money, and be content with what you have; for he has said "I will never fail you nor forsake you."  Hence we can confidently say, "the Lord is my helper, I will not be afraid; what can man do to me?"

Hebrews 13:5-6

Dear Lord, again we come to express our thanks for all the blessings we receive each day.  Help us each to wise in our ways and with the things we have.  Help us to each learn and value new and old ways.  Let us not show greed or envy.  We know that You will always be by our side and guide us, when we seek.  AMEN

Groceries - Take Control Where You Can

 Hello all.  Hope you are all safe and well.  Boy we had a super big bad storm system come through our state last night.  It did some damage in many places, yet again.  It was a system that was a strip of storms that covered most of the state from north to south.  Somehow there was a tiny break in that system as it approached my city and I got no rain at all!  There was wind, but no rain.  Just the weirdest thing.  I am so thankful.

It is the FIRST day of SPRING!!  Sure doesn't feel like it.  Cooler and sprinkling this morning - maybe some snowflakes!   The daffies are blooming, the forsythia is thinking about blooming, I see some buds on some trees, and the grass is greening. Looks like the warmer temps are gone for at least a week or so.  Such is March!

I know lately, I have talked a lot about our pantries and freezers and our kitchens.  It seems to be one of the things many are talking about.  It truly is the one spot in our budgets where we DO have some control.  Utilities are what they are.  Gas is what it is.  Rent/mortgage is what it is.

Groceries, we do have choices we can make, and we can pick and choose items.

To me, grocery shopping starts at HOME not the grocery store!

Your refrigerator food is some of the most expensive food items you buy!  It also tends to be where the most waste happens.

We need to bring that food home and prep it and USE IT.  Use those leftovers in some new way.  Clean the frig every week to see what actually needs to be used and USE it.  Don't let it become a science project.  Using what you have, decreases the need to shop and/or to not eat out.

Check the pantry - try to keep an inventory - or least look through it very often.  Use those oddball items that have been sitting around.  Use the older stuff that keeps getting shoved back.  Get creative.  There are many sites on the computer that let you enter what ingredients you have - and gives you recipes and ideas for meals.  MyFridgeFood.com is one that I have used several times.  Get out those cookbooks.  

Think about getting or borrowing a vacuum sealer.  It sure save items in the freezer.  No freezer burn as it removes the air from the packages, and that is what causes the burn.  If you can't get a vacuum sealer, try your darndest to get as much air as possible out of those packs. Many use a straw to suck air out!  Freezer packs can be stored FLAT (smoosh them out), and you have a neater freezer and can see what you have easier.  It helps give you more room as well.

PLAN your meals around what you have!!  Shop less often and then go for sales only and clearance and to generally just re-stock items you are low on.

Keep some freezer meals on hand - so that you can get a meal out in a flash if necessary.  It helps keep you from eating out.  Also think about meal 'ready' items.  Pre-cooked taco meat or packs of cooked dried beans.  Maybe sausage patties already cooked, pancakes, waffles, containers of soup, etc.  Having things that you can just easily thaw and reheat really helps the budget by lessening the urge to go out.

Air fryers and Instant Pots can help make meals in a short time.  They can be expensive, so look for sales or second hand - or ask for them as a gift! 

Utilize a crockpot if you work or have busy days.  They make great meals without a lot of work.

Buy seasonal fruit and veggies when possible.  Not everything is cheap out of season.  Sales on foods go in cycles - keep track of those and stock up then.  Holidays create a lot of seasonal sales!  Take advantage - it is like money in the bank later.

If you get the opportunity to grow anything when the weather warms - do it.  Even if it is just lettuce or a tomato plant.  That is something, and it keeps you from buying.  If you have excess - freeze or can or dehydrate.  OR barter with someone else for something you don't have.

You don't HAVE to buy junk - you can make it!  Yes, you can.  Make your sweets, breads, crackers, chips, dips, snacks of all sorts.

So as the old saying goes - use it up, make it do.  Think about your decisions carefully.

Get creative.

