ENOUGH - Let it be

 Hello and a wonderful day to you all.  This month is almost over - just flew by, even with all the weather events.  Hey, spring is closer by the day - which means warmer temps for us in the U.S. and Canada!  Cooler days for those way south of us.  I really do look forward to seeing green!!!!

It is cold again this morning, but not AS cold.  Winds have died down it didn't get as cold overnight.  My road still looks very rough - not sure what the main roads are like, but I am sure better than a couple days ago.

I see so many people that feel such little self-worth and have been 'shamed' into thinking they are somehow less worthy than others.  It angers me.  It is so not true.  Each and every single person has a purpose on this earth, and it is NOT to be the punching bag (verbally or physically) for anyone else.

My ex was verbally abusive for many years, and yes, it took time to get past that.  Glen was my guiding light and he saved me.  He taught me to love me again, and to know that I could accomplish anything.

I want to try to help people to understand that you ARE important.  You do NOT have to accept the negativity, no matter who it is coming from!!!!

PLEASE repeat the affirmation above to yourself daily - several times a day - until you regain your control and your well-being.

I know not everyone has the same beliefs.  But most do believe in a creator, and to know that the Creator that made the skies and the stars and the earth - made you is pretty darn impressive.  That makes each of us special.  Unique.  Different.  Awesome.  Beautiful.  I could go on and on.

Today start taking your esteem back and be the best version of you that you can be.  Don't let anyone tell you different or belittle you - NO ONE!

As hard as it is, sometimes you just need to walk away (even with close family).  Hard yes, but it can be done.  I speak from experience, so I do understand.

You deserve joy and happiness in all things.  Let no one steal it.

May you each be safe and healthy, and may you have a wonderful and blessed day.

You ARE loved.

Good Things to Know

 Howdy Ho to all!!  Holy Toledo it is cold outside.  The news says it is -4*, my thermometer shows 1*.  Half a dozen of one - 6 of another!!!!!  LOL!  Cold is cold.

Most schools are still closed here - not just snow (although many roads are still bad - ours!), but the cold.  They have E learning.

It has been almost 6 days since we were above freezing and it looks like it will maybe be another week.  Well, they keep telling us January is the coldest month - sure hope they right.

I so hope you are all well and warm here in the US.  Stay cool in the southern hemisphere!

                           Sure looks cozy doesn't it?  You can almost smell the goodies - love it.

Today I will share some charts of things that just about everyone should know.  Food can be good and food can be bad.  We need to know the things that keep us healthy, as in it gives you nutrients and vitamins needed.  Things that last and things you can make yourself with no preservatives!

Color is your friend.  Eat the color as much as possible.  I love fruits and veggies.  I do try to eat color every day - it may not be fresh goods, maybe frozen or canned, but I do try to eat color as often as possible.

Here is a chart showing many popular items and what great natural vitamins you can get from them.  I am big on almonds, eggs, bananas, apples and milk.  Get some of those (if not all) every day!

Not all the pictures match the words - but you get it!  Read the words!!!

I know that beans get hard to cook - but it can be done.  I soak and soak, then pre-cook in baking soda water - then cook.  I cook without adding salt (for some reason it seems to slow cooking time for me).  I add my flavorings at the end or from the meat.  Just take your time and be patient.  No need to throw them away.

Do you have any tips on how you cook older beans?

Your own homemade cake mix!  You can mix dry ingredients together and keep on the shelf - then add wet when needed.  Bake at times and temps of cake mixes.

You can alter by adding other ingredients to change it up a bit.  No fake ingredients and things you can't pronounce.

Here is a repeat to help in a pinch.

Out of butter - no cream - use powdered milk to make a great sub for your table.

This sure may help in a pinch and keep you from making an unnecessary run to the store or maybe help those living far from a store.   (click on recipe to enlarge for easy reading)

Just a few tips from me to you.

Do you have any great tips that we need to know?  Please share!

Have a blessed day and be safe!

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

 Hello this last Tuesday of January.  Good golly, it is cold and messy!  I sure hope you and yours are safe and snuggled in at home (here in the northern hemisphere).  As cold as we are, the southern hemisphere is hot.  Crazy stuff.  

We ended up having snow through Sunday late afternoon (24 hours) - and ended up with 12"+ here.  I had drifts that were close to 2' deep.  Luckily a guy from down the road came and checked on me, and he moved the worst of the worst (I paid).  I have worked on the rest over 2 days.  This body is sore!  Especially my hands, just achy.  That is ok - I survived and I am in my home safe.

There are piles chest high in my front yard, and the cold isn't leaving for a good while - so there will be snow a plenty for a while.

Now that title today could mean a lot of things - BUT I am talking produce!!!!!

I know when we shop we all look for the nicest produce.  It is appealing and lovely and we think that those visuals mean BETTER!  Not really.  It also means it costs more.

Think about looking for the oddly shaped, slightly bruised, and just different looking produce.  Just because it is bruised or ugly - doesn't mean spoiled!

With people being hungry and things costing more - I can't imagine anyone throwing things away just because they don't look pretty.  Stores DO!

