The Ways of my Kitchen

 You know I love to save.  You know it has become a way of life for me.  I find it fun and I find it a challenge.  I have gotten to a point in life, that I don't have to do as many things to save - it just makes since to me.  Why in the world would I waste things?  I like being a good steward of what I have.  It makes me feel good.

Spices, herbs, condiments can jazz up any food!  No need for things to be bland and tasteless.  You can jazz up anything - I love adding flavor.

Milk - if it starts 'tasting' a bit off - I do NOT throw it out.  I make biscuits, waffles or pancakes with it.  Those items can be frozen for a later date.   I freeze the milk in ice cube trays and save for making milk shakes or smoothies or soups.  Other flavors take away that 'off' taste.  Grandma always used soured milk in biscuits!!!!

You know I love clearance.  I found some sparkling water on clearance a while back.  Peach - sounded yummy to me.  Zero calories in this case did not mean sweetener added - it meant nothing added. YUCK.  Basically, carbonated water - which is bitter.  Not being one to waste it, I started adding about 1/4 can of it to a glass of iced tea.  WOW, what a difference and now I can have flavored tea.  It is really good that way!!!!  You can add any juice to tea or a sprinkle of Kool-Aid to add flavor and have a custom tea instead of buying those fancy flavored ones.

Added as a flavoring and not just water - it is tasty.  Went from Ick - to yummy. 

Old buns - I can't get through a package of buns before they go stale all by myself.  I throw them in the frig (I know bread shouldn't be refrigerated).  I use them for making garlic toast, toast, croutons, breadcrumbs, bread for stuffing, mini pizzas, and I even place on top of a pan when making burgers or dogs and 'refresh' them with steam. (I have a slotted pan).

Lettuce is getting expensive this time of the year - as it is not in season for leaf lettuce.  Some people say that head lettuce has really gone up in price in their area.  Still affordable here.  BUT, I buy lettuce on markdown!  I bring it home and add a paper towel to the container - and it will last a good couple weeks or longer.  The towel wicks all moisture away from the lettuce and it stays fresh.  This is the ONLY way I buy lettuce.

You know I love clearance.  I always check the clearance in produce aisles first (as you walk in store).  I can get the .99 bags at Kroger and I check the regular displays as there is always something marked down.  It may be lettuce, carrots, slaw mix, cut up broccoli, fruit, etc.

I also check meat area, bakery shelf, bread, and the main clearance section in the store.  I get a lot of deals this way.  Also, walk the aisles, as there are things here and there that are marked down as well.  You have to pay attention.  I even get goodies in the freezer department.  My Kroger has an end freezer that is for clearance - you never know what you might find.  

FREE - I never turn down free either.  IF I can't use the item, I will get it for someone else.  Never turn down free.

I save pickle juice and olive juice.  I can use either as a marinade over meat to add flavor and to tenderize.  I like to use them as a flavoring - poured over salad.  If you like tomato juice, V-8, or even that occasional Bloody Mary - try adding dill pickle juice!  Oh my, I love the extra flavor it gives tomato juice.

I also keep the dill pickle juice to aid in my restless leg problem.  YES, it does work.  If my legs start acting up - I drink maybe a shot or 2 of the juice and within minutes I get relief.

I can stretch food like a maniac!  Sure, it is just me - but I have always done this.  I can turn leftovers into something new and different.  I like Zatarain's or Aldi beans/rice or dirty rice mixes.  It is easy and quick to make.  I can add other ingredients on day 2 and make soup. I can use in Mexican dishes - tacos, tostadas, enchiladas, etc.  I can add to a baked potato.  

Chili - oh my.  As is, over macaroni, over rice, over baked potatoes, as a topping in a casserole, served with sour cream or shredded cheese, on top of hotdogs ........ there is just no end to the ideas. 

I will tell you about turkey next week!!!!  

There is no limit to what ways a leftover can be used - only limit - your imagination!!!!!

You know I water down shampoo and dish soap, and many times I add a little bit of vinegar to them.  That helps with grease cutting and makes things shine (even hair).  I use waaaaaayyyyy less laundry detergent than called for.  You can rinse and rinse, and residue stays in your clothes - use less.

I also use peroxide or baking soda in washer.  Peroxide is natural and I use to brighten whites.  Baking soda takes away any smells.  I use vinegar or nothing as a fabric softener.

Old baking soda (no longer viable for cooking) works as a tooth whitener.  I use it and peroxide mixed about once a week (per dentist).  I use as a household cleaner - instead of cleanser.  I use in the refrigerator as an odor absorber, and I have sprinkled on carpets (let it set a while) and vacuum to pull any odors from the rugs.  Can be used in litter boxes, to absorb odors.

