What we do When we Grow Up!

 Hello and happy Tuesday to all.  Hope this finds you all well today.

It is a lovely morning here - after a rainy and stormy day! Yesterday afternoon it started to rain, then storm and it came down hard and for quite a while.  The neighbor to the west had a backyard lake - one a couple to the east did as well - I didn't!  Not sure why this time, but it is just soggy and no lake.  YAY! 

More rain coming back in later today and tonight (and storms).

Haven't had to water a thing I planted yet!

Remember as a youngster saying, "when I grow up I want to be...."?  

Well, somedays I still wonder what I want to be when 'I grow up'.   How about you? 

As a child, I said I was going to be a teacher.  Then in high school, I took my college prep classes and did a semester 'student teaching' at my old grade school.  I worked with 3rd graders and with 4th graders.  That was fun.

In college, I got more interested into wanting to teach special education or work in social services helping kiddos.  Got to do a hands-on service with a social agency for children then, and it just broke my heart.  I would come home and cry and cry.

Then life happened, and college became part time, as I needed to work to help pay mortgage and bills, and then I just stopped in my junior year.

I got into accounting and did that in some form for the remainder of my working years (funny, as I hated math in school).

Became a 'sort of' care giver and stayed home with hubs when he became disabled.  I have been home since.  Learning, doing and caring.

Now I stop and think - am I doing what I am supposed to be doing?  Am I making a difference?  Is there a big plan for me?

Do you ever wonder things like that?

I know I am not done growing up - so I wonder what I will be when I do grow up!!!

I guess in a way, I teach in a form, by having the blog.  I help give the opportunity to myself and others to pass on useful information that others can use to maybe make their lives better.

I try to be a good family member and help those in need.  I try to be a good neighbor and friend.

I try to just be a good servant of God.

I hope that is enough.

I see pictures taken of earth from outer space and it is beautiful, but it is so small compared to the unending vastness out there.  We are a part of that little ball.  Once you are on this planet, we are but a grain of sand.  There is so much out there in the unending space and so many on this earth.  I am presuming we all have a purpose (?).  Somedays watching the news, I have to wonder what that purpose may be for some, surely evil and meanness can't be a purpose.  OR maybe it is there to help us realize what NOT to do.  I don't know.  I doubt anyone knows.

I do know that we all have a bright light go out at some point in our lives, a light that gets extinguished.  It may be from death or from illness or from losses of all sorts - but we have found a way to get back to a light and see some brightness again.  We go on, and hopefully the time of darkness helps us grow, and maybe we can help others to see a light again.

So have you figured out what you want to be when you grow up?  Have you always followed your dreams or ideals?  Did things change drastically at some point?  I would love to hear.

I guess I will stick with teacher!

I just know that when my days are done - I "hope" someone can say "she did good".  

That would be a good legacy.

Have a beautiful and special day.

Make it a good one.

Weekly Wrap Up 5/17

 Hello and happy Sunday to all wherever you may be.  I am hoping this finds you well and safe.

Can you believe we are half-way through May?  Seems kind of crazy to me.

We are starting to warm up more, and we have had rain.  The past 2 days we had rain (nice rain here), and it sure makes things look different.  Yesterday was pretty much an entire rain day.  It was a lazy day!

It sure felt chilly due to the rain.  This morning it is already close to 70* and partly cloudy.

My frugal week:

• Helped the neighbor fix a couple of spots of broken slats in their wooden fence.  Goodness, they had no idea what to do, even though there was a pile of wood sitting there to use!
• Pulled and cut a lot of weeds and poison ivy
• Got the garden all tilled up
• Spent one day planting and decorating the front flower garden
• Mowed everything
• Picked and picked peonies - constantly changing out flowers inside - gosh, I love the smell so much
• Used flowers with dropping petals for a big bowl of potpourri - just because they drop petals doesn't mean they don't smell.  Cut off the stems and place in bowl 
• Made a bowl of bean salad for munching on
• Made foil packet meal - made 2 meals
• All meals from home and using what I have
• Got the garden all planted!  I swear it looks like the plants have almost doubled in size with all the rain
• Laundry - used dehumidifier water in laundry and line dried
• I did a run to the store for more cat food - boy they eat a lot.  I also got 5lbs. of Pink Lady apples for $5 (sure are good, never had those before).  Found a bunch of Big Wheel cars in packages on clearance for .33 each!  Got stocking stuffers!
• I did manage a couple porch sits and a few walks and picking up trash (most days tired from yard work)
• Just doing all he regular things

Meals this past week:

Piece of chicken, fries and steamed broccoli

Tuna patty, corn on cob, salad

Cheddar, bacon, ranch baked potato

Packet meal - meatballs, potato, carrots, corn

l/o packet meal

Creamy rice & beans soup (freezer) and crackers

Hard shell tacos

SNACKS:  fruit, bean salad, cheese slices, toast

Things sure do wear me out faster as I get older.  Seems like many things take a day now, that took just a couple hours before!  LOL - Just glad I can still do things.

I do feel happy to have the garden in.  It isn't huge by any means but will provide a lot of good eats for me and probably some neighbors.

How was your week?  What has everyone been up to?  I always like hearing what everyone is doing.

Give us a shout-out!!!

I hope you all have a super week ahead, and that you get to accomplish all that you desire.  Hope you all stay safe and healthy.

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

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

And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Jesus Christ.  To our God and Father be glory for ever and ever.  Amen

Lord we humbly come to You in thankfulness in all the blessings and gifts that we received this week.  We know that all we have and need can be supplied by You, we just need to put all faith and ourselves in Your hands.  I pray each one reading this finds God in their lives.  May we each spread Your word and offer the love that You give us.  AMEN

Using the Pantry in New Ways (for me) - Tasty Bites

 Hello all.  What a pretty morning it is here.  Hope you are enjoying a nice day in your area, and I hope you are all well.

Yesterday cooled as the day went on due to the wind!  It got quite breezy and boy, that chilled the air.  I was out working a lot and didn't get overheated yesterday.

This morning, after I had my morning drink, I walked into the kitchen and heard birds carrying on.  I looked over at the kitchen window and there were 2 blue jays sitting on the outside rail - staring at me and talking like crazy!  I'm hearing "where's the food?"  LOL.  I am thinking, dang, they know where I stay!!

I have had squirrels do that before, but the first time for the jays.  Needless to say, I got dressed and fed everyone.

If you are like me, sometimes you just want something different to eat.  I do a good variety of foods, but sometimes I think I need to get outside my comfort level - but I don't want it to be a lot of work!

Yesterday I got a little creative in the kitchen.  