Get to be friends with your local produce manager at the store and see if you can get a deal.  They make a little money, instead of paying to have it taken away.  My niece is a produce manager at a WM and she says this happens in her rural area a lot - she always works with people.

There are many things you can do with the off produce.  Fruit salads, smoothies, milkshakes, cook it, dehydrate it, ferment it, jelly and jams, cobblers, pies, roast, add to soups and pasta salads, mash, puddings, freeze for later, can it, the list goes on and on.

You can ferment all kinds of veggies - just like you do with making kraut!  They are really yummy.

VEGGIE CAKES/BITES

Veggies cakes - can be made like potato cakes - use any type of veggie you have.  You can make into patties or just make bites (like tots).  So easy to make and tasty.  Great for variety.

Add veggies to stir fry, fried rice, pasta salads, rice salad - all kinds of things.  Cut up - it doesn't have to be pretty.

FRUIT - so many options.

Fried apples, or peaches, or pineapple, or pears - oh YUM!  Great on top of pancakes, waffles, oatmeal or just as a side or a dessert.

You can mash up for youngsters (or oldsters).  Add to wonderful milkshakes, smoothies, even make homemade ice cream.  Jellies and jams.

Add to sweet breads and muffins, pie, cobbler, oh my.

Use glass jar (those you might throw away from the store) to secure partials of veggies or fruits in.  Like a half an onion - no smell and keeps it fresh.  Those jars are gold - they are super for dry goods, leftovers, and partial pieces of produce.  Make salads ahead (no dressing) and store in jars - grab and go.

I am all for anything that keeps things out of the landfills.  

The jars get re-used and you don't have to trash or recycle.  The produce that may go into landfills, gets used.  It is still good.  You can then use scraps for chickens or wildlife or compost.

There used to be companies that sold misfits or ugly produce - not sure if there still is.  I think it is just a necessary today - as so many are trying to get the best prices they can and stretch the food budgets.

Stop being so picky!

What ideas do you have on the UGLY produce?  DO you try to buy the things no one else wants?

Give us your ideas.  It helps everyone stretch the budget a little.

I pray you are all safe and have electricity and are well.  Let us know how you are faring!

STAY SAFE, STAY IN, and STAY HEALTHY.

Smile a little.  The sun is shining here - so that makes me happy.  Kitties had breakfast - that makes me happy too.

Have a joyful day.

Weekly Wrap Up 1/25

 Well hello there this Sunday!  What a Sunday it is!  SNOW, COLD are the words of the day for many of us.  It is very snowy here, I have not been out yet today, but I need to soon.  Got to clear areas for food and to clear snow from away from the water bowls for the animals.  Poor babies.  There are so many outdoor cats around here.  They all show here for food and water - guess no one else has 'liquid' water available.  I feel for the squirrels and birdies as well.

Looking out the windows there are spots where it looks like an inch of snow and places there appears to be well over a foot.  I'd day right now we have a good 7.5"-8"+, more coming.  It is 10*F at the moment.

I pray you and your families are all safe and well, and that you have heat. 

It looks like it will be super cold all week long - nothing higher than teens - but there will be some sun by tomorrow.

48 years ago today we had the big blizzard of '78.  Nature sure likes to give reminders - huh?

My frugal week:

• Sunday was the family gathering.  Had a wonderful time.  Lots of leftovers to use this week.  Sure glad we didn't plan it for today!
• Put away all the lovely items I received and got all paper and bags back downstairs for next year
• Froze 2 servings of stew leftover from Sunday
• Drinking tea left all week
• I did put more bedding in the greenhouse and doghouse for the kitties - but they have found their own shelter - below ground!  They are all using what has to be old groundhog/opossum dens,  Under my deck, the neighbor's deck, and the shed across the alley, have all had groundhogs over the years.  The cats are using those from what it appears (I mean it keeps wildlife safe all winter).  You can tell as they all look 'dusty'.
• I started shopping from the downstairs freezer
• I did run to the store midweek for cat food stock-up.  I am good for well over a month now.  I did also buy milk and bananas for me.  That is it.
• NO PANIC shopping for me
• Using up fresh veggies from Sunday to make salads this week
• I did walk the alley midweek to p/u trash.  During weekly trash p/u it was windy 
• My garage is not hooked to the generator - and all the heated water holes are attached to the garage.  I did get out a heavy duty extension cord to attach to house (just in case).
• I worked on the computer all day Friday trying to figure out the 'reply' problem I was having.  I got it done FINALLY.  It was frustrating, and I can understand why maybe some just give up and quit posting.  Things keep getting added to computers through updates, that aren't wanted or requested - you really have to stay on top of it.
• Made a small ham piece in the air fryer and cooked a small pot of chili
• Started reorganizing the deep overstock pantry and cleaning everything.  My hands will touch every item!  What a job.
• I did received another gift this week via the mail.  I mentioned something off the cuff on Sunday and Tuesday it was here!  A multi size jar lid vacuum sealer!! (does reg. and wide mouth)

It works great too - I have already tried it!