I like specialty things now and then.  As Penny stated Sunday in comments, Aldi has a lot of specialty items they sell.  It is especially neat around the holiday - so many different things to choose from.  Cookies, nuts, candies, mixes, cheeses, frozen items, you name it!  Delicacies at bargain prices!!!

I like to splurge now and then and buy a few fun and delectable items!!!  I love smoked Gouda cheese.  It is very expensive at most stores (if you can find it).  I get it at Aldi for much less than other places.  I generally stock up for several months, around the holidays.  They usually have a decent price then.  It is just a treat and it is now a favorite on the cheese/meat platter I make at the holidays!

                                       This is a combo of Gouda and cheddar!  2 favorites in one!  

                                 Normally I get straight smoked Gouda - real cheese - and so good.

There are just so many tricks one can use to stretch items, save a little money and just be creative.  It is fun and a challenge.  That is my main thing - I love being different.  It is never boring!

What say you?  What are the ways of your kitchen that we may need to know?

Have a great day!!!!

Weekly Wrap Up 11/13

 Happy Sunday to all.  My goodness this week flew by.  Sometimes I question myself about what day it is - it is all just going by so quickly.

We had some very warm weather this past week and BOOM it got cold.  Yesterday didn't really get above 32* F, and it looks like most of the week will be in the 30's for highs.  We got some snow yesterday - maybe about 1" - 1 1/2".  It snowed for several hours.  It snowed on the grass - but not the street, walks, or drive!!!!  LOL!  (my kind of snow)!  Snowing so soon after mid 70's & summer weather kept the pavement warmer.

Many neighbors put up their outside Christmas lights this week to take advantage of the warm weather.  Can't say I blame them.

The kitties sure do like their warm house!  I don't think Blackie left it yesterday, except maybe to potty! Fluff had to bird watch a little, but she was so funny to watch.  Every couple of steps - she was shaking her paws!!  Seems they are like people, and forget what snow is all about from year to year.

I went out around sunrise the other day and happened to see a HUGE bird sitting way up in a tree a couple doors down.  It looked big and was quite a distance.  I thought maybe just maybe it might be a fluke and maybe there was an eagle flying through (it was that big).  Came in and got the binoculars to look.  No eagle - but the biggest red-tailed hawk I have ever seen, then I noticed a 2nd one about 20' below that one!  Watched them for quite a while and they both finally moved on.  It sure was something to see.

So many squirrels in mine and neighbor's yard.  Lots and lots of other birds.  It is so pretty to watch them all.  I love it.

This past week:

• Picked up tons of sticks and limbs after last weekend's windstorm
• Started washing trim, doors and woodwork - then moved to a few walls (getting things readied to paint with touch-up paint)
• Decided to tear apart the refrigerator - oh my.  Took everything out of the inside and cleaned every shelf & the walls and drawers.
• One thing leads to another - then the stove  - then besides and under frig and stove. (can't get behind).  Then moved rolling drawer stacks beside stove and scrubbed then.  Oh and this led to cabinets and walls........  Everything except on top of cabinets and ceiling (on the agenda).  My back needs to rest!
• Ran to feed store, Fam.Dollar/Dol. Tree store and Ollie's - all right close together
• I did manage to get a few items for gifts
• Went to eye specialist again - last apptmnt. scheduled for end of November (after all drops have stopped for a week).  Then the next day - to regular eye doctor for glasses appointment
• Got out the shovel, outdoor broom and ice melt when the snow began.  Plugged in all the water bowls and birdbath
• Ran to Kroger - for the .49/lb. turkey.  Didn't need it, but heck I cannot get lunchmeat that cheap!  I also found canned cat food flavors I hadn't seen in months.  Stocked up.

$6.01 for turkey - saved almost $16 on price!!!!!!!  Turkey was right at 12 lbs. - perfect for me

• Ran to Aldi - got wine I like for the season.  Got a couple gift items there, and saw a lot of prices slashed - as promised - back to 2019 pricing.  I got some cheese and a small cheesecake sampler!  What a treat 8 slices for 5.95!
• Got to have windows open a lot this week - even the bedroom window open a little at night until Friday
• Made another gallon of iced tea
• Using throws and afghans to snuggle and keep warm instead of turning up heat very high

Meals this past week:

Breaded pork fritter sandwich - mashed potatoes and corn (leftover)

Small pc. of beef (from freezer), asparagus, garlic/cheese French bread

Burrito supreme (2)

Slice of pizza (freezer) and side salad

Open face 'taco' meat sandwich and steamed broccoli

Cube steak, mac n cheese with extra broc. added

Bagels with cream cheese and corned beef

SNACKS - fruit, pork rinds, cheese slices

I asked a stranger a question at Ollie's this week, and we ended up having a lovely conversation for well over a half hour - very common thoughts.  She was so friendly and shared many thoughts.  I learned some things that day, had to look up and say "hey, Dad - I learned a lot today" - then I chuckled.  She was a retired microbiologist and very interesting.  We talked a lot about natural healing and herbs.  Nice to run into like-minded folks.

