tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73419126617798646322024-03-18T19:04:23.401-04:00Cheryl's Frugal CornerCheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.comBlogger1601125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-6809930137276592022024-03-17T09:11:00.001-04:002024-03-17T09:11:32.506-04:00Weekly Wrap Up 3/17<div style="text-align: left;"> Happy Sunday. Happy St. Patrick's Day. Hope this finds you well and safe. It is a chilly but clear morning here. We had some wonderful weather this week, and now we are going into a little cool down again. Nights will be well below freezing - so here's hoping that it doesn't hurt any plants. 😥 </div><div style="text-align: left;">Normal weather for March/April - always changing.</div><div style="text-align: left;">I am still trying to get my body to adjust to the time change. It just doesn't seem that I have gotten there yet! Who would think an hour could make a difference?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpIy_o_iYFBJHepztYDGAp0bmgP6pJz1ENKwBWGusDzqKM6Wh01mIE49J-jYlgGHj_tvlZWoa8pmebT_D8VEcV_wGVEYp0nDW707xguOFhhKDUYrxyodCD8Qd6-zIxRBful4rc5XJvXLBq_3rpzH6x7elLlxqPYY3YFExPgbkazLUHglXrRukjuCTemI-H/s907/irish%20blessings.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="907" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpIy_o_iYFBJHepztYDGAp0bmgP6pJz1ENKwBWGusDzqKM6Wh01mIE49J-jYlgGHj_tvlZWoa8pmebT_D8VEcV_wGVEYp0nDW707xguOFhhKDUYrxyodCD8Qd6-zIxRBful4rc5XJvXLBq_3rpzH6x7elLlxqPYY3YFExPgbkazLUHglXrRukjuCTemI-H/s320/irish%20blessings.png" width="320" /></a></div>Shamrocks and 4 leaf clovers are 2 different things! Many think they are the same. A shamrock is 3 leaves and to many represents the holy trinity. A 4-leaf clover is just that - 4 leaves and supposedly brings good luck!<div><br /></div><div>This week was just a lot of smaller things that saved a $ here and there.</div><div>My week:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Made OJ from concentrate</li><li>Clipped 'most' of Blackies nails! He isn't fond of this at all - so I do a couple every chance I get.</li><li>Got some more yard work done and picked up blowing trash from walks and alley</li><li>Started packing up a lot of clothes for donation - things that haven't been touched in ages</li><li>Used the Rainbow vacuum this week on area rugs and bedroom. It is a water filter system - boy does it pick-up!!!! I think I vacuumed another cat! I vacuum all the time - but this does a fantastic job.</li><li>Cut up a cuke that needed used and added to a pickle jar for flavor (used in salads)</li><li>Cooked a pound of ground beef - used half for a meal and froze the other half for a quick meal add-in.</li><li>Picked more flowers from the yard.</li><li>I keep bird/squirrel food in metal trash cans outside - one lid developed a rusted hole (these are years old). FOR NOW - I repaired. I covered the hole with foil and then used duct tape and topped with waterproof tape. Did this inside and out - worked like a charm. East fix for now.</li><li>Got to visit with 3 different neighbors this week</li><li>Made a gallon of tea</li><li>Made a 'compote' with fruit. I used some older apples that I peeled and cored, strawberries and a packet of rhubarb I found in the freezer. Cooked in a tiny bit of OJ and sweetened with a little sweetener. Super tasty and a nice, sweet bite instead of something bad!</li><li>Froze the peels and cores to use w/more later to make jelly or to add to other fruit when making jelly as a natural pectin.</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZbCFB6YKXFtGpAYZ_rK0VREZ3zY9anIDYHuvklJH6_9qQf_P9pMgPttbnwwot5QLS0RV16rw1mQ4im6RkJNyNH8f4OUlUNpUYVvqzZWVmeXYpRLE2jqHotHYCMDb6nUSQzIgcuPQY04MyUQOSZDrn4hvV4tJpWoyp1RoyBkLJ72987fmJULf62InoMmX/s2694/IMG_6052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2171" data-original-width="2694" height="258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibZbCFB6YKXFtGpAYZ_rK0VREZ3zY9anIDYHuvklJH6_9qQf_P9pMgPttbnwwot5QLS0RV16rw1mQ4im6RkJNyNH8f4OUlUNpUYVvqzZWVmeXYpRLE2jqHotHYCMDb6nUSQzIgcuPQY04MyUQOSZDrn4hvV4tJpWoyp1RoyBkLJ72987fmJULf62InoMmX/s320/IMG_6052.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>I did run to Kroger for a couple things. Fresh asparagus for .99/lb. Cabbage for .49/lb. Found Edy's ice cream on a markdown - 1.5 qt. for 1.56. Also, combo pork/angus beef - 1 lb. packs for 2.79/lb.</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNC7m6KmUnXygqBmJ9wzddp1xeiceOCVSfIItm-V_Tuv2gLhJM5Kba3O3CLFPPUP93vjppYatqCpq01wzOTt7BYnflKaQZG5wUBffbTKYQagJnuBBoKdxgpL_20coQNbJm8Uds_YpYvldc9KDq0IVLpMi3A72tTTT2IvxG8EMOkiGXZIQ8IJ3PPDZG_YU_/s3843/IMG_6037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3843" data-original-width="2085" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNC7m6KmUnXygqBmJ9wzddp1xeiceOCVSfIItm-V_Tuv2gLhJM5Kba3O3CLFPPUP93vjppYatqCpq01wzOTt7BYnflKaQZG5wUBffbTKYQagJnuBBoKdxgpL_20coQNbJm8Uds_YpYvldc9KDq0IVLpMi3A72tTTT2IvxG8EMOkiGXZIQ8IJ3PPDZG_YU_/s320/IMG_6037.JPG" width="174" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiKTZrstYUcTbz28JYOv1WHG7ja8lQXdV8VtNpJj7tPkbgJgUVFYEOEElvdb0-PZH_vY8sXJuWhTEW-06ptiduFrjFHpb8DfrIj02ObpZeuue5n6mVbt0H0WSqrJaWWXB0-BJWD4NDHHfkAWzeRw2epDEjnoxenMQ58FHdP4_8HukUU1izfVsQ_G-JN7YG/s3902/IMG_6038.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3902" data-original-width="2243" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiKTZrstYUcTbz28JYOv1WHG7ja8lQXdV8VtNpJj7tPkbgJgUVFYEOEElvdb0-PZH_vY8sXJuWhTEW-06ptiduFrjFHpb8DfrIj02ObpZeuue5n6mVbt0H0WSqrJaWWXB0-BJWD4NDHHfkAWzeRw2epDEjnoxenMQ58FHdP4_8HukUU1izfVsQ_G-JN7YG/s320/IMG_6038.JPG" width="184" /></a></div>This size and brand regularly sells for 7.99 - that is just crazy! I would never buy at that price. This was the only one left.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYb1g42uwKHjehbKZ-8M4PDy0qx2xa5kdLGH8uDcYeacuJvObs7cxXlRg7QRqBRVUK6xDpGOl8_iVGUgMbkzTgka8MTFJNj2SU0W4dlJiIEmB4VQnuZBEgL4yYckpkT7WaJrY0-GzCrxQ2nthbKmyXDoHBIAqYOuDhxSC9jDURSr-_wUlUhpaOPF3XVMEZ/s4272/IMG_6045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYb1g42uwKHjehbKZ-8M4PDy0qx2xa5kdLGH8uDcYeacuJvObs7cxXlRg7QRqBRVUK6xDpGOl8_iVGUgMbkzTgka8MTFJNj2SU0W4dlJiIEmB4VQnuZBEgL4yYckpkT7WaJrY0-GzCrxQ2nthbKmyXDoHBIAqYOuDhxSC9jDURSr-_wUlUhpaOPF3XVMEZ/s320/IMG_6045.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div>A deal for sure. Divided up packs and vacuum sealed and froze for several meals.</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>All meals from home and using leftovers where I could</li><li>Got to air the house a lot this week - no heat or AC for several days</li><li>Paid what bills I had</li></ul><div>Meals this past week:</div></div><div>Loaded nachos (used leftovers)</div><div>French bread pizza (prev. made from freezer) and salad</div><div>Unstuffed cabbage roll skillet (used the older pc. of cabbage I had)</div><div>Above skillet - day 2</div><div>Pork/beef into breaded fritter, asparagus fries (breaded) and salad</div><div>Tamales over rice, fresh veggies</div><div>Tuna patty, mashed potatoes and asparagus (steamed)</div><div><br /></div><div>There you have it. Just doing things to save a little and use up what I have. I keep thinking about going out shopping for some things, and I keep talking myself out of it!! LOL</div><div>How was your week? What have you done to use things up or to save a little? Any great deals this week? Are you thawing out yet?</div><div>Hope no one had damage from the storms this week. Check in!!!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Hope to hear from you all. We all enjoy hearing what the others are doing. Gives us great ideas.</div><div>May you all have a great week and stay safe and healthy.</div><div>Blessings to you and yours from my humble little home.</div><div>****************</div><div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><i>A cheerful heart is a good medicine, but a downcast spirit dries up the bones.</i></div><div>Proverbs 17:22</div><div><br /></div><div>Lord, help us to enjoy our days as they happen, instead of always being so regimented. Let us enjoy according to Your plans. Let us learn to relax a little. Help us lighten our spirits and laugh more. When faced with serious situations may we look to You, as You will protect us.</div><div>Thank You for all our many blessings. AMEN<br /><div><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-1325409977539117392024-03-14T09:06:00.000-04:002024-03-14T09:06:58.546-04:00It Is In The Air<div style="text-align: left;"> Happy Thursday! Spring has sure been in the air this week at my house. Yesterday was 70F, and it is currently 60F this morning! We have a big line of storms that is to come through this early afternoon - yuck! I love spring, but spring storms is my one dread. We get a lot of tornados in this area and hail. Nothing fun about either. It looks like it may go through quickly but covers a lot of area.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I did a walk about this morning after feeding the birds and squirrels. Flowers are pretty and things are popping up. There are a couple of big magnolia trees in the neighborhood, and they are just about ready to pop open!!! Bad news - they better do it quick - as by Sunday evening we will have freezing weather. Almost every year this happens. So sad - as they are such beautiful majestic looking trees.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Sunday is St. Patrick's day - do you have plans? We have a parade, I believe tomorrow downtown. It is usually pretty chilly and often wet for the parade. I have Irish in me but will not be doing anything special - EXCEPT I will make myself a Rueban sandwich this weekend!!!! I have everything here and look forward to that.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRGkwsKxj5nzy7nDkWRFP_3EJQ3_YlxORIG5uRZnJ25eoSN5qYL18jZepQJah-Kc_h4PQunYWAQq2fHKxdrY_5aEYxJT8ddQBWii04XISvMGHh0FkRxHvtiBzCqO0qmBFFCpL-XrZVbnKbBSZboitzP3xQkteDQsUvPGcszCWqQKx116hxMmk6zon-AsVc/s4272/IMG_6042.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRGkwsKxj5nzy7nDkWRFP_3EJQ3_YlxORIG5uRZnJ25eoSN5qYL18jZepQJah-Kc_h4PQunYWAQq2fHKxdrY_5aEYxJT8ddQBWii04XISvMGHh0FkRxHvtiBzCqO0qmBFFCpL-XrZVbnKbBSZboitzP3xQkteDQsUvPGcszCWqQKx116hxMmk6zon-AsVc/s320/IMG_6042.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> The forsythia are in full bloom! Just bright balls of beauty in the yard!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6WlnS39dNk8CDRHYutgaB1-B1SD2NHQU1mvhcO3R3b5bUQIo8sXVDkpDgTcpg9hSxF-5PxsYwSRelV8vfJr-JzQV-qgkGT9CXTZD0NcDFkgSew1qBumKx1pRBOhjQTX6svikiV4lseus4sxSE_ElDykqRtjcRIjt8JzsWLL_X6uTGVmg5MCIMlbBYfQHq/s3946/IMG_6043.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2542" data-original-width="3946" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6WlnS39dNk8CDRHYutgaB1-B1SD2NHQU1mvhcO3R3b5bUQIo8sXVDkpDgTcpg9hSxF-5PxsYwSRelV8vfJr-JzQV-qgkGT9CXTZD0NcDFkgSew1qBumKx1pRBOhjQTX6svikiV4lseus4sxSE_ElDykqRtjcRIjt8JzsWLL_X6uTGVmg5MCIMlbBYfQHq/s320/IMG_6043.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Daffies are so pretty for now!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIjm139zRWbLMb-KNwBk-ropS6YfWZ6y6eyMW0bSmXYuex5Fsp9Np0_VbMiDAaxgV2A3eS4ixuv2uvPGJbWXlYPAgoQWEz_LcaJ7TIfI8R3RtrozBD4M46bWMDmUVXpZRH32bUtk4lnqqUAd2PyCQv4OPRsDqctESRXeDCdJleVsB5kjRf09fN8fDpl2ff/s4272/IMG_6041.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIjm139zRWbLMb-KNwBk-ropS6YfWZ6y6eyMW0bSmXYuex5Fsp9Np0_VbMiDAaxgV2A3eS4ixuv2uvPGJbWXlYPAgoQWEz_LcaJ7TIfI8R3RtrozBD4M46bWMDmUVXpZRH32bUtk4lnqqUAd2PyCQv4OPRsDqctESRXeDCdJleVsB5kjRf09fN8fDpl2ff/s320/IMG_6041.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> All kinds of flowers (and weeds) are popping up.<div> Here is Vinca vine, Spider Wart, Ivy (ugh) and there is some Echinacea in there too.</div><div>The grass really needs to be cut - it is growing like crazy. It is still muddy and will be worse after today - so it will have to wait until next week.<br /><div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Birds of all sorts singing this morning. Chickens pecking out front (ugh). My squirrel is in the feed jar again. It was in there late yesterday afternoon, came out and sunned, went back in, and stayed all night I suppose. I am wondering if he lost his nest to another or maybe it got destroyed. Little guy doesn't stir much for me - so not sure what is going on. Nature will work things out.</div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1-HaMXmZAQf_X5AW__IoNh0XlLyfb2DQObaIApQAEaeqePJ5iN3wFZO-jvqSs7QWoAUAsEWHYE-FHsSLvNxa59IQQmoricOmd9aSjfuhqQoXXVpeFfCAX-hJb1Cyx0W6Tr85iVQq1-f60CvSvkKBICFWZ5xavzj5hW6Hi5_K48KK4nQfvCt-lE5mrvo3a/s4272/IMG_6044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1-HaMXmZAQf_X5AW__IoNh0XlLyfb2DQObaIApQAEaeqePJ5iN3wFZO-jvqSs7QWoAUAsEWHYE-FHsSLvNxa59IQQmoricOmd9aSjfuhqQoXXVpeFfCAX-hJb1Cyx0W6Tr85iVQq1-f60CvSvkKBICFWZ5xavzj5hW6Hi5_K48KK4nQfvCt-lE5mrvo3a/s320/IMG_6044.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> That is a gallon size jar.<br /><div style="text-align: left;">It has been so lovely to have no heat on, windows open and fresh air filling the house. Guess that ends after today for a while. Such is life. Soon we will all be complaining about the heat!! You know I am right!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Some of you live in warmer areas, some are on vacation in warm places right now and others are experiencing what I am. Then there are those who are still being bombarded by snow! </div><div style="text-align: left;">Whatever your day brings - I hope you enjoy it and are safe.!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I plan on being outside while I can today. Windows open as long as possible. I plan on experimenting with a couple of cooking ideas I have this weekend.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Have a fantastic day to all!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1h5BFFo-R2NwaJwkYMc9akEQnpH8tMhyJiAUThOACTdwDeEMvOUx4NDrcRx4pLewLaHd_fUdh6cHjfaVdtayWJHtce53VrcYvZazXQGG9g3BtALdtMaWc1lNSrrBOK4WmeYVi9809sfOIUUGlVevJwg5a0LwmlaDo5noLwWbb_L7Ws5UuQFVK8NPLiSVz/s545/abundance.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="457" data-original-width="545" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1h5BFFo-R2NwaJwkYMc9akEQnpH8tMhyJiAUThOACTdwDeEMvOUx4NDrcRx4pLewLaHd_fUdh6cHjfaVdtayWJHtce53VrcYvZazXQGG9g3BtALdtMaWc1lNSrrBOK4WmeYVi9809sfOIUUGlVevJwg5a0LwmlaDo5noLwWbb_L7Ws5UuQFVK8NPLiSVz/s320/abundance.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-4945700463525837182024-03-13T09:06:00.003-04:002024-03-13T09:06:59.973-04:00Fun & Easy Easter Ideas for Kiddos (and adults)!<div style="text-align: left;"> Good morning. Wednesday again - time flies. It is a lovely morning here again. Enjoying it while it lasts - because all good things come to an end!!! Come Monday, next week, they are saying snow flurries and a low that night of 20*F - say it aint so!!!!!! (today 70F).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Easter is on the 31st of this month. I know not everyone celebrates, but the ideas I will share today will make it fun for young and old alike - and they are good for any 'special' day. Heck, every day is special to me!</div><div style="text-align: left;">Might as well have a little fun.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgspRUX0WN_hvZ3WgvoyUyXQ4XMrftOZa-i39zNF_sufIm4LKU_D2_2wwsl-1HQC_RTU4rCSiBQZ2VtywucA1rUIdOkbOvGObdhvKTnsjA4k3ehX_FYg-jVd17a5pDGV9c8vAq45QuRL82M49Ack7ietQQOVEacmZMnZc7rHFIiahTtt8kieh1pM6t0FuHm/s587/hershey%20smore.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="486" data-original-width="587" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgspRUX0WN_hvZ3WgvoyUyXQ4XMrftOZa-i39zNF_sufIm4LKU_D2_2wwsl-1HQC_RTU4rCSiBQZ2VtywucA1rUIdOkbOvGObdhvKTnsjA4k3ehX_FYg-jVd17a5pDGV9c8vAq45QuRL82M49Ack7ietQQOVEacmZMnZc7rHFIiahTtt8kieh1pM6t0FuHm/s320/hershey%20smore.png" width="320" /></a></div>How fun is this? Make up little Smore kits with Peeps! Now days they have Peeps for every occasion (and all flavors) - so these could be made all year. Camping days will be here very soon - make it fun.<div><br /></div><div>I like this idea.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUOrWqwArY_cm5ouBVMzVAZa5Zas-gixh1jA2yjU31PYGbOXxdelapf833evaVRJ0XapAHQa7doxN9ysrjeLm88LkdTVY6X8pNtH41Ee_KQ85RHF5NLjDC5N6pxEWjHIhYwJX5TFMxOegDEpQT7ZFqVMFnHmld1Wk_HRsNUJq4QEgyow3Y4GdT_Y61wFwW/s740/garden%20resurrection.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="740" data-original-width="691" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUOrWqwArY_cm5ouBVMzVAZa5Zas-gixh1jA2yjU31PYGbOXxdelapf833evaVRJ0XapAHQa7doxN9ysrjeLm88LkdTVY6X8pNtH41Ee_KQ85RHF5NLjDC5N6pxEWjHIhYwJX5TFMxOegDEpQT7ZFqVMFnHmld1Wk_HRsNUJq4QEgyow3Y4GdT_Y61wFwW/s320/garden%20resurrection.png" width="299" /></a></div>Many have youngsters that they are teaching the meaning of Easter. This would be a fun project. Basically, just use a clay pot/or plastic saucer - a little dirt, yard rocks and some grass seed & sticks. It would be a fun project.<div><br /></div><div>Baskets - can be anything. Any type of basket you have or can find, reusable grocery bags, homemade bags, a tote, a bucket......whatever. Fill it with fun goodies, not just candy. Hair accessories, bubble bath, nail polish, mini trucks/cars, puzzles, color books/crayons, colored chalk, Bubbles, socks, mini games or card games - the list goes on and on. Make it fun and useful.</div><div>None of these items are expensive and be purchased for little money. Shoot, I bet you could go through some kids playboxes and find items they forgot about!!!!!!! (you know it's true)!!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyLQuQElqYCoJ8gBA554B4TwnzQIIHky2tFUFgvjyDCui_R99fHLQ-H_n1SrsR0w7X4kr_CNCfhibwDML4-AyK61wP0rMbHlYfzRvNk1XbWaW0A-sju65J3PObG8X4cjHziyC2yz4KIp6S_KjcYu1g4A0Q8SIfY1p3IOL4t_8OYoPPLdy2lzjNA3to8Clm/s578/easter%20breakfast.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="532" data-original-width="578" height="295" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyLQuQElqYCoJ8gBA554B4TwnzQIIHky2tFUFgvjyDCui_R99fHLQ-H_n1SrsR0w7X4kr_CNCfhibwDML4-AyK61wP0rMbHlYfzRvNk1XbWaW0A-sju65J3PObG8X4cjHziyC2yz4KIp6S_KjcYu1g4A0Q8SIfY1p3IOL4t_8OYoPPLdy2lzjNA3to8Clm/s320/easter%20breakfast.png" width="320" /></a></div>Easter or any day - fun breakfast! How cute is that? Super easy, just pour your batter a little different.<div><br /></div><div>Make goodies. They don't have to be store bought or extra fancy. Sugar cookies iced in colors and sprinkles. Chocolate (use chips) covered apples or apple slices - top with sprinkles or nuts or coconut. Dipped pretzels or strawberries or bananas bites. You can use white chips and add food color too!</div><div>No bake cookies are always fun and they are so easy - and tasty! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivsZDG1XdeU1PpPuZTSXPxWk2AIF7qx63gb3VRVoCpoFaFEmzW_HmQVbBdKK3-WtbO7-xaL4ILOKCN-N-Kq2FqgSSLDkT6kvWKFKFulUKdOLj5F21l3lR_pdbNk2ZfWdgu4ehR6lt-v-6n3uudPZVOHkwSsyzBRfoWvf7izupvqtDspnYCNKHBkLxEffqQ/s717/no%20bake%20cookies.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="508" data-original-width="717" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivsZDG1XdeU1PpPuZTSXPxWk2AIF7qx63gb3VRVoCpoFaFEmzW_HmQVbBdKK3-WtbO7-xaL4ILOKCN-N-Kq2FqgSSLDkT6kvWKFKFulUKdOLj5F21l3lR_pdbNk2ZfWdgu4ehR6lt-v-6n3uudPZVOHkwSsyzBRfoWvf7izupvqtDspnYCNKHBkLxEffqQ/s320/no%20bake%20cookies.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkQmSUrFZ8jDzKUWNT0Hwjf-SD05JHFtXKwtULJ_OeH2-OO6rqbTB66l1bEjHLrRYC9YTZ-LNfNUnDSfWdrtnV32nWc_ZqTBJAuOyYcWIRu6VS3-p8-SzAzohDrM9ocQFIkakYPiFu8EiNctx1dwLmcrES_2cfphVu5iN9XD7LSCZXZHPv89lI97W9b3kz/s606/peanut%20btter%20cookies.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="468" data-original-width="606" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkQmSUrFZ8jDzKUWNT0Hwjf-SD05JHFtXKwtULJ_OeH2-OO6rqbTB66l1bEjHLrRYC9YTZ-LNfNUnDSfWdrtnV32nWc_ZqTBJAuOyYcWIRu6VS3-p8-SzAzohDrM9ocQFIkakYPiFu8EiNctx1dwLmcrES_2cfphVu5iN9XD7LSCZXZHPv89lI97W9b3kz/s320/peanut%20btter%20cookies.png" width="320" /></a></div><div> Another super easy and frugal goodie!!!</div><div> I like to do these kind of like thumbprint cookies too - add a little jelly to the center - fun!</div><div><br /></div>How about homemade Mounds candy or Almind Joy candy bars (bite size). I have made these many times in the past and it was a favorite of G's. He was a big kid at heart and loved those special treats. Something like this only came about on special days!