Meals this week:

Buffet - stew, pulled pork, meat/cheese trays, fresh veggies and all the cracker and breads, desserts

Stew and some desserts

Pork, rice, beans burritos

Pulled pork sliders and salad

Cheeseburger and fresh veggies

Chili and ham sandwich

Chili nachos

Snacked on nuts, toast and jelly, ham slices, meat & cheese, sweets

I sure do hope you are all ok.  Life can throw us some surprises and make us each understand just how blessed our normal life really is.  Prayers for all in the path of these storms - stay safe and warm.

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

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

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.  Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.

John 14:27

Dear Lord, I ask today that You keep us all safe and protected from the weather and please protect Your creatures of nature, and all the souls that are homeless.  Help us each to do our part to help those in need.

Please place Your healing hands upon those who are in need.  We thank You for the many blessings that we receive daily.  AMEN

BLOGGERS - asking a help question

 He guys - all you that blog - I have a question for ya.

Yesterday I could directly respond to each comment received.  Suddenly this morning I can't.  I can leave a comment, but it will not let me respond directly to each comment.

Any idea WHY?????  I am stumped.  I have checked what I know how to check, and I have restarted computer a couple times as well.

THANKS for any HELP!!!!

Keep Your Boundaries and Joy

 Hello to all on this Thursday.  Hope you are well and safe and warm.

As I stated in a comment - the weather is about to get frightful for much of the country!  It sounds like a doozy! 

Yesterday was in the 40's, although windy.  The sun was shining.  This morning the sunrise made the sky look beautiful.  The wind has died down some, but so have the temps.  It is low 20's at the moment and getting colder for a few hours.  The sun is out - a blessing.  

It sounds like this weekend will be awful for many.  We are kind of on the border of some and lots of snow.  It will be brutal cold with highs in single digits, low teens for a few days.  I pray everyone stays safe and indoors. 

Yes please!!!!!!  I think many of us are feeling this way about now!!!!!  I hate to wish my life away, but yes, I am ready for spring.  At least warmer temps and no snow.

Yes, this is me.  There are so many things that can set us off today.  Too many buttons to push.  So much negativity from everyday people.  I am just sick of the noise and the clammer.

I will not add to it.

My life is precious, your life is precious - don't let people bring you down.  I know it is hard to do, but we have to work on it.  I will be turning off the computer and the TV most of the time.  No, I will not be a hermit - I am very aware of what is happening around the world.  I do not need others' negativity to stay informed. 

Do your best to take care of yourself, your home and your family and your space.  That is all you have to do.

You can be prepared for anything without being a Debbie Downer to others.

Find the best of each day to ponder, love and share.  If each one does that, it will make everything nicer.

My home is my world.  I will protect it and myself - my boundaries.  I choose joy and happiness and will look for it in ALL places.

I place myself in God's protections, and I have tremendous faith that He is with me always.

I hope you can choose happiness as well.  Turn off the negative and look for good.

I pray for all this weekend.  I hope everyone gets to keep their power and that your homes and cities are free of bad ice storms.  Stay in and stay safe.  Do not try to test Mother Nature!  

I hope they are wrong, and this event isn't as bad as they predict.

Do you have your eggs, milk, bread and TP?????  LOL

I ran out for a few minutes yesterday, not even thinking about this weekend, and couldn't believe how crowded the stores were!  People act like they will be stuck at home for months!  Around here, that isn't going to happen.

BE SAFE!  BE JOYFUL!  BE HAPPY!

Don't let anyone steal your joy, set your boundaries.

THIS IS A SAFE PLACE!!!!!!!

(no politics)

I Grocery Shop Differently

 Morning to all.  It is early - haven't been outside yet, it is still dark.  Just getting a headstart!  It is warmer this A.M. than past mornings.  Today will hit 40's and I am looking forward to that.  I think it is supposed to be windy as well, but dry.  It is going to get very cold and nasty this weekend for a lot of the country.  I hate that for everyone.  We are to get super cold - we are on the fringe of the weather system - we will see.

I probably (most likely) shop a LOT different than the average person.  I have always been this way.

This past year (2025) I saved just under $1,000 using my digital coupons!  I well imagine I saved close to that amount buying clearance as well.  That is a lot off the grocery bills.  That works out to a $166 savings a month.

I basically buy almost NOTHING that isn't a digital coupon item or clearance.  It is rare for me to pay a regular price - very rare.

I do not shop every week - sometimes I don't go to the store for several weeks.  I always make sure that I have enough milk on hand for a few weeks, and I seem to be able to keep fruits and veggies a good amount time.

I am not brand conscious, nor do I pay a lot of attention to 'best by' dates.

I use what I have.  I have a great and PLENTIFUL pantry, between what I grow and can to the items I get cheaply.

I do NOT waste - I use leftovers in some way.

I have meatless days every now and then.  When I do eat meat, I use less than called for in recipes.  I can add beans or mushrooms to extend meat.  I also use rice and pasta as extenders.

If I have leftovers that I don't want to eat soon - I freeze for another day.  That makes for easy meals.

I buy whole fruits and veggies and not cut up ones.  Buying the cut-up products costs more and often has been treated with something, or it goes off quicker.  I try to stay as pure as possible.

I substitute a lot.  If I am out of something - I figure out a sub.  I don't run out to buy what I am out of.