Did you ever go camping and have the foil packet meals?  They were either cooked over the fire or on a grill most times.  For some reason that came into my mind, and I wanted one!!!

Soooo, I got out some meatballs, cut up potato, had carrots, and corn on the cob.  Seasoned and added butter - and wrapped up - and threw it in the air fryer!

I did 375* - but should have been hotter probably.  It took a while to cook and maybe a higher heat would have helped.  

I made enough for 2 meals!  Talk about tasty!  I enjoyed it and will eat the rest today - so no cooking for me today - just reheating.  Sure, I could have used the oven, but I really do feel I used less power with the air fryer, and I had nothing but time!

I also got to thinking about a different kind of salad or snack treat.

So, I used the pantry and used green beans, red beans and corn - then frig items.

I made a fun and tasty bean salad - easy too.

Green beans, red beans, corn (all drained & rinsed), carrots, radish and onion (all for crunch) and Italian style dressing.  This will be a great side salad or a great late afternoon snack.  It will last for a few days for sure.  (I tasted last evening and yum!)

You could use whatever you have on hand and like.  There is no real recipe for either of these dishes.

Just use it up and change up that menu a little.

Being creative, doesn't mean a lot of work.  Just a little thinking outside the box.  There is no limit to what we can make from our pantry and freezers and frig.

Maybe this will give someone a new idea.

Have a glorious day.  Make the most of it.

Staying on Track in a Weird World

 Good morning to you all wherever you may be in this big old world.  I hope this finds you all well.

I want to say WELCOME to all those who are new here.  We have been having some new folks post and find our little coffee klatch here.  Glad to have you and look forward to learning from you.

It is a lovely morning but looks to get pretty breezy and the temps aren't going up a lot today.  It is currently 60*F.  These cooler days are the days to get things outside done.

Yesterday was beautiful, but I almost over did it.  While working on plowing the garden, I got to feeling icky and had to stop and sit down for a while.  The garden is in full sun and of course I picked the wrong time of day to be out there.  All good now.  Pacing myself - got to remember that!!!!

Today is just a bit of thought about getting through this weird old world we are living in.  It is NOT political in any way, and I appreciate that you NOT make political statements as well.   It is strictly about using common sense and doing what we can to tend to ourselves and our families. I have been seeing and reading a lot about people who have no idea how to survive, nor do they have a plan or think ahead.  Our ancestors went through times that were truly tough and here we are.  It wasn't always easy, but they made it.

Groceries are up in price, shoot, most things are up.  Skills seem to have disappeared.  Many think that being sufficient is 'old fashioned'.   It isn't.  It is FREEDOM!  No matter where you live.

We need to garden and prep foods.  We need to repair and reuse in all ways and things that we can.  We need to learn to cook from scratch and use ingredients.  We need to have a lot of simple foods and ingredients on hand. We need to live closer to the land.  We need to teach younger folks our skills.  We need to learn new skills.  We need to know how to adapt!

Saying this, I can say I have NO fear about things.  I am confident and feel I can survive.  I know I can take care of myself, and I can help take care of family, friends and neighbors.  I can adapt to most everything.  Fear helps nothing.  Spreading fear is soooooo wrong, and it does nothing to help anyone.  It serves no purpose.  Now that being said, it is just plain smart to be prepared for any type of situation - as prepared as can be.  We do not know the future - but we can prepare.

I am resilient - you are resilient!  Be the best you can be and the most prepared you can be to help yourself, your family and your community, and your independence!

Slow down in life.  Reconnect with people (not electronics) and do what you can to help yourself.

Turn off the TV more and get outside and enjoy the beauty of the world.  Make life with real people a priority.  Spread joy and laughter.

BELIEVE - never stop believing.  We do so many things that shows we truly do believe in the future every day and just don't think about it.

We plan dinners and outings and occasions.

We take an umbrella when rain is forecast.

We plant a garden and flowers and trees.

We save for the children's education fund.

We keep an emergency fund.

We maintain our vehicles and homes so they will last for a long time.

We buy sales and prep to have goods for another day.

We plan leftovers.

I could go on and on............................

So, get out and plants some GOOD seeds in this world.  You can be the positive that influences someone else.  

ENJOY YOUR LIFE

Using What You Have on Gardening

 Good morning to everyone wherever you may be.  It is a chilly morning here, but the sun is out and it looks to be a beautiful day.  Yesterday was near perfect.  I hope everyone is doing good and staying safe.

Some folks think gardening is an expensive hobby.  It doesn't have to be.  Not at all.  You can use a lot of things you have around the house - many of things you would trash, and they will benefit you greatly.  Now that garden season is just starting for a lot of us, these ideas may help someone.

Funny, but somehow it seems true!!!  

Seems critters decide they want a free garden too.  I often have times that squirrels want to plant their peanuts in my garden and dig up a few plants.  Then there are the ground hogs that show up!  UGH.  I did see a jack rabbit the other morning before dawn, running amuck out front.  

In years past I have dealt with groundhogs.  I have tried urine (yes), ammonia, special expensive stuff (did nothing), mothballs, trapping, you name it.  Well, Chuck decided it wasn't too concerned about the cats (even after Persy gave it a talking to).  So, I tried something else I heard of - red pepper flakes.  You sprinkle them around the places they go in and out and they go away.  Well, bingo-bango, so far it seems to have worked!  Once I did that, I haven't seen it again.  We will see.  I had a big jar of the flakes, but they can be purchased at the dollar stores for next to nothing.

Now, THIS year I am going to sprinkle some around the garden plants too - maybe that will keep the squirrels out of the garden.  Worth a try!

You can use grated hand soap as well.  I have always heard using Irish Spring, but animals don't like the taste of any of it.  So try and sprinkle any grated soap around. Need to reapply after rain.

Another idea is placing plastic forks, tines up, around your plants.  It helps deter digging and damage to plants.  You want to place them pretty close together.

A penny for your thoughts!  How about your plants??  Throw a penny in a vase to help prolong the blooms.  Also said to be great for the garden.  The copper is said to work against fungi and plant disease.  In a small garden, place them near tomato roots to help battle blight.  The copper emits goodness into the soil.

Marigolds are a great way to help in the garden to guard against pests and they are pretty too.  I always have a few planted in the garden.

CITRUS peels deter ants and slugs away from plants.  Just place around the garden and around plants.  Citrus also helps prevent ants in the house.  (make your own spray or get citrus oil and spray around)

Keep seeds from one year to the next.  Now you can keep any seed but may not get the exact same plant from them because of cross breeding.  But if you have an heirloom plant - keep the seeds for next year and an heirloom will give you the SAME plant every time.