How was your week?  Have you found any good grocery deals?  I am sure seeing a lot of good prices being advertised.  Next week's Kroger ad (I get sneak peeks) looks to be good as well and so does Meijer.

Are you getting the cold and snowy stuff as well?  Getting ready for all the upcoming holidays?

**This next week I will do a couple posts about giving from 'home and heart' as requested.  Hoping it helps some maybe save a few dollars.

I sure hope this finds you all well and safe.  Stay warm and cozy this week and happy prepping for the holidays.

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

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Therefore, do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.  Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Matthew 6:34

Lord, You know our natural instinct is to worry.  Help us live for today and live well and happy.  Help us understand worry solves nothing - as You are in control.  I know when scared or agitated, I need only to ask You for help and turn it all over to You.  Nothing is beyond Your power.

Help us to turn to You alone.  Amen

That was fun!

 I had to run out the other day to vote - while out I ran a couple errands.  One thing I did was to run into a sort of new store I had not been in.  Now I have been in each store separately, but this is a new combo!  This store has been open for a couple months - so went in and checked it out.

It was the new combo of Family Dollar and Dollar Tree!  This store was huge!!!!!!  It used to be a grocery store back in the day - and it was a big store.   Later this same place had been a huge consignment thrift store.

Not sure about you, but it seems any time I go into either of these stores, they are messy and not the cleanest and the lighting is dark.  ICK

Well, this store was lovely.  Maybe because it is newer, maybe just the management, who knows - I just know it was a pleasure to go through it.  The staff was very friendly.

Half of the store was all Dollar Store items (1.25 now).  The other half is Family Dollar items.  The shelves were stocked full.  You name it, they had it.  It actually seemed each side had more variety than any stand-alone store that I have been in (of these 2).

Now there are things I won't buy - but many I would.  I got some treats and goodies for my teens I make up goody bags for at Christmas.  They are teens, and like GC's and money - but they just love getting fun treats as well!  Always a kid!

I even got myself a couple pair of new reader's (glasses) that are just too cute and cost 1.25 each!!!  They work perfectly and will be great until I get to the eye doctor for prescription readers.

You do need to pay attention to pricing though!  My favorite throat lozenges were on Dollar Tree side for $1.25 - same thing on the Family Dollar side was $1!!!!!!!!  There weren't many things that I saw that way - but some were cheaper on the Family side.  Crazy!

So if you have one of these places popping up around you - check it out.  Bags, cards, ribbons, throws, candies and treats, arts & crafts, holiday things, household pretties, and they even had some clothes (sweats, etc.).

It was a fun experience, and so much to choose from.

Have a great day!

Blessings - A little can be a LOT!

 Never underestimate a blessing.  They come in all sizes from teeny tiny to large.  A blessing can be anything.  I am blessed in sooooo many ways each and every day!  I am sure many of you are as well.  

I like to think we can spread blessings around for no cost to us or for very little.

A kind word or a smile

A kind gesture

A gentle understanding - that maybe someone is just having a rough day

Giving to a food pantry or shelter

Donating goods to a thrift store

Being a thoughtful and kind neighbor

Just portraying a good humor and good attitude can change other's day

Here is something I am doing - it is a little thing - but so many are grateful.

My neighbor asked if I would like to help - sure!  It is helping his church - good!  It is so benefiting a family needing help - WONDERFUL!  

It makes my heart sing - to be able to help just a little.  It is something we can all do.  We can pull from our pantries, or we can purchase.  

The church is donating turkeys - so others are donating the balance of a 'meal' to help someone else.

Such a simple thing.  It doesn't cost much - really.  Gosh I got a turkey pan for $1 and the cooking bags for 1.25 at the dollar stores.  I got the potatoes and stuffing mix on sale at Kroger for $1 plus a little change.  Can goods - some from home - others less than a $1 each for store brand.

This is something we can all do - not just at Thanksgiving - but around Christmas and during the winter months.  People aren't just hungry at holidays.  I give to the local food pantry from time to time.