You DO have some control - so take advantage of it.  Don't get all flustered, make it fun and maybe even have the family help with ideas.

Have a great day everyone.

NO POLITICS PLEASE

More Pantry Fun

 Happy Wednesday all.  Hope you are all well this morning.  My goodness, what a pretty sunrise we had this morning.  It didn't last long, but boy the colors were spectacular.  It is in the 50's this morning, but winds will be coming in and blowing in a cold front & storms late tonight.  We will be cooler for the next week or so.  It is March Madness time (basketball tourney), so that is to be expected.  We most always have nasty weather during tourney time. 

The grass is greening up, the daffodils started to bloom yesterday, the birds are back - so spring!

There have been tornadoes, dust storms, fires, blizzards, flooding and severe storms all over - all at the same time.  Crazy spring weather for sure.  The craziness of March!   Stay safe out there.

Let's talk a bit more about making things from the pantry.  It seems that is the thing we all like and look forward to figuring out.  It helps the budget, and it is just plain fun!

NATURE

Now that spring is popping up in many places, there are several ideas to utilize the gifts that we are given in the spring.  Dandelions and violets will soon be appearing, and both can be made into jelly.  I have done both before.  It is a bit time consuming to get ready, but it is very good and uses nature.  Some eat dandelion greens.  I had those as a child.  But there are many pretties that can be used in jellies out there.  Peonies, lilacs, honeysuckle, roses, lemon balm, mints.  Nasturtium can be used in salads - both flowers and leaves - for a tangy peppery taste.  With mints and lemon, you can make extracts as well.

Don't forget the wild garlic and onions - great when added to salads.

Nature provides us with a lot of tasty morsels.

Not the healthiest thing in the world, but this recipe comes in handy at times.  Using a can of sweetened condensed milk to make caramel.  I have done this on the stove top before.  Make sure you keep it covered with water while processing.  It really is tasty!  Generally, we all have a can or two in the pantry, so this something different to do with it.

HOMEMADE 'CORN' SYRUP

A lot of people don't like corn syrup - so here is a version to make your own

2 C white sugar

3/4 C water

1/4 tsp. cream of tartar

Whisk is all together, bring to a boil.  Cover and simmer for about 3 minutes.  Uncover and cook to a 'soft ball' stage (a drop in cold water and then sinks in a ball).  Cool and store in an airtight container for a couple months.

To make DARK syrup - combine 3/4 C of the above with 1/4 C molasses

CREAM CHEESE

If you need cream cheese for baking and have none, you can blend cottage cheese in a blender until smooth and use that.  It will not taste like cottage cheese in the recipe.

I can't stand cottage cheese, but I do use it in lasagna as the cheese, if I have it on hand.  Used to do that a lot when G was here, as he liked cottage cheese, and I had it on hand always.

SPRINKLES

It is coming time for holiday cookies!  Lots of people like to bake, ice and decorate cookies for various holidays or parties or just for fun.  No sprinkles - no problem.  

Pour some sugar in a shallow bowl and add drops of food color and mix thoroughly.  You can customize your colors yourself.  I have done this so many times over the years.  Super easy and fun.

You can make these with any type of fruit you have.  Strawberries, bananas, pineapple, raspberries, blueberries, etc.  I have done this and used regular milk - as I don't keep coconut milk on hand.  You can even blend in some flavored yogurt - there is nothing set in stone with this idea.  Use what you have a make a nice treat or snack that is pretty healthy as well!  Make into pops or freeze in ice cube trays for small treats.

BROWN SUGAR

Make your own.  Use 1 cup sugar and add 2 Tbsp. of molasses and stir.  This is like light brown sugar.

Want dark?  1 cup sugar and 4 Tbsp. molasses.

TRADES

1 garlic clove = 1/8 tsp garlic powder or 1/2 tsp granulated garlic

Lemon zest 1 tsp. = 1/2 tsp. lemon extract

Unsweetened chocolate 1 ounce = 3 Tbsp cocoa plus 1 Tbsp. shortening or veg. oil

Self-Rising Flour - use 1 C all-purpose flour and add 1 1/2 tsp. baking powder and 1/2 tsp. salt

HOMEMADE GATORADE

1 pkg. unsweetened Kool-aid

1/2 C sugar or sweetener equivalent

1/2 tsp. salt

1/2 C orange juice

2 quarts water

Mix it all together and chill.