I tend to MAKE UP a lot of my cooking as I go.  I 'play' with food!!!!!!  I love trying new things and ways of putting food together.

I make most of my sauces and mixes and treats.

I do NOT buy water. (once a year only for company).  I resist pop.  I drink water or tea at home.  I am not a coffee drinker.

I always go with a list of what I really need, then I do look at clearance goods.

I don't have to shop this way - but it just makes good sense to me.  I can use my funds on other things.  I like getting the best deal I can and making things last as long as I can.

Hope this gives someone some ideas on ways to cut the grocery budget back a little.  There are ways to not spend a ton at the store.  People keep saying it can't be done - YES it can.

Be open to new ways, new ideas, new recipes and new ways of shopping.  Eyes WIDE OPEN can make a HUGE difference.

Have a beautiful day and stay safe and warm out there.

Life - Joy - Ordinary = Wonderful

 Hello to all on this Tuesday morning.  I hope you are all well and safe.

Holy Moly sweet Eskimo pies, it is cold outside!!!!  I know some of you northern gals are so used to cold, but we aren't used to this nasty cold much here in these parts!  It was 8*F this morning.  I was bundled up nicely, when I went out and it didn't feel too bad.  I think the big part was NO wind!  The wind just makes things feel brutal.  Yesterday we were in the teens and windy - oh my.   There are no clouds this morning, the sun is shining, and we have no precipitation of any sort - on the ground or in the air.  YAY 

We are to get into the twenties today (woohoo) and maybe hit 40* tomorrow!!!  We get a couple days reprieve then it is back to cold and more cold.  I know some up north are getting tons of snow and blizzard conditions - STAY SAFE!

Just to make some smile that are cold here, or colder elsewhere - 62 days until spring and 50 days until time change (more daylight hours)!!!!  It has been almost a month since Christmas and think how fast that has gone.  It won't be long.

I am not a sports fan - but I want to say a HUGE congrats to the Indiana University (IU) football team for winning the national title last night.  They made history for the school and the state.

This is just so true.  Whether it is a sunrise, a fur baby, family, a sports win, nature, etc.   JUST JOY!

You all know I had my last Christmas gathering with family Sunday.  It was so wonderful to see everyone.  We laughed, we cried, we enjoyed and just had the best time together.  I wish it happened more often.  I made a big buffet of all sorts of things, and it was enjoyed.

On top of just loving family, I got so many neat things.  From homemade bread, to candles, smell pretties, socks, goodies, gardening things, etc.

I want to share some pictures of 3 things I got, just in case some of you might be interested in finding them as well.  I know I will be sharing ideas from my book and cards I got.

These were neat gifts and you may want to try and find for yourself or for gifts.

This book is all natural homemade remedies for just about everything you can think of.  I am all about natural living (I take no meds) - so this is just so neat.

It has colored pictures of each item you can make, easy to read instructions, what all you might need to make, etc.  I am sure there will be some things I will share with others, for those who are interested.

Also got this pack of 50 cards - 50 Plants That Heal - tells about herbs and natural items.  How to grow, where they grow best, which part to use and how to use it.

My niece and I had a conversation Sunday about the journals (about 15) I have from Mom.  She had no idea.  I told her that after over 24 years I still haven't been able to get through much, because I just start crying (ugly crying) - they are so personal.  She and I cried and hugged.

I open her gifts and here is this book!!!!  It is a journal that asks about all stages of life from where born - growing up, teen years, loves, religion, thoughts on things, etc.  She told me she wants this back someday to keep.

I show it because, they were all talking and several have gotten one of these - they make them for grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, and who knows who else.  Just such a little booklet, that just talks about life.  Full of personal thoughts and memories.  I think anyone interested in family history would love to give and get these.

A neat legacy to leave.

Yesterday I was just beat.  I did get most things put away.  You can't tell anyone was here on Sunday, let alone a crowd, all is straight.  But I did nothing else than put things away.  I ate good food and took a nap.  Sunday night I went in to lay on the bed and turned on the TV - and I was asleep at 8:30!!

Today, I will get back to normal (I think).

I have lots of yummy leftovers to eat up in some form, and nothing super rushing to do, nowhere to go.  Life is good!

Simple ordinary things make for JOY in life.

Fed my outdoor animals - Licorice, Mommy, and babies all came out of the insulated doghouse!  They were all snuggled together - so sweet.  Bitsy is laying here sleeping and I am just happy for this day.

LIFE IS GOOD.

Stay warm, stay safe and have a blessed day!

Weekly Wrap Up 1/18

 Hello to all and happy Sunday!  I hope you are all safe and healthy and warm. 

We are now half past the midway mark of the month - it is flying by.

It is a cold morning here.  In the teens and only going into the 20's today - but dry.

I was looking at a weather calendar for this month, and it doesn't look too bad, until the very end of the month - and then it looks terribly frigid!  I hope that all changes before then.

This week has been a 'just doing' kind of week.  Taking care of the home has been my job.