Many items can be regrown from what could be considered trash.

You can use cardboard or newspaper to keep weeds down in your garden (even old feed bags).  Makes a great weed barrier.  I can get free local papers at the grocery; your area may have the same thing.  You can buy weed barrier (black cloth or plastic) and it works great and helps keep the soil warm.  But FREE is great!

To keep dirt from falling through the bottom of a pot, either for indoor or outdoor plants - place a coffee filter in the bottom of the pot.  You can use a paper towel too.  Works great and practically free.  I have also placed layers of rock in the bottom and even used crushed pop cans in the past.  Use what you have.

Feed your plants in an inexpensive way.  Coffee grounds and tea are good for plants.  Add nutrients.  Make a 'tea' with banana peels.  Drop them in a big jar and fill with water.  Let it steep a week or so, then pour the water around plants.  Just keep adding peels and water.  You can also chop and bury the peels.  Potassium for plants!  Egg shells are great - they add calcium - and help deter slugs, as it cuts them.  Do you have a fish tank?  When you change out the water - use the old water on your plants - loaded with fertilizer.

Compost is great - you can make your own compost pile or make a small one, using an old tote, scraps, water, a little dirt and sunshine - Food rots and make goodies the garden will love.

I always throw 3 or 4 Tums in the hole when I plant tomatoes.  Calcium is added and it seems to help my plants not had blossom end rot.  I have done this for years.

You can make your own Miracle-Gro with no chemicals in it.

No need to buy expensive decorations or pots each year for the yard and garden.  Look around and find things around the home to use.  Pots can be used over and over - clean well each spring, add new dirt and grow away!!!  Buckets, totes, bags, pots, just about anything can be used to plant in.  You don't have to have a big inground garden.

All kinds of things can be used to decorate with.  I am a lover of a relaxed looking garden, nothing formal here, so I use all kinds of things.  I had an old work boot filled with flowers on the front step for years.  It was a boot of a dear friend (and my garden buddy) who passed.

You can make bird feeders and houses out of things. 

I have a clay saucer with glass 'rocks' I keep water in, as a bee waterer. Yes, they need water too.

An old ice cream parlor chair with no seat - makes a great pot holder.  Paint it any color you have available.  See that red arch?  That is an old bed headboard Glen found in the trash years and years ago - I mean it is a flowerbed!  The gazing globe is sitting on a flowerpot.  It now sits on top of a hens & chicken pot.  Don't need a fancy stand.  Old wagons, feed troughs, wash tubs, milk cans, ANYTHING can be turned into a decoration.

I have found many items at curbside 'shopping' on trash day!

All it takes is a little imagination and a little reuse of things to make a productive garden.  Things are expensive, and anything you can grow to eat is a HUGE PLUS to your budget.

I currently have my lettuce and green onions in pots on a baker's rack outside my kitchen door - that is handy to just go out and pick for fresh salads.

You don't need anything big, just some pots with a few plants.  Plants amongst the flowers and the bushes if need be.  I say grass is wasted real estate.  I know we all have our lawns but think if we planted it with food!!!!!  We could feed so many.

Do something to help with your food budget this year if possible. Even growing herbs in a pot helps - it gives your great flavoring.

What are some of your ideas for reuse or getting creative with things for the garden?

Love learning new ideas!

Have a beautiful day and count your blessings!

Weekly Wrap Up 5/10

 Hello and HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to all the mommas out there.  Whether your children are human or fur - yours or someone else's that you love -have a happy day!!

It is a lovely morning, the sun is shining and it is in the mid 50's.  I went out to a neighborhood cat at the side door, kitties meowing out back (hungry) and birds yelling at me as soon as I hit the back walk.  Boy, do I have animals that are trained!

We had a lot of rain this past week - lots.  I think there is only one day predicted of rain this coming week, and the temps will finally get to May temps by the end of the week.

The roses and the clematis are covered in blooms.  Actually, had one clematis flower open yesterday.  My little flying jewels are back. The spiderwort and vinca are blooming.  The peonies and poppies are going full force.  Aahhhhh, I love it.

This week of frugal:

• Cleaned and refilled the hummingbird feeders and watering holes
• Have 2 full barrels of rainwater (110 gal.)
• Neighbor brought me some zucchini plants
• Changed out the flags and door decor
• I weed whacked the entire yard
• Picked many bouquets of peonies for the house - the house smells delish!
• Cleaned inside windows (kitty kisses) and mirrors
• Lunch with 2 old friends.  Best part was the wonderful conversation and the great tasting margarita!
• Put the tiller together
• Took neighbor a bouquet of peonies
• Walks when not raining
• I planted lettuce I had started earlier and some green onions
• Got FREE hamburger buns and 3 FREE recent Woman's World magazines at thrift store - bought a $2 box of Cheerios for future crispy bars
• Drinking sparkling fruity water (Soda Stream)
• Just doing all the normal stuff

Meals this past week:

Beef filet (freezer), potato wedges and fresh veggies

Ground beef/onion/mushrooms/gravy over rice

Beef/rice/bean nachos

Out - cheddar/bacon potato skins

Bean/rice/beef & cheese grilled wrap/burrito

Beef hotdog, potato cakes (freezer) and fruit

Swiss burger, corn on cob (freezer) and salad

I am looking forward to warmer temps and getting that garden tilled and planted!!

Fireworks have already started around here by individuals doing their yearly illegal ones!  Ugh!  They are so loud - and sure do give you a jump.  I feel for all the animals.

My nieces MIL received her blanket Friday for her 82nd birthday and they said she loved it.

Her and a few of her children and a couple grands - her in chair and my niece with hand on her shoulder. She has suffered so many medical maladies in recent years, I sure hope she gets some joy from this.

How was your week?  Do you have your garden or pots planted yet?  Planning garden?  I sure hope everyone grows something - it all helps.  Did you get any deals this week?

I hope you all have a wonderful week ahead and have health and safety.  Enjoy your Mother's Day.

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

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

Be watchful, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong.  Let all you do be done in love.

1 Corinthians 16:13-14

Dear Lord we humbly come to You in thanks for all the love and wonders that we received this week.  Thank You for loving us unconditionally.  May we all go forward and show love to all we meet, and may we forgive all transgressions from others with an open heart.  Help us each one grow in faith and courage and love.  AMEN

New Day & Glow

 Hello all.  Hope you are all well and good.

Dang it, it is another chilly morning here.  Doesn't look that will end for at least a week.  So now we have April weather a little late!  I am so ready to plant without worrying about frost.