You can use whatever flavor you desire and could even sub lemon or lime juice

I have made this many times - just using what you have!

Hope we all have a nice last day of official winter!  WOOP!

I know winter weather will be sticking around for a while for many, but it sure is something nice to think about - the last official day!

Have a super day all.

What Goes Around....Comes Around

 Good morning to all.  Hope this finds all well and safe.  Cool morning here, but it will be a lovely day.  Probably the best of the week.  It was about 42 when I got up - maybe going to 70*F today.  NICE!

I sure hope all the storms have died down, and people can pick up the pieces of their lives again.  So many sad situations out there.

I have been doing some reading over the weekend and I spent a good deal of time going through my old notebooks and articles that I have kept around for a long while.  It is funny, I came across some things from early in the 2000's (around Y2K) - and here we are!  Some I thought were kind of comical as well.  People just didn't have a real clue to real life for many!

Here is one of the quotes:

"People taking personal responsibility for sustainable, simple and frugal lifestyles are a wave of the future.  Catch the leading edge of this epic transformation that will change the face of the nation forever.  As it turns out, you are not your stuff." 

Really??  Wave of the future?  How about the way many have lived all along?  How about how our ancestors did?  

This was a big wave around Y2K, then again around 2008, and now again!  Maybe, just maybe if people had lived like this all along - there wouldn't be a problem!

I know many live a totally different kind of life and have always lived differently.  But suddenly, this is a NEW thing again.  Everyone seems to think 'the sky is falling'.  Well, it has happened many times in the recent past, and we made it through.  YES, WE MADE IT THROUGH!  

I am one of those that hasn't really changed a thing in the way I live, as I have lived a very sustainable lifestyle for many years.

Just a little common sense is what is needed.  A little less WANT, and more NEED.  A little more looking at things differently.  A little more caring about the earth and others.  A little more of just being frugal and responsible.

I look at this blog as a piece of all of us.  We all contribute recipes, ideas, tips, memories, etc.  We are passing on a little piece of ourselves and our families to others.  We are passing on history!!!  How cool is that?

For those of you just starting this journey - you truly CAN live better with less.  Less money, less stuff, less stress, less complications, less aggravation, etc.  We can live a better life if we look back at what grandma did, served, cooked, and saved.  We need to go back to "slow food" instead of fast food that is literally not even food in many instances.  The chemicals and such that are added, are doing us all harm.  Use real ingredients and make it yourself.  You will be amazed.

People need to take more personal responsibility for creating a better life.  Stop blaming problems on everyone else.

We change things one person at a time, one decision at a time, one household at a time.  BE the change that you want to see.  Talk to others and tell them.  Educate others.  Learn.

Don't give up or despair.  Don't feel sorry for yourselves.  Sow goodness and blessings wherever you go and to all you meet, and you will be amazed how you will reap blessings and kindness back.

You aren't living a second-class life, when you try to live a more frugal (or sustainable) lifestyle.  You are learning to live a first-class, worry-free lifestyle.  You realize what is truly important - and it isn't stuff.  The more you learn and practice living a simpler lifestyle, the more control you have over your life.  This makes you less vulnerable, and you will learn how to get through just about any situation.

REMEMBER a journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step!!  Start today, make one change, and a second tomorrow and so on.  You can do this.  Stop the fretting and the anxiety - we are here for each other.  Let us all continue to use the wisdom of our ancestors and the wisdom we have acquired over the years to help each other.

BUY what you use, USE what you buy.  Recycle and make positive changes in life.  Learn to live on less of everything - you will be amazed how freeing it really is.

Have a fantastical day!!!

Weekly Wrap Up 3/16

 Happy Sunday my friends. I sure do pray you are all safe.  There has been so much bad weather happening the past couple days.  So much destruction.  Prayers for all.  