My frugal week:

• I met with my financial guy here at the house.  Things are good
• I cut my hair here at home
• Did several little repairs
• I did get to work outside in the yard a little over 2 days
• I waxed the cabinets and all the wooden furniture
• Did a bit of baking - cookies that go in the holiday bags for kids, and baked goods for today's gathering
• Paid all bills I had over the phone
• Pretty much finished the 'deep' cleaning of the main floor (basement is another world!)
• I did run to the store for slider buns and street taco tortillas this week.  I also got a few fresh veggies - that is it

Meals this past week: (kept it simple)

L/O mac & cheese in a quesadilla and a salad

Big omelet in a tortilla wrap and sausage patties

Smoked sausage sandwich and veggies

Big salad, l/o rice

Baked spaghetti (made in air fryer), veggies

Baked spaghetti, fruit

Steamed broc./cauliflower, smoked sausage

There you go.  Just getting my home in order as I can.  I need to get busy on that basement after a few days of rest.  Also need to work on the extended pantry and reorganize and clean it all.

Lots of indoor work can be done during the winter, so that we stay productive and active.

Today is my family gathering here with my niece and nephews.  I so look forward to it.  Everything is ready - spent a lot of time yesterday getting food started or made.

I may not be back on to answer comments until tomorrow - depends on how tired I am tonight!

I wish you each a safe week and please stay healthy and warm.  If you are getting bad winter weather stay safe.

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

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

This is the day which the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Psalms 118:24

Lord, I pray that we are thankful for all that we receive each and every day.  That we realize what gifts You present us daily.  Thank You.  Please continue to lay healing upon each person that is need. So many need Your healing touch in so many ways.  Prayers for our country and our world.  AMEN

A Bit of This and That - Sharing Ideas

 Hello to all this Thursday.  Here we are at the halfway mark of the month already.  It just doesn't seem possible.  It is cold this morning and breezy.  It is 18*F.  It is amazing what a difference a day or two can make around here - a couple days ago, I was outside doing some yardwork!  NOT today!

I will stay in and put the finishing cleaning touches on the house and then start my baking and cooking tomorrow for my weekend gathering.

Yesterday talking about old fashioned ways and recipes - this was mom's cookbook.  So many lovely notes handwritten inside and great suggestions to tweak a recipe.  As you can tell, it is more than well used and is taped together on the outside.

Her rolling pin, and both the roller and board press for Springerle cookies.  I use all of these, and I swear they just make things taste better!

Lots of tips and ideas today - just ways to make our kitchens work better for us and our pantries always feel full.

You can make your own condensed milk - no need to make a special run to the store to get more.  Just using what you have on hand!!!

I am a gravy fiend!!!  I just love it; it makes everything taste better!  So many I know, say 'I can't make gravy'.  Not sure why - it is so easy to make.  There are many versions out there, and you can flavor with about anything.  Just takes a little patience!

Lots of us cook for one or two and often times recipes make a lot.  Here is a good chart on measurements cut in half!
 No need to make a ton - and waste ingredients or food.  Just make the recipe smaller.

I know I posted this before - but a couple asked for it and wondered what I was talking about.  It is SOOOOOO good!!!!  You want to zip it up some?  Add a few dashes of hot sauce.  I used white vinegar when I made mine and regular paprika.  This is served in many restaurants now and can be purchased at grocery stores.

Blend all of this until smooth and bottle and refrigerate.

Great with fries, onion rings, over roasted or fried veggies, on eggs, sandwiches, etc.

I always have this on hand - have used it for years.  Sure, you can make a faux buttermilk using vinegar and milk - but this is so easy too.  It lasts for ages and ages, and I don't have to remember to have vinegar on hand (I usually do - but...)

I always mix up some when making biscuits or pancakes or waffles - just adds a bit more flavor and tastes special.

There you go - my pantry saving tips for today!

There isn't much that you can't make a homemade version of.  Just try and experiment a little - if at first you don't succeed - try again!

Have a wonderful day and say thanks for all blessings.

Old Fashioned and Simple

 Hello to all this midweek.  Hope you are all safe and healthy, and the same for your loved ones.

It is a gloomy looking morning here.  It is in the 40's, but those temps will be slipping as the day goes on.  The wind is supposed to come back as well.  Yesterday was terribly windy, but it was sunny and warmer, if you ignored the wind!  Heck I even worked outside a bit.

Yep, that is me.  I do have tons of grandma's cast iron (a true blessing), and lots of mom's handwritten recipe cards.  

It gives me such joy when some of the younger ones in the family, want grandma's and my recipes.  When they ask HOW to do things and want to kind of go back a little in time with their ways.

Today is going to be simple - just a few pics of some of the easy meals of late.  I know we all get stuck with meal plans at times - so it always nice to get new ideas, and seeing pics helps me a lot.

You know I like simple and easy meals - I like reusing leftovers and using what I have on hand.

Seriously, I am just a simple girl - but I love to eat!  Some things may sound strange to others, but they sure taste good to me.

Here is the grilled cheese sandwich on multi-grain bread - with a nice spoonful of leftover taco meat added.  Grilled on both sides and just plain yummy!  I had this with a salad.  Easy, tasty, using up things and cost just pennies. (bread was free)

Pizza Pasta - use whatever pasta you have - add some sauce and whatever pizza toppings you like or have.  Top with mozzarella cheese (or whatever you have/like) - and you have a super easy dish that requires NO oven and tastes just like pizza (a great skillet meal).  I will bet 100% that kiddos would just love this.