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0uH_fzvGdyUI5jKceotQYb-mDPqu5T-zrECoFF6V2crLjLtnWWyflKZy-lhkXA_8H56kAY5t9ZPefjPBSttzCpE-adZUwJuzVQV-CMVpRdnoTV0W6yAbOzJhimEilOr9r5kbIhZGqL6gOhexUcfvVIMBdP-WK7qEJtG_cWclT3VGDOMY0i1mBzAfKI6fr/s515/mounds%20almind%20before%20choc.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="342" data-original-width="515" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0uH_fzvGdyUI5jKceotQYb-mDPqu5T-zrECoFF6V2crLjLtnWWyflKZy-lhkXA_8H56kAY5t9ZPefjPBSttzCpE-adZUwJuzVQV-CMVpRdnoTV0W6yAbOzJhimEilOr9r5kbIhZGqL6gOhexUcfvVIMBdP-WK7qEJtG_cWclT3VGDOMY0i1mBzAfKI6fr/s320/mounds%20almind%20before%20choc.png" width="320" /></a></div>This was what mine looked like before dipping in chocolate. Stick in the freezer for a bit until firm then dip. It makes it much easier to have them really cold.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZgEHhqk-waDpgeavTOvNWJ1ywiEtPAhJVYmxGtgF6qxXPac3tvieWLORzkRHcYb80ZuuULk5Guqdu4rE9_REU5tcahsVZbD5ntiW8dy7OXVnap8mzvSWKqeSBVkn9Tb1FjvUxM-VmD312wcpIgT-lhzWfM-MSJZz1m-pnrKD2ZCrAoYjVw9DS43ebspGU/s910/Mounds%20candy.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="433" data-original-width="910" height="152" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZgEHhqk-waDpgeavTOvNWJ1ywiEtPAhJVYmxGtgF6qxXPac3tvieWLORzkRHcYb80ZuuULk5Guqdu4rE9_REU5tcahsVZbD5ntiW8dy7OXVnap8mzvSWKqeSBVkn9Tb1FjvUxM-VmD312wcpIgT-lhzWfM-MSJZz1m-pnrKD2ZCrAoYjVw9DS43ebspGU/s320/Mounds%20candy.png" width="320" /></a></div>Click on recipe to enlarge for better viewing. SUPER easy!!!!!<div><br /></div><div>Colored hard-boiled eggs. You can buy those packs of fancy dyes - but you can do things at home a lot cheaper. You can use beets/juice, onion skins, berries, etc. to get colors. Make sure you add some vinegar to your colored water - it just helps the color adhere to eggs. I liked using Kool-Aid too. You can have strong colors and you can mix for special colors.</div><div>There is no way you can mess them up - each one will be an original!!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>**Just a note here - when I make hard boiled eggs for everyday use - I mark them with an X or a smiley face before sticking back in frig. (I use a marker). That way they can be stored with regular eggs, and I know what is what!!! </div><div><br /></div><div>Celebrations can be fun without spending a ton of money. Little things say- you are special! Don't worry if you are on a budget and have no extra fuds - use what you have. I don't want ANY mommas feeling like they can't make a special treat or day for the kiddos. </div><div>Heck if you have a printer, you can copy off printable color pages of all sorts. Make you own color books. You can even make puzzles!!! Use an old card front or calendar picture - adhere to cardboard - then cut into puzzle pieces (use a sharp blade) - and mix them up and throw in a baggy. No money needed!!!!</div><div>Use your imagination and have a blast. </div><div><br /></div><div>Have a fun holiday celebration. Make all days a celebration - just have fun and enjoy!</div><div>Have a wonderful day!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLNwt7bJ-TCToaDWIzbAydEyaVlTuUpO1XgEwG-8r7WSy9BDdl3c6onJUCysiVufAvu39x4uzPKUhBEiQAsiuCyOgLvh6kbClL5plklvjHHzlq1UwqwtLoZ2DTqL8qKk81r-Ucon8y6aoVFbBQSDqnCZkwbJMQHulaoibsjTicozg8S2MPkcC0K6G6-pmc/s727/heart.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="585" data-original-width="727" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLNwt7bJ-TCToaDWIzbAydEyaVlTuUpO1XgEwG-8r7WSy9BDdl3c6onJUCysiVufAvu39x4uzPKUhBEiQAsiuCyOgLvh6kbClL5plklvjHHzlq1UwqwtLoZ2DTqL8qKk81r-Ucon8y6aoVFbBQSDqnCZkwbJMQHulaoibsjTicozg8S2MPkcC0K6G6-pmc/s320/heart.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-53906307942816553102024-03-12T08:41:00.001-04:002024-03-12T08:41:56.219-04:00What's Up? and Another Question<div style="text-align: left;"> Happy Tuesday to all. Hope you and yours are all well. It is going to be a sunny day here and it is currently 45F this morning. We are going up to upper or mid 60's. It appears it will be a lovely week for the most part - then Monday it gets pretty darn chilly again and maybe flurries! Nope winter isn't over - except in our minds!</div><div style="text-align: left;">The birds are just all singing their songs this morning - it sure sounds like spring. I just love it. Had to shoosh the chickens off - I don't mind them, except when they get on the porch! They CAN be messy - if you know what I mean! UGH!!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCO3LgRqFcIEALam1OpIr8IoaMeQQJIVoxHIikMYhripx_WzP9dcpH-8Ab649QLb-Z6GJG_Joc9MrYlPFzImGCPKcXX2lSBssGCPexu7tzuJ_PpHmj4WMaG1cJlUZxMo7r4SwMMSCd6bPFVe0e44pu99E-Qe0NkZ8NKK0tiJu_avkj0k-XSfYSZoPwx-zs/s600/life%20secrets.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="590" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCO3LgRqFcIEALam1OpIr8IoaMeQQJIVoxHIikMYhripx_WzP9dcpH-8Ab649QLb-Z6GJG_Joc9MrYlPFzImGCPKcXX2lSBssGCPexu7tzuJ_PpHmj4WMaG1cJlUZxMo7r4SwMMSCd6bPFVe0e44pu99E-Qe0NkZ8NKK0tiJu_avkj0k-XSfYSZoPwx-zs/s320/life%20secrets.png" width="315" /></a></div>The sun is shining, we will warm up today, there are some spring flowers budding, the birds are singing, and my kitties and I are well.<div>Bitsy is not sure what to think about the chickens! He watches and watches and then when they get close (on porch), he runs and hides under my comforter! LOL. Such a brave boy - haha.</div><div><br /></div><div>What are your plans for the week? Give us a shout out as to what you are up to. It helps us all get ideas. Are you going to spring clean - indoors or outdoors? Are you crafting anything fun for the upcoming holiday? Are you starting your garden things?</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWZAb84C63jprGqhgfv0x8bCIah5-HkPsnFO4U8s8f3kdOY6adRK34y5sV2fg5T22tJT3Pxrh9Fs5kbxx7eoGYmb3LwDiyXk5HEkBvm0F2mkTLSbla6J88p3RNfPcPVgyQIf2G4heheThVoE-vcWZJtS954G0ejdgwLQS6EUymEUXLlDjjtuG7SXD9K-N/s703/Screenshot%202023-03-20%20161024.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="472" data-original-width="703" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEWZAb84C63jprGqhgfv0x8bCIah5-HkPsnFO4U8s8f3kdOY6adRK34y5sV2fg5T22tJT3Pxrh9Fs5kbxx7eoGYmb3LwDiyXk5HEkBvm0F2mkTLSbla6J88p3RNfPcPVgyQIf2G4heheThVoE-vcWZJtS954G0ejdgwLQS6EUymEUXLlDjjtuG7SXD9K-N/s320/Screenshot%202023-03-20%20161024.png" width="320" /></a></div>This (the picture) is my week! All of these things. I started yesterday outside. I managed to put a couple things at the curb for heavy trash. They were so bad, there was no re-use or upcycle left in them - or so I thought. Someone stopped and took one item last night. Must have a good imagination!<div>I just have so many things I want to go through, and donate, and fix, and even some trashing. </div><div>The nicer weather and the sunshine, gets me motivated.</div><div>By the time fall comes, I want my house in order, and I want a lot of bigger things done to improve my home. THIS is going to be my year!</div><div><br /></div><div>My other question. WHAT do you WANT to read about here? </div><div>I know I ask this every so often - but I want to keep things fresh and fun. I want to give posts that are relevant to us all. I want to give you what you need and want to read.</div><div>Any ideas will be considered. I have my pen and notebook ready to write down your ideas!!</div><div><br /></div><div>I hope you each enjoy your day and get some sunshine!</div><div>Enjoy the simple things in life - they are what makes life a joy!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-4770521112999832402024-03-10T08:46:00.000-04:002024-03-10T08:46:34.290-04:00Weekly Wrap Up 3/10<div style="text-align: left;"> Happy Sunday to all. I hope this finds you all well and safe. Hope you all did well with the time change! UGH! I actually went to sleep a little earlier last night, hoping to hedge the drain of today. Seems crazy, but that hour just changes things! It got light later this morning, so delayed my going out to feed the critters. I scared a stray kitty that was sleeping under the side steps! My kitties weren't sure what to do this morning - I got up same time per clock - not them! I guess we will all get used to it.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">We have had nice weather, we had lots of rain, and we are now having chilly weather. Looks to get nice again this week - but they are predicting a colder end to the month (last couple weeks). Oh fun!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifu71G7qoHQUqYeKyTsMFYeWBV-bFc5uYw6XGi6f6w7FwCjFV9dG1m02Zt8_kd4cRRXtSy6hHYxliHFM8H49qd-rsAaPIibwO64OKklwTWuGiYg2cn57lX-9IPNz5riflu9EUz9HIglGFAJvqBv_SxQx24xs7cMwYUOL9jb3A1HT42XB-RdwHBiJ0_Oo2c/s4272/IMG_6026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifu71G7qoHQUqYeKyTsMFYeWBV-bFc5uYw6XGi6f6w7FwCjFV9dG1m02Zt8_kd4cRRXtSy6hHYxliHFM8H49qd-rsAaPIibwO64OKklwTWuGiYg2cn57lX-9IPNz5riflu9EUz9HIglGFAJvqBv_SxQx24xs7cMwYUOL9jb3A1HT42XB-RdwHBiJ0_Oo2c/s320/IMG_6026.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This started a couple days ago. The forsythia have started to flower. The daffodils are going good. Lots of yellow and green out there.<div><br /></div><div>I had a sick squirrel for a couple days this week. It got in the feeding jar and just wouldn't leave. Not sure if it was hurt or sick, but even walking up to the jar and tapping on it did nothing. THAT is unusual. I threw a few peanuts in there and a piece or two of sweet granola bar and finally it left - guess it regained a little energy. I cleaned the jar well for the other squirrels, in case it was sick.</div><div><br /></div><div>My cow birds are now back. I keep seeing more and more different types of birds showing up. It is getting to that time! Lots and lots of robins are back now.</div><div><br /></div><div>My week:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Spent some time restocking a lot of my pantry jars and moving some around. Put back things not used often and put out things used more. Just a lot handier.</li><li>Did some raking, weed pulling and light yard work</li><li>Got to air the house and have heat off for several days</li><li>Made a small batch of oatmeal cookies</li><li>I did run to Kroger and got some fresh veggies and fruit (strawberries & asparagus on sale!)</li><li>Using all leftovers and bits from the frig</li><li>Did more paper declutter. It takes a long time, as I have to go through things and make sure I don't throw out something important. I did find some stuff mixed in with general items, that needed to be kept.</li><li>I went to the paper shred event - I had 3 good size boxes. I got there just as it opened, expecting a big line. I was 3rd in line! Next one is first of June - will have more for that one</li><li>Picked a bouquet of daffies!</li><li>Eating at home and using what I have</li><li>Lots of little stuff - moving plants around, moving baskets and small things around, just doing some re-arranging. Put together new bottles of dish soap and shampoo. Just lots of odds and ends</li></ul><div>Meals this past week:</div><div>Beans/rice/sausage/cheese casserole</div><div>Enchiladas (used some of above rice & beans)</div><div>Fried cabbage and little smokies, smashed fried potato</div><div>Frittata and steamed asparagus</div><div>Chicken bites, cheesy potatoes (freezer) and salad</div><div>Seasoned rice w/asparagus added, topped with pulled pork (freezer) & sour cream</div><div>Rice w/asparagus (leftover) and fish sandwich</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>How was your week? Did you get any deals? Spring cleaning? Still getting snow? I know a lot of you gals north are getting slammed with snow. I saw OK and TX had some bad storms - hope all are doing ok.</div><div>I always look forward to hearing from each of you.</div><div><br /></div><div>Prayers for all that are ill or have family that are ill and going through so much.</div><div>Blessings to you and yours from my humble little home.</div><div>*********************************</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.</i></div><div>Ephesians 6:10-11</div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNrRHCuib81k1zWWfUpDOLNNu1PxFywUQffrrH_qDtYahLFiR4drB8cFldB_xOhtrn2pU8eE_2mwHDkaZqNbYnTp0R2IyLYzRtpEXi5AuiQrUuoknV2-sSdJ_QfIKG6PjflkBk_NA5KgM_r6m3zPN7kSXJYW5VPZ73Vl6Ca6nylPCFINe4kJYIzANNgJPO/s697/prayer%20God.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="437" data-original-width="697" height="201" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNrRHCuib81k1zWWfUpDOLNNu1PxFywUQffrrH_qDtYahLFiR4drB8cFldB_xOhtrn2pU8eE_2mwHDkaZqNbYnTp0R2IyLYzRtpEXi5AuiQrUuoknV2-sSdJ_QfIKG6PjflkBk_NA5KgM_r6m3zPN7kSXJYW5VPZ73Vl6Ca6nylPCFINe4kJYIzANNgJPO/s320/prayer%20God.png" width="320" /></a></div> AMEN<br /><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-36525988368881003352024-03-07T08:32:00.000-05:002024-03-07T08:32:01.112-05:00An Information Kind of Day!<div style="text-align: left;"> Good morning all. Here we are at Thursday already. The weeks are flying by.</div><div style="text-align: left;">It is 44F this morning and cloudy - not bad. We have a little cooler stuff this weekend, but nothing bad at all. Not holding my breath, but maybe we have rounded the weather corner. LOL - yeah, probably not!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Just a couple things today.</div><div style="text-align: left;">DID YOU KNOW?</div><div style="text-align: left;">Wal-Mart and Aldi are both lowering some prices!!!! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Wal-Mart has said basic things like eggs, potatoes, sweet potatoes, frozen fruit, mayo and bread will be lowered in prices back to 'pre-inflation' prices. I kind of got the idea that this was for the Easter season, by what I read. They didn't say it was long term. But heck, take the price reductions when you can! If you shop WM, hope this helps a little.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPKnPY5hg6T0U1bxStikSTiDosJfvQWm3vp88740YXzx1UXD7STOs-Fq5d8AwcxLNkQNqP5Mv3U0DaxQa5LCs_09ktTxon7-lmu_hDjRVPShmJhSO-bXFl3NouQp1vBP4-96E2h0r7Q0qd1vTz7vkyq5q-_CRKwHk2CUlys9B51OtAXKeH-T8hc5TAYDha/s580/grocery.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="513" data-original-width="580" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPKnPY5hg6T0U1bxStikSTiDosJfvQWm3vp88740YXzx1UXD7STOs-Fq5d8AwcxLNkQNqP5Mv3U0DaxQa5LCs_09ktTxon7-lmu_hDjRVPShmJhSO-bXFl3NouQp1vBP4-96E2h0r7Q0qd1vTz7vkyq5q-_CRKwHk2CUlys9B51OtAXKeH-T8hc5TAYDha/s320/grocery.png" width="320" /></a></div>Aldi lowered a lot of prices last fall, supposedly they will be doing more. So far this year they have lowered prices on 23 items up to 13%. Their plan is to lower prices to about 250 more items by summer. When shopping look for the red tags in front of items - those are the new lower priced items!<div>******</div><div>For those that eat fast food! There are some establishments that are having cut back prices for the month. $1 and $2 burgers at Wendy's. Cheap breakfast sandwiches at BK. One donut shop is having specials. MOST all of these need you to be signed into an app!!!!! Not just a walk-in thing.</div><div>Most of this is due to DLST, March Madness (basketball), etc. I won't be using any of these!</div><div>******<br /><div><br /></div><div>Now on the opposite side, Dollar Tree is raising prices again - what I hear - to 1.75. I knew it was bound to happen. How long can we possibly expect someone to sell things for a dollar when they are experiencing inflation as well?</div><div>I have seen so many people being outraged and saddened by this - my answer is just don't shop there if you don't like it! </div><div>I KNOW some people live in food deserts and dollar stores and convenience stores are their go to. I hate that for them.</div><div>But as for others - I still think some things will still be cheaper than other stores - gift bags, small holiday decorations, cards - even some cleaning supplies and kitchen towels. You just have to choose what you want to pay for and where. Probably will still be able to get many basics (pasta, soup, etc.) cheaper at other stores when they run sales. </div><div>Once Dollar Tree was purchased by the bigger dollar store - it was inevitable.</div><div>************************</div><div><br /></div><div>RECIPE TIME</div><div><br /></div><div>I had a new to me type of hummus, when I attended a shower event recently. It was chocolate hummus and I must say it was wonderful! My niece bought it at the deli area at the grocery, but it is so easy to make. </div><div>CHOC. HUMMUS</div><div>1 can chickpeas (garbanzo beans) - drained**</div><div>1/2 C cocoa powder (not hot choc. mix)</div><div>1/2 C maple syrup or honey</div><div>1/4 C peanut butter (or use Tahini or almond butter, or any other nut butter you like)</div><div>1 tsp. vanilla</div><div>Place all ingredients in a blender and process until very smooth. Keep extra refrigerated.</div><div>Serve with fresh berries, banana pieces, apples, or graham crackers.</div><div><br /></div><div>***Keep the liquid - can be used instead of egg in baking. You may want to pour a tiny bit in your hummus as processing - if it seems too thick.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3NkJJA7GXvJtCWxfM7OShaAjSGkignyfYJxdiUEJ0Q1bNxXX5zr4p6w3M5nDsDACi3tVYbbNHBiRmO4q881ZF5Ac1MpZ52pMOj_96tK0l_1cq0aNnUixqMsKEa84iRqq1Wmc6WPuOiZKsIJI89BUqJQxhyJjC-9YwdCL8LbJCHTpZYS3WNPWqMXK0z9h4/s536/chocolate%20hummus.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="523" data-original-width="536" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3NkJJA7GXvJtCWxfM7OShaAjSGkignyfYJxdiUEJ0Q1bNxXX5zr4p6w3M5nDsDACi3tVYbbNHBiRmO4q881ZF5Ac1MpZ52pMOj_96tK0l_1cq0aNnUixqMsKEa84iRqq1Wmc6WPuOiZKsIJI89BUqJQxhyJjC-9YwdCL8LbJCHTpZYS3WNPWqMXK0z9h4/s320/chocolate%20hummus.png" width="320" /></a></div><div> DELISH!</div><div>**********************</div><div><br /></div><div>Lastly - DON'T FORGET - it is that time of the spring again!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvW4A98YSl2uIZUdV4Rm4ydugweNs6E2aWcSxmy9v-4bGldDMDQBrjl2kISkTqEMMPZnnXZrOhbRED8CfrszHCRbGgD6qKgoZu0GQVzegWjIj5KICA0KXg8Ejy96zcUCCPLeCWwh203yJF3OFC-cJx-06Z0G09zQU-I-xAHZqrDiqGh2tKflezVNHGkAh1/s731/March%20spring%20forward.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="731" data-original-width="595" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvW4A98YSl2uIZUdV4Rm4ydugweNs6E2aWcSxmy9v-4bGldDMDQBrjl2kISkTqEMMPZnnXZrOhbRED8CfrszHCRbGgD6qKgoZu0GQVzegWjIj5KICA0KXg8Ejy96zcUCCPLeCWwh203yJF3OFC-cJx-06Z0G09zQU-I-xAHZqrDiqGh2tKflezVNHGkAh1/s320/March%20spring%20forward.png" width="260" /></a></div> 2 AM<div><br /><div>I know many hate this change and many love it. Everyone talks about more daylight - NO not more, just later! If you get up early, it will just be dark later (for a while yet) - so it just pushes up the daylight hours. I am a very early riser - so now I will deal with dark again when I wake up.</div><div>Also remember animals cannot read the clock! They have a schedule they are used to and that doesn't change (just the clock does).</div><div>I do like later daylight - but not crazy about 9PM stuff. That is close to my bedtime!!!!! I want it dark when I go to bed!</div><div>I wish they would just pick one and keep it!</div><div><br /></div><div>So there is my infomercial/public service update of the week!!! LOL</div><div>I hope you all have a great end to your week and a fun weekend. Stay safe and warm - many are battling lots of snow still!</div><div><br /></div><div>Have a great day!!!!!</div><div><br /></div></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-55824297206493583392024-03-06T08:39:00.000-05:002024-03-06T08:39:08.225-05:00It's Almost Time!<div style="text-align: left;"> Good morning my friends. I hope this finds you all well this morning. Yesterday was a pretty darn nice day around here - except for the rain and thunderstorms. It wasn't bad though, and the sun came out later.</div><div style="text-align: left;">I have one daffy blooming and many about to pop open in the next day or so. The forsythia bushes are about to pop open as well. The grass is sooooo green! I even went out yesterday afternoon and pulled some weeds - they are thriving.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">So it is about time to start thinking garden. Many people start their own plants at home - I did at one time, but my garden is pretty small - so I just buy a few plants. I do start my zucchini, lettuce and cucumbers from seed - they pop up so quickly.