We had a few tornados touch down in IN, but nothing like that here in my area.  Just lots of wind and rain, thank goodness.  We have hit our warmest of the day, earlier this morning.  The temps will be dropping back into more normal (for this time of year) range.  We have had a very warm week, but that is over for a bit.  More normal for this coming week.

It seems March is always full of wind and storms.  It is a scary time.

Here we are half-way through the month.  Tomorrow is St. Patrick's Day.  They had a parade here in the city Friday - and it happened without rain!  It usually pours on the day of the parade.  ENJOY

AMEN

I actually got out my flip-flops this week!  Yes, it was that warm (80 one day).  I think I broke every nail while doing yard work!  LOL.  Daffodils are starting to bud.  Birds are just amazing.  Robins and more robins, tons of doves, and even the one-legged pigeon - it has shown up daily for about two weeks.  Amazing.  The cow birds are back too.  My little world is starting to wake up!

Sis went home Friday!  It has changed and they say she can now do assisted living.  So they are getting that all worked out, and then she will move.  She should be able to move real soon.  If so inclined, please say a little prayer that she doesn't get hurt anymore and stays safe.

My frugal week:

• Got to air the house most of the week.
• NO heat for many days
• I worked and worked outside.  Cleaning out the front beds and spots all over the yard.
• Did my weekly "trash" walk and picked up lots of items
• Refilled all the soap containers - my usual of soap, water and vinegar
• I did put out spring door decorations
• Cleaned all the windows, doors and mirrors.  Did the ceiling fans as well
• Made a gallon of tea.  Had sparkling fruit water several times (soda stream)
• Got to unplug all the outdoor water bowls and birdbath
• I think I have laundered about everything in the house!  I am on a roll with spring cleaning.  Just laundering everything
• I stayed home until Friday.  I did run in Kroger for sales only.  Cabbage - .49/lb., asparagus - 1.49 lb., bananas .49 lb.  I did get 2 - 4 lb. bags of sugar as hummingbird season will be soon (to add to what I already have).  I also found 1 lb. of Brussel sprouts on sale for 1.69 and 3 lb. Cara Cara oranges for 2.99
• Cooking at home, using up leftovers.  No oven used - just air frier
• All the normal stuff

Meals this past week:

Beans & rice, ham slices (freezer) carrot & cuke stix

Cheese topped bagels (roasted), summer sausage and small fruit salad

Faux crab salad over lettuce, crackers

Chicken strip, potato & cheese roll-up

Pan seared flounder, crab and salad (homemade cocktail sauce as well)

Beans & rice (freezer) and tortillas, fruit

Cheese, fried onion topped chopped steak and salad

There you have it.  Nothing exciting, just trying to get things done while the weather permits.  I have sure enjoyed this taste of spring.  This week I will probably continue to work inside.  Trying to get creative with meals.  Buying the cheaper goods while available.  I only buy cabbage when it gets super cheap - it lasts quite a while.

How has your week been?  Did you get any good weather to enjoy?  Any good deals? 

I sure hope none of you had to endure damage from the storms.

I pray you are all safe and healthy!  Blessings to you and yours from me at my humble little home.

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

Love is patient and kind; love is not jealous or boastful; it is not arrogant or rude. Love does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrong, but rejoices in the right.  Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Lord, again we send thanks for all our mercies received.  Please help us each one to live according to the scripture.  May we each live our best lives and help others as well.  We pray for peace and love in this world for all.  AMEN

Rise and SHINE

 Happy Thursday all.  Another beautiful day in the neighborhood!  40's this morning, going up into the 70's again.  It looks to be another great day for being outside.  The birdies are serenading me as I write, and Bitsy is all pumped up watching them.  I noticed yesterday that there is a bird nest in the gutter on the porch overhang.  The bird hardly ever leaves!

I have lots of green popping up in the perennial bed.  We have a cool down coming in Sunday, after the storm front moves through, and are looking at one cold night.  I am sure everything will be fine, as they were all up some, during the last cold snap.  It basically will only last a day or so, then temps go back up.