Tortillas cost just pennies - filled with leftover rice and beans, added lots of shredded cheese and some salsa - rolled and grilled. Served with sour cream.  Very tasty and filling.  You could also have one with maybe refried beans or salad or even a taco.  Just use what you have and use your imagination.

Made an omelet with egg, cheese and some leftover seasoned rice.  Laid it in a tortilla (instead of using toast).  I didn't pick it up to eat, but the tortilla did add something.  I used a little Yum-Yum sauce on the omelet as well.  Cooked sausage from freezer - reheated.  This was a very tasty meals and it was pretty healthy as well.

The cheesy potato soup - used older potatoes and made a basic soup - added a can of Nacho cheese soup for the zippy cheese taste - and I cut up some jalapeno summer sausage.  You could use ham, smoked sausage or no meat - whatever you have.  Pennies and it provided me two big meals that week, and put back 2 bowls in freezer for future meals.  Just using up things that needed to be used soon.

Lastly, beef and broccoli over rice.  I had some beef pieces in the freezer (you could use canned) and a little fresh broccoli - made a simple brown gravy (using some powdered mix I have) and served over rice.  This was delish and actually felt like fine dining to me.  Kind of reminded me of a meal that mom would have served!

All meals I make for the most part, really take very little time to make.  I am all about less than 30 minutes in the kitchen.  

Now this weekend I will be utilizing the crockpots to make soup and pulled pork for company that is coming.  Those take time to do - but the crockpot really helps make life easier.

I do things very simply, and I stick with very basic and sometimes old-fashioned meals.

Hope this gives you some ideas - I am a visual person, and figure others may be as well.

You can make some wonderful meals with simple ingredients and little money - it just takes a little creative licensing!!!!!

Have a super day and SMILE - it looks pretty!

Be You - It Is ENOUGH!

Howdy to all.  Hope this is starting out to be a good day for everyone.  It is chilly here, but there were pretty colors in the sky this morning, and a tiny sliver of moon to be seen.  The kitties were all hungry and are now playing and 'learning' to hunt.  It is so cute to watch. The sun is shining!

We will have another 50*+ day today - then by tomorrow afternoon things will change.  So, this girl is going to enjoy the nice day all that I can.

Last evening the western sky looked to be on fire!  This was looking out my living room window.  Isn't that something?  The picture really doesn't do the colors justice.  I am such a sucker for sunrises and sunsets - the painting of the heavens by God.

I have been reading many blogs and FB posts and seeing Vlogs, where people feel like they are supposed to keep up with everyone else.  They think they are supposed to do ALL the stuff others do and have what others have.  It is wearing them down.  NO, NO, NO!!!!!!!!!

You do NOT have to keep up with anyone.  You are an individual, and you make your own choices.

I like to think this way.  Here we are in our neighborhoods, in our towns in our states - in this big old country (or where you live).  We are a part of this earth; thus we are part of the universe.  That is pretty amazing to me - I would say that makes each of us pretty unique.  You are important, and your thoughts and ways are important.  God made you, just like He made everything else this world, that is pretty special in my book.  The world needed one of you!  Pretty cool.

You may have more than others; you may have a lot less.  Be proud of whatever you do have and of what you do.  Your achievements are that you are here today. Be proud of every lesson learned, every scar you have and every step you take.  All of that makes you unique!!!!

Live YOUR best life!  That doesn't have to mean having lots of money, or having children, or having a fancy career, or having it all.  It means living the life that makes you HAPPY!  It's YOU!

You have managed to make it through every year up to now!  That is big.  You maybe just hung on by a string and maybe you just barely made it through these past years - but you did.  You have more strength than you think you do.  We can do and be and live a nice quiet life and be tremendously happy!  

I don't need/have fancy things, I don't need to be on the go all the time, I don't need to live up to others' expectations, I don't need all the noise!  I just need my sweet little life, doing my thing and I can be very content and happy.

YOU CAN TOO!

It doesn't mean that you just stop - progress is always a good thing.  We all make progress in our own way and time with all kinds of things.  Just remember progress does NOT mean perfection!

It means being your best you, it means being happy, it means being kind, it means just living your best life.

You got this!  Have a great 2026.

Have a wonderful and blessed day.

Weekly Wrap Up 1/11

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

It is a very chilly (cold) morning.  I do believe we are about to get whiplash from the huge roller coaster of weather we have been having!!  It has been a crazy winter so far.  Ups and downs - and not just little ones.  By the way - Canada you can have your cold back!!  They say the air we are getting now is coming in from the north, not a fan.  Yesterday they predicted rain - we just had drizzles here.  Snow was predicted overnight - I wouldn't even call it a dusting.  I see a lot of big old flakes coming down right now.  A LOT!  It didn't last either!  Considering the changes we keep seeing, it truly hasn't been bad so far.

This week has been kind of quiet for me.  I am mainly just doing things around the house and trying to use what I have and cooking some.

I think winter has just set in for my mind, and I have been doing some resting and chilling out. Catching up on some reading and TV watching.