</div><div style="text-align: left;">I know some folks who have already got NICE plants because they started so early, others are just thinking about planting. Now is the time in our area.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Today are a few ideas that you can use to save a bit while starting your plants and gardening.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">You can buy seeds at the Dollar Stores - usually 4/$1 - granted not a lot of seeds in each and most are not heirloom quality - but they are seeds and they produce food!! I have lots of seed that I keep over from year to year. Generally, they are just fine. Just keep them in a cooler and dry spot.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhmuaYfKcnQ21O4gUy1-vDXkxSkOQF_9gcxCTeGyKZrT8cD-0uNmrgOu79kAgRo4bFAmWvXSfbVWH_l6PLJ8ZBKlSn6dt8hUYLlStg18MDolTA4ooSR_ll8zrr9btb6F5EjYM6IIo0GFpwLOyd0gG3UAHyAhqIy5O_lUihuBC8MDOxO9cMX3GLLmgGALce/s513/plants%20stakes.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="513" data-original-width="385" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhmuaYfKcnQ21O4gUy1-vDXkxSkOQF_9gcxCTeGyKZrT8cD-0uNmrgOu79kAgRo4bFAmWvXSfbVWH_l6PLJ8ZBKlSn6dt8hUYLlStg18MDolTA4ooSR_ll8zrr9btb6F5EjYM6IIo0GFpwLOyd0gG3UAHyAhqIy5O_lUihuBC8MDOxO9cMX3GLLmgGALce/s320/plants%20stakes.png" width="240" /></a></div>Start collecting fallen limbs and sticks from the yard. You can make very cute and natural plant markers. Clear off a bit of bark and use either a wood burner or a permanent marker for names. You can make these any size you need. Also keep those larger limbs that fall for plant stakes. You can find so many things in your yard to help you all for FREE.<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZNrsaKSwaiOkItCdWL7hWQ4HQgU473xLiKk2_Sco9iUIssBCVaZhzXEuokE3XNPf8VZiRMvR2vcLESrFYXz5fbrnaAmQ2MhqXAa2fMIwqen9jhxXKw92O3oROX1eXK_ikYFBFi8qnW8N1J1BhBpuV87375jkswjCi7iKEAXrNOqyM2XWhv9onBCMWfzKv/s511/plants%20TP.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="322" data-original-width="511" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZNrsaKSwaiOkItCdWL7hWQ4HQgU473xLiKk2_Sco9iUIssBCVaZhzXEuokE3XNPf8VZiRMvR2vcLESrFYXz5fbrnaAmQ2MhqXAa2fMIwqen9jhxXKw92O3oROX1eXK_ikYFBFi8qnW8N1J1BhBpuV87375jkswjCi7iKEAXrNOqyM2XWhv9onBCMWfzKv/s320/plants%20TP.png" width="320" /></a></div>Keep those TP rolls or even tubes from paper towels and use them as your plant starting pots. Once the plant is big enough these can be transplanted into a bigger pot or the garden as it. The cardboard will break down in the garden. My brother starts most of his plants and this is what he uses. He saves all year long - cuts them in half and has FREE planting pots.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ozJ7SfvYHGTbI9s2syteiz-RW1QEanAHDeXxdmi-l8artYzeDgHD72F_AZfwWjvsN7lBEeNedvG-Dx9AzDWZ9D1QHbw4ZVZbfDz3dO6oukqWLkZbkZrI6CIx-DvYltEwzLmw5sIbjwmow0s_o1TZe3_b1OQyVBCbE0Lrc2Gg95L1AZDboEnP9jufulNc/s808/plants%20newspaper.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="808" data-original-width="512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9ozJ7SfvYHGTbI9s2syteiz-RW1QEanAHDeXxdmi-l8artYzeDgHD72F_AZfwWjvsN7lBEeNedvG-Dx9AzDWZ9D1QHbw4ZVZbfDz3dO6oukqWLkZbkZrI6CIx-DvYltEwzLmw5sIbjwmow0s_o1TZe3_b1OQyVBCbE0Lrc2Gg95L1AZDboEnP9jufulNc/s320/plants%20newspaper.png" width="203" /></a></div>You can also use newspaper for pots. Easily form them around a used tin can - fill with dirt - plant. These hold moisture well for the seeds and again, can be planted directly into your garden or bigger pot. Recycle at its best!<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhryoIP7ixcxxaMGEaZfiHxzzuepGxGzgedEf4xL9dc2u7BY5M0Hokz4563x4y-5Hy73omDObz7EBOEFox5XUrjKnggoczAyLbRuKllQzGTwUqkhAJTG3Ki-WY1F3see5Wt4luj5pnIHp1iHrwpsdlAxb7Wg8H5G_a0PrkWOSP6wsal83yZyUb9YhyqAvUR/s891/homemade%20fertilizer.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="518" data-original-width="891" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhryoIP7ixcxxaMGEaZfiHxzzuepGxGzgedEf4xL9dc2u7BY5M0Hokz4563x4y-5Hy73omDObz7EBOEFox5XUrjKnggoczAyLbRuKllQzGTwUqkhAJTG3Ki-WY1F3see5Wt4luj5pnIHp1iHrwpsdlAxb7Wg8H5G_a0PrkWOSP6wsal83yZyUb9YhyqAvUR/s320/homemade%20fertilizer.png" width="320" /></a></div>Homemade fertilizer is so easy to make - and it doesn't have a lot of chemicals like many store-bought ones. The above recipe is kind of like a homemade Miracle Grow. (click on recipe to enlarge). I use this myself and it works. I like keeping things more natural.<div><br /></div><div>Get your patio pots cleaned and ready to go. I plant several things in pots as well as things in the garden. Over the years the pots get grungy and buggy and it is a good idea to clean them up and out every so often.</div><div><br /></div><div>I hope everyone can try and grow something this year. Maybe you can't have a garden where you live - but you can plant a thing or two in a nice flowerpot and place on the porch or the patio.</div><div>A tomato plant, a squash or 2, green onions, lettuce, herbs or maybe a pepper plant - something!!! ' </div><div>Do a little 'food-scaping' in your yard. It can give you 'grow-ceries'!</div><div>Every little thing you can grow saves a little money at the store. The taste and the freshness cannot compare - regardless of the savings. It all tastes so good.</div><div><br /></div><div>I am always amazed to think about what can be gained from a tiny seed. One tomato seed can grow a plant that produces dozens of tomatoes. One zucchini seed can grow a plant that can literally 'feed a neighborhood'. LOL - you know what I mean, if you have ever grown.</div><div>It is truly awesome.</div><div>Nature at its finest!</div><div><br /></div><div>Make sure you have some lovely flowers around as well. Bees are so important in pollination of things and we need them - flowers and blooms give them nutrition. I am one that will never use weed killer on my yard as well. I let the dandelions and the violets and clover bloom! YEP, I am that neighbor!!! LOL</div><div>They are the first things blooming many times and it feed the precious bees. We are kind 'screwed' without the bees.</div><div>Not only that - but you can also make jelly with the dandelions, violets and clover. It is very good and kind of honey flavored. I have made dandelion and clover jelly before - and it is yummy. A little work to start - but worth it.</div><div>There are so many things put on this earth that we can use to nourish our bodies. Don't forget the wild onion and garlic as well.</div><div>I just love that nature can provide so much and it is all FREE!</div><div><br /></div><div>Are you thinking about gardening? I know many still have lots of snow - but that will soon be gone, and you will be seeing the world come back to life. Get those plants and ideas ready now!</div><div>May you have "visions of gardening" dance through your heads as you dream tonight!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Have a wonderful day all.<br /><div><br /><div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com24tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-86712656390211326492024-03-05T08:36:00.000-05:002024-03-05T08:36:34.308-05:00Learning by Doing<div style="text-align: left;"> Howdy and happy Tuesday to all. It is a somewhat warm morning here - with rain coming soon. Yesterday was absolutely perfect. It looks like we may be cooling off again after today - but nothing bad. I looked out back this morning and I have ONE daffodil blooming!!! Many more to come this week. I love it.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Let's talk about our learning process on our journey to frugality. There are many just starting this process, and it most definitely is a process or a journey. There are many ups and downs.</div><div style="text-align: left;">I noticed an article on the computer the other day I just had to read. It said more and more young people are getting into "duping" to save money at the grocery. Well, call me curious, as I had never heard that term before.</div><div style="text-align: left;">It is buying and using off brands and stores brands instead of name brands. Huh, who knew it had a name?? I have been doing this for years - and just called it smart shopping! Whatever you want to call it, it is a good idea to at least try off brands. You may like them, you may not - but it doesn't hurt to try. It CAN save money.</div><div style="text-align: left;">I give these young people kudos, as they are trying to figure out money saving ways themselves.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-QU46ALg3TDnzoy26NLwUsqpOjSX-wrh6jdhx6Sl5BmY0P9sd6QEnwWwJU8I_c4ezAW-4MnN4kRgxIQOwgN8dy3z1im9ozeNDoII74SVwS-ZlVesqoZQ0fx-jD1EC2aCEPSStUjT637YESkpjS4ArJNk4aTRIBlBbaFR-T91vXv9y31F0uTUKfcANh3Ii/s1007/creative.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="578" data-original-width="1007" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-QU46ALg3TDnzoy26NLwUsqpOjSX-wrh6jdhx6Sl5BmY0P9sd6QEnwWwJU8I_c4ezAW-4MnN4kRgxIQOwgN8dy3z1im9ozeNDoII74SVwS-ZlVesqoZQ0fx-jD1EC2aCEPSStUjT637YESkpjS4ArJNk4aTRIBlBbaFR-T91vXv9y31F0uTUKfcANh3Ii/s320/creative.png" width="320" /></a></div>You have to start somewhere. Learn by trying things. You may have a positive outcome or you may not. Trust me we have all had successes and failures.<div>Read, listen, and try and hopefully learn. </div><div>Do NOT let the disappointments and trials break you!!!! Let it MAKE you!!! Aid someone, somewhere in life with some wisdom that helps them in a positive way. Kind of like a little legacy that we will be leaving here!</div><div><br /></div><div>Learn basic skills - that is so very important. Cooking from scratch, basic yard work, growing something that can go into your families' bellies (anything), basic home repairs, car maintenance, etc.</div><div>Now I am not saying you need to be able to change out a motor or chop down a tree. Nor re-wire the house or grow an acre of food. IF you know how - heck - good for you!!!!!</div><div>Basic skills = saving money.</div><div>I love a do-it-yourself attitude, and I have learned how to do many things that are not considered things a "woman" might do - but you know you do what you have to at points in life. Sure, I will pay for advanced skills and things just above my skillset - but I do what I can. We all can.</div><div><br /></div><div>No one person is perfect and no one person teaches in a perfect way. It takes a 'village' of reasonably caring people who have been there and done that! I just hope we can all impart some positive ideas to others. We all do our best.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgpK6B9H60V1yD8PVIzt0DfOLCDIHAXk47-dt8ksLjgtry8Tv9_TCgpxrf00KfKLJWi2h8vTvKfQN9A-_Ufpx0F93bj36z3MEp1Fl-kqf0Mvhtvny2gMdpojSJIv2K-ZnvoWHOEDbJgJPys1aG5xuvLbU_Os5gm4dTRypyuQbPgPR5rUSyaBHEPmVCraeL/s622/clap%20and%20win.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="622" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgpK6B9H60V1yD8PVIzt0DfOLCDIHAXk47-dt8ksLjgtry8Tv9_TCgpxrf00KfKLJWi2h8vTvKfQN9A-_Ufpx0F93bj36z3MEp1Fl-kqf0Mvhtvny2gMdpojSJIv2K-ZnvoWHOEDbJgJPys1aG5xuvLbU_Os5gm4dTRypyuQbPgPR5rUSyaBHEPmVCraeL/s320/clap%20and%20win.png" width="320" /></a></div>You will find many people (many) who tell you that what you are doing is crazy. They will think you should always do things their way. Most of us here, have been called nuts a few times - trust me. </div><div>They just don't seem to get that you are trying to have a better life, save a little, get out of debt, and provide for your family in a way that is just being a steward of all you have. </div><div><br /></div><div>They figure if debt gets too big - file bankruptcy. If you want something - get it and worry about paying later (or not). They seem to invoke the idea of just 'flying' through life without a care.</div><div>Well, DON'T!! You will never get ahead.</div><div><br /></div><div>It does take diligence, hard work, learning, doing, reading, listening, trying and most of all it takes determination!!!</div><div>If you are in search of a better life - you can have it. Just work for it.</div><div>It isn't going to just fall in your lap - but never ever give up.</div><div><br /></div><div>We are here as a community to help. There are lots of great blogs and vlogs out there, that can help. Most of us in this type of community have been through and tried all kinds of things. </div><div>The cool thing is - WE are STILL learning too!!!</div><div>You are never too old to learn new ways and ideas. </div><div><br /></div><div>For most everyone the journey is continual and never ending. It does become a habit (a good habit), and it really is FUN to see the successes!</div><div>Go for it and have a good life for you and your family.</div><div><br /></div><div>Have a great day all. <br /> </div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-47091956954557624572024-03-03T08:27:00.000-05:002024-03-03T08:27:47.993-05:00Weekly Wrap Up 3/3<div style="text-align: left;"> Happy Sunday to all. I hope this finds you all well and safe on this first Sunday of March. Northern hemisphere is now in meteorological spring and southern hemisphere is entering fall. WOW! Some of you are getting blasted with snow and cold still - bummer. I am having decent weather here in my area. Looks to be 50's and 60's (maybe 70F) this whole upcoming week. This morning the sun is shining and the birds are singing!</div><div style="text-align: left;">I go out to feed the critters each morning and I get serenaded by a couple cardinals, a red wing black bird, a woodpecker and a couple of blue jays - every morning! It is just lovely. Sitting here typing, I hear the birdies singing on the front porch!! It sounds like spring.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinjj9-iy3F91HumyS5dZ1Ebl-CPK64DQXxwaEG2VG3mAmhEBH7MHznPan72l_JDBNBqJyio7VFH-ol_L_GhkLFDqrEHytVL524VZUDhUroUWp7iArN2QFwm-PUojbz__mXOOzKe-ed3JxTqC0JOgcv-qQ3JgCp_oX54TZJ4A07D3CWlS6r2cZzL2OAXx5Y/s558/happy%20sunday.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="558" data-original-width="372" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinjj9-iy3F91HumyS5dZ1Ebl-CPK64DQXxwaEG2VG3mAmhEBH7MHznPan72l_JDBNBqJyio7VFH-ol_L_GhkLFDqrEHytVL524VZUDhUroUWp7iArN2QFwm-PUojbz__mXOOzKe-ed3JxTqC0JOgcv-qQ3JgCp_oX54TZJ4A07D3CWlS6r2cZzL2OAXx5Y/s320/happy%20sunday.png" width="213" /></a></div>I have an abundance of perennials popping up through the ground. Every kind of lily I have, daffodils, tulips, poppies, even some red sprouts popping their noses out on the peonies! It won't be long.<div><br /><div>Had the owner of the house next door (where former friend lives) call me. I guess L gave notice of moving at the end of May. That was a huge surprise. The owner lives in Italy at this time, and just amazed me that he called. He worries about me a lot and is such a good man. He is not sure if he will try to rent again or sell. That always make me nervous as you don't know what you will end up with. BUT, I kind of feel exhilarated as well - I know that may sound crazy. I started making plans yesterday for the yard and house for this summer. Made my first call on getting estimate of a new fence around the yard (it so needs replaced). I want this to be the year of changes for me. It may cost me some money, but it is an investment - so looking forward to it.</div><div><br /></div><div>This week:</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Went out the first of the week to the feed store for a few critter supplies. I also bought some onion sets for planting.</li><li>Stopped and topped my gas tank off - so as to use my points for a discount before they expired. Paid 2.09/gal.</li><li>Ran in Kroger and got a gallon of milk, a pack of tomatoes, and a discounted loaf of multi-grain bread. That was it - NO other shopping this week.</li><li>Got to air the house on 4 different days (there was cold & rain in between)</li><li>Paid everything I had</li><li>Going through more papers to get ready for next weekends shred event</li><li>Used up all the odds and ends of cheese and other items in meals this week.</li><li>Froze some leftovers for future meals </li><li>Cooking from home</li><li>Doing all the basics</li></ul><div>Meals this past week:</div><div>Leftover baked spaghetti and salad</div><div>Chicken/veggie wraps</div><div>Bacon/veggie bagels (warm day didn't want to cook)</div><div>Harvest potato casserole and fresh veggies on side</div><div>Leftover harvest potatoes and green beans</div><div>Multi cheese mac w/burger added and leftover green beans</div><div>Mac n cheese and a smash burger on multi grain bread</div><div>SNACKS - muffin cake, pickles, tomato juice, nuts</div><div>(I have been craving tomato juice and my brother's home canned is the best ever. I have been enjoying homemade & store bought pickles from frig.) **I get weird cravings sometimes! LOL</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8gmBHUv10u4AU5D8am2GfNVhdRj3VrBAqju7qB7tbjpd6PjYSt4yCKZ2szw-f8EfaBFTtQOLRoq7gfl8wMpHk1TAnqacsvEd6RDpKN8SLJ74Dl17nx67QbdYCSSS5R8l1ax5r-y_WeUWKSYUsE2ZG82irMDtHp9x3JeAzggljGoGw_AXJ5mvkoUF23C6R/s4272/IMG_6012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8gmBHUv10u4AU5D8am2GfNVhdRj3VrBAqju7qB7tbjpd6PjYSt4yCKZ2szw-f8EfaBFTtQOLRoq7gfl8wMpHk1TAnqacsvEd6RDpKN8SLJ74Dl17nx67QbdYCSSS5R8l1ax5r-y_WeUWKSYUsE2ZG82irMDtHp9x3JeAzggljGoGw_AXJ5mvkoUF23C6R/s320/IMG_6012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Toasted bagels topped with cream cheese, bacon, cukes, tomato = yum!</div><div><br /></div><div>How was your week? Did you get to start spring cleaning yet? How is your weather? Any really good deals? Look forward to hearing about your week.</div><div>I miss seeing some of you! Please check in.</div><div><br /></div><div>Know I pray for each of you and your families. May you all have comfort and good moments in your days. Prayers for those enduring bad weather and fires in their areas.</div><div>Blessings to you and yours from my humble little home.</div><div>*****************************</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts!</i></div><div><i>And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.</i></div><div>Psalms 139:23-24<br /><div><br /></div><div>Lord, please help guide each of us. None of us are perfect in any way, and we strive to do Your will as best we can. Please comfort all those hurting today. Amen </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-56938478940327252162024-02-29T08:39:00.001-05:002024-02-29T08:39:21.147-05:00Comfort Food - Upgrade<div style="text-align: left;"> Hello everyone. Happy Leap Day!!!! Last day of the month - it is very chilly but sunny here. Not a bad way to end. There will still be many, many days of up and down temperatures to come in the next month or so, I guess we need to just get used to it!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Earlier in the week, I was eating light and quick meals - it was warmer and I didn't feel like anything heavy. Yesterday, well I wanted comfort food!</div><div style="text-align: left;">One of my favorite side dishes is Harvest Potatoes (some call them funeral potatoes). I love potatoes and I love, love cheese! I had everything here to make them. BUT, I wanted it to be more like a meal - so I upgraded it. It sure did come out tasty.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This is just a good reminder that you don't have to always follow the recipe!! Most times I do not - I kind of wing it most of the time.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Generally, the 'recipe' would be:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">1 - 32 oz. bag of frozen hash browns</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 can cream of chicken soup</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 C sour cream</div><div style="text-align: left;">1 C shredded cheese</div><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 C melted butter</div><div style="text-align: left;">Diced onion if desired</div><div style="text-align: left;">salt and pepper</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Well, I found a couple bags of hash browns when inventorying the freezer last week. I had a very old can of cream of chicken soup (I don't buy anymore - I make my own). I had sour cream and cheese - so boom ready to go.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I ALSO added a drained and chopped a can of carrots. I had approx. 