The bed felt awfully good this morning, I did not want to get up.  The house was very chilly and the bed was warm and comfy!

I was greeted outdoors this morning by 4 black balls of fir and a bluejay and a red bellied woodpecker both yelling at me.  The robins were singing and all the other birdies were here within a minute of putting out food!  Sitting here with my Bitsy cuddled up, the sun is out, so all is good.

This kind of says it all.  Every day we need to be our best selves and project all the goodness into the world that we can.

Yesterday late afternoon I met a couple old friends for a late lunch.  It was the sister and the daughter of one of the people that had a funeral last week.  All of us, including the one who passed, were camping buddies back in the day.  We sure had some good times back then.  Sitting there eating, I realized that the 3 of us, were the only ones left (other than kiddos) from that camping bunch (10 adults).  All 3 widows.

We had great times, lots of laughs, crazy moments, and a bond back then.  Boy if campfires could talk!!!

It was kind of a sad moment, to realize that.  Time flies so quickly.  We all come into new chapters of our stories and move forward in a new way.  Not that we want to - but life just makes it so.

So, we all need to make all the memories we can - to keep the good things going in our hearts and minds.

I received a funeral card at the service and thought I would share the phrase on it.  It gave no credits, so I have no idea who wrote it.

AFTERGLOW

I'd like the memory of me

To be a happy one.

I'd like to leave an afterglow of smiles

When life is done.

I'd like to leave an echo whispering

Softly down the ways.

Oh happy times and laughing times

And bright sunny days.

I'd like the tears of those that grieve,

To dry before the sun

Of happy memories that I leave

When life is done.

YEP - that pretty much says it.  Do what you can today to make the memories of tomorrow good ones.  Someday, all we have is memories of someone.  Speak their names - that keeps them alive.  Smile at the memories, they stay in your heart.

Whether it is a stranger or friends or family - be kind to others.

We have NO idea, what a simple little gesture like a smile, a hello, a helping hand can do to change a day for someone.

Be the afterglow!!!!!!

Farm markets are starting in many places (here last weekend) - so maybe get out an take a walk through one - they are usually happy places.  Take a walk, do some yardwork, just sit in the sun - have a lovely weekend.

Enjoy and be blessed.

Our Food - Our Preferences

 Hello all.  Here we are in the middle of another week.  Our days sure do pass quickly.  I hope you are all doing good.

It is another chilly morning here, in the upper 40's.  This week will be cooler than what normal should be for this time of the year.  We had rain yesterday and last night AND MORE RAIN!!!!  Once it started, it just wouldn't stop.  Just a small lake in the backyard this morning, I thought it would be larger.

Goodness, the choir outside is amazing this morning.  It was almost loud out there, with all the different birds singing.  So many could be distinguished, others just brought up the chorus.  Amazing.

This sure seems to be true, especially when you watch all the commercials.  Truly, I do not see commercials for much that 'should' be considered food.

I prefer home cooking and as many natural ingredients as possible.  I am not a fan of packaged food or restaurant food.  I KNOW this is not for everyone.  Convenience makes many people happy - as they just don't like cooking.  Remember - you do you and I do me.  No problems.

Now that is not to say that I don't buy some occasional 'junk'.  I do like a chip now and then, and I love yeast donuts!  I do try to limit those things, however.

I guess I am wondering - what do you prefer that is NOT homemade vs. what is?  What store bought item do you just love to buy and eat?  I am curious.

There isn't much that I can think of for me.

I love Mexican food.  I could probably eat about every day.  I do prefer my own.

Whether it is tacos, burritos, enchiladas, nachos - I just think mine have more flavors than restaurant fare.  I can add more spice or take away.  I can add any toppings I want, and surprise, no extra charge!!!!

Stir fry and oriental dishes are also preferred here.  I can add the flavors I prefer and delete the ones I don't like.  There is absolutely no limit to what I can throw together - using things on hand and throwing in leftovers and I can make a fine meal.

It is simple ingredients and I know exactly what is in it.

Pizza - goodness, I like pizza.  I had some pizza when at the birthday party Saturday - and may I say - I was not impressed.  It was flat and lifeless and virtually tasteless.  I want a pizza with substance!  I want a pizza with about everything but the kitchen sink.  A slice or two with a side salad is a meal kind of pizza.  Whether a flat bread, tortilla, Italian bread or a regular crust - it is all good to me.

I just love the options I have - ANYTHING I HAVE ON HAND!  Those are my options!  As little or much as I prefer.  Cost virtually pennies.  

My niece purchased 4 pizzas at the party, and it was almost $120!!!!!!!!!!  That is just insane (they weren't huge either).  Then you had to purchase drinks separately - don't get me started on that.  They also had to buy token cards for kids to play and bring in their own cake.  2 hours cost her about $400.  I will stay home and save my money and my sanity.  The last pizza I ordered years ago and had delivered was over $30. Crazy!  I will eat it just the way I want it, and in comfort.

I did mention I love a good donut.  Now that doesn't happen often - but I do splurge now and then.  I think donuts and brownies are probably my favorite goodies.  Of course, at the holidays there are all the special cookies, candies and goodies that are made.

But then again - I can make them just the way I want.  I know what is in them - and can use natural ingredients if I choose.

INGREDIENTS are my preference.  I do love knowing that whatever I eat is really food, and not things that my grandma wouldn't have had a clue about.  I love the ingredients that I can pronounce and ingredients that I actually know what they are.

There is not much that I can say I prefer store bought over homemade.

I truly do like the flavors of homemade over store bought.  You can make it all taste so good.

I am genuinely interested to hear what store-bought items or restaurant items you LOVE!   It often pays to have pre-made things on hand for emergencies or those special times no one wants to cook.  I would like to know the best things and options, that I could keep here.

What say you??  

Have a super day - smile and be kind.

Learning to Make Do - My Way!

 Hello all, and happy Cinco de Mayo!  Funny how it fell on taco Tuesday as well!  LOL!

I hope you are all well and safe.

It is a cool morning and damp.  We had rain over night, and I heard some thunder a couple times.  We are expecting more rain later on today and tonight.  Things sure are green and growing.  A couple of the peonies started popping open yesterday.  Sunday, I had my first hummingbird of this season!

It is 59* at the moment and the sun is peeking out.  Not going to get a whole lot warmer today.

I have always tried to make do and use things in new ways.  Lately I have had a couple of successes I thought I would share.

I put up my May and summer patriotic door decor and flags.  We have Memorial Day this month and the in a short while it will be July 4th - Independence Day.  So, I have been doing some patriotic decor.

