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

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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