1 - 1 1/2 C of chicken in freezer. I mixed in both of those items as well. I am sure I added more cheese than called for - I just emptied the container I had in the frig! Instead of the normal topping of corn flakes/butter - I had a jar with the remnants of cheesy nacho chips in it. A few pieces and lots of crumbs (from Jan/ get together). I crushed all of those and used as a topping.</div><div style="text-align: left;">So I mixed everything together except topping and poured in a 9 x 13 and baked at 350 for about 35 - 40 minutes - added the topping and baked 10-15 minutes longer. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8MU2KJy5_f-qkkCd3IS6ZUW5IbwvovcxPQzJ6NzyJLs7FmpmAwIPQa9bqnrygjlCRdGoj_vJKQ0oYBSPaLXusnaPfoyoonN0OHJlqUdGRmZc5rO6yZSQLST_tccK8l6TXdaIcDk27n2n64_ouwH1abuSNrRyoHIchJ93ivnRme7nYvGbxGJfFMz_AodLS/s4272/IMG_6013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8MU2KJy5_f-qkkCd3IS6ZUW5IbwvovcxPQzJ6NzyJLs7FmpmAwIPQa9bqnrygjlCRdGoj_vJKQ0oYBSPaLXusnaPfoyoonN0OHJlqUdGRmZc5rO6yZSQLST_tccK8l6TXdaIcDk27n2n64_ouwH1abuSNrRyoHIchJ93ivnRme7nYvGbxGJfFMz_AodLS/s320/IMG_6013.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Here is the pan after just removing from the oven.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqIvSlqShN_2mX9Xzb3X0Jtl_DGwzOeCfQg0aoKSqy_Q7y31unkfLqMhte7Z4D9FcDeKurZ-JWvc_4pYaAemEcWlCxlJCkq9EV5vc9_s_xDBGG0jBHF-NmHE50cdN4gV4aYmWvizPEzUSNMM9Ef_S68iaj4l5lgaN_xbNbvf_rCk5Xjz2yLEKSl5Ar7elk/s4272/IMG_6014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqIvSlqShN_2mX9Xzb3X0Jtl_DGwzOeCfQg0aoKSqy_Q7y31unkfLqMhte7Z4D9FcDeKurZ-JWvc_4pYaAemEcWlCxlJCkq9EV5vc9_s_xDBGG0jBHF-NmHE50cdN4gV4aYmWvizPEzUSNMM9Ef_S68iaj4l5lgaN_xbNbvf_rCk5Xjz2yLEKSl5Ar7elk/s320/IMG_6014.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Yum on a plate! I thoroughly enjoyed it. I will be eating it again today with some other veggie on the side. The rest will go in the freezer for another day(s).<div>So, I had potatoes, carrots, chicken, cheese, and side veggies all in one meal. Only one pan needed!<br /><div><br /></div><div>It was a complete meal. You could add carrots, broccoli, green beans, just about anything. Also, I used chicken I had in freezer - but I am thinking it would be good with ham, bacon, leftover chopped pork chops, smoked sausage or even cooked ground beef.</div><div>You can different types of cheese - whatever you have on hand. Also, you could jazz it up with ranch or onion dip sour cream instead of plain.</div><div><br /></div><div>Sometimes we just have to play with our food! You may find that new family favorite. </div><div>Honestly you do not have to play by the rules. Make things that sound good to you.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguuEC0cy6bQIF2AyQIFh9WHN-1YzpncadUYfs6wLosMYVIFewEr44z60LzGVEHdK9uqn2PktTRkEGazIaVoR7HJCB9987L3gCyJLovwDO-hPr4MTMmEL-0M2BgXfnXZYSeUyGmKuBN_N57dKQatFcy9C3eGZJXZe65NxF3jil0j9CYk7AYz-0j1e1yyNaW/s4272/IMG_6011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguuEC0cy6bQIF2AyQIFh9WHN-1YzpncadUYfs6wLosMYVIFewEr44z60LzGVEHdK9uqn2PktTRkEGazIaVoR7HJCB9987L3gCyJLovwDO-hPr4MTMmEL-0M2BgXfnXZYSeUyGmKuBN_N57dKQatFcy9C3eGZJXZe65NxF3jil0j9CYk7AYz-0j1e1yyNaW/s320/IMG_6011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Last week I made this. I had a jar mix for blue berry muffins. I added the last few fresh strawberries (chopped) and just poured it all in the pan instead of making muffins. Turned out super tasty. I baked about 10 minutes longer than was called for with muffins.<div><br /></div><div>So, when you get in the mood for comfort food - upgrade it! You can make a lovely meal and/or dessert just a little different from the norm.</div><div><br /></div><div>Have a wonderful day and make it a good one!</div><div>SMILES<br /><div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com30tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-68228618574267374132024-02-28T08:33:00.000-05:002024-02-28T08:33:11.506-05:00Jars - Big & Small - Great for Storage and More<div style="text-align: left;"> Happy midweek to all. It is a brisk and chilly morning here. We had temps at about 68F at 2AM - and now we are at 35F at 7AM. We had rain and lots of wind - wind is still around. Looks like a couple of chilly days again - then back to 70F! Wild and crazy rides are what we get in Feb. & Mar. I sure hope you are all safe - there was crazy weather everywhere last night.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Today, let us talk about jars and storage. I love glass jars - all sorts of glass jars. They don't have to be Mason jars for me to use - I keep most store jars as well (that groceries come in).</div><div style="text-align: left;">Plastic jars work too for storage - I just like glass as they are also pretty much safe in all conditions. For those who have trouble with rodents - they aren't getting into glass ones!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVm7J2UG3pFUwjVMB9gSD93Ui7SoLC05oKpR8eM_vGLyMl5wHDffEVi0bFqF4AmN33ETz2XYMxx5rkrif3GcHHPxIV_4TfTuXq8Cs8IcLCg8JN5Wi-WI9dhvrN8VHYNy1178kqzs3gH74g3zrpFBd7140HLBiPIOTAwqeDhDuDc0t_j-lX5UcUxbe5ACvV/s997/jars%20food.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="552" data-original-width="997" height="177" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVm7J2UG3pFUwjVMB9gSD93Ui7SoLC05oKpR8eM_vGLyMl5wHDffEVi0bFqF4AmN33ETz2XYMxx5rkrif3GcHHPxIV_4TfTuXq8Cs8IcLCg8JN5Wi-WI9dhvrN8VHYNy1178kqzs3gH74g3zrpFBd7140HLBiPIOTAwqeDhDuDc0t_j-lX5UcUxbe5ACvV/s320/jars%20food.png" width="320" /></a></div>Jars are great for canning - you can, can just about anything. From ingredients to meals like soups and beans to jellies and jams and fruit. Home canned foods 'could' be eaten straight from the jar in most instances - like when no power for cooking.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAmN3kfwSat2CAYIyr6qL3ITm9BWcporhI27kLYb5_sFQucMyzGJYoQLlizywIDu_5dfhHGGs9EeR033xKpALgevm7I0A5K7CQ6QQZ2Ltz7mgTE88WR2hoHj19Y7D-N210a36XpL8Cgvwn7NUP2Gzdb7AK0417wxa_n6kbp6dtUKRR9N301lOCP184G2uK/s870/jars%20fresh.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="512" data-original-width="870" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAmN3kfwSat2CAYIyr6qL3ITm9BWcporhI27kLYb5_sFQucMyzGJYoQLlizywIDu_5dfhHGGs9EeR033xKpALgevm7I0A5K7CQ6QQZ2Ltz7mgTE88WR2hoHj19Y7D-N210a36XpL8Cgvwn7NUP2Gzdb7AK0417wxa_n6kbp6dtUKRR9N301lOCP184G2uK/s320/jars%20fresh.png" width="320" /></a></div>Jars keep things fresh in your refrigerator. I put strawberries and grapes in jars when I bring them home from the store. Do not wash - just put them in the jar dry. I have had great luck with them lasting extra long. I plan on trying lettuce very soon. It could really be a game changer for making foods last longer. That is a plus in anyone's book today.<div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifb7BpUfUB3egmnml0VKd9f3tTl3BzskCbOjRPN2VdQQOXGi_8ANsUvAAl9ujccQjb6fdW0eiZmcJmLNvaOy-yu48GHfkwohSW42rwKxaeTEPOea0Sxg02PmCNhebwaWT0B65shDNvGsA6jZrGsi5dC7PYv-9542XJ9g4NhRrw9Y0FCjpNNvolJtL9uL6Q/s733/jars%20garage.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="733" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifb7BpUfUB3egmnml0VKd9f3tTl3BzskCbOjRPN2VdQQOXGi_8ANsUvAAl9ujccQjb6fdW0eiZmcJmLNvaOy-yu48GHfkwohSW42rwKxaeTEPOea0Sxg02PmCNhebwaWT0B65shDNvGsA6jZrGsi5dC7PYv-9542XJ9g4NhRrw9Y0FCjpNNvolJtL9uL6Q/s320/jars%20garage.png" width="320" /></a></div>Jars - odd and end ones - can hold just about anything you can think to put in them. They are great in garages and utility rooms - holding all those odds and ends of nuts and bolts.</div><div>Good for garden seeds as well.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn28yx6rSCa_O1h3xhyhBIg2_tzVL2UBRnlNeYPGc-K-YkkA-CJ0kqmSwNdH-R9OoC86qQ-HtwzCJkcZWRUDnCpFg5jX9oDU0aPUSlRcCYTx0ov7zCvTFHHJZesj6E0ZPJrJT5EAQa9uDoTgtYzrooKOZvPQ9YVsf7kGQ0qKQrJEAGjg3vJvjP56wMJy3L/s808/jars%20store.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="497" data-original-width="808" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgn28yx6rSCa_O1h3xhyhBIg2_tzVL2UBRnlNeYPGc-K-YkkA-CJ0kqmSwNdH-R9OoC86qQ-HtwzCJkcZWRUDnCpFg5jX9oDU0aPUSlRcCYTx0ov7zCvTFHHJZesj6E0ZPJrJT5EAQa9uDoTgtYzrooKOZvPQ9YVsf7kGQ0qKQrJEAGjg3vJvjP56wMJy3L/s320/jars%20store.png" width="320" /></a></div>Spices, mixes, dried fruits and veggies, evaporated milk, grains, rice - you name it - it can be stored safely in jars.</div><div>I have some gallon glass jars (think pickles, olives) that I have saved over the years and some that I have picked up free at yard sales or been given. I use those for storing rice and pasta. They would be great for oats or any grains that you might use on a regular basis.</div><div>Many folks use the larger ones for canisters.</div><div><br /></div><div>**I always throw a couple bay leaves in the jars to prevent buggers of any type. Sometimes insects have laid eggs on foods before you get it. I like to freeze for a while (kills larvae) - then allow to warm to room temp and the store with bay leaves in the jars. So far that has worked wonderfully for me.</div><div><br /></div><div>You can make up all kinds of soup starters at home - to make life a little easier and quicker on those rush days. Place some pasta (or rice), dried veggies and maybe some dried bouillon is the jars - whatever you have and like - and when you are ready for soup or a casserole - just dump the jar, add water and cook for a while. Easy-peasy. Add meat if you want while cooking.</div><div>I love having baking mixes around. Brownie mixes, biscuit mix, pancake mixes. There can be fancy coffee blends and tea blends (don't forget hot chocolate).</div><div><br /></div><div>You all know I give lots of baskets at the holidays full of fun goodies. Soups are always included. They are easy to make and they are always appreciated. It is nice to have those on the shelf here as well - for myself or as a gift.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwNj7FQvnYDsBrSTNfkOmofqXfneQublA7pPGtts7e-Q2f8oO03-3Eh0fxzaVnIy_Lswog5cmmN-k4c46dpCCReBPTOFilchksqOrZCYfRQGMBNMpRJlIFLR7BszzB9niAehTj7ERqdWh-tE10f6PTV8TaIwdEhcwTiPQ6iruQqZ8IpDsFDWegStnh1qRp/s2048/009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwNj7FQvnYDsBrSTNfkOmofqXfneQublA7pPGtts7e-Q2f8oO03-3Eh0fxzaVnIy_Lswog5cmmN-k4c46dpCCReBPTOFilchksqOrZCYfRQGMBNMpRJlIFLR7BszzB9niAehTj7ERqdWh-tE10f6PTV8TaIwdEhcwTiPQ6iruQqZ8IpDsFDWegStnh1qRp/s320/009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I often add a canned meat product to the jar, so it is ready to make for the recipient. I have used regular canning jars and I use other jars as well. I prefer to gift the other jars when I can - that way I don't need them back and the recipient can use in another way. (not that I ever get any back!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVq1hpaxkCVqAMYkSjtke_uFiZcf-M4Z8_C0SXZ5D6aITzgkH3xexmBczQCF9bIgkkWS2o7vF0X8l0Q1UnZEZftDCZFeJ8Hf2MFuSkny55qjRRt0DGVeLKh1BZeFbqPOsd9s9tF10HTwEcYBK51eJQ9h7c9Yzu6KwMLxwInGqvLGJOf1hwlLzrhgVv_m5K/s538/toothbrush%20holder.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="523" data-original-width="538" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVq1hpaxkCVqAMYkSjtke_uFiZcf-M4Z8_C0SXZ5D6aITzgkH3xexmBczQCF9bIgkkWS2o7vF0X8l0Q1UnZEZftDCZFeJ8Hf2MFuSkny55qjRRt0DGVeLKh1BZeFbqPOsd9s9tF10HTwEcYBK51eJQ9h7c9Yzu6KwMLxwInGqvLGJOf1hwlLzrhgVv_m5K/s320/toothbrush%20holder.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>You can use them for storage in the bathroom or any other room in the house. I have a blue jar in the bathroom that holds cotton balls (that come out of vitamins), and I have a half pint size to hold Q-tips. I love the idea of the above picture - such a cute kind of country look!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnO9aYtit0pubYmz6gcb1nDCcMC2ztQWtxLgq_bKy0p9SILuXpO_XPgdjZJxIrtQVQeKJPwW0vlW8302JwXeImQccmrZJT6fQ39YNdk03iOFnVRR9Nfm1SOSVCjNkFFjFIrBbqRyOlV_Z_yB_oNTqU08-_L2YD94AVTVj4tR8xYqbsI67ecTkuBdU5XTSv/s273/pin%20cushion%20jars.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="273" data-original-width="257" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnO9aYtit0pubYmz6gcb1nDCcMC2ztQWtxLgq_bKy0p9SILuXpO_XPgdjZJxIrtQVQeKJPwW0vlW8302JwXeImQccmrZJT6fQ39YNdk03iOFnVRR9Nfm1SOSVCjNkFFjFIrBbqRyOlV_Z_yB_oNTqU08-_L2YD94AVTVj4tR8xYqbsI67ecTkuBdU5XTSv/s1600/pin%20cushion%20jars.PNG" width="257" /></a></div>Crafts of every type can utilize jars. Thread, buttons, needles and pins - you name it. All those little beads and bobbles used for crafts stay safe and out the hands of little ones.<div>Great in offices for holding pins and pencils, scissors, markers, etc.<br /><div><br /></div><div>You can use half pint size jars for individual servings of pudding and Jello. You can use for all kinds of treats. They are the perfect size for just a small treat. I know many, many people that use jars to drink from! I have done this before. Little jelly jars are perfect for juice or a drink of milk. Somehow it makes iced tea taste better!!! LOL<br /><div>You can use jars to hold candy, cookies and nuts and treats of all sorts.</div><div><br /></div><div>So yes, they are good for absolutely anything from soup to nuts! Save those jars and utilize to keep pantry and other areas of your home safe and protected and organized.</div><div>Do you have any fun and new ideas for using jars? Let us know.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisqlgxDbjnYZU7BQHPx8b72KfE0LPTZ41yb_7lGLHeHVHMNbooHTtc44o_wxGfMjvmaNxBSQZmzUvHZBpxreAluAw1sjASgk7IPFE5ilt1KY9LPIcIbL1RqGqoMP9LbeuXlLkMcg1jBC_5GS5oWDPjeYfBFHeQdYJXmfVHWEDBN1bJD7lmyueO57qR8QA0/s909/Screenshot%202023-08-28%20185845.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="697" data-original-width="909" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisqlgxDbjnYZU7BQHPx8b72KfE0LPTZ41yb_7lGLHeHVHMNbooHTtc44o_wxGfMjvmaNxBSQZmzUvHZBpxreAluAw1sjASgk7IPFE5ilt1KY9LPIcIbL1RqGqoMP9LbeuXlLkMcg1jBC_5GS5oWDPjeYfBFHeQdYJXmfVHWEDBN1bJD7lmyueO57qR8QA0/s320/Screenshot%202023-08-28%20185845.png" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Stay safe and cozy today. Have a good one.<br /><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div></div></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-67219001911243484442024-02-27T08:59:00.000-05:002024-02-27T08:59:00.277-05:00Below Our Means and Enjoying It<p> Good morning to all. Woke to a beautiful morning. Sun is shining and it was 58* at 6AM! It will be in the 70's today. Tonight and overnight we have storms that will be coming through (sure wish they would happen during the day). By tomorrow morning we are supposed to have wind chills around 20*!! This crazy weather. It will be in the 40's a couple days then back up. The approach of spring is always a roller coaster.</p><div style="text-align: left;">I was trying to come up with a post this weekend and I also watched a few You Tubers and it seemed them and myself were all thinking the same way. So here are a few things to think about as you go forward on this frugal and financial journey.</div><div style="text-align: left;">FIRST you are not alone. There are lots of people watching their dollars and doing things that just make good sense. You always have sources to ask questions.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7v7tEWTCxUUbS4uyrHbTCYex13D7Dp5ghtgSOxHIa6L-3TphVrStxBxIQe4FI1Nh_Ii8b4fEqQfGKcRIElimFg0BPHF2WEjII8dLcPwMQYWA9qf8V71iH62tkRUpqG30BxFU_sjiJcOVMcId3YE46ayZ1r5lWHfY4hnww90TY69ODJxAGDZ7G7OjY6r2c/s615/attitude.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="382" data-original-width="615" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7v7tEWTCxUUbS4uyrHbTCYex13D7Dp5ghtgSOxHIa6L-3TphVrStxBxIQe4FI1Nh_Ii8b4fEqQfGKcRIElimFg0BPHF2WEjII8dLcPwMQYWA9qf8V71iH62tkRUpqG30BxFU_sjiJcOVMcId3YE46ayZ1r5lWHfY4hnww90TY69ODJxAGDZ7G7OjY6r2c/s320/attitude.png" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>** Control is something that most people want to feel. There are many things in this world that we have absolutely NO control over. Never will. Inflation, gas prices, utilities, insurance rates, etc. Now yes, sometimes you can switch out companies and save a little - but many things we just have to live with, as sad as that it.<div>You CAN control how you react. Get the best deals you can and look for deals. Use things in different ways and get the most out of them. Stop supporting the more expensive places. Cook from home, plan your trips out (saves gas), follow some of the other ideas that will be listed here.</div><div>Don't let not having control - stop you. Take control where you can and do your best.</div><div><br /></div><div>**DON'T let your pride get in the way. Now I mean this, as a way of saving a little. Don't let "what will people think" be in your head! Shop thrift stores and yard sales for good bargains. Look for clearance departments and items. Barter with people. </div><div>Many people are so worried what others will think. "They will think I am poor"! Who cares? You do you and get the best deals you can get wherever you can get them. IF you need to go to a food bank/pantry - do it. IF you need to seek assistance on utilities - do it. Don't feel you have to have the newest gadget or vehicle. Don't feel you have to say yes - to going out for an evening.</div><div>Do what you need to do to help YOUR family - and don't worry about others. I know this is hard for some folks - but it is so important. Once you get back on your feet - maybe you can help another in some way.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2eQrZw5h6-c__ZvCAUUGKhfis7x9G69cdJRfqylbOrYA7p-Z98n8IOAVo1_-aUXyc6wM8dh5az7gD_k5IngfqKKlvIRazyUeq3n2s_YL3POlYz3jcjAAFV8YT0HIr9BnuFSTaikP-c9GPkuz-yKyp2ZP7JvjaIXOWDU42EIFAMoyuqVoFPa3ZWOE531Qp/s616/habits.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="552" data-original-width="616" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2eQrZw5h6-c__ZvCAUUGKhfis7x9G69cdJRfqylbOrYA7p-Z98n8IOAVo1_-aUXyc6wM8dh5az7gD_k5IngfqKKlvIRazyUeq3n2s_YL3POlYz3jcjAAFV8YT0HIr9BnuFSTaikP-c9GPkuz-yKyp2ZP7JvjaIXOWDU42EIFAMoyuqVoFPa3ZWOE531Qp/s320/habits.png" width="320" /></a></div> Doing positive things in life that become habits is a good things. But FIRST you have to start!<div><br /></div><div>**Take it slow - this journey does not happen overnight. Start with changing one thing - then another and so on. You will become so overwhelmed with life, if you try to change everything instantly. Just start somewhere.</div><div>Maybe shop just once a week (instead of everyday), then every two weeks...... Buy ingredients and cook from home. No new clothes. Turning off lights and heat/AC when not needed. Using less water and utilities. Go to a yard sale or thrift store and just look - you will be amazed at what you can find. Stay home and have fun times there. Make things a family project - kiddos need to learn these things too.</div><div>Make learning (you and them) FUN!</div><div>It really is fun to learn new things and save money at the same time.</div><div><br /></div><div>**KEEP IT SIMPLE - this can be utilized in all aspects of live. Keep your meals simple with simple ingredients. Keep your clothing simple - with basics than can be interchanged. Keep your home simple and lovely. It doesn't mean you have to be a minimalist - it just means you will enjoy the basics a lot more.</div><div>Get rid of clutter - if you love it, keep it and use it. That special china isn't worth much just sitting in a hutch or box - use it and make a special meal. </div><div>Once you get rid of clutter - that can be stuff, paperwork, toys, etc. - you can breathe a little.</div><div>Find new ways to use things instead of buying something else to bring in the house. Just do little things here and there and simplify your life. Again, make it a fun thing to do - it really is fun.</div><div><br /></div><div>**STOP waiting for things to happen! It seems we spend a huge portion of life waiting for the other shoe to drop, or the next bad thing to happen, or waiting for that big vacation or that big house.</div><div>Stop it. Enjoy today!!!!! It is all you have at the moment. Make the best of it.</div><div>Planning those big vacations are fun - but it may not happen. That huge house may never happen (without going deeply in debt).</div><div>You got today. Silly and simple as it sounds - you can have fun with the little things.</div><div>Make a family day outing to the library, sit and read - wonder the aisles - look at displays - learn something.</div><div>Go to the free concerts that will be happening soon in many areas. They can be the best time.</div><div>Have a fun game night or movie night - pop some popcorn and spend it together.