I had purchased a large front door decoration last fall and was trying to figure out how to attach to door.

My door is black wrought iron and the frame on the decor was black as well.  Well, I had nothing black to attach it.

I only had white zip ties long enough to attached and they just glared white!

I attached with them - then I got the permanent marker out and colored the ties!  It worked.  You can see then slightly up close - but not from any distance.  If there is a will there is a way.

My older hummingbird feeder had lost a feeding flower - it fell off and broke when cleaning last fall.  Feeders are not cheap, even simple ones!  I had one for the kitchen window/stoop and I put one on the porch as well.  The birds know where they are every year.  So, for the one on the porch, I improvised.  I didn't want ants or bees getting in it - so I just covered that one feeding port with black electrical tape.  There are 3 other ports to eat from.

You can see on the right side - no flower, but tape.  There are other places to feed, and all is good for another year!  (I like this one because they can land and sit)

After making the t-shirt blankie for my niece, I had a lot of scraps left.  I used nice sections of the fronts and most backs for the blanket - but still had a lot of pieces.  I cut those into squares and will add to my hanky basket.  They would also have made great cleaning rags.  I just couldn't throw away useful material!

I leave dry food out back for the kitties all day. It is under a little table to keep rain off of it.  Well, if you have ever had food out long, you know it attracts ants - no fun for eating.  I tried several methods people had mentioned and none really worked.  I came up with my own.  I put down a foil pie pan, add some water and set their food dish in it.  The food dish is just a bit smaller than the bottom of the pan.  (feeds multiple cats).  Ants do not cross the water!!!!  It works perfectly.  I also have a smaller dish in the drive for other cats, and I do the same with it.  It sits in a dish of water a bit bigger than the feed dish.  I change the water every morning, as it accumulates crumbs and bits.

No ants!

Just a couple ideas on making do.  When you don't want to go out and buy something new or don't want/need to make a trip out to just do a simple task - get creative.

Hope it gives someone incentive to just get a little creative and make do.

Have you done any creative fixes lately?  I just love hearing the things people do to save money and things.

Have a fantastic day!!!!!!

Weekly Wrap Up 5/3

 Hello all and happy May to everyone!  Hard to believe it is already May.  I hope this finds everyone safe and healthy and well.

We have had a couple very chilly mornings - we had a frost advisory, but luckily, we didn't get any here (lots of dew).  I am sure they did up north of here.  We have had cooler days, and it looks like this coming week will be a bit cooler as well.

Took this pic a couple days ago - there are so many more poppies blooming now.  That row behind is all peonies and they are loaded with buds!  I bet they will start popping open this coming week.  There sure are a lot of different types of lilies.

The dandelions and the violets are about done and now there is clover all over.  The tulip poplar tree has started blooming and boy it is messy.  It is one messy tree most of the year - but it is old and big and provides a lot of shade.

My frugal week:

• Raked and cleaned up all under the squirrel feeders early on - placed all the 'falls' out in the woodsy part of the alley for other critters to get
• Did a good 2 weeks' worth of laundry, plus all the furniture throws, bedding and throw rugs.  Used dehumidifier water in laundry 2X - used cold water - and hung most to dry
• Finally finished up my last t-shirt blanket - it is actually a twin size but covered the top of my queen bed.  My niece will deliver to her MIL this coming Friday for her birthday. These were all shirts from vacations for MIL.

• Made a big bowl of pasta and veggie salad using up all kinds of veggies & items from frig
• Made a 1/2 gallon of banana ice cream - used 4 bananas (needed using), can of evap. milk, orange juice and a bit of stevia - tasty treat
• Had 2 funerals to attend and one I didn't get to
• Mowed the yard, front to back
• Had a birthday party for a 5-year-old to attend at Chuckie Cheese!  What a sensory experience!!  It was my first time there
• Did stop and get gas while out one day to use my points before expiring.  Gas at that time was cheaper at Kroger than anywhere by a good .75/gal.  I got .80/gal. additional off with points.  Paid 3.29/gal. after discount.  Yay me!
• Of course, I ran in Kroger (I was there) to look around.  I got 6 indiv. Greek/fruit yogurts for .48 ea., 3 lbs. seedless grapes for 1.50, and 2lbs (8 burgers) Laura's Lean ground beef for 5.91
• Heat off most of the week - a couple mornings needed a cycle.  No AC
• Airing house as much as possible
• Just doing all the normal things and eating from what I have at home

Meals this past week:

Grilled goulash 'burritos' w/extra cheese

Grilled cheese sandwich and pasta/veg salad

Meatball sub and pasta/veg salad

Fish fillets and pasta/veg salad

Cheeseburger and fruit

Loaded baked potato

Pizza at party

SNACKS - frozen yogurt bars, fruit, cheese & crackers and homemade ice cream

There you go - that is my week in a nutshell.  Seemed like I was on the move a lot.  This coming week I need to leave to vote and then I have a lunch scheduled - otherwise I plan on staying put!

How was your week?  What is going on in your area and on your little homestead?

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

FYI - Weeks ago - I had sent Linda (PP) an email asking if she was ok.  Then she made her little post about Tommy.  Thursday, I got an answer on the email that simply said "Tommy died.  Thanks for checking".  So, she is still alive (I was worried).  For some reason after I read it - it just disappeared!  I have no idea how that happened.

I hope you all have a great week head and that things are warming up for you and that 'maybe' you can get some outdoor work done or garden things planted.  Stay safe and healthy.

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 we come forth bringing thanks this morning for all our blessings.  It is a beautiful day, and we have been given the gift of life yet again.  No matter what happens in life, I pray we see all the gifts we receive each day and give thanks.  You are always with us, even in our bleakest moments and You lift us and get us through it all.  You give us strength in all things.  Thank You for every little moment.  AMEN

SIMPLE - Means Different Things to Different People

 Hello all.  Hope you are going to enjoy this last day of April.  We have had one of the warmest Aprils in history, and now the temps are to drop!  We will start May in the cool.  The next 7 days or so look to have highs in the 50's and 60's.  This morning it is in the low 40's and chilly outside, but it is bright and sunny.  Very damp from dew out there.

                                                        I love this - I think it says so much!

I know many talk about having a simpler life.  I think for each of us, it means something different.  No, I don't THINK - I know it does.  It sure means something different to me than many others.

I am not knocking the people that do or have the following - it is all a choice, but to me it just means more dependence, not independence.

You don't have to touch a vacuum to have clean floors.  You can have someone shop for you.  Have your shopping excursions delivered.  You can shop in your PJ's sitting on your couch for anything.  Cameras take pictures of just about your every move.  Want fast food or restaurant food - it comes to your door now.  People communicate through text instead of in person.