Maybe you can do something like this through your church, or work organization, or sorority or whatever groups you belong to.  OR maybe you can just do a bag of whatever types of food you have to share - for someone in the community that needs help.

I hope each person can open their hearts a little and help.  Yes, a little can be a LOT to someone else.

Blessings to each of you!

The Weather is a Changing....

 Well, it does appear that weather is really starting to change up some in many areas.  It is getting chilly or downright cold.  Yep, winter is close at hand.  The winter equinox is still over a month away - but that doesn't mean the chill isn't coming soon to a neighborhood near you!!

Don't laugh!   Some have already seen this scene.  It can stay away as far as I am concerned - but i know it is bound to happen. (not my pic)

Are you ready?

Have you got your pantry and freezer stocked?  Just in case you can't or don't want to get out.  Generally, no one is stranded at home for more than a day or so - as streets are cleared pretty regularly.  I, for one, just prefer staying home when the weather gets nasty.

Other things to think about.

Your vehicle - make sure all is A-OK.  Battery, tires, heater, oil, antifreeze. etc.  Make sure if you travel much, that you have a blanket and maybe some extra socks, a hat, gloves, and scarf in the car.  Maybe a few snacks.  I do keep socks in the Blazer - but I do not go very far in the vehicle.  I could walk to get help anywhere I go.

Bring in anything that could freeze from unheated garages or sheds.  Paint, fertilizers and chemicals.  Make sure to bring in rechargeable batteries and chargers for small garden tools.  Freezing can shorten the life of batteries and chargers!!!!  Ask me how I know!

Change that furnace filter and have your furnace checked out.

Turn off water faucet outside and unhook those hoses.

Get all your winter tools ready.  Shovel, snow blowers, have ice melt, scraper (and extras) for vehicle.   Make sure you have those blankies, scarves, hats, socks, etc. in the vehicle.  

Change out the batteries in the smoke detectors.

If you use a fireplace - make sure it is clean and in good working order.  

Have a plan for covering windows with plastic if need be, and for those drafts that come in around doors. It is better to have a plan than not!!!!!

Make a plan for the chance your power is out, and you have no heat for a while.  Plenty of blankets and heavy clothing for layering.  Wrapped pipes.

Make sure you have a plan for your chickens, any livestock or pets or animals that live outside.  Shelter, food and heated water bowls.  Of course, if the weather is too bad - bring in pets!

Cold weather is a great time to catch up on reading, snuggling, and doing indoor projects.  I find I hibernate a lot during the winter - with the exception of clearing paths and drive.

Be prepared - it is coming!!!!!!!

Weekly Wrap Up 11/6

 Happy Sunday to all!  Hope this finds you well and safe.

Did those of you that had to - change your clocks?  UGH.  

I got up at the very same time I always do, Fluffy was on the handrail peeking in the kitchen door yelling at me for food at the same time - just the clock was different.  It was earlier by an hour! So begins the rest of my winter!

What a day we had yesterday.  The wind was just crazy.  There were 60 mph wind gusts off and on all day.  It was sustained winds of 35-40 mph.  Many of the leaves are down - and most are now towards the back half of the yard.  YAY - I don't have as far to rake them to the garden!!  Pluses with all things!!!

It was still warm, so I had the back window open.  I was standing there looking out and I heard a loud crack, and watched a tree, 4 houses down (across alley) fall in what seemed to be slow motion!  The tree was a HUGE old, very dead (for years) tree.  It was one of those trees that could never be climbed to take it down.  Well, it is down now - and it hit nothing except the ground. Thank goodness.

I have tons of limbs down - and many leaves, so I am lucky.  All is good here.

                                                                 (not my picture)

I realized yesterday just what great contractors and engineers, squirrels are.  All that wind, many times this year, and their nests are still there!  They sure know what they are doing.

I have had tons of squirrels and blue jays again all week.

It has been above seasonally warm all week.  We got a little rain, lots of wind and warm temps.  This coming week looks to be mild as well - then next weekend, the prediction is much cooler.