</div><div>Have a backyard or park picnic.</div><div>Set a pretty table once in a while - china, tablecloth, candles, etc. Make it special JUST BECAUSE!</div><div>Take the family to the park and enjoy nature - teach the youngins and yourself about birds, wildlife, plants, trees, etc.</div><div>Just enjoy and seize the day!</div><div><br /></div><div>I have mentioned the word journey a lot - but that is what it is. Life is a journey - it is always evolving. No two journeys are the same.</div><div>Take your time and just go slow, keep it simple, save a bit where you can and enjoy the dance!</div><div>You save a bit here and there - that helps pay off debt. That helps save an emergency fund. That helps with education needs. Saving just helps in so many ways.</div><div>Get serious about your new journey - but not so serious that you can't enjoy it!</div><div><br /></div><div>I know I mention it can be fun a lot too. It really can be. I kind of look at it as a game or a personal challenge.</div><div>You can do this - just take the first step.</div><div><br /></div><div>Have a great day to all!<br /><div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-54359818921605203382024-02-25T08:49:00.000-05:002024-02-25T08:49:23.449-05:00Weekly Wrap Up 2/25<div style="text-align: left;"> Hello to all. Here we are on the last Sunday of the month AGAIN! Daylight hours getting longer each day. Less super cold and more warmer days (at least here). Flowers are popping up here and there. I have daffodil greenery about 4" above ground.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The bed sure felt good this morning. I have had a few nights of some really strange dreams - not sure where this stuff comes from. I was laying there this morning all relaxed, and the kitties kept trying to get my attention - then I felt this gentle patting of a paw on my nose!!! "Mom - it's breakfast time!!" LOL. Yep - you know when it's time to get up!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">We had a really nice weather week for the most part. Rain (lots of rain) came in and boom it got cold again. Saturday morning we had very cold temps and flurries! That after a couple days before we were in the upper 60's! We are warming again, then another day or two of coolness. At least the colder days are less. The moon has been big and bright the past several evenings (when I could see it).</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZvnuJ6o3HWGFJr-Ffp7VO4Z1Db3cP8eNK07CPU8arRAHp8pq8wL51pLpWNY3Qp_JG9gS1f_1DoqSn8F1kP6OGc4vHMnj44XH4q0wgvuNZ-QCEOew9H76amzTT_d_tgWyHT6EAcF4A0sFmqDPyEYV9VesnpmNY4APZZvhve3FJ7fvx40Q9nQeFASEVjHnV/s510/porch%20sunset.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="338" data-original-width="510" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZvnuJ6o3HWGFJr-Ffp7VO4Z1Db3cP8eNK07CPU8arRAHp8pq8wL51pLpWNY3Qp_JG9gS1f_1DoqSn8F1kP6OGc4vHMnj44XH4q0wgvuNZ-QCEOew9H76amzTT_d_tgWyHT6EAcF4A0sFmqDPyEYV9VesnpmNY4APZZvhve3FJ7fvx40Q9nQeFASEVjHnV/s320/porch%20sunset.png" width="320" /></a></div><div> Nature's beauty</div>This past week:<div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>I had a long lunch one day with grade school chums - BJ's Brewhouse. So much laughter and memories (about 25 of us)</li><li>Checked all the fluids in my Blazer and cleaned all the windows (here at home)</li><li>Flea meds for the kitties (had on hand)</li><li>Lots of laundry - used dehumidifier water in a load</li><li>Got to air the house a few times</li><li>Received a lovely gift in the mail from a friend</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH1BYDIGyRIqvX3PLfFjROX1FJoVDqoZFiCVW93ITP2JDUhcRXNJ2k3187JChgHcizDgdGN1t-BrHJcUpUnYRgoZbjVxp7rgQo-iWQ66eIDog5kW3k05PtMLjGsMs6B9alb9XOKADIjKIRUrptevi-OfNJ-5jn1oqXtELK6cxXTsz3EDR3TFf-7PZ3RX1y/s4272/IMG_6010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH1BYDIGyRIqvX3PLfFjROX1FJoVDqoZFiCVW93ITP2JDUhcRXNJ2k3187JChgHcizDgdGN1t-BrHJcUpUnYRgoZbjVxp7rgQo-iWQ66eIDog5kW3k05PtMLjGsMs6B9alb9XOKADIjKIRUrptevi-OfNJ-5jn1oqXtELK6cxXTsz3EDR3TFf-7PZ3RX1y/s320/IMG_6010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> A lovely devotions book, 64 assorted tea bags, and a sweet magnet! Thank you Laurie!!!!!</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Froze parts of 2 different meals made this week - for later</li><li>NO grocery shopping at all - "shopped" from pantry instead</li><li>Cleaned my jewelry</li><li>Cooked up a pound of ground beef and froze half for another time</li><li>Using pantry and freezer for meals - tried using all odds and end up in some way</li><li>Finally organized and straightened the upright freezer a bit. Found some items I forgot about - I am good on most items. Feeling blessed.</li><li>Used a jar recipe I had for blue berry muffins. I chopped and added the last few strawberries I had and added them. Instead of making muffins - I made it like a cake. So tasty to have on hand</li><li>Had a REALLY long conversation with sis this week and got caught up</li><li>Just doing all the normal things we all do around the home</li></ul><div>Meals this past week:</div><div>Leftover beans & rice and sauteed portobella mushroom strips</div><div>Loaded nachos</div><div>'Stoup' from freezer and added leftover nacho cheese to it - crackers</div><div>Out to eat</div><div>French bread pizza using what I had on hand</div><div>Fish sandwich, oven fries and side salad</div><div>Baked spaghetti, side salad</div><div>SNACKS - fruit, strawberries & ice cream, nuts, cheese, muffin cake</div><div><br /></div><div>I have extra French bread pizza and baked spaghetti in the freezer now for another day!</div><div><br /></div><div>How was your week? Did you get any deals? Are you getting any 'better' weather than all the winter nastiness? Spring cleaning? It is less than a month until it is spring here in the northern hemisphere. Some count March 1 as meteorological spring. It won't be long. Of course, many of us have the unappreciated time change coming up soon as well!</div><div><br /></div><div>Debby and Frances thinking about you both! Please check in. </div><div><br /></div><div>I hope this finds each and every one safe and healthy. May you have a great week ahead.</div><div>Blessings to you and yours from my humble little home.</div><div>************************</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; be not frightened, neither be dismayed; for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.</i></div><div>Joshua 1:9</div><div><br /></div><div>Dear Lord, thank You for our many blessings. Please continue to be with us, as we need You in our lives daily. None of us are perfect, and we slip and fall from time to time, and need You there when we get back up and go forward once again. Hold our hands and continue to place Your loving hands upon us all. AMEN</div><div><br /></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-9356110141168789442024-02-22T08:45:00.000-05:002024-02-22T08:45:12.580-05:00The Value of Moments<div style="text-align: left;"> Happy Thursday to all. I hope this finds you all well and safe. We are expecting rain and stormy weather today for a while - but it sure is warm outside this morning!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">We talk a lot about frugality and finances here. Getting the best deals. Using things up. Ways to save money. Growing and gardening. SO many things. I just want to make people aware (especially those just starting) that there are other things that go along with all this.</div><div style="text-align: left;">MOMENTS - there is great value in moments.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBNTlqwhEKce05EsxVZS4W-qthWxzslGUR6T41rdz_Ljny5wcJLNSmxJaTZNviWYgqu4LPIiaej-hn-TCR2tYZB_4BLr7pQImFVsesABE6FWbThLtsrKkqnYtAjlccX5WCHLj6o4_-e1u-N4MAiAG3UPeNneBEUBLbPiU7fH7An2j5q8X_ncbO-tIMtdvr/s785/have%20so%20much.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="785" data-original-width="627" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBNTlqwhEKce05EsxVZS4W-qthWxzslGUR6T41rdz_Ljny5wcJLNSmxJaTZNviWYgqu4LPIiaej-hn-TCR2tYZB_4BLr7pQImFVsesABE6FWbThLtsrKkqnYtAjlccX5WCHLj6o4_-e1u-N4MAiAG3UPeNneBEUBLbPiU7fH7An2j5q8X_ncbO-tIMtdvr/s320/have%20so%20much.png" width="256" /></a></div>Isn't this sweet? A friend of mine posted this picture on FB the other day - and I loved it.<div><br /></div><div>Mindset is so valuable. You need to watch your actions and your finances - but you also need to put value of MOMENTS. They can be the most valuable thing you have. They are the simple joys. They make you feel safe, warm and beautiful.</div><div>There will always be bumps in the road (many of them), there will be rough edges, but you can still enjoy a simple life in so many ways. It can soften everything.</div><div><br /></div><div>Whether you call them blessings, moments, smiles, life, etc. they are special.</div><div><br /></div><div>Example - last week I had several special moments that made me realize how special life can be. I met with old friends and enjoyed a day of laughter, I got to be with family and welcome someone new into the family, I was out on the day bad weather was coming in. I had another person with me - I made it home as the snow was starting and got settled in before all the nastiness grabbed hold.</div><div>Watching and listening to the kitties do zoombies around the house - they are so funny.</div><div>This week I got to join in with another group of old friends for a delightful time.</div><div>I get to watch and enjoy nature. I am comfortable in my little home and feel so blessed.</div><div>I have wonderful family and friends.</div><div><br /></div><div>Those things are worth more than all the money and material items in the world to me.</div><div><br /></div><div>Take time to sit back and enjoy the moments in life. Don't get yourself stressed with all the financial issues you may be facing, just relax now and then. It can change your attitude on many things.</div><div><br /></div><div>Grab a nice beverage, pull up a chair next to the window and just watch and listen. Give praise for what you DO have! Enjoy the little things - they really aren't so little. When it comes right down to it - they are the big things.</div><div><br /></div><div>Laughter, smiles, nature, a hug, a helpful hand, a warm sunny day, a comfy bed..... these are all special.</div><div>I sit here typing this listening to all the birds chirping like crazy. My kitties are cozy and safe. </div><div>I just feel life is so much more than the money we talk about all the time.</div><div>Just giving a little reminder of that.</div><div><br /></div><div>ENJOY your MOMENTS today!!!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjERvMXBUblLpUWZfneAY-o0qic4m_TOn8YM71NiXI8r8o8GXVRuofziEM1LcBt2PsVgKGIdRtnE96gzyNd1Gied5m5utvQj5lztybrmt3WVcxsT1UbXe18sTT5B8HKMq1Or8jrZZh-64o87vxES8PZmPOtWfEyibELt_TBQ52TJ5j9TVf_2QbdL_EiRv9p/s4272/IMG_6006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjERvMXBUblLpUWZfneAY-o0qic4m_TOn8YM71NiXI8r8o8GXVRuofziEM1LcBt2PsVgKGIdRtnE96gzyNd1Gied5m5utvQj5lztybrmt3WVcxsT1UbXe18sTT5B8HKMq1Or8jrZZh-64o87vxES8PZmPOtWfEyibELt_TBQ52TJ5j9TVf_2QbdL_EiRv9p/s320/IMG_6006.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> I want to enjoy and relax in this blissful sort of way!!!!<br /><div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-40166700624180131902024-02-21T09:13:00.001-05:002024-02-21T09:59:20.443-05:00More Use It Up ....Hedging Inflation<div style="text-align: left;"> Here we are mid-week again. It is a beautiful sunny morning here. Today will be lovely. Hope this finds you all well and safe.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Today will be a few more ideas to USE IT UP! We are at a point in time, that anything we can do to hedge inflation, if just a tiny bit, is important. It is also very important to pass our knowledge on to others. Many ideas and ways have gotten lost over time - I think those of us that still do them need to educate others!!</div><div style="text-align: left;">It really could help someone out in the best way.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_U4jDfo7NR1A9XcO6ULuZjdgF-gpAq6uvWy4p-7jobprfLDPWp7Gbg1j97vwmEKrTmIfk3LtFdnogxc_6Ma0LXNaFBmCIMBON1Wfeg9gAQClWlacGup6IWfnEzjPJ5DB_5YxdoRQw6v-rX2Vu5RcYfk94PRcJPwbHQFdOkeu-QMulxVI5oVorErZPIU6x/s728/frugal%20village.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="528" data-original-width="728" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_U4jDfo7NR1A9XcO6ULuZjdgF-gpAq6uvWy4p-7jobprfLDPWp7Gbg1j97vwmEKrTmIfk3LtFdnogxc_6Ma0LXNaFBmCIMBON1Wfeg9gAQClWlacGup6IWfnEzjPJ5DB_5YxdoRQw6v-rX2Vu5RcYfk94PRcJPwbHQFdOkeu-QMulxVI5oVorErZPIU6x/s320/frugal%20village.png" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Yesterday cloth napkins and linens were mentioned in the comments. There are other uses beside being used as napkins. I get them super cheap at yard sales or thrift stores and have all sorts of them.<div>I use on some of my chairs to keep the kitty hair off the cushions! Yep, they love the chairs and the chairs are a pain to vacuum and clean.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhixnRIuDTvmH4W2imrb4o_yoAO5UXe_j4ZVU8Jis-nTw9vjqiiOiVm_L2Q4Yap-hHw6-jCjsaiQcx6vHYLDw8hVKUtIQf3m7Dh54DyK5OQcx9XBDmkSBd1ZnOt0rKjV0fFa2z4E_H3fsCWF6p7AfjUqRKmVC0fA9Dmpz7Y6h-vEYLTs5-LAXm5rPVrMmAg/s4272/IMG_5952.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhixnRIuDTvmH4W2imrb4o_yoAO5UXe_j4ZVU8Jis-nTw9vjqiiOiVm_L2Q4Yap-hHw6-jCjsaiQcx6vHYLDw8hVKUtIQf3m7Dh54DyK5OQcx9XBDmkSBd1ZnOt0rKjV0fFa2z4E_H3fsCWF6p7AfjUqRKmVC0fA9Dmpz7Y6h-vEYLTs5-LAXm5rPVrMmAg/s320/IMG_5952.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Here is Bitsy modeling this technique!! LOL. It sure helps keep the seat fur free and they are easily washable.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx9HMwxnOsxhS4iL_wJVPUK7K_rREaWzt7TyQlWZUyfYOwEgBli1W6jgnGj5-F3HQ1VnUqRFyL8YAzgXZa4b8KDs2RH3IYAhOuS2RBJzpE1is9CfT54Cbp9HKRq7IIxq39mV3FDkg3cJbhOdICTCQWcemX7nCJHSE964_ghQ9O6uILJ6Ke6gABpdWnmcaI/s451/linens.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="298" data-original-width="451" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx9HMwxnOsxhS4iL_wJVPUK7K_rREaWzt7TyQlWZUyfYOwEgBli1W6jgnGj5-F3HQ1VnUqRFyL8YAzgXZa4b8KDs2RH3IYAhOuS2RBJzpE1is9CfT54Cbp9HKRq7IIxq39mV3FDkg3cJbhOdICTCQWcemX7nCJHSE964_ghQ9O6uILJ6Ke6gABpdWnmcaI/s320/linens.png" width="320" /></a></div>Use as simple little table covers. You can use them to line baskets as well. SO many uses.<div>You could find some unusual ones and utilize in a quilt or bed cover as well. Great resource of material for pennies.</div><div><br /></div><div>When making potatoes - don't throw away those skins! Once washed and dried, spritz with oil and a little salt and bake until crispy - super tasty chips for FREE! Those of us of a certain age remember when loaded potato skins was a huge thing at restaurants. We paid good money for those!! You can make them at home. Clean and dried skins - top with cheese (whatever you have) maybe some bacon pieces and bake. Very tasty, and free. The skins contain vitamins as well!</div><div><br /></div><div>Watermelon rinds - pickle them! That is a pricey delicacy when purchased.</div><div><br /></div><div>Apples - keep those peels and cores when you use apples for pies, etc. You can make jelly with them, you can make vinegar, you can also sprinkle with a little sugar and bake the skins for a yummy treat.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVYE7CrILGgp9dzV0Ais03FQatI1ikwjXflrm1K3Dt3ybmHQH44f7NLSMWxKZN6YcD2et-xnGIYrc_cdEfC4Pam1X7nnnB5SkPGTuATBfoyp-vCH8YdCkrwHtrnIjEalxPSJ6wzXD-uLuE0er1ME2rR_E_n6QsI_Y6ghWD53LTvu_rCeiDqzo6VXAk55PV/s862/apple%20scrap%20jelly.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="328" data-original-width="862" height="122" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVYE7CrILGgp9dzV0Ais03FQatI1ikwjXflrm1K3Dt3ybmHQH44f7NLSMWxKZN6YcD2et-xnGIYrc_cdEfC4Pam1X7nnnB5SkPGTuATBfoyp-vCH8YdCkrwHtrnIjEalxPSJ6wzXD-uLuE0er1ME2rR_E_n6QsI_Y6ghWD53LTvu_rCeiDqzo6VXAk55PV/s320/apple%20scrap%20jelly.png" width="320" /></a></div>Click on pic to enlarge for easy reading!<div><br /></div><div>Tomato skins - when canning tomatoes - save those skins. Dehydrate in dehydrator or low oven until dry and crispy. Grind in a processor or coffee grinder until it is a fine powder. Makes great added flavor for soups and casseroles.</div><div><br /></div><div>Old bread - not moldy - but stale. Dry even more and make breadcrumbs for coating foods. You can make bread pudding, croutons or dressing cubes. French toast is another good use or just toast it!</div><div>I use for grilled sandwiches as well.</div><div><br /></div><div>Garden decor and projects - you can use things you have and not spend any money. I like eclectic things in my gardens - it makes it fun and whimsical to me. I know that isn't for everyone. I have an old red metal bed headboard in the center of my back perennial garden. It is a flower BED! LOL. It is a cute accent.</div><div>I have used an old wagon that has rusted to hold my many rocks and fossil rocks.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj043POeNFasU_RgY4uLhY_qlrbBoGiQoCMlRxxpUmdWm5-WetL0lGnA2fKX1HS0wF7mqOrXyCQtpUN4uqjWQyOMZNFQgiXbAAekui7YFeC-Sx19heLWpcgpmPf-Pe1v6O2J4SDxchyphenhyphenT_cX87qYNSjjbfk6GfKFzb6bpJL37YkNxgkZgZNPKHiFF9augkH4/s3117/IMG_5529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="3117" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj043POeNFasU_RgY4uLhY_qlrbBoGiQoCMlRxxpUmdWm5-WetL0lGnA2fKX1HS0wF7mqOrXyCQtpUN4uqjWQyOMZNFQgiXbAAekui7YFeC-Sx19heLWpcgpmPf-Pe1v6O2J4SDxchyphenhyphenT_cX87qYNSjjbfk6GfKFzb6bpJL37YkNxgkZgZNPKHiFF9augkH4/s320/IMG_5529.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I gave my neighbor a lot of the good wood from tearing down the ramp out front. He is very crafty. Well, he used some of it to make seats for his firepit and made myself and others accent benches for our gardens. So, I still have a bit of the ramp.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5z_ZaKsdJfk3-W6AIdbVy3If1CKZM3hXrqrXCY-STWhNT5L4NwFJuw0uxsj9GKY1AxmO7bG6u0EBdeEPFRxWFiwdhniSMVo6XtPZ2SzDmwUvzbb0hUPJnYdO4U2ckpUqFEnEi7-A5oi8KzaAWPUBMxHCMi1-_fcMpOZpv-BAP7tGgaHlKQp5LS7UFUc3X/s4272/IMG_5663.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5z_ZaKsdJfk3-W6AIdbVy3If1CKZM3hXrqrXCY-STWhNT5L4NwFJuw0uxsj9GKY1AxmO7bG6u0EBdeEPFRxWFiwdhniSMVo6XtPZ2SzDmwUvzbb0hUPJnYdO4U2ckpUqFEnEi7-A5oi8KzaAWPUBMxHCMi1-_fcMpOZpv-BAP7tGgaHlKQp5LS7UFUc3X/s320/IMG_5663.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Old wood from other things can be made into birdhouses or feeders. You can make raised garden beds, or any kind of yard displays. Many people use old skids for the wood. Many very neat ideas can come from used wood.<div><br /></div><div>Ladders or step ladders can be used in gardens. Great for flowerpot accents (set those pots on the steps of a step ladder) or use ladders as a trellis. Just because you can no longer use the ladders safely for climbing, doesn't mean something else can't climb on it! Paint them bright and pretty colors!</div><div>Paint some rocks for the garden or for flowerpots. Big ones for accents or small ones for cute. This is fun to get the youngin's involved with as well!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD5v_7HqmDxFX6DX1iBqCa1DO8p8ryzmL9ISZ6n9AofHqBrSlOO8TNtLT3N-kqsG58b4f5Dn0kSwKot1BrTplpDKZyM1x7CHLXGwyAyUAgFy03ol6UdUDqBtc5hjh0QwIgvJH72224b6fopcAE2uzdgkU3o9N2m5bbidtL7tZGTtqaW9SsuoOKotrbrnMX/s672/rocksss2.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="543" data-original-width="672" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD5v_7HqmDxFX6DX1iBqCa1DO8p8ryzmL9ISZ6n9AofHqBrSlOO8TNtLT3N-kqsG58b4f5Dn0kSwKot1BrTplpDKZyM1x7CHLXGwyAyUAgFy03ol6UdUDqBtc5hjh0QwIgvJH72224b6fopcAE2uzdgkU3o9N2m5bbidtL7tZGTtqaW9SsuoOKotrbrnMX/s320/rocksss2.png" width="320" /></a></div>Broken flower posts can be broken more and used as drainage in the bottom of other pots. Make a frog refuge in your flower garden with a broken pot on its side!<div>Big pots with cracks or leaks can be laid on their sides and planted - to look like a spilling pot of flowers.</div><div>Old statues or wooden or metal chairs can be used in gardens. Just get creative. It is getting to that time of the year!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Cardboard was also mentioned yesterday in the comments. It makes a great ground cover/weed preventer in the garden or flower beds. It will eventually decompose and help the dirt, it allows water through and keeps the water in the soil safe from evaporation.