LOTS of people do these things - but they do come at a cost.  Nothing seems to be free.

I know this "simplifies" many people's lives.  At least they think so.

I personally see it as instant gratification.  Easy access.  No delays.

I don't find that something I want at this point in life - not for me. (maybe someday)

I was raised to look at things as - anticipation is far greater than the realization.  For me that is still true.  Things I have to wait on and think about, and plan all seem to mean more to me.

DOING things myself gives me so much satisfaction.  I will enjoy a good home cooked meal much more than anything I can buy out or have delivered.  Picking out those special items at the grocery store and getting those special deals (I can only get by spying them) means a ton.  A little hard work and planning, means I accomplished it on my own.  Talking to someone in person gives me a feeling of companionship.  If I can grow some of my groceries or get them locally from people like me, I know they are fresh and healthy.

I guess I look at things in a different way - maybe an old-fashioned way.

I think every new skill we learn is an investment in our lives.  It is also an investment in the lives to people that watch us!  They learn new things and see you accomplish things on your own, and it shows them what can be done.

If everything goes to 'hell in a hand basket' - you HAVE skills!  You can do things.  You can succeed.  You can still live a decent life.

I don't see 'simplifying life' as doing less and having more convenience.  I see it as doing the basics myself and having a freedom from what people think 'normal' society does.

I don't want to be a victim of the digital world.  It is everywhere and involved in everything - and I don't like it.

I want to blaze my own trail in life - I want to have self-satisfaction!  I want to be a 'teacher' of old ways to others.

Again, I am not knocking anyone that does the stuff mentioned above - we all make our own choices.  

I am just saying it ISN'T for me.  I go to the beat of a different drummer.

Here is hoping that your May starts out lovely and fresh.  A new month, and a new beginning.

Don't sweat the small stuff - just be happy to have another day.

Blessings to all.

Tips from the Church Ladies!

 Hello to everyone.  I hope this finds you well and safe.  There has been a lot of nasty weather events of late - hope all are safe.  It is a cool and wet morning here.  We are having some light rain, nothing bad (no storms).  Seems this rarely happens anymore, that we get a nice rain and no storms - it usually is an 'event'.  It is going to be a cooler week here.  That is fine - it is spring and weather varies.  Today will be a get things done inside day.  I have plenty to keep me busy.

Today I am going to share some tips that I have read from the "church ladies".  I have this little cookbook from an area church, and they always have the best tips and recipes in them.  Just things that 'normal' people do and use on a daily basis.  I love church cookbooks.

• In a shaker, combine 6 parts salt and 1 part pepper for a quick seasoning.  **You can combine and use whatever you like to use and keep it handy right at the stove
• Next time you need a quick ice pack - grab a bag of frozen veggies from the freezer.  **I keep cold packs that come from ordering my summer sausage in the fall and stick them in the freezer for just in case
• To avoid teary eyes when cutting onions, cut them under cold running water or briefly place them in the freezer before cutting
• Add a few grains of rice to a saltshaker to keep salt free flowing (absorbs any moisture)
• Purchase a coffee grinder and mark it spices - it can be used to grind most spices.  Clean after each use.  **I have 2 (ea. cost a $1 at garage sale) - one is for nuts and mild things, the other is marked spices (like peppers and such)
• Keep bags from store bought bread and buns and use for homemade breads, muffins and rolls
• Unbaked cookie dough can be covered and refrigerated for a day and frozen can be kept in airtight container for up to 9 months.  **I always place some cookie balls in the freezer when baking - to bake at a later time for a treat - can bake just a couple if you desire (when baking something else)
• To make self-rising flour at home, mix 4 cups of flour, 2 tsp. salt and 2 tbsp. baking powder - mix thoroughly and store tightly covered.
• One tbsp. of bulk yeast = on packet of dry yeast
• When baking in a glass pan, reduce the oven temperature by 25*
• Dust cookie cutters with flour to prevent sticking or use powdered sugar **(I like using the powdered sugar)
• Over-ripe bananas can be frozen for baking or using in malts, smoothies or ice cream
• It is easier to slice meat if it is partially frozen
• Adding tomatoes to roasts helps to naturally tenderize the meat.  Tomatoes contain acid that works well to break down meats
• One pound of boneless chicken = approx. 3 cups of cubed meat
• Instant potatoes make a great thickener for soups and stews   **(I always use this)
• The ratio for a vinaigrette is typically 3 parts oil to 1 part vinegar
• Chill serving plates to keep salad crisp at the table
• Drop a leaf of lettuce in a pot of soup to absorb grease from the top.  Remove the lettuce and serve
• Use fruit juice like pineapple or orange with a little oil and some honey and maybe a little nutmeg/cinnamon to make a sweet dressing
• To add flavor to a cup of hot tea add a lemon drop or hard mint.  They melt quickly
• If making fresh fruit juice - remember; 1 lemon yields about 1/4 C juice, and 1 orange yields about 1/3 cup   **(don't forget to use those peels for something else as well)
• Cook pasta for salads al dente (slightly chewy to the bite).  This allows the pasta to absorb the dressing without getting mushy

EASY HOMEMADE WHITE CASTLES - sloppy Joe style

1 lb. ground beef'

1 can French onion soup

Brown the ground beef, crumbled.  Drain and then add the soup (add no water) and simmer.  Lightly place the buns on top of mixture to steam quickly.

**Never thought of this before and I will definitely be trying it soon!  Sounds yummy!

**Cheryl's comments

There you go - fun ideas and ways to help out around the kitchen.  Do you have any fun tip to share?  We all look for easy and new ways to do things.

Have a great day!!!!!!

Finance - Keep it Simple

 Hello all!  It is the morning after a powerful storm around here.  Yesterday we had rain, then last night (late again) we had a band of nasty storms go through the state.  It literally was a band that went through the state from north to south - I doubt it missed anyone.  I do not like these nighttime storms.  It is scary.

The sirens went off about 10:30PM - there were some very high winds in places.  Luckily, I again am safe and no damage or problems.  It didn't last very long but is created a mess for many.  I sure hope all are safe.

This morning it is calm, the birds are singing, kitties all fed, picked up a few branches down in the back, and the temps are nice.  

It looks like it will cool later as the week goes on, and they are even talking frost again by the end of the week.  THAT is why we don't plant until after Mother's Day around here!

I bet you have!  Have you ever sat down and figured out how much you have earned in your life?  It is truly amazing to think about.