My frugal week:

• Made half dozen hard boiled eggs for snacks
• I did run out one day to get some extra cat food to have on hand. I also got some carrots, lettuce and cukes.
• While out I ran into the thrift store and looked around.  I got a brand new in package queen set of sheets for $5 (Target brand)!!!  I also got a free loaf of fancy bread
• I made potato soup one day - using up some older potatoes, added a can Nacho cheese soup and cut up some jalapeno summer sausage in it.  Dang it was good.
• Froze 2 containers of soup and some of the dump cake I made the week before
• Changed out the door decor and the yard flag from Christmas
• I actually got to air the house a little a couple of afternoons and turn the heat off for a good while
• Been doing some deep cleaning - going a room at a time
• Pulled out some cooked turkey to use in a couple meals
• Got to talk with a couple far away friends this week - loved it
• Using what I have on hand, staying home, making a few plans for things I will accomplish after all the family visits are done next week - just being mindful of what I have

Meals this past week:

l/o pizza pasta, l/o black eyed peas and a shredded cabbage salad

Tangy cheesy potato soup and crackers

Soup and crackers again

Hard shell tacos

Grilled cheese and added the l/o taco meat to it! (messy but so good) and salad

Turkey/ham/veggie wrap

Cheesy mac w/chopped turkey and peas added

SNACKS - hard boiled eggs, apples, summer sausage, cheese

There you have - pretty quiet.  Bitsy loved getting a little fresh air from the windows this week.  I still have momma and kitties hanging out - and Licorice and 2 other neighbor cats - oh my!  I swear there has to be a sign somewhere!!  But you know me, I can't say no to kitties.

I will be getting things ready for when the kids come up next Sunday.  I do believe I have everything I need to make my menu I have planned - may need to get some slider buns - but that is it.

How was your week?  Are you chilling out and taking a breather from the hectic holidays or are you doing a lot?  Did you get any deals this week?  How is your weather?

I hope you all have a blessed week ahead.  Stay healthy, safe and warm.  Prayers of healing for all those in need.

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

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

Rejoice in your hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.

Romans 12:12

Thank You Lord for this new day and for the guidance in all we do.  Thank You for giving us peace in our hearts and help us to spread that peace and calm in all we do, with love, actions and kind words.  Give us strength this week to face any challenges we meet and help us to know that You are always with us.

AMEN

Beans, Peas and Pasta .....oh my!

 Hello all.  Hope this finds you all well this morning.  It is low 40's here.  We did have some pretty color in the sky as the sun rose.  Today will get warm again, then come Sunday we go back to winter for a bit.  Hey, it is 10 weeks until Spring - we will manage.

I thought I would talk about some things today that I have an abundance of.  Dry beans, peas and pasta - I have it all.

I have all kinds of dried beans and such - split peas, lentils, black beans, red, navy, baby lima, pinto, and even fava - barley as well.  

Pasta - well there is about every type and size on hand here.  All shapes and sizes and even flavored and veggie pasta.

I think if worse came to worse - with the dried beans (protein) and the pasta (carbs) and fiber with both - I could live for ages and not be hungry.  Of course, one needs other things to add to those and trust me I have it, with the pantry and freezer.

These are items that are so inexpensive to buy.  I often find them on clearance or super sale and kept dry - they last for ages.  I try to keep most of my beans and pasta in glass jars (or at least large heavy plastic ones).  I add bay leaf to every jar - to help repel any insects (it works).

It is truly coming up with ways to use them all.  

I know lots of people add lentils to ground meat or just to recipes to replace or stretch ground meat.  I like to add red or black beans to my taco meat, to add more protein and to extend a smaller amount of meat.

You can add an egg to pasta and maybe a bit of dry binder (or cheese) if you wish - and place on a pizza pan and use as a crust.  I love baked spaghetti - lasagna, etc.  Now also remember that if you don't have lasagna noodles - no problem!  Add a layer of whatever pasta you have instead of the large noodles and make lasagna just the same.

I like beans of all sorts and I am lucky that they give me no problems to eat.  I add beans to lots of things.

Click on pic to enlarge

There are just so many uses for both of these things.  Salads (for both), soups, casseroles, skillet dinners, beans can be mashed and made into refried, pasta can be added to cooked eggs for a breakfast (as can beans), there is just no end to these cheap and simple ingredients.

Add meat (if you choose), tomato products, cheese, any kinds of other veggies, etc. and you can have a huge assortment of meals.

Just a couple basic things, can transform other ingredients and you will never be hungry!

Rice is the same for me as well - I have lots and lots of that and use it as a great extender in meals as well.

So that is my idea today for inexpensive and multi-versatile ingredients.

Do you have any special way of using either to transform other ingredients?

I will try to show how various simple ingredients can be transformed over the next few weeks.

Have a lovely day - stay warm and dry and safe.

Count every single blessing - you may be amazed.

Gifts That Over Time Could Save Much

 Hello all - it is 40* this morning - going to 50's.  Hopefully sunny later in the day.  Those gloomy and cloudy days seems to sure change a mood.

I have noticed a wee bit more daylight - I especially notice in the evening hours.  Wee amounts add up.