</div><div>You can use boxes in many ways in the house for storage as well.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX9B0OxBeBwlRd-LTiiKdRDKEUnUo57Ik82yXCS0GL3aErp4l7TNIwfwbGCP2ceEdjR8ctjBXDF__lWj6BMiY3ZsiZbxHXa9hItZO8JFH7963Icl8vYSOfLkt6hPX82UBrAzQRm1v7LtAjjI6pyHMsQOIrw552PNDuGrb72ulibCgC722OkQxgii_e-PJZ/s4272/IMG_5964.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX9B0OxBeBwlRd-LTiiKdRDKEUnUo57Ik82yXCS0GL3aErp4l7TNIwfwbGCP2ceEdjR8ctjBXDF__lWj6BMiY3ZsiZbxHXa9hItZO8JFH7963Icl8vYSOfLkt6hPX82UBrAzQRm1v7LtAjjI6pyHMsQOIrw552PNDuGrb72ulibCgC722OkQxgii_e-PJZ/s320/IMG_5964.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>They can be used in the pantry area for storage. Use what you have or what you are gifted. Shoe boxes make great small storage for spice jars, seasoning packets or any small items. You can always wrap the outsides with plain paper or old gift wrap to fancy up.<div><br /></div><div>Gosh, we can go on and on. There are just so many ways to USE IT UP! </div><div>I just hope this gets those creative juices going. Maybe someone has seen something that can help them. Everything is so expensive today and finding something you already have to RE-use is wonderful and saves money. It also saves things from the landfill.</div><div>Check out free neighborhood pages or listings - you can get things for $0 very often. Share and barter.</div><div><br /></div><div>Good luck and happy creating and reusing!!!!</div><div>Have a beautiful day!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>******************************</div><div>PS - Frances you are on my mind. Hope you and your husband are ok - please check in!</div><div>Amelia and Elise hope all is well with your moms. Let us know.</div><div>You are all in everyone's prayers and thoughts.<br /><div><br /><div><div><br /></div></div></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-68783823601574894252024-02-20T09:23:00.002-05:002024-02-20T09:23:26.114-05:00Use It Up ...............<div style="text-align: left;"> Howdy all. Hope you are all well and safe and warm.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Today we are going to talk about using it up! We have all heard the saying - use it up, wear it out, make it do or do without! Well, it really is a good way to live. Not only does it teach us how to be good stewards of what we have, but it saves a little money and helps the environment. It also just makes sense! If we stretch things to the max and get every ounce of use from them, we are also stretching our dollars.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I know we have talked out this before, but reminders are always good and maybe someone new will see something they never thought of. We are here to teach and help - hopefully this helps.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeXGQ5TnOd23hweNAppJ-Hn-UJpK5uTvLJ79OvlmmRehLa6U4Be4gfo65ldKj46WATTm1Mnitd8W93b-EXH3UtCHRlgvfUDxfDt8y_V6bwBLoCh5RyZ3I2VL0wXDfWqIZlapmk5k0jy7qivfIGwQSVyy624YxpF-ij_it4sH6jvt4hempuiJLVQ_CH1gDr/s517/living%20simple.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="517" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeXGQ5TnOd23hweNAppJ-Hn-UJpK5uTvLJ79OvlmmRehLa6U4Be4gfo65ldKj46WATTm1Mnitd8W93b-EXH3UtCHRlgvfUDxfDt8y_V6bwBLoCh5RyZ3I2VL0wXDfWqIZlapmk5k0jy7qivfIGwQSVyy624YxpF-ij_it4sH6jvt4hempuiJLVQ_CH1gDr/s320/living%20simple.png" width="320" /></a></div>I believe this saying with all my heart. We have no way of knowing what tomorrow will bring, what life may dump upon us, how our finances can change - it is all uncertain. Knowing what to do IF it happens is important. I like knowing that I have 'practiced' all along the way and that I will be OK. <div><br /></div><div>We talk about stretching food a lot. There is so much you can do with food and leftovers and bits and pieces. You just need to get creative.</div><div><br /></div><div>Those bones from any type of meat - can be cooked in a big pot of water to make great stock. You can also throw in all those scraps from veggies - to enhance it. Freeze or can this - and you have fully natural broth/stock to use in your cooking!</div><div>Whatever is left after that can be composted or dried and ground into free garden nutrients.</div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: left;">Use those leftovers in different ways. Leftover veggies/meat can be made into soups, casseroles, stir fry, fried rice, added to pasta or rice - the list is endless. Shoot, unless highly seasoned, you can even make pet food.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Oranges or citrus - it isn't just for eating! Eat the fruit, juice the fruit - lots of vitamin C. BUT you can use the peels as well. You can zest and freeze for special recipes. You can candy it and eat - that stuff is expensive to buy. Candied peels not only taste good to eat - but it is great in hot tea or coffee or a warm cup of cider. It can be used in potpourri. You can use the peels for a great smelling natural cleaner (also helps keep ants away). You can compost. The fruit that just keeps giving.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPnfK4EV9E9TI860RaKol9uwGs4qB5agAKUcIRtaU7pXy9lzJwjH-vMnCr66CeHUYyBo6Av8nmH3Yp3ty5qi9_88tJQSFeV4sYi13kLmcipx22Od7kbHcShJ-YMDCbsK5DtxTJQZ3z2cxneNd9ZZzwWANkhx3N8fmsfUvi8420bR81BZQePfu3gegRQIo9/s498/orange%20cleaner.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="407" data-original-width="498" height="262" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPnfK4EV9E9TI860RaKol9uwGs4qB5agAKUcIRtaU7pXy9lzJwjH-vMnCr66CeHUYyBo6Av8nmH3Yp3ty5qi9_88tJQSFeV4sYi13kLmcipx22Od7kbHcShJ-YMDCbsK5DtxTJQZ3z2cxneNd9ZZzwWANkhx3N8fmsfUvi8420bR81BZQePfu3gegRQIo9/s320/orange%20cleaner.png" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Water!!! Yep, you can use it again! If you are cooking pasta or veggies - you can use that water (strained) to water plants. It contains lots of nutrients. Now if you use salt or vinegar in your water - you don't want to water plants - but you can pour over compost or you can pour on weeds. Keep that water that just 'goes down the drain' when showering (or warming water to do dishes). Keep a bucket in the shower to catch it. Free water for plants, bird baths, pets, flushing, cleaning etc. I dump my scalding canning water on weeds outside - it kills them quickly (plus it has vinegar in it).<div>Some places have water troubles - it is good to use it in another way.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you are throwing away clothes that cannot be donated - use what you can. I keep buttons and good zippers. Also, elastic. You can cut those items up and use for rags for cleaning. Keeps us from using so much paper. Grandma always had a button box - so did mom - guess what? I do too!!! We should all keep those odd and end buttons - they can replace one on clothing or they can be used in crafts. SO handy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeXKUklCQzGo6Beraw5bA_z9Xj20UVeYDalSKSqf1IGEwxPmYtD_I2I8Bj_PSs6n-VfZu77n4cJLQm_u5ojQtkvlcYrfATAuh1OQpme3FG15rjsQW4Vobhn_ygOZLAfpl5J-T8PGY5HE3m_rXtL8ULa_mwWdBvyxfT9QhhxuhST8eOpoPHg7j90Ze20j2b/s3078/IMG_6008.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2409" data-original-width="3078" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeXKUklCQzGo6Beraw5bA_z9Xj20UVeYDalSKSqf1IGEwxPmYtD_I2I8Bj_PSs6n-VfZu77n4cJLQm_u5ojQtkvlcYrfATAuh1OQpme3FG15rjsQW4Vobhn_ygOZLAfpl5J-T8PGY5HE3m_rXtL8ULa_mwWdBvyxfT9QhhxuhST8eOpoPHg7j90Ze20j2b/s320/IMG_6008.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>Baskets - they are pretty and they can contain about anything. Books, kitchen towels, napkins, TP, crafts, spices, plants, toys, anything you can think of. Depending on how big they are - they can hold throws.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfR_ZuX8WpBRKLaO2luzZXeZ_ooukTLbpHPw5o1pNTaNJyXUjhXTPhMK4w1_tA19ia1ySa2DPaYSW0T-PVSAQxoCsZ_DwKyruxBdRD62pke7FGW0w31NiJYckKEEwu0LWBGFvHqKBnuLSGv4G-qrwyU2pKzXTqUu_0wRpdk2vJY8hzad2sEo4dAkSdYvii/s416/baskets2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="293" data-original-width="416" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfR_ZuX8WpBRKLaO2luzZXeZ_ooukTLbpHPw5o1pNTaNJyXUjhXTPhMK4w1_tA19ia1ySa2DPaYSW0T-PVSAQxoCsZ_DwKyruxBdRD62pke7FGW0w31NiJYckKEEwu0LWBGFvHqKBnuLSGv4G-qrwyU2pKzXTqUu_0wRpdk2vJY8hzad2sEo4dAkSdYvii/s320/baskets2.png" width="320" /></a></div> Pet toys!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh-frXfjvykcbnSr3CUS6LsvOt1fyg1VnHfi3RWO7n-IrY1UZw5n89HW7r49CaP2KRV-Kd6fMEQHN_9WWnuVna7k1kWu8cvdHteRPCj9bfvpCOCleYXqNp0hoEJaS0tQ3C7URpv3MlH4Hlwqw_S42HCXpMMz3o7R1hbsqOT4sk-i_5ZqYwrxhtRSt6I31C/s448/baskets.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="316" data-original-width="448" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh-frXfjvykcbnSr3CUS6LsvOt1fyg1VnHfi3RWO7n-IrY1UZw5n89HW7r49CaP2KRV-Kd6fMEQHN_9WWnuVna7k1kWu8cvdHteRPCj9bfvpCOCleYXqNp0hoEJaS0tQ3C7URpv3MlH4Hlwqw_S42HCXpMMz3o7R1hbsqOT4sk-i_5ZqYwrxhtRSt6I31C/s320/baskets.png" width="320" /></a></div> Any shape or size - can be used in some way. Get creative.<br /><div>Your baskets don't have to be just the pretty ones. Keep those baskets from farm markets or orchards. They can be turned in handy garden aides (carry your garden picks), or they can hold packets of seasonings. They can carry items from basement or pantry to kitchen or other rooms. They can be turned into gifts.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX0DEB0YYtPt0STfzRd2kOfamwiOnGBUN3wGlSh2p9-19LBjfcqjWxjVjNjRwNHgHlJNNxBhSU4RSo1jg9PQ8kfN6_rg-Gcj_-CEyRhX171dluj_nSpPqa0jT5qfyfAkUA-oey8aBTdFARf0d4ppNLGSktkOSNbcvTRyVznPeAhkjXXTgs1rUuB_BQncPO/s4272/IMG_6009.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX0DEB0YYtPt0STfzRd2kOfamwiOnGBUN3wGlSh2p9-19LBjfcqjWxjVjNjRwNHgHlJNNxBhSU4RSo1jg9PQ8kfN6_rg-Gcj_-CEyRhX171dluj_nSpPqa0jT5qfyfAkUA-oey8aBTdFARf0d4ppNLGSktkOSNbcvTRyVznPeAhkjXXTgs1rUuB_BQncPO/s320/IMG_6009.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I have gifted more items in baskets than I can count. I generally place a couple (thrifted) checkered napkins in the baskets (hanging over sides) - then fill with home canned goods or make a spaghetti dinner basket, pizza bake baskets, home baked goods, coffee/tea baskets, etc. There is no limit!!<div><br /></div><div>Old towels can be cut, and edges sewn to make wash cloths. They can be used for pet bedding, They can be used as rags.</div><div><br /></div><div>We could go on and on today - but I will stop for now. There are just an abundant amount of uses for just about everything out there! Use it up!!!!! </div><div><br /></div><div>A simple life isn't always an easy life - because living on less takes some work and thought. But it sure can be a fulfilling life. You can feel good about knowing you got your money's worth out of something - you kept it from a landfill - you saved a little money - and you are just being a good steward.</div><div>Learn to live on less now and IF or WHEN you HAVE to, it won't be such a culture shock.</div><div>We have become such a consumer driven world - people push it.</div><div>I say have self-gratitude for 'what you have' and don't feel the need to keep up with others.</div><div>It is all a mindset - you get to the point it is just LIFE - not "oh, crap I have to do without this week"</div><div><br /></div><div>I will offer some other ideas to extend and stretch more items again this week.</div><div>Take a deep breath, look around at what you have, and use it and make it work for you!</div><div>Have fun and have a wonderful day!!!</div><div><br /></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-727213344022004512024-02-18T08:46:00.000-05:002024-02-18T08:46:51.455-05:00Weekly Wrap Up 2/18<div style="text-align: left;"> Good Sunday morning to all. I hope this finds you well and safe. I woke to another very cold morning here - it is in the teens. We went from a warm (open doors) kind of weather to cold and snow in a matter of a couple days. We got our biggest snowfall of the entire winter on Friday! At my house I got about 4"-5" of snow. It is pretty! Yesterday despite being very cold - my drive pretty much melted with all the sun we had. I made a few swaths across it with the shovel and it heated nicely and melted.</div><div style="text-align: left;">It is supposed to warm this week again, so just a roller coaster of weather. SOON warm will be here to stay!</div><div style="text-align: left;">I saw my first red winged black bird of the season last Sunday and it has made an appearance every day since. The chickens are back!! Yep, they showed up again, and back to wondering. They did stay home once the snow came - but I am sure they will be roaming again soon.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkexkvcVfN89j8ZraGG_uvvzlDX-d_GMNj8_JyeCIhbdT1i1YP0AKup6ZZ57XgEo8MuOSHqVmXmiD7lCKMB0uYc5e8MxLJ7vGdbX62gEGbVTQx8-fM6NFDI_Jrxe10tcJIP7kVXYFwOOjPxIDE-CTvGD9kYFoLfRgJF22e8JD0CtsmkKejo7ZPPAddNibZ/s4272/IMG_5994.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4272" data-original-width="2848" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkexkvcVfN89j8ZraGG_uvvzlDX-d_GMNj8_JyeCIhbdT1i1YP0AKup6ZZ57XgEo8MuOSHqVmXmiD7lCKMB0uYc5e8MxLJ7vGdbX62gEGbVTQx8-fM6NFDI_Jrxe10tcJIP7kVXYFwOOjPxIDE-CTvGD9kYFoLfRgJF22e8JD0CtsmkKejo7ZPPAddNibZ/s320/IMG_5994.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>Isn't this pretty? It is a Valentine that Cookie made for me. I love the depth/dimension of the card and it looks so old fashioned. Thank you again!<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This week has been emotionally frustrating. I have learned a keen lesson, that you can't please all the people all the time. It was just frustrating, as I was asked to be precise with an answer and I tried to answer as delicately and honestly as possible - and it still upset people. Maybe to the point of leaving. Worry does not suit me well - it only frustrates me. So, I choose to concentrate on my many blessings I had this week. God has a way of showing us things and turning things around - so I intend to move onward and upward with head up and shoulders back. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">My week:</div><div style="text-align: left;"><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Lots of laundry including ALL the bedding. Used dehumidifier water in the laundry. Changed out bed linens completely - nice to have a change of scenery!</li><li>Had lunch with many of my old friends from high school. That is always fun. Even met a couple new people.</li><li>Went out and picked-up trash that has blown all over the place. It has been windy, and people do not secure their trash properly - so I picked up from all around my area. Nice exercise too!</li><li>Got to air the house a bit this week</li><li>Scoured all the watering holes outside - the birds and stray cats sure do appreciate the water, especially in this cold</li><li>Ran out and got 2 cards and gift bag at dollar tree. They still have some cards 2/$1, but many are now 1.25 ea. Still cheaper than elsewhere.</li><li>Ran into Kroger to get strawberries on sale. 1 lb. for 1.88 and they were beauties! Huge, red and sweet! I found 6 bagels on clearance for .99 and 2 huge Portobella mushrooms on clearance for 2.39. That was it.</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE0i0ayifqAQz9AzMOisKvU8fXcIjvWmkAjRiJevF8PxZo8Z14yAwFHqo_cVdwY2aUwbpdVor05O8ErfcvGkFK4qzPCAACqLmBEjcqFRs4o4BYtHQF-TvUsf6nZi_Ew-qHCNYuqNYOOdk8Jqjn3ErJTBJrCO0RSAvWX6voju10OPObk8mr-jV1q2OFoYQl/s4272/IMG_5993.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE0i0ayifqAQz9AzMOisKvU8fXcIjvWmkAjRiJevF8PxZo8Z14yAwFHqo_cVdwY2aUwbpdVor05O8ErfcvGkFK4qzPCAACqLmBEjcqFRs4o4BYtHQF-TvUsf6nZi_Ew-qHCNYuqNYOOdk8Jqjn3ErJTBJrCO0RSAvWX6voju10OPObk8mr-jV1q2OFoYQl/s320/IMG_5993.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">These were just so pretty and tasty</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>I put the spring door decorations out on both doors - then 2 days later it snows!!! LOL</li><li>Changed out a couple missed/forgotten batteries. I usually change out at first of year - missed one smoke alarm (it let me know), the thermostat started flashing - so changed that one, and my bedside clock started running slow. Had all the batteries on hand.</li><li>I received a letter this week and I wrote a letter in return. We just don't do as much snail mail as we should.</li><li>I went to a bridal shower/brunch for a soon to be new niece! It was a lovely family get together.</li><li>Just doing all the normal stuff we all do - cooking, using leftovers, and cleaning</li></ul><div>Meals for this past week:</div><div>Stir fry leftovers and slaw</div><div>Dbl. cheeseburger and oven fries</div><div>Out to lunch - McAllister's - had a club wrap - boy was it tasty!</div><div>Made a charcuterie board for one - fun and good</div><div>Sliced beef sandwich and fresh veggies (beef from freezer)</div><div>Brunch at family's house - 3 different quiches, potato casserole and lots of fruit and goodies</div><div>Red beans and rice with little smokies</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigk6Rx54dKa6G__QZa6qkQQtlj3_dPm7GhKDKlV5Yivsl1hlKbH7WwOe0XUOlhcmUSGrreQEVGiQDINoLCkHQMQ-d84KaakzNn_szDk5Qfeh8y05I4tgOjJMhQ5c0yZN2v4IZOemRm4eiCNc0sN5bdK3tyEUeh1pI4zMRPK7GD_eIBdtJRVShVuDtoN3iG/s4272/IMG_5992.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigk6Rx54dKa6G__QZa6qkQQtlj3_dPm7GhKDKlV5Yivsl1hlKbH7WwOe0XUOlhcmUSGrreQEVGiQDINoLCkHQMQ-d84KaakzNn_szDk5Qfeh8y05I4tgOjJMhQ5c0yZN2v4IZOemRm4eiCNc0sN5bdK3tyEUeh1pI4zMRPK7GD_eIBdtJRVShVuDtoN3iG/s320/IMG_5992.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Charcuterie for my meal - meals can be fun, easy and tasty too!<br /><div><br /></div><div>How was your week? Did you get snow and cold again? Any good deals? </div><div>I hope you are all had a good week. Please check in and let us know how you are doing. Linda at Practical Parsimony - hope you are OK. Haven't seen you post any replies or new things since Wed.</div><div>I look forward to seeing what everyone is up to.</div><div><br /></div><div>Have a lovely and safe and healthy week. Prayers and thoughts to all who are undergoing personal problems in their lives and health issues.</div><div>Sending blessings to you and yours from my humble little home.</div><div>Love you guys!</div><div>***************************</div><div><br /></div><div><i>Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.</i></div><div>John 14:27</div><div><br /></div><div>Lord, help us keep our hearts full of understanding and compassion and love. Help us each grow and not get weary of doing good. We all have our best intentions questioned at times, and we often grow weary - help us all stay strong. We know we are never alone, as You are with us. Thank you and the harvest we reap will be the reward we receive for being faithfully Yours. To Your glory, Amen.</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"> </div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com43tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-44333071843395723252024-02-15T08:23:00.000-05:002024-02-15T08:23:01.900-05:00Kitchen Tips!<div style="text-align: left;"> Good morning to all. Hope this finds you well and hope you enjoyed your yesterday!</div><div style="text-align: left;">Just a couple meme's on some kitchen tips. Always nice to have these useful ideas on hand.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHTYLfdXJZpNpuDuTzoq7jSTneRg0Jt5-FVScaGdCKe1snGhEeCIH65pNo_3C7R3gY-By6bPUu1nWmZHqtTPAn39bmbK6OGR1IOEmAw9X80DdW6oDLf2qBiYurTA4nFyHarEzIJZVg6FowuFaxjBsRGIJuSVBOcI6ym8We6NEGY0G6sBW8AXEnX0aPwz_o/s583/kitchen%20tips.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="583" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHTYLfdXJZpNpuDuTzoq7jSTneRg0Jt5-FVScaGdCKe1snGhEeCIH65pNo_3C7R3gY-By6bPUu1nWmZHqtTPAn39bmbK6OGR1IOEmAw9X80DdW6oDLf2qBiYurTA4nFyHarEzIJZVg6FowuFaxjBsRGIJuSVBOcI6ym8We6NEGY0G6sBW8AXEnX0aPwz_o/s320/kitchen%20tips.png" width="320" /></a></div>It is always nice to have a new tip, recipe or ways to do things. These are not the only ways - but a good sampling. Hope you find something you can use.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig2nxZX5edEormMmjDRaNR7goc9vYZg0_3zUxMw4fn7tKYs8R1MOorhVGQ74qFN0oMf6PPiyv8M-0oIAMOD5iJ6FS0IukDHQWp3vSrQeUc99fqNXPG2TJNTbIcOs1dXmJ2LbZzROvoteOPG3gd_5HF1DHsTwvcoefZua3fzUHLzzaTJgOKUNRJ_vlSv1cZ/s792/cutting%20down%20a%20recipe.