We neither one ever made a ton of money.  We neither one ever made a lot of money.  Sounds redundant - but I see a 'ton' and a 'lot' as different.  We never made per hour what people make today.  Of course we didn't have the expenses a lot have today.  BUT the point I will make - is that we lived below our means and we worked HARD to pay things off early and we planned for an uncertain future.

We did have a few moments of good fortune that happened out of bad/sad moments.  We put those things to work and used them the best we could.

First, I left a job, that just got to be too much stress.  It was an employee-owned business, and I had worked there long enough that I was vested.  So, when leaving - I did get a payout of stock funds and profit sharing.  THAT is the time we sought a 'financial' guy.  We made good decisions with that money and invested.  So many people that left or got bought out, when the company changed spent every single dime on STUFF - had huge taxes to pay and penalties, and eventually didn't have anything to show for it.

Glen got the opportunity with his job to invest a percentage of pay with a thing like 401K (govt).  He had the max taken from his check and invested.  We hardly noticed any change in pay, as it came out before taxes.  We also saved a minimum of 10% from each check.

We bought a home we could afford.  Either one of us could make the payment without the other.  We worked hard on paying extra principal payments every month.  We did this for several years.

We received a small inheritance from my mom, and we used it to pay off the house.  That was a big investment to us.  We paid it off in 15 years.

We always drove older vehicles.  Neither one of us had ever had a new car.  We promised ourselves a gift WHEN ever we paid the house off.  We bought our first and only new vehicle.  We paid it off in 2 years.

Glen got to a point that he had to quit working due to his physical problems.  He wasn't old enough to get retirement with the city (years of service + age).  Once he got disability he could get his retirement.  Well, anyone that has ever tried to get disability knows it takes time.  Glen truly wanted me to be at home when he had to quit.  So, we had NO real income for well over a year - we lived on savings.  Luckily, we had major things paid in full, and it was just basics, but they did add up.

I did work part time for a while at the last business I worked for, and they really wanted me - so I gave them my pay requirements (outrageous I thought)!  Joke on me, they said yes!!  LOL.  First time/last time I ever made that kind of money.  I also did some side work for a friend's business, taking care of his tax info. a couple days every few months.

Mainly I stayed home and took care of things here.  I was 51 when I quit working and had no retirement for myself.

Once he got approved for disability, we did get retirement and back pay. We did use a bit of that to help pay off the car early and the rest was invested (again the finance guy).

G wanted me to be able to live well and not worry when he was gone.  It worked. I live a comfortable life, but a simple life.  I do get his retirement and I get social security.  I live on, much less each month than I have come in - so I do manage to save every month.  I live on minimal funds, not because I have to, but because I want to.  (I know I am lucky).  I do not know what the future holds, so I want some protection.

*****

Now I tell these things to let you know that lots of small steps can be taken to get you in decent shape.  You may not make a ton of money, but you can still live in a way that pays the bills and saves.  It truly is about choices.  

You can still have fun.  We had fun and did things, but nothing was expensive that we chose.

Yep, crap happens - and sometimes it is stuff you can't control.  That can eat up those funds or create new bills.  Take a big deep breathe - study the situation and come up with a plan to get through it, past it, and get back on track.  YOU CAN DO IT!!!

You may have to make some harder decisions and give up a few 'fun' things for a while - but in the end it will be worth it.  It does take work, but it is soooooo worth it.  

Feeling secure is priceless.

So, if life and bills get you down - make a plan.  Change things up.  Do everything in your power to change the situation in a good way.  It truly is possible with effort.

I know some of you have shared stories in the past on how you got to a 'comfortable' life.  If you want to share something that can help others and encourage them, please do.

Have a beautiful and blessed day.

Weekly Wrap Up 4/26

 Hello all, and welcome to the last Sunday of April!  Can you believe it?  Time is sure flying by.

It is a cooler morning here, but still very nice.  We had a storm fly through on Friday - it got scary for a few minutes.  The sirens went off and the winds just came out of nowhere.  We had rain a couple times on Friday, and we did need it.  Seems every time they predict rain, my area gets nothing.

The grapes are forming bunches on the vines out back, and the raspberries are blooming.  The first of the poppies have opened.  Oh, those big bright orange beauties!

This week I just did what I wanted, when I wanted.  I got in no rush.  I slowly did things and still had a lot of rest time.

My frugal week:

• Had a meeting with my financial guy here at the house - all good
• Made a batch of frozen yogurt/fruit bars 
• Made a pot of soup - used a pack of long grain &wild rice soup mix (gift) - but used pork broth (freezer) instead of water, and less than it called for.  Added 4 C beans (freezer) and chopped ham (freezer).  Goodness it was good, some of the best soup I have made in ages.  Ate on it and froze 2 containers for later
• Trimmed the back forsythia bushes (4) - they sure got wild looking quickly.  Looks neat now
• Mowed and trimmed the entire yard
• I got the rain barrels out and set up
• Pulled weeds in areas hard to reach with weed whacker
• Paid everything I had in house for early May, including property taxes
• Cooked up a pound of sausage in patties and froze most of them for easy use
• NO groceries
• Polished the kitchen cabinets
• Walked, napped and porch set - off and on
• Aired the house a lot this week.  No heat or AC (heat on last Sunday night only)
• Just doing all the normal stuff

Meals this past week:

Shredded pork (freezer) over fries w/cheese and slaw

Wild rice/bean/ham soup

Soup again

Chicken breast and broccoli salad

Cheese spread w/crackers and broccoli salad

Sausage/egg sandwich and salad

Goulash (made w/broc. added)

SNACKS - yogurt bars, peanut butter on toast, pb & apple, fruit

Overall, a pretty good week.  Kept busy, but not overly busy.  Seems there is always so much to be done, but I am at the point in life - if it gets done, great - if not, well it wasn't that important.

How was your week?  Did you get any good deals?  Did you get any planting done? (still waiting here)

Look forward to hearing from each of you.  I do believe we all inspire each other, and that is pretty cool.

Stay super safe and healthy this week.  Blessings to you and yours from me at my humble little home.

Don't stress the small stuff.

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

I believe that I shall see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living!  Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; yea, wait for the Lord!

Psalms 27:13-14

Dear Lord, we thank You for all the blessings we received this week.  Help us each have courage, faith and strength to face all that is put before us.  Even when we don't see an answer, we know You are working on our hearts and helping us to grow our faith stronger.  Waiting isn't a sign of disapproval from You, it is a growing time for us.

Thank You for being with us at all times, and give us patience in all things, as they happen in Your time.