I came across a meme or saying that I thought just summed up how we should all be.  There is so much anger and negative happening, and people sure DO respond to it.  I am so over it.  You can control how you respond - only YOU can.  

Years and years ago, I had a very bad temper.  It was not pretty.  Once I met G, I realized the reason I was that way before, it was because I was not happy!  Once I got happy - everything changed.  Sure, I was broken hearted and lost when I lost him, but I still feel that love from him in my heart.  That will never leave.  He would want me to go forward and do good.  That is how I try to live and not let that negative creep back in.

I just want to be happy each day and maybe make someone else's day a little more joyful.  That is it!  Pretty simple.

I have stopped watching a lot of You Tube channels and have stopped reading a lot of blogs because all I see is negative.  That isn't what I want to absorb in life.  You shouldn't either.

STOP letting yourself get triggered by the bad stuff!!!!!  That is exactly what is happening.

Look for the GLIMMER and SMILE.  I do believe it is true, the more you start to notice the good things in life, the happier and healthier you will feel.  The more you are likely to do something nice for another.  The more you are likely to smile or say a kind word. 

That is what we need.

Be that GLITTER that makes things shine and gives another a picture of GLIMMER!

Sending out blessings to you all.  Have a wonderful day!

**(no politics)**

A Little More Assistance in the Kitchen - Mastering Your Pantry

 Good morning and happy Wednesday to all.  A little cooler this morning, in the 40's.  Bright and cheery looking outdoors and it will be a lovely day again.

This morning there were 2 red-winged black birds and the newest one to show up had a ton of red on its wings.  I bet it is a male.  Their song is just so neat, very distinct from all the other birds.  Gosh I love the morning songs.  I wish I had a recorder, so I could record and post.  I would love you to hear what I hear every morning and a lot of the day!

Today, just a few more kitchen ideas to maybe saving a little money.  Make it yourself and subbing when there is a need.  We all need new ideas for making yummy things for our kitchens and our families.  Hoping this helps someone save a little and have fun.

Pretty darn simple.  No need to go buy an expensive bottle.  It always seemed I would buy a bottle and use it so rarely, that if would just get funky.  This works for smaller batches.

Great subs. The syrup - I keep a little bottle of maple flavoring on hand to add to the flavor.  These work great to keep you from making that extra run out to the grocery.  Use what you have.

Be a master of your pantry!!!!!

Click on these separately to enlarge for easier reading.  

Just a simple way to make homemade ketchup.  Not like most canning recipes that contain dozens of items and takes hours.  This tastes really good.  Uses normal at home pantry items, doesn't take a lot of time, win-win.

Love me some homemade sloppy Joe.  No need to buy the bottles of sauce.  One of the easiest things to make.  I also add a splash of Worcestershire Sauce - gives it a bit of a zip!

Easy-peasy ideas.  Hope these help someone out a little.  New homemakers need to find easy ideas to stretch those dollars.  There isn't always a mom available to answer questions.  Let us by the mom to them and whomever might need a good idea or two.

If you have an easy tip - drop us a note!

Have a beautiful day my friends.

Getting By and Getting Ready

 Happy Tuesday to all.  I sure hope this finds you all well and safe.

It is a lovely morning here today.  Woke to 50*.  Yesterday was gorgeous.  I worked on some spring projects that I wanted done.  More of the same today.

Sitting here listening to the birds sing.  I have a feeder on the front porch and the birdies just sing out there.  It is great kitty "TV" as well.  Out back I have all kinds of birds, but in the front it is mainly the little fellows and of course robins in the yard.

The chickens two doors down have sure been enjoying being outside most of the day!  This isn't them (not my pic), but they roam all over the yard.  There are 2 black ones, 2 brown ones, and 2 that look to be a combo of black/white.  They have a young dog as well, and he acts like a herder - lol!  It is fun to watch.

Yesterday was a beautiful day.  I got some work done.  Spring is in the air, and I am ready.  