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="792" data-original-width="760" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig2nxZX5edEormMmjDRaNR7goc9vYZg0_3zUxMw4fn7tKYs8R1MOorhVGQ74qFN0oMf6PPiyv8M-0oIAMOD5iJ6FS0IukDHQWp3vSrQeUc99fqNXPG2TJNTbIcOs1dXmJ2LbZzROvoteOPG3gd_5HF1DHsTwvcoefZua3fzUHLzzaTJgOKUNRJ_vlSv1cZ/s320/cutting%20down%20a%20recipe.png" width="307" /></a></div>Those of us alone, often don't want to make full recipes. You can cut down any recipe for a smaller batch. <i>(click on pic to enlarge).</i><div>I cut back a cookie recipe last week and made a small batch. You can reduce just about any type of recipe.<br /><div><i><br /></i></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hFmpyCCMj9XSl_3aOZa-Jg4SlKWPvk85Sr7EANCGGdJcoNphAqPazePVYzdol4LJaKlCuoVMkuLCEGYoEwPCOAIye-Fm0UHOo4uhL1DLXTEEBz6zNxKd1DYqpcCEQfeBh0sAkXWEVO15Rgo7gm6girTCe3reN_zS4U6CeUUxIwSv5EeERoOVy04t5gJ-/s775/dressings.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="775" data-original-width="626" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hFmpyCCMj9XSl_3aOZa-Jg4SlKWPvk85Sr7EANCGGdJcoNphAqPazePVYzdol4LJaKlCuoVMkuLCEGYoEwPCOAIye-Fm0UHOo4uhL1DLXTEEBz6zNxKd1DYqpcCEQfeBh0sAkXWEVO15Rgo7gm6girTCe3reN_zS4U6CeUUxIwSv5EeERoOVy04t5gJ-/s320/dressings.png" width="258" /></a></div>Homemade dressing is so easy and tasty. No chemicals or preservatives - just your ingredients. You can adjust and select the ingredients you use. These are basic ideas - but always remember that nothing is written in stone. Adjust the herbs and flavors to your taste.</div><div>I have done oils and vinegar with seasonings for years. Just so flavorful.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqVIH8MX5IS2tQ2074tXPu7HNhz0a6kzYOvVA63CJ_-6G2ZYWbVi0lwHRDl0p5G-aAgw1RmdAPRDv80WyANpedi8d3g7vy0PW3BsWhRw4BcAcANtq_iX4VarP6N5CvsGwD05xv1KdYHUs4Ue8LNtk-31qTIsWP1oUWMkWuD5BeXEIK9WYBDXjz3npk2013/s866/food%20fixes.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="866" data-original-width="691" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqVIH8MX5IS2tQ2074tXPu7HNhz0a6kzYOvVA63CJ_-6G2ZYWbVi0lwHRDl0p5G-aAgw1RmdAPRDv80WyANpedi8d3g7vy0PW3BsWhRw4BcAcANtq_iX4VarP6N5CvsGwD05xv1KdYHUs4Ue8LNtk-31qTIsWP1oUWMkWuD5BeXEIK9WYBDXjz3npk2013/s320/food%20fixes.png" width="255" /></a></div>I have done every one of these at some point. <div>I think the pasta trick is just super helpful. I can almost bet every single one of us has over cooked pasta. Just a bit of oil (regular or flavored) and fry the pasta up. Gives it back some texture. No need to waste - when there is a fix available!</div><div>These fixes are just using what you have at home and can remedy a bad situation!</div><div><br /></div><div>So there you go. Waste not! Have fun with your cooking and your food. </div><div><br /></div><div>Have a lovely day!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div><br /><i><br /></i><div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div></div></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-19221154964690364192024-02-14T08:31:00.001-05:002024-02-14T08:31:56.400-05:00Enjoy Your Day<div style="text-align: left;"> Happy Wednesday to all. It is Valentine's Day and Ash Wednesday. </div><div style="text-align: left;">I do not celebrate V Day - haven't for many, many years. I have never attended Ash Wed. services.</div><div style="text-align: left;">I know many do celebrate and I wish you all a great day.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj85fF4M9etGoJYpVeP_hbvLCs4bq6tWVIWqNZQ5iZNojrSYH8gx3Is-IzrJ12-yH_hY8fPYxvrJrTHGQvNUlROR5-VVYJnUUEL_U5UiK4Uus9Cz6jyEwu-1Y-CRD-1KBn1_T2lGj-hzxlNEOY-mWrLFpHnFuzfZFsuROCJJQnyhYl6QZjqGpo-7L0ydBZf/s727/heart.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="585" data-original-width="727" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj85fF4M9etGoJYpVeP_hbvLCs4bq6tWVIWqNZQ5iZNojrSYH8gx3Is-IzrJ12-yH_hY8fPYxvrJrTHGQvNUlROR5-VVYJnUUEL_U5UiK4Uus9Cz6jyEwu-1Y-CRD-1KBn1_T2lGj-hzxlNEOY-mWrLFpHnFuzfZFsuROCJJQnyhYl6QZjqGpo-7L0ydBZf/s320/heart.png" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div>If you celebrate with another - have fun. You can keep things simple and lovely at the same time.<div>A meal at home, a special dessert or just cuddle time.</div><div>If alone, do something nice for yourself. Give yourself a spa night at home, or buy yourself some flowers at the grocery, or make a yummy you don't usually have.</div><div>As for me, I will be home just chilling with my kitties. Nothing special going on.</div><div><br /></div><div>Years ago, we decided to stop spending good money on the many days that indicate we do such. They seemed to be money traps to us. We bought what we wanted when we wanted. We had no need to wait for a special day.</div><div>And for showing love - that should be an everyday thing.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you desire to do something special - look at doing something for someone in need. Donate to thrift stores or shelters, help with a food pantry, donate somewhere.</div><div>SPREAD the LOVE.</div><div><br /></div><div>Have a lovely day to all!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="background-color: #ffffe5; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14.49px;"><i>REMINDER</i></div><div style="background-color: #ffffe5; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Utopia, "Palatino Linotype", Palatino, serif; font-size: 14.49px;"><i>My <u>mission</u> is to promote the older ways of living and to lead others to a simpler and somewhat frugal lifestyle. If this isn't for you, please let us that do - enjoy ourselves. We do not need to defend or explain ourselves to others. Thank you for following along and for your 'positive' ideas.</i></div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com58tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-69259980651352537622024-02-13T08:41:00.000-05:002024-02-13T08:41:14.372-05:00Making Home<div style="text-align: left;"> Good morning to all. Hope this finds you all well and safe. It sounds as those who have been having family difficulties are having some luck and calm at the moment - that is great. May it continue.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgha8U1xwVa5TJ6mzlezJK6Q7JgpcA0BiQ-pRXx8FhhyphenhyphenF94pp84vcYRXU_suZ6T9FpibQeveF4MfqZVMU2etwyhFVQvy2M6EOUqcd-Ni3odnPZXMEIFYs16WPV5tt_kbM6irPbVPqbsQ7V3cuam9MKEBiSp8cnuFlttJ5RmzV_8YotfLqMYHsmbczrZRau-/s567/home%20cleaning.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="458" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgha8U1xwVa5TJ6mzlezJK6Q7JgpcA0BiQ-pRXx8FhhyphenhyphenF94pp84vcYRXU_suZ6T9FpibQeveF4MfqZVMU2etwyhFVQvy2M6EOUqcd-Ni3odnPZXMEIFYs16WPV5tt_kbM6irPbVPqbsQ7V3cuam9MKEBiSp8cnuFlttJ5RmzV_8YotfLqMYHsmbczrZRau-/s320/home%20cleaning.png" width="258" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Today is a short post about keeping a calm and clean home. Now before I start, I know there are those who cannot clean themselves (due to various circumstances) and must pay or enlist others to come in and clean. That is fine and dandy. We each have to do what is right and good for us.</div><div style="text-align: left;">This post is more of a guideline to those just starting to make a home or those who need a little guidance. Please don't make anyone feel guilty for that they do or don't do.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPh5-fo4_PnWxErqqo1gCjQIvejqxt72c5TjB3TPwCju21gzfyV1OASGvwzAsJ16tkSVWiD2tCFvMXHTxw6Jzs80a9y5AcKF-mufRzO3H3FvVnPWgiXqKz0SdRdBjIW5YyS9wRMCpgb93bUh4aMv_OG1tsZoLfZNM_pTfyDosZCYzUfkv0l0WknyoMEorF/s748/keeping%20home.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="748" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPh5-fo4_PnWxErqqo1gCjQIvejqxt72c5TjB3TPwCju21gzfyV1OASGvwzAsJ16tkSVWiD2tCFvMXHTxw6Jzs80a9y5AcKF-mufRzO3H3FvVnPWgiXqKz0SdRdBjIW5YyS9wRMCpgb93bUh4aMv_OG1tsZoLfZNM_pTfyDosZCYzUfkv0l0WknyoMEorF/s320/keeping%20home.png" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">(<i>click on pic to enlarge for easier reading)</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: left;">I really like this list. I do most of columns one and two on a daily or weekly basis. I work on columns three and four - but there is always work to be accomplished there! It is an ongoing task for me.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I feel so much better when the bed is made daily, there are no dishes left in the sink, and nothing left laying around. It just makes me feel the home looks 'clean' whether it is or not! </div><div style="text-align: left;">I dust and sweep and mop regularly, take out trash and try to keep the laundry kept up.</div><div style="text-align: left;">These are just basics - that tend to make the home always feel 'straight' and 'clean'.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">If you get something out or use something - put it back when done. Don't just lay it down and walk off. Those things mount up to a lot of things in no time whatsoever.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">According to the chart above - the 3rd and 4th columns - are more of deep cleaning. Cleaning windows and mirrors and appliances. Just take a moment when you see a splash or something and wipe it down. It just takes a second!</div><div style="text-align: left;">My pantry and freezer - well, those are always works in progress. It is nice to at least clean and straighten and see what you have every few months. I must admit I only launder window coverings a couple times a year.</div><div style="text-align: left;">I do try to clean out the frig every couple weeks. This is when it is handy to have a "use it up" shelf in the frig. Place all those items needed to be used together and they don't get lost.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It costs NOTHING for MOST of us to have a tidy home. Just take a few moments out of your day to straighten and wipe down and put away. The 15 minutes plan works great - clean or straighten for 15 minutes - then go do whatever. Come back and do another 15 minutes - it does keep one from getting tired or bored with the work.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Trust me - a clean and tidy home can change an attitude about other things. You walk in and see things nice - life feels a bit calmer. That helps you in other avenues of life as well.</div><div style="text-align: left;">It may sound old fashioned - well, that is me. I teach and promote many of the older ways, they were good and still are. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Have fun with this - get others involved. Have the kiddos put up their toys, hopefully hubs/partner will do the same. After a while I think people just realize how calming and lovely an uncluttered and straightened life is.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Have a wonderful day.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>REMINDER</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><i>My <u>mission</u> is to promote the older ways of living and to lead others to a simpler and somewhat frugal lifestyle. If this isn't for you, please let us that do - enjoy ourselves. We do not need to defend or explain ourselves to others. Thank you for following along and for your 'positive' ideas.</i></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-40732959750012103242024-02-11T08:43:00.000-05:002024-02-11T08:43:49.482-05:00Weekly Wrap Up 2/11<div style="text-align: left;"> Hello to all on this Sunday. Hoping this finds you well and safe.</div><div style="text-align: left;">We had a lovely week in my area. Quite lovely. Friday, we set a record by hitting 66*F as a high. This morning is back to seasonal temps! Looks like it will be seasonable all week, even a mention of the S word! Nothing much - but it is still that time of the year, so anything can be expected.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It seems it might be mating season for many animals. I watch the squirrels getting all frisky. The stray cats seem to be in season - or acting as so. Even the birds - the doves and robins are chasing each other all over the yard! The season of love!</div><div style="text-align: left;">The chickens appear to be no more. Not sure if they met their end by a neighbor, or if Animal Control finally got involved. But they are gone! I really hope they are safe now.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOXw8QoXs42Lk5BGctNdoCYhMmJ9ymdkS7-zIZiNPN6B75U-0uxWi-9hqj8jDahVOzA6MUomb9DJwCXL520mDr88irmaagg3dK0cRzE2azHaG3UbdFZFTSptcQtBm8Ag8p25NamBdnD1pB3LXprGWb3FOnHX7OAl_VInnzuLQdFgDHO7nK8wXNgLWcXD_t/s562/sunday%20good.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="561" data-original-width="562" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOXw8QoXs42Lk5BGctNdoCYhMmJ9ymdkS7-zIZiNPN6B75U-0uxWi-9hqj8jDahVOzA6MUomb9DJwCXL520mDr88irmaagg3dK0cRzE2azHaG3UbdFZFTSptcQtBm8Ag8p25NamBdnD1pB3LXprGWb3FOnHX7OAl_VInnzuLQdFgDHO7nK8wXNgLWcXD_t/s320/sunday%20good.png" width="320" /></a></div>Not a lot going on again. Kind of quiet still. Just enjoying seeing sunshine this week - what a treat that was.<div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>I got out and did a little yard clean-up. Raking some and bagging. Just basics (felt good)</li><li>Cut my hair and did a root touch-up at home</li><li>Aired the house on many days!</li><li>Paid everything I had here</li><li>Froze some bananas for future use</li><li>Found a paper shred event that will be taking place on Mar.9 - right up the road. I am thrilled, I have so many boxes of things to get shredded</li><li>Made a quick run to Kroger for cukes and toms. I also got a GC for a wedding shower coming up soon.</li><li>Made a small batch of orange chocolate chip cookies. YUM</li><li>Eating from home and cooking from scratch</li><li>More decluttering (sorting more paperwork)</li><li>Cleaning and doing all the normal stuff</li></ul><div>Meals this past week:</div><div>Baked potato topped with cheese, pulled pork (freezer), sour cream and a side of hardboiled egg</div><div>Bacon, egg sandwich - side salad</div><div>Tuna patty, mac n cheese, fresh veggies</div><div>Mexican skillet dinner (gr. beef, corn, beans, taco seasoning)</div><div>Mexican flat wraps (using above)</div><div>Stir fry veggies & chicken over spaghetti noodles</div><div>Crispy air fried chicken strips and slaw</div><div>SNACKS: nuts, fruit, popcorn</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWm9Wg0lDeKyAahHr1aJcHXTuTL0j4qm-e_C1CUPLpxGvAHBHgFw8Y1Xzy_1pXjEYwhBnAgSx5-KiWmP2ClEoMeIXMkQgJPFons5IQ3fEaT2uZGBINBve91TbupcPUI3gHlTf9nKai2A_BPvKHYVH8k5zw1RDZUqwmahfQO3F6ch_us5Ze0v4_IIObV0kX/s4272/IMG_5986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWm9Wg0lDeKyAahHr1aJcHXTuTL0j4qm-e_C1CUPLpxGvAHBHgFw8Y1Xzy_1pXjEYwhBnAgSx5-KiWmP2ClEoMeIXMkQgJPFons5IQ3fEaT2uZGBINBve91TbupcPUI3gHlTf9nKai2A_BPvKHYVH8k5zw1RDZUqwmahfQO3F6ch_us5Ze0v4_IIObV0kX/s320/IMG_5986.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Mex. flat wrap - grilled w/cheese and topped with ranch dressing.<br /><div><br /></div><div>How was your week? Did you get any projects done? Any great deals purchased? Spring cleaning yet?</div><div>I hope all that are experiencing illness and family problems are well. Prayers of healing for all.</div><div>I look forward to hearing about your week.</div><div><br /></div><div>May your week ahead be happy, healthy and safe.</div><div>Blessings to you and yours from my humble little home.</div><div>******************************</div><div><br /></div><div><i>The law of the Lord is perfect, reviving the soul;</i></div><div><i>the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple;</i></div><div><i>the precepts of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart;</i></div><div><i>the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes;</i></div><div><i>the fear of the Lord is clean. enduring for ever;</i></div><div><i>the ordinances of the Lord are true. and righteous altogether.</i></div><div><i>More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold;</i></div><div><i>sweeter than honey and drippings of the honeycomb.</i></div><div>Psalms 19:7-10</div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you, Lord, for every blessing we receive every day. We lift our worries and sorrows to You. Please cleanse our hearts and souls.</div><div>AMEN</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com50tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-7826579391932838042024-02-08T08:32:00.001-05:002024-02-08T08:32:16.533-05:00Just for Smiles!<div style="text-align: left;"> Today looks to be a pretty day in my parts. I hope you all have a good and safe day.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Todays post is all about smiles and joy. First of the year for no budgets, money, groceries, recipes, tips or controversy - just smiles.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8QP6a9DwXrcBYa1TRzyhHWZsryJw5ClqEQaX4DekifiLL3Wg90n7t_mYNnoR4wDp5Np9ORLFWzz0U_KGeRS3tDn6ivHGLPfEuqXd2WHmtijj5nLjTD3cbVxN7m5D8Noq4EcY_S29996X2ix8H4JGbKkDQTTM0W0KN_wFSGUkGyBGnz9T-JLVhSPTNdGmP/s751/cats.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="751" data-original-width="606" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8QP6a9DwXrcBYa1TRzyhHWZsryJw5ClqEQaX4DekifiLL3Wg90n7t_mYNnoR4wDp5Np9ORLFWzz0U_KGeRS3tDn6ivHGLPfEuqXd2WHmtijj5nLjTD3cbVxN7m5D8Noq4EcY_S29996X2ix8H4JGbKkDQTTM0W0KN_wFSGUkGyBGnz9T-JLVhSPTNdGmP/s320/cats.png" width="258" /></a></div>Updates today on Blackie and Bits.<div><br /><div>They have both settled in nicely to house living. I know I am thankful they are inside. I see so many new stray cats outdoors, and I can only imagine the fights and wonderings that might have been. Theses guys are safe with mom!</div><div><br /></div><div>Blackie (Buddy, Boo) is just settled. He eats and sleeps and plays with Bits until he has 'had enough'! He is older, so it gets old quickly. He loves to come and cuddle with me on the couch now and he loves sleeping in bed. Loves belly rubs now. He looks outside at the windows now and then - but shows absolutely no desire to go out. Amazing to me. He still seems to be healing from his surgery - I see little differences each day. </div><div><br /></div><div>Lil Bit (Bits, Bitsy) is growing like a weed. I figure we are about 5 or 6 months old. Feisty little fart! He loves to play and play some more. Can run through the house like the wind. Plays with anything loose and soft and tears it up!! (including mom's bath scrubby). Loves to place toys in the water bowl to give them baths - LOL.</div><div>He has suddenly decided getting under mom's covers is fun. He gets all cozy and quiet and then out of nowhere - attacks mom's bum!!! Talks and chatters ALL the time. He loves looking out at the birds and squirrels.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHXgOsdxB_7UXmpe1-sRTNQj_ruEzrxoEDO5ySoLDNIJ9ZSI7nUgZ6VwdpGcl5-8troFADfFnm2IUZA24w1BLrtfhjuyPv2msHT-VaM1BRQQ_jLDnDCEZbZcRxL0rUTB_WhIOXr7ifBgyKUMzHDaqDXiOjs0u5rNRm9hMSfxmHNLyGM2YU9pQpqWwrJ8Ie/s3724/IMG_5954.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3724" data-original-width="1919" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHXgOsdxB_7UXmpe1-sRTNQj_ruEzrxoEDO5ySoLDNIJ9ZSI7nUgZ6VwdpGcl5-8troFADfFnm2IUZA24w1BLrtfhjuyPv2msHT-VaM1BRQQ_jLDnDCEZbZcRxL0rUTB_WhIOXr7ifBgyKUMzHDaqDXiOjs0u5rNRm9hMSfxmHNLyGM2YU9pQpqWwrJ8Ie/s320/IMG_5954.JPG" width="165" /></a></div>Watching the backyard world of birdies and squirrels. The clothes hamper top is his favorite spot.<br /><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIgy3TnEfmfZk9h_FV5knPzv9ZPfazomaUD6gmc9M4UH-oyp37XlDAr-KwPmmvNYTSPG8DE9yZ3nkV9VJdEdOcmbO3epY-Fr3unOXBjfhD9GWGXFRm1MXFWHZDn3XaMzIXTALynRScV4e3E7PNIIfiPv9FMWMdGBlRtjWd3qbirhiFlsaXAkML2m6HzDr/s4272/IMG_5973.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeIgy3TnEfmfZk9h_FV5knPzv9ZPfazomaUD6gmc9M4UH-oyp37XlDAr-KwPmmvNYTSPG8DE9yZ3nkV9VJdEdOcmbO3epY-Fr3unOXBjfhD9GWGXFRm1MXFWHZDn3XaMzIXTALynRScV4e3E7PNIIfiPv9FMWMdGBlRtjWd3qbirhiFlsaXAkML2m6HzDr/s320/IMG_5973.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Chilling out together. They really do get along so well.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbwKzlnV2lJMlfOJpOtZ7sSKJ6U8qpSicmSun_JRDfMnQm6-PvR-5lp428tS1B1BQFK5fotdQX88RAti04H7wylkArSg8j9NCfzJL64Wgq4R9IiHKXmflAEmnO8kTePzOncivyL8xMer445_gur0EPGDBXGI1HoLbHybF1YQZ85EVdUZOORRnldo53sb_j/s4272/IMG_5974.