My week:

• Went for what I thought was last check-up on eyes.  Yeah, one more this coming week!  Just to be sure!  That is OK
• Changed out the furnace filter
• Chunked up the end of a candle into bits for use in my melt pot
• Thawed and cooked (in various ways) a pound of ground sausage - for present and future meals
• Ran to library
• Put new stair treads on back steps for safety
• Water barrels are both empty and now stored away for the winter
• Fixed the weather strip around the greenhouse door
• Raked the back yard and put all leaves on the garden - and cleaned the deck again
• Got rid of 2 boxes of junk from garage (it is a tiny start)
• Cleaned the outer parts of kitchen cabinets
• Cut back all the peony plants
• Made a gallon a sweet tea
• All the normal stuff we all do
• Ran to Kroger for the egg special - 18 count for 1.99.  I got a .99 bag of plums - oh my are they good - got a few things for stock, just not a lot.  Make sure you check ADS this coming week - many places are having GREAT prices on turkey!!!!!  Kroger - .49/lb. w/digital coupon and $25 purchase (starts 11/9) and Meijer is .55/lb. (limit 2) (starts today).  Aldi has Butterball for 1.07.  I am sure other stores are following suit.  KEEP YOU EYES OPEN

                               Golden plums - so sweet and juicy - .99 for the bag on clearance!

Meals this past week:

Egg roll in a bowl

Ham & beans over rice

Peppery & cheesy goulash

Leftover goulash and salad

Chicken hoagie & chips

Loaded baked potato

Faux KFC chicken bowl - corn topped w/mashed pots, gravy and chicken all in a bowl

SNACKS - nuts, fruit, cheese & crackers

How was your week? Are you getting ready for the holidays?  I still have much to do for Christmas - it will all get done in time!  How is your weather?  

I pray that each of you are safe and healthy.  I hope no one had any damage from the big weather front that came across the country on Saturday - there was so much wind, and even tornadoes in places.

I hope all of you in the U.S. gets out and VOTES this week.  It is so very important!

Blessings from my humble little home to you and yours.

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Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all you who hope in the Lord.

Psalm 31:24

Dear Lord, we pray that you will guide us each one through all our many trials in life.  We all have times when we falter and wonder where to turn - help us to turn to You.  Your spirit will always lead us in the correct direction.  Thank You for lifting us up and filling our lives with courage to go forward.

Amen

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Just a Throwback Stroll

 Nothing special today - just a stroll back in time.  Sometimes we just need to remember life as it was.  Many were good old days - other things were not good.  The days in my life back then were pretty good.  I have mainly good memories.

This would have been about my 5th grade year.  (1965).  We didn't go out to eat when I was a kid.  I remember walking to Burger Chef (it was the closest to us) when I got to be in junior high and getting a treat (to me).  I think a burger was about a .25 by then.  I just loved the orange drink they had.

I remember getting milk in grade school at recess time - it was .04 a carton!!!!!!

Yep.  High school and early married years.  I pretty much did all of this except Disco!  Wasn't crazy about it.  There were a couple of songs that were fun - and I still get happy when I hear them!  I find it so funny, that today many of these things are all the rage again - youngsters think it is so cool!  Been there and done that!  Funny for them to imagine grandma did bell bottoms, hot pants, midriff tops, platforms, and no bras!!!!!!  I just have to laugh out loud sometimes!  I DID enjoy those days!

It is so great that there was no one going around taking photos or filming our every move back then!!!!  Oh, some of the silly things I did - we all did - glad there is no evidence except memories - and many are at the age that those are going away!!!!!  LOL

YES I DO!!!!!!  This is a normal for me.  Once in a while I turn on the oldies in the house (cable stations have so much to listen too).  If I turn on music in the house - I will be dancing around like a fool.  Nice that no one can see me - and well, heck if they did.  Usually, I hear the radio in the car - and yes, I crank it and sing like I know how!!!  I always listen to the oldies - so I am in my element.

I love music - all kinds - but mostly I like to listen to my oldies.  It makes me smile, it makes me happy, and it takes me back to a fun time in life.  We all need that now and then.

Now I do not remember gas being this cheap - some probably do.  I love the little sign under the price "gas war".  Seems that has been the way forever.  I do however, remember gas being about .29 - .35/gal.  I got my first car in 1972 - and I could put a couple dollars of gas in it and drive all week!  $5 in gas would get me a nice drive to Brown County (a popular spot south of here) - and spend the day in the country with friends. That happened a lot on the weekends.  Cruising - was another thing we did in high school.  We had 2 - 3 spots that we drove to and around a lot of Friday or Saturday nights if not dating.  It was just a way of seeing friends and having harmless fun.

See the S&H stamp sign?  Remember those?  Mom used those to get many a household item or gift.  I remember licking those and putting them in books - I thought that was fun when I was little.  The store that offered goods was such a neat place to go.

Yep, life back in the day was sure different from today.  Somedays I like to go back and think of those times.  It was a much simpler time.  We made our own fun.

Have a great day and LAUGH a little!  It is infectious!!!!!!