I got the two security door windows cleaned inside and out.  What a lovely difference it makes.  The front door is a toughie to do, as it is one solid window from top to bottom and you have to take it out to clean the outside.  The doors have a lot of wrought iron fretted work on them - and you can't clean around it.  But I did it!  My back was screaming at me - but that is part of spring.

They just look so good.  Noone else would probably notice but I do!!!  

That is the thing - do things for yourself!!!!  You don't have to care what others think when it comes to your place - do you!  Do what makes you happy.  Do what brings you joy.

I had this piece from a broken car window cleaner in the Blazer.  I got it out, cleaned it with a little vinegar - and used it on my windows!  I just held it in my hand.  I am sure somewhere in the garage there is a handle that will fit it (I will look) - but yesterday it worked great to clean big windows!

Being a beautiful day - it was a line drying kind of day!  I have a clothesline still in my yard.  I need to re-line it this year.  I have everything to do it.  I think I have the only actual clothesline left in the neighborhood!!!  Seriously.  Other improvise though.  I love their ingenuity.  A couple of younger couples do what they can to use the great outdoors and the free air!

2 doors down.  (the chicken house).  She hung the little ones clothes out to dry the best way she could.

 

This was taken a couple years ago - 2 doors over the other direction.  You do what you can with what you have!!!!!  She still does this with towels, covers and jeans.

I got these solar lights at Christmas as a gift.  After cleaning the front flower bed this week, they will be going out there!  There is a hummingbird, a dragon fly and a flower.  I bet they will be so pretty lit!  I got a huge decorative pot for Christmas as well - that will soon make its way to the porch.  It will be filled with some pretties for sure.  It is fun to get these things out that have just been stored for a while.

After cleaning the doors, I put out my spring door decor.  It always looks so cheery.

I also got the bedroom windows cleaned yesterday.  Today I will be working on all others.  That is a job, but it makes me so happy when done.  I just love a CLEAR view!  I also washed the screens down too with a wet and soapy rag - then rinsed with the dampened rag.

Airing out the house makes me happy as well!!!!!  I can't tell you how happy that makes me.  I just love fresh air.

There are so many things you can do to spruce up things and they don't have to cost a cent!  Just washing down the house with a hose or cleaning the windows, makes a huge difference.  Wash the windows and screens and the window coverings.  Change out the bed coverings or add a cheery afghan or pillow.   Little things can just make you go "aaaaahhhhhh".

I wish more of my neighbors would 'pretty up" their yards - but I can't control that.  As long as they keep things mowed and trimmed, I am glad.  I just love doing all the little things - to me it makes a house a home!

I know you gals up north in Canada are still in the deep freeze.  I saw a map yesterday showing weather - and dang gals - you aren't catching a break!  It is lovely down this way for now.

I hope all of you that can - get out and do something to enjoy this fresh air and sunshine and warmth.  Get that free vitamin D!!!!

Like I said above - do things that make you happy!  Get creative and have fun with your home and yard.  It doesn't have to cost a penny if you don't want it to.

Enjoy this day you were gifted!!!!!!

Weekly Wrap-Up Date 3/9

 Happy Sunday to all.  I hope this finds everyone safe and healthy.  There is still much in the way of weather, that is causing problems for people.

It is a lovely morning here, after a pretty day yesterday.  Still a little on the cooler side - but it appears that will be ending this week.  It looks to be such a nice week - I am ready to get outside for a bit.

First, I saw a robin, then two - now bunches.  In just a day or so, lots and lots of robins have shown up.  Always a good sign in my book.

This morning outside I heard the distinctive calls of Big Red, the woodpecker and the bluejays.  All the other birds were happily singing.  Music to my ears.

I hope all that needed to, changed their clocks!!!!  I had a little harder time getting up this morning - not sure which time I wanted to follow!!  LOL

Nothing much exciting happening this week.