Today I want to share some lovely gifts I have received over the past few years that we should all think about getting, either for ourselves or for others.  They could save dollars, but most could actually save lives!!  Can't give a better gift than that.

I have a nephew that worries about his aunty a lot.  He worries about all the family, but he really keeps track of me.  He and G were close as could be (2 peas in a pod) and now he just wants to take care of me!!

This year was the LifeVac - it is used on choking victims to help move the hazard.  You can use it on yourself as well as others.  Looks very easy to use.

Most definitely could save a life.

I got a fire blanket and easy to use fire extinguishers last year.  The blanket stays on a shelf behind the stove.  I got these extinguishers that I have by the stove, and by the furnace and water heater. (both good for car as well).

A weather radio is always a handy thing to have on hand.  Uses batteries or hand crank and during inclement weather, can keep you alerted to what may be coming, so you can take additional shelter.

This is a definite $$ saver - freezer thermostat.  It alerts you if the freezer reaches a certain temp - meaning the freezer is heating up.  Gives you time to move your food stuffs to another location instead of having to throw them away.  My big freezer is in the basement, and I used to have to go down every day JUST to check it.  Now I will be alerted.

Now I know this guy is a HUGE bargain shopper, and he can find a deal like no other.  He makes me SO proud!!!!  He gets these kinds of things for all his close family.  I just have to careful not to mention things in front of him - because he will buy it!!! 

I have received window alarms, battery cables, and even a portable easy to use car battery charger.

He thinks of everything.

I just thought I would show some of these things - so you can do research yourself.  You could buy as a wonderful gift for any occasion or for yourself.  It is always good to be prepared in all ways.  

It isn't just about pantries and freezers or having money in an emergency account.  

Protecting yours and others lives and property is vital.

Have a safe and healthy day!!!!!

Pantry Ideas and Using It

 Hello all - hope this finds you well.  It is a gloomy yet warmer morning here.  It was about 50*F when I got up!  Not going up a lot, but hey, it is January, so that will work for me.  I doubt we see much sun either.  Yesterday was beautiful.  

Today I get back to business - I have had my rest and my quiet.  Now, I am not going to go gangbusters, but it is going to be busier for me.

I have craft projects to complete, more cleaning I want to do, and my big thing is PANTRY/FREEZER use.  I have a lot of many items, and I need to use them.  Not sure what I am waiting for.

We keep our pantries full and our freezers as well, to save money.  We also have extra on hand for emergencies.  You just never know.

Bur having it, and not continually using the oldest, doesn't do us a bit of good.

In my opinion if we have to throw items away for whatever reason, it is exactly the same as throwing cash in the trash can.  You wouldn't do that would you?

The pantry/freezer is like a savings account to me.  You deposit more than you use, and there is always an emergency fund on hand!

Keeping ourselves out of the store a little more, is not a bad thing.  Yes, you may miss a deal this week - but if you didn't know about it, well, I do not consider that a loss.  It will all work out, and you find the deals you are meant to find.

If you mess up and spend and spend - don't give up!  Just get back up and start again.  That advice applies to ALL money matters.

Just don't waste what you have on hand.  Many articles say that the average American throws out more than $25 - $50 worth of food a month.  I would bet it is much more!!!!!

Also remember 'BEST IF USED BY" does not mean expired!!!!!!  Most items are good for long after that date - loooong after!

You don't have to have fancy ingredients to have good tasting meals.  You can perk up food in an abundance of ways.  Herbs, spices, mixing up ingredients - just by getting a little creative.

I mentioned my 'waffle' cornbread - here ya go!  Yep, I love it buttery!!!!  

That is a simple meal of red beans and rice, all seasoned up and cut up a little smoked sausage - and my cornbread.  It was perfectly wonderful and very filling.  My cost - probably less than a couple dollars and there was food left for another meal.

A simple dessert or snack.  These are ginger snap cookies I got in a gift basket ($0 cost) and a few spoonfuls of ice cream (a few cents).  The cookies are the size of vanilla wafers - so basically just a bite or two.  You could use any small cookie you have (or large) and whatever type of ice cream you have.  Simple and quick and very tasty.  Great way to use up those last few cookies in a pack or in the cookie jar.  Fun bites for adults or kiddos.

Heck you can do the same thing with peanut butter and/or jelly.  Peanut butter and marshmallows and nuke for a few seconds!  Lots of ways to save a little and use what you have.

If you start using what you have and shopping less, it is a win-win.  You don't WASTE and you can get creative and have fun with food.  AND you save dollars - which can be used for something else or even SAVED!  There is a concept!!!  LOL

If you are like me - I can't walk out of a store for less than $50+.  I can go for just a couple things - then find stuff that "I just can't live without".  Well, I have decided I can live without all the extra crap and in the process, the savings account/checking account gets tad bigger (for another use).  If you stay out of store a good 2 or 3 weeks a month - well that is $100-$150++ extra you didn't know you could have!

Just some things to think about.  You do not go without, you use what you have, and you make good food.  How is that not a WIN???

Have fun with your food.

I will probably be doing several foodie posts in coming weeks - it is just fun to learn new ideas and figure out how NOT to waste!

Have a bountiful and tasty day!