AMEN

Balance it Out - It All Counts

 Hello everyone.  Lovely day in the neighborhood here.  60*F outdoors and 75* in the house!  Windows now open, birds are singing, and kitties all fed.  A very pretty spring day.

Just a word today about balancing all things in life.  You truly do NOT have to be busy every moment of every day.  Some days we get a lot done, other days we rest and just enjoy life.    Somedays the yard work gets done, other days we porch sit.  Some days we go and go, and other days we watch nature and just realize how lucky we are.

We all go through things in life that change us - good and bad.  At some point in life, we all have that worst day ever.  (7 years ago today for me).  But here we are - still going on. 

We often feel cheated, we often feel sad, we often feel loss - but we also feel joy, and happiness, and we have the bestest memories ever!

Hang on to those memories - what a gift it is to be able to have them.

I think we should spend our lives doing the best we can, not just for ourselves, but to honor others.  I believe the spirit of all our loved ones is still with us, and we need to do good in their honor.  

Smile more often.  Help more often.  Enjoy more often.  Spread love more often.  Laugh more often.

Just be the BEST you can be my friends.

Be the good memory someone else has one day!!!!

I hope you all have a lovely day and a fantastic weekend!

Tasty and Healthy Treat

 Hello to all.  HAPPY EARTH DAY!

Hope this finds you all well and safe.  It is a beautiful morning here.  Low 60's and the sun is shining.  During the night I heard a little thunder off at a distance - but I don't believe we received any rain here.  It seems to circle all around us so many times.  It looks to be a glorious day.

Today I want to give you a 'recipe' for an easy, tasty and healthy treat or dessert.  I made this and I see no limits to what can be used.  I mean you know me a 'recipes'!!!  They are just suggestions for me.

FROZEN FRUIT YOGURT BARS

2 C plain yogurt

1/2 C honey

1 tsp. vanilla

1 1/2 C fruit

Mix the yogurt, honey and vanilla until all incorporated.  Fits in an 8 x 8 pan.  Line with parchment paper for easy removal.  Pour mixture in pan and then add the fruit.  You can place just on top or push in a little.  Place pan in freezer for a good 4 hours - then cut into bars.

I had a quart of plain yogurt I got on clearance a couple weeks ago - so I doubled the recipe and used a 9 x 11 pan.  I also didn't have quite the amount of honey needed - open, so I added pure maple syrup to it.  I used banana extract because I was using bananas.  I cut up bananas that needed using and halved some grapes as well.  

SUPER yummy!!!!!!

ENJOY!

You can use any kind of fruit you want - strawberries, bananas, blue berries, peaches, pineapple........

I well imagine you could add nuts, crunchies or something else on top.  Also, I would say you could use whatever yogurt you have on hand.  All you have flavored?  Use it.

I do believe the honey (not only for sweetness) helped it not freeze too hard.

Such a wonderful treat.  Cool and refreshing. AND healthy!!!!!!  

Hope you all have a wonderful day and maybe do something fun for Earth Day.  Go pick-up some trash somewhere, plant a posey or a tree, create no trash today, eat natural, just do something.  It is something we should be doing every single day - not just one day a year.

Have a super and beautiful day.

What is Your Limit? - Ick Factor?

 Hello all.  Happy Tuesday to you all.  Hope this finds everyone safe and healthy.  I can't believe so much of the month is done already.  It is still cooler here this morning, but not nearly as cool as the past couple of mornings.  We had frost both Sunday and Monday mornings - no freezer her, but frost.  This is why it really isn't wise to plant gardens here until after Mother's Day.  As pretty as some days are - waiting is the game we need to play.

I sure didn't want to get up this morning.  The bed felt so comfortable - but Bitsy had other ideas!  I had kitties waiting outdoors as well.

Today - what is your limit on being frugal or the things you may do to save money?

I have been watching some videos of things people do to save a buck and many I do and agree with, and others just make me say eeeeewwww!  We all have our limits and things we do - so I also say, whatever someone says here is safe.  We are not here to judge, just share ideas.

You all know that I tend to stock up on clearance and sale prices.  I have no problem whatsoever on using things well past "use by" dates.  I repair and mend things.  I water things down.  I use up all things I can.

I have no problems foraging and eating things that many would call weeds.  There are many things that are so good for us, growing wild out there.  Things that have healing qualities.

I have no problem repairing things to stretch them a bit further, when I surely could afford to buy new.  I get through another season and save a little, then I purchase new and feel I did my best.

Now that it is time for Earth Day, a lot of people think more about things they can do and ways that can save not only their pocketbook, but the earth as well.  

I have rain barrels that save rainwater for gardening and animals to drink.  I garden and grow many things myself.  I compost.  I do much of my yardwork and home repairs myself.  I reuse a lot of things.

I love thrift stores and yard sales, but there are some things that I personally wouldn't buy.  I have purchased barely worn shoes before - I can handle that (I clean well).  I will not buy used under garments.  That is just me.

I understand that there are people that save their urine and use it on their gardens or to soften the calluses on their feet.  NOPE for me.

Some people only have their water heaters ON for an hour or two a day - then turn it off.  I am not going to do that - seems like ware and tare to me.  I will dicker on prices at times, but I realize that people are trying to make some money - so I will not try to insult them.  I will not be eating roadkill!  (some do).  I have watched shows of Extreme Cheapskates, and some of those people amaze me.  

Now I have no problem "curb" shopping when people throw things out.  I have gotten things to use in my yard and garden.  There are many, many people that dumpster dive for all sorts of things.  You can check out the You Tube channel Freakin Frugal.  They have regular places that they dumpster dive and get tons of things and tons of food.  I have to admit it all looks good and have never heard them say they have gotten sick.  They donate a lot as well.

Most stores around here have their trash bins closed in behind fences and gates - so that isn't something that would be easily done here.  It truly DOES amaze me at all the GOOD items they get that store is just throwing out!  So wasteful, especially when things are so expensive and so many people could use it. (I know there are liability issues)

I have mentioned in the past, that when G and I first married, we did not buy bread or baked goods for several years (nor did our parents) - as we got it all free from A & P.  A friend worked there and would call G when they took things out to the dumpster and the city guys would go and get it all.  It was perfect.  So many people benefited.  We even got huge boxes of still frozen chicken a couple times, when the power went out for a few hours at the school.  They had to get rid of it!

I do have a couple limits of things I would not do - not too many, but a few.  I have just been this way most of my life, so I think about a way to reuse just about anything.

So I am curious as to where other people draw the line and say no.  What is your limit?

No judgment from me - I am just curious. (be nice)

Do you have frugal limits?

Give us a shout out - I like hearing new ideas.

Have a beautiful day!!!!!!