My frugal week:

• I froze several bowls of leftovers for use at another time
• My neighbor brought me a new yard flag as a gift - a pretty Easter one
• Made my own homemade 'Spanish' type rice
• Got to air the house a couple times 
• Visits with sis
• I did stop at Kroger after a sis visit and got fresh fruit and some veggies (on sale) and just a little stock up of other things - should be all I need for March + longer
• I also stopped at the thrift store.  They have really rearranged it, and it looked so much nicer.  I didn't find a thing I needed, but they did gift me with a bag of sourdough bagels.  Everyone got a bread just for going in
• I have been working on spring cleaning daily
• Lots of laundry - sprucing up
• Using what I have and eating all meals at home and using leftovers in new ways

See, nothing exciting at all.  I do look forward to this coming week, as there will be open windows daily, and most likely no heat needed.  It is to be near or above 70*F all week!

I look forward to working outside and cleaning things up a bit.  So ready for spring.

Meals this past week:

Lasagna soup and garlic toast

Chicken and dumplings, green beans

Spanish type rice w/beans added and ground beef - made into 2 burritos (froze the remainder)

Tortilla pizza and salad

Corn/garbanzo beans/pepper/onions fried together topped with bacon

Omelet with leftover veggies (from above) added

Chicken tenders and salad

Just snacking on fresh items I have on hand

How has your week been?  Are you getting warmer temps or are you still in the deep freeze?  I hope none of you are near the fires out East.

Did anyone get any special deals this week?

Check in and let us know that things are OK with you.  

Prayers for all - that you are safe and healthy.  I know there are many who are quietly going through things (alone) and could sure use our prayers.  We just never know the trauma that another endures - so it is always RIGHT to be kind and have kind words.  Concentrate on the things you can actually do something about and realize that life is full of other things that just are.  We will endure and get through it all in some way or another.  

Be kind, be joyful and be helpful.

Prayers for you and yours from me at my humble little home.

Blessings to all.

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

Dear Lord, we come to You in thanks on this beautiful day You have given us.  We also send prayers for those that are hurting and going through unspoken issues.  Give us each and every one strength to get through our daily worries and calm them.  We know Your will be done, and that we must have faith.  Let us not falter in doing kindness for others and living as we know You want us to live.  AMEN

Keeping the Pantry Active - Make it!

 Happy Thursday to you all.  Hope this finds you all safe - there sure has been some nasty weather the past day or two all over the place!  Two days ago, we were near 65 - yesterday the winds were blowing (very briskly late in day), and we had rain - then sleet and flurries!  Crazy stuff.  There was a dusting on 'things' this morning, nothing on the ground.  Skies are supposed to clear today - so sunglasses will be in order.

I saw another robin this morning - that is promising.  So is the weather forecast.  70*F by Tuesday!  EEK

I sure love these little tastes of spring.

           Indeedy do!  That is how we should all feel.  Being able to live and get by is a blessing.

You may have little to some - and you may super wealthy to others.  It is all perspective.  Make yours a positive attitude and influence.

Today is just a few more idea/recipes that can be done right in your kitchen and you don't have to go out and buy something special.  No more 'one thing' runs!

I know I have shared some of these in the past, but there may be some new people who can use these, and they are just reminders for the rest of us.

As always - click on the recipe to enlarge for easier reading!

CREAMY HONEY MUSTARD

              I love this stuff.  I keep a batch on hand all the time.  It is super on salads

So easy to make and have on hand.  No more cans necessary.  You can make it into whatever type you want.  You can use beef bouillon as well. 

No more ingredients you can't pronounce.  Make you own cake mix and keep the dry ingredients in a jar on the shelf ready to go.  Bake as you would a cake mix purchased at the store.

Good to have - as many cake mixes are smaller now, and this like the original size.

STIR FRY SAUCE

You can also add spices or ginger to change it up a bit.  This makes a good basic sauce for a tasty stir fry

Just a couple ideas to help your wallet and your pantry shelves.  I love being able to just mix up something from what I have at home.  Most of my whims can be covered with the supplies in the pantry.

Use what you have and make new things.  Stop spending and start making!

Have a lovely and safe day.  Hope all are well and warm!!!

Many blessings to all.