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbwKzlnV2lJMlfOJpOtZ7sSKJ6U8qpSicmSun_JRDfMnQm6-PvR-5lp428tS1B1BQFK5fotdQX88RAti04H7wylkArSg8j9NCfzJL64Wgq4R9IiHKXmflAEmnO8kTePzOncivyL8xMer445_gur0EPGDBXGI1HoLbHybF1YQZ85EVdUZOORRnldo53sb_j/s320/IMG_5974.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Blackie looking for a moment of alone time and quiet!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBJSNPTS3PyUvrOTaMZutkAlCEOmhqEvcxeYzv62pLdIjgsOG3uTDhbvCGZNM52KI4p24HnFvCGJqU4N8SRxgkOCu8JtM6vvtqXE-u4OmMu6myGbFymUxmHdvwWS2HljTC5GW8TOzoUQvL6fONh36bPzMxWs2OpVaORA-bu299AJGBq5gqVSrGpNsKCIA8/s4272/IMG_5975.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBJSNPTS3PyUvrOTaMZutkAlCEOmhqEvcxeYzv62pLdIjgsOG3uTDhbvCGZNM52KI4p24HnFvCGJqU4N8SRxgkOCu8JtM6vvtqXE-u4OmMu6myGbFymUxmHdvwWS2HljTC5GW8TOzoUQvL6fONh36bPzMxWs2OpVaORA-bu299AJGBq5gqVSrGpNsKCIA8/s320/IMG_5975.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> That didn't last long. Bits loves being with his buddy!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh02cAsifwyz21dOScvErida9MZITDgojY4aRvcM9teDtqlSfwnSriurFLU28GQOfZwRxfjzz9Sqa9fnQmgGDJt4Af2be9I4of7a2MYZlJ7JlD5ByAyWSwSIda6K9IEXwOmzKLqc3nROj7huf9r7V0BDmfq-J4hZb3wzfMJd-9BmEX0It9FZ_K0XImwFT7e/s4272/IMG_5977.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh02cAsifwyz21dOScvErida9MZITDgojY4aRvcM9teDtqlSfwnSriurFLU28GQOfZwRxfjzz9Sqa9fnQmgGDJt4Af2be9I4of7a2MYZlJ7JlD5ByAyWSwSIda6K9IEXwOmzKLqc3nROj7huf9r7V0BDmfq-J4hZb3wzfMJd-9BmEX0It9FZ_K0XImwFT7e/s320/IMG_5977.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Being cute!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBUuplkIMDEgL6FVPe4x1iV-E08U7n-qLLlERRLIzzl4KBOGHZkRAHm9d2QAPWUd6yk6-gMVkxC-lJ2byiylD6nSF8SPp4kUgi9XhRYX0GtqO-4Sr8bD7zE2DZSUV1LWilyEaUyXiFVkdSK2g2lyIw1ZR09S4vs-k2x6XW1rWpfgHdi78cKCJn3Y8Cmvl5/s4272/IMG_5984.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBUuplkIMDEgL6FVPe4x1iV-E08U7n-qLLlERRLIzzl4KBOGHZkRAHm9d2QAPWUd6yk6-gMVkxC-lJ2byiylD6nSF8SPp4kUgi9XhRYX0GtqO-4Sr8bD7zE2DZSUV1LWilyEaUyXiFVkdSK2g2lyIw1ZR09S4vs-k2x6XW1rWpfgHdi78cKCJn3Y8Cmvl5/s320/IMG_5984.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> Life can be exhausting - it really can.<div><br /></div><div>They are just the sweetest babies. I am so happy to have them in here with me. They give me immense joy, lots of smiles and laughs, and tons of love.</div><div>Click on any picture to enlarge. They are just sooooooo stinking cute!</div><div><br /></div><div>So, there you be. My 'just for smiles' post of the year to date. </div><div>Have a great day to everyone!</div><div>SMILE<br /><div><br /></div></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com44tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-51236623264302090422024-02-07T08:42:00.000-05:002024-02-07T08:42:19.076-05:00Game Day - Weekend Treats From Home<div style="text-align: left;"> Howdy all. Hope this finds you all well. Today looks to be a good day here - probably the best of the week. After the weekend, it looks like it will cool a bit here again. Winter is not over - and it is sure showing itself in some northern areas!!! YIKES - hope all are safe.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Four more days and it will be Super Bowl Day. I know a lot of people watch and celebrate - not me anymore. Not that I ever did - but G enjoyed watching. Of course, we always had to have certain things on those special days. I was looking back of old posts when I saw one in 2016 about buying wings for .39/lb. for G. LOL - wow, wouldn't those prices be lovely again? Now wings are about the most expensive piece of chicken you can buy.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">There are lots of fun treats and goodies that can be made at home with what you have on hand. They can be special for just those special days, or they can be yummies for any day!</div><div style="text-align: left;">Hope you find an idea you can use.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtF1TJkHdP6kCO_28AgZQPhjCiD-_wC0J0kvWX1ZNgiigrtyF2GxGjDewojkv8dAvEnuJgqlbfgdbjLzrozNFbVw9_5C5uQSLHA6ayv8k6m_JaatIuXevCIAmewRjpLVTi5hNcaKWyin0UREav6C5W0_aNw9gzBqnJglxWJlljv1lTsf-pLIKRzcyAYvxc/s583/eggs%20deviled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="375" data-original-width="583" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtF1TJkHdP6kCO_28AgZQPhjCiD-_wC0J0kvWX1ZNgiigrtyF2GxGjDewojkv8dAvEnuJgqlbfgdbjLzrozNFbVw9_5C5uQSLHA6ayv8k6m_JaatIuXevCIAmewRjpLVTi5hNcaKWyin0UREav6C5W0_aNw9gzBqnJglxWJlljv1lTsf-pLIKRzcyAYvxc/s320/eggs%20deviled.png" width="320" /></a></div>First don't forget about easy things. Deviled eggs, veggie trays with whatever you have on hand, cheese and crackers, maybe make some meatballs or cut up some wienies and add BBQ sauce, chili and crackers, baked beans, mac n cheese, burgers (sliders are fun), wings if you have them (or any chicken), etc. There are tons of easy goodies to make and just stay in that budget and use what you have.<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>FRIED RICE BOWL</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9G8HUxKMdO9g_njn9ePUM0c3XeJA6cxUE0VIVRdTTdQcicDTDK_KHzowD6cM6vlpSVahBIjws2cdohLxGyRHnz8kb1cstTFeXuXfDGAyphqHX4EKKJmVYz4kio-rApVQS1nOKhF0KTZEtTo8-yYc_iDT_a-HWzAXD3D9IXEdUi92sMuyi4eIlxotOwI58/s902/fried%20rice%20bowl.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="348" data-original-width="902" height="123" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9G8HUxKMdO9g_njn9ePUM0c3XeJA6cxUE0VIVRdTTdQcicDTDK_KHzowD6cM6vlpSVahBIjws2cdohLxGyRHnz8kb1cstTFeXuXfDGAyphqHX4EKKJmVYz4kio-rApVQS1nOKhF0KTZEtTo8-yYc_iDT_a-HWzAXD3D9IXEdUi92sMuyi4eIlxotOwI58/s320/fried%20rice%20bowl.png" width="320" /></a></div><i>Click on recipe to enlarge for better reading</i><div>Super easy and fun. Just something a little different for a meal. Most everyone will have ingredients on hand - or you can substitute what you have!</div><div>Makes a great meal as well for those busy days!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>CORN BEAN SALSA</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdvbW2_eTdje3GQHhN5t-A_2bbp3INJSlItGiX14D9Yw1OZHo73woI-m5oPW0XfSTf5YVnVnBE43x87CUZ9aqTaSiuaq63bHWjKYpYqFx-rPD1aCcvcKSE4tUMajbHukKFaCVnLXG_nE3o1SWhWMMBTZ9-3_ZTwR-fI9lyuU3XAaQuHz-y4AZBx6TqvXf8/s916/corn%20and%20bean%20salsa.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="460" data-original-width="916" height="161" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdvbW2_eTdje3GQHhN5t-A_2bbp3INJSlItGiX14D9Yw1OZHo73woI-m5oPW0XfSTf5YVnVnBE43x87CUZ9aqTaSiuaq63bHWjKYpYqFx-rPD1aCcvcKSE4tUMajbHukKFaCVnLXG_nE3o1SWhWMMBTZ9-3_ZTwR-fI9lyuU3XAaQuHz-y4AZBx6TqvXf8/s320/corn%20and%20bean%20salsa.png" width="320" /></a></div><i>Click on recipe to enlarge for better reading.</i><div>Super easy to make and it tastes so good and fresh. Eat with chips or tortillas or crackers. You can use canned chopped tomato is no fresh. No black beans - use kidney or whatever you have.</div><div>Refrigerate - so yummy cold!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>TAILGATE DIP</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUSVxflv0vuzUq1UGdqmaieXkMncSaeKpyf49Xisr-YH0q4EntwaJ8cUIb3wNJbiK4IQV2TAYsniFZahjygKKU3jFNG0IGr3Ukk9EIFnyXkoutInlm1gnzsHTXmuN5W6DY0lGKIjPmSuVzWosdHWAVuzWzSqAXUzV3f9vTwg2W4pYUdC4pPj5u2pPyQvH2/s922/tailgate%20dip.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="436" data-original-width="922" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUSVxflv0vuzUq1UGdqmaieXkMncSaeKpyf49Xisr-YH0q4EntwaJ8cUIb3wNJbiK4IQV2TAYsniFZahjygKKU3jFNG0IGr3Ukk9EIFnyXkoutInlm1gnzsHTXmuN5W6DY0lGKIjPmSuVzWosdHWAVuzWzSqAXUzV3f9vTwg2W4pYUdC4pPj5u2pPyQvH2/s320/tailgate%20dip.png" width="320" /></a></div><i>Click on recipe to enlarge for easier reading</i><div>You can cut down the amount of ground beef and sausage if desired. You could also use ground chicken or turkey. Use what you have. Add a cup of salsa (or spicy tomatoes) and some cheese - heat and eat!</div><div>I love this dip - one of my favorites. Serve with crackers, chips or tortillas or pita or even toasted bread pieces.</div><div>Another thing I have had as a meal with a salad!!!!!!<br /><div><br /></div><div><div><br /></div><div>CRAB DIP</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDZ_0Rldovb_wwiTPPYJXpdeCXI-BD90Ahflfn5k4aG_NYwx9RDfIcfG-TGVYby_oyEYTWhSfmgbLaYqiT_cVTwdqwNB4blEIHcSjaQ9NSq267bHvoat-F1BJ0aAtBFfXT5AUJsWNONWhKMLrjcYd5cwogu2Fw1q3NqI2U1qeXGhdubGnFtlzC21H1Q4xK/s908/crab%20dip%20recipe.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="442" data-original-width="908" height="156" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDZ_0Rldovb_wwiTPPYJXpdeCXI-BD90Ahflfn5k4aG_NYwx9RDfIcfG-TGVYby_oyEYTWhSfmgbLaYqiT_cVTwdqwNB4blEIHcSjaQ9NSq267bHvoat-F1BJ0aAtBFfXT5AUJsWNONWhKMLrjcYd5cwogu2Fw1q3NqI2U1qeXGhdubGnFtlzC21H1Q4xK/s320/crab%20dip%20recipe.png" width="320" /></a></div><i>Click on recipe to enlarge for easy reading</i></div><div>This may take a purchase or two. I always have faux crab meat in the freezer - I know not everyone does. I often don't have a round loaf of bread. I mix up the ingredients and bake it up. I leave it in the bowl and serve with crackers or toasted bread or French bread chunks. Whatever I have.</div><div>Now it is pretty for presentation in a bread bowl as stated - but you don't have to do that.</div><div>I have had this for dinner with a side of fresh veggie or salad!!!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Remember none of these have to be followed word for word - use what you have and improvise. You may come up with a new family favorite.</div><div><br /></div><div>Another idea - go and clean out the freezer (especially deep freezer) and see what odds and ends you have hiding in there. Get them out and get creative with them for your fun game treat/meal.</div><div>USE IT UP! </div><div>Keep it inexpensive and have fun!!!!!<br /><div><br /></div><div>Have a great day and be safe.</div><div><div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div></div></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-69328291120864135492024-02-06T08:31:00.001-05:002024-02-06T08:31:53.511-05:00When a Little Becomes a Lot<div style="text-align: left;"> Good morning on this Tuesday. Hope you are all well.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Today is just a little reminder that a little can be a lot. It is true in so many instances - but this one is a big one for sure.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzHAPAhXqCRUcj7LnnMTj-llR2qVgIfR6wP3L0lUxyGnwGO2F9xsMfcuaEwyg_32SFrc6LYDhrF6Llkij8hTPsrCEEPswdNRzT3ORkff8mRaqWk9ldsUlDa_ZJK_0DF_eIxtarHtNGNuGyiElVQO-Z3jPnjZBrTz-cghD1b5pFa2AAveJ84hIWYnMq5zZb/s471/10000%20spending.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="422" data-original-width="471" height="287" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzHAPAhXqCRUcj7LnnMTj-llR2qVgIfR6wP3L0lUxyGnwGO2F9xsMfcuaEwyg_32SFrc6LYDhrF6Llkij8hTPsrCEEPswdNRzT3ORkff8mRaqWk9ldsUlDa_ZJK_0DF_eIxtarHtNGNuGyiElVQO-Z3jPnjZBrTz-cghD1b5pFa2AAveJ84hIWYnMq5zZb/s320/10000%20spending.png" width="320" /></a></div>Yep - get that calculator out and do the numbers. I did! It is so very true.<div>People don't realize how fast things add up. </div><div>$27.40 a day - could be meals out (on the low end), coffees, cigarettes, bar visits, junk food, lotto tickets, thrift shopping, daily store visits, you name it. It's your money and you can do what you want with it - but when you do - you need to realize WHAT you are really spending!!!!!</div><div><br /></div><div>$10,000 is a lot of money. That can pay off debt, pay off a home early, save for the future or emergencies, it could be invested, you name it. I think in most people's books that is a chunk of change.</div><div>Now you add in things like interest fees, late payments, wasting food and trashing it, not taking care of your possessions, etc. and the money just keeps racking up!</div><div><br /></div><div>I have a neighbor that does a big grocery shop every Saturday - and then goes to the store absolutely every day and brings home at least 2 bags of stuff!!!! That is surely $27.40. They also gamble on things a lot. He smokes like a chimney. Both work jobs that pay a good salary and well - they live in my neighborhood. I know what they pay for rent - most people would be happy to pay it. They even have a roommate to help with expenses! They have had to sale things, because they can't afford them. They are a fine example of what excessive spending looks like (they are about my age). All I can do is shake my head.</div><div><br /></div><div>Years ago, we wrote down & logged absolutely every penny we spent. EVERY! It was eye opening how much money got spent on frivolous things. We sure curbed back on our "wants" and that is when we really started to save $.</div><div><br /></div><div>Be a good steward of what you have.</div><div>Pennies do make dollars and dollars CAN and WILL make a huge difference in your life.</div><div>Stop and think about all those littles buys - they can make a big difference in your funds.</div><div><br /></div><div>Have a wonderful day!</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0L5cBqI-z5etJmK9zwKj29hSreADgy-QJrSv5hVEKV_xIh1CtKqc0RFDK99tNk29NU6Dc0pki3o7ll_BcpjYrqHpIsfFnIusbBcuCxqbQX7Rdebiry7yqf1psjAvFn0aGuLrNiM0OeHB7e866aoMnE73MBmAA261VNyFML1X5b2n2VuabSVEDFfOb8wgx/s825/list%20happen.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="565" data-original-width="825" height="219" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0L5cBqI-z5etJmK9zwKj29hSreADgy-QJrSv5hVEKV_xIh1CtKqc0RFDK99tNk29NU6Dc0pki3o7ll_BcpjYrqHpIsfFnIusbBcuCxqbQX7Rdebiry7yqf1psjAvFn0aGuLrNiM0OeHB7e866aoMnE73MBmAA261VNyFML1X5b2n2VuabSVEDFfOb8wgx/s320/list%20happen.png" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com60tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7341912661779864632.post-62714822121810721902024-02-04T08:52:00.002-05:002024-02-04T08:52:41.804-05:00Weekly Wrap Up 2/4<div style="text-align: left;"> Hello all. Hope this finds you well and safe. It is amazing how quickly Sunday seems to come around! I know it is seven days - but boy they do fly by.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Well, it appears the big rodent saw his shadow this week! Spring is around the corner? We will see, it will get here whenever it is supposed to. Meteorologist or rodent - I don't put much stock in either one!</div><div style="text-align: left;">We are supposed to have a mild upcoming week here. 50's and some sun. We had sun yesterday and boy was that a pretty sight to see.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPYwa9451XoTkFW7F399kQtkt0uS0u8-KUFndL2yO8VpiokaEJvuGPl9-l_jcZCBfRjzFA8ExNMZP89tleKITjKxJIP1jSc1BX81PCSxAv0D0vQ8-vvTDWUBUwPC9zaXrWkkDFsJYEOo-n0ok4Vx05A1wWOq3_9AXk-QUfT1eHPb4x59h7wpzzGAxspFs7/s766/february.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="556" data-original-width="766" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPYwa9451XoTkFW7F399kQtkt0uS0u8-KUFndL2yO8VpiokaEJvuGPl9-l_jcZCBfRjzFA8ExNMZP89tleKITjKxJIP1jSc1BX81PCSxAv0D0vQ8-vvTDWUBUwPC9zaXrWkkDFsJYEOo-n0ok4Vx05A1wWOq3_9AXk-QUfT1eHPb4x59h7wpzzGAxspFs7/s320/february.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We get an extra day this month - it's leap year!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>I had several different woodpeckers out there this week, and there were more robins.<div>I even looked out the living room window and saw chickens! Geesh one day they were on the front porch. I have stopped putting birdseed out front for now. They haven't figured how to get in the back yard - as they just walk around the block! These chickens need to stay home.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieHB4FwH77gvpvnqk7SW_r5ZHft8foYaFAwOO6cG1DNAznQYjCim8AP37pPuM4CoybAIWlIUhX310bv3vn4L5Tzk-xxzouG9Bp1WEDfcXvAtXJEA_0EXPDJr4N8sukbL4KxcyHztl_qh1_DP07raw64HucX6b8oXP__T8NwYU4KK5ZRaQiQw12KDG6OVaa/s4272/IMG_5971.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieHB4FwH77gvpvnqk7SW_r5ZHft8foYaFAwOO6cG1DNAznQYjCim8AP37pPuM4CoybAIWlIUhX310bv3vn4L5Tzk-xxzouG9Bp1WEDfcXvAtXJEA_0EXPDJr4N8sukbL4KxcyHztl_qh1_DP07raw64HucX6b8oXP__T8NwYU4KK5ZRaQiQw12KDG6OVaa/s320/IMG_5971.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>This is technically the neighbor's yard - but right outside my window.<div><br /></div><div>This week was kind of quiet again.</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Did some more decluttering - it is an ongoing process</li><li>General cleaning</li><li>All the laundry</li><li>I ran out one day to Fresh Thyme Market and restocked my natural supplements. I also got myself 2 sweet onions, 4 bananas, and some cocktail tomatoes. Oh, and a couple fresh tamales! I looked around the entire store (it has been a while since there) and just enjoyed the morning. Talked to several other customers.</li><li>I then stopped at a place that has been around a short while called Circle City Bargains - it has a bit of this and that. Fresh produce at super prices, snack foods, and even some furniture and yard and garden tools of all kinds - really discounted prices! I ended up with 2 jars of cashews (19 oz.) each for $3!!!</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEICehl8NCVNjGvFOCjzPzYF_T9NUSOL8LDD-q5RE4wolwVFqDaZOcFiyhxmZJoyUnlV_pTxgh33yIPNyFTmWSsJ_elw5DYDKNBtpOTKEGWzaWJy4IHLsUSqVFA6wUMdUyruaO3nyldYgaYKprIEmYQ3Y2Iw2-I3q7ilQsCriSb1Xg26M0a9AK7qKKGeSv/s4272/IMG_5979.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2848" data-original-width="4272" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEICehl8NCVNjGvFOCjzPzYF_T9NUSOL8LDD-q5RE4wolwVFqDaZOcFiyhxmZJoyUnlV_pTxgh33yIPNyFTmWSsJ_elw5DYDKNBtpOTKEGWzaWJy4IHLsUSqVFA6wUMdUyruaO3nyldYgaYKprIEmYQ3Y2Iw2-I3q7ilQsCriSb1Xg26M0a9AK7qKKGeSv/s320/IMG_5979.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Not even close to best by date. Very tasty for a snack. They are so good.</div><div><ul style="text-align: left;"><li> Then stopped at a newer Hispanic market on my way home to look around. Bought nothing - but it was fun to look & listen to the music!</li><li>Used up a small bit of mushrooms I had in taco meat, and used up a bit of onion left and some leftover rice in same</li><li>Froze leftovers that I did not eat this week</li><li>Got a little fresh air in the house on Saturday!</li><li>Just doing all the regular stuff we all do.</li><li>All meals from home</li></ul><div>Meals this past week:</div><div>Tamales and rice</div><div>Pulled pork (freezer) sliders, fresh veggies and hardboiled egg</div><div>Chili (freezer) cheese dogs and small salad</div><div>Chopped steak with sauteed mushrooms and peppers, long grain rice and fresh veggies</div><div>Leftover rice w/Aminos (like soy sauce) and salad with egg </div><div>Loaded nachos (had no chips - so I roasted a couple tostada shells and broke them up)</div><div>Cup of cheesy broccoli soup (freezer) and grilled ham & cheese sandwich</div><div>SNACKS: fruit, nuts, and cheese & crackers</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>How was your week? What did you all accomplish this past week? I think we are all getting anxious for spring - I know I am. But, like mom used to say, "just wishing your life away"!! LOL </div><div>My mind is wondering on spring things though.</div><div>Any great deals this week?</div><div><br /></div><div>I hope this finds each and everyone of you well and safe. I hope all things family are going better for many of you with problems. I wish you all a wonderful week.</div><div>Blessings to you and yours from my humble little home.</div><div>*************</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTLSZyXCYncc7N15J4LbT2O7BrKOioTzXDKqbc5zWBOv8PDSFqcTQAin18eXyJhjDeralMu7AXtpBg4BuGO0xi1Z3ftuNc0vRPIBdFNN3t4ELfFkmtG62pZ8QZLncUmmYrMZIWOOM40Tei7qbrDh2whFFZ93aZ2GSEaNMWUWRfRIK1popJ94c6WE9ytmtC/s558/feb4%20psalms.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="551" data-original-width="558" height="316" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTLSZyXCYncc7N15J4LbT2O7BrKOioTzXDKqbc5zWBOv8PDSFqcTQAin18eXyJhjDeralMu7AXtpBg4BuGO0xi1Z3ftuNc0vRPIBdFNN3t4ELfFkmtG62pZ8QZLncUmmYrMZIWOOM40Tei7qbrDh2whFFZ93aZ2GSEaNMWUWRfRIK1popJ94c6WE9ytmtC/s320/feb4%20psalms.png" width="320" /></a></div>Lord, we do thank You for being our stable rock. We know we always have You with us. Help us each one to lift our problems to You. Amen<br /><div><br /></div></div>Cheryl Kimbleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06485771676254429681noreply@blogger.com60