Recap of Last Week

Recap for Last Week

I was down all of Thanksgiving week and on into this week with the flu.   Sunday I pretty much didn’t do anything that wasn’t essential.  My husband and daughter did run to the store and pick up some milk, and a few simple items of their choosing. I pulled several jars of home canned items from the pantry and put on a huge pot of soup with extra garlic for me to eat on and by Monday night I felt semi human.

Tuesday I took advantage of my morning energy and spent a little time working on sanitizing the house.  This was a no spend day and I ate leftover soup.

Wednesday I had a doctor’s appointment that had been scheduled for months.  I ventured out for this and came straight back home.  (I was fever free or I wouldn’t have gone.).

Thursday I actually felt human all day.  I didn’t leave the house, but did do a little online Christmas shopping.  Taking advantage of some free shipping.  I ate up the last of the soup.

Friday was not a no spend day.  I had to go to the next town over to pick up my new glasses.  I can’t tell you all how wonderful it is to be able to see again.  I’ve been having vision troubles since April, and we waited for improvement.  I’ve had two eye surgeries, bided my time, etc.  I finally discussed it with my doctor and told him even if I have to have new glasses sooner rather than later for my day to day life I needed new glasses now!  Saving money is one thing, but I have to be able to function.  While we were out on Friday we picked up a Christmas tree.  We more than got our money out of our last one.  For starters it was one that was given to me by my parents — they bought it around 1998.  They used it for years and then gave it us.  I had been using it since.  (We can’t use live trees due to my husband’s allergies.) We also picked up a few decorations.

Saturday found me running errands.  Lowes for light bulbs.  Staples to drop off toner cartridges for recycling.  The library to pick up books.  Apartment hunting with my daughter.  Various things like that.  Nothing that was overly expensive.  For dinner I used some points and coupons to order pizza for my family and I had chicken wings.

That’s it.  I’m not sure if it was a frugal week or not, but I feel like in the end it all balanced out and I survived it.  LOL

Frugal Happenings for the Beginning of November

All in all last week wasn’t a bad week.  It wasn’t a no spend week by any means, but everything that was spent was planned for.

Sunday October 28th
• We went to the library. I checked out a Christmas cookbook and handmade gift book.  I also checked out two books with information about glaucoma.
• My husband used to love a Hardees’ bacon, egg, and cheese biscuit.  I made him a homemade, gluten free version that he could actually eat.  He was so happy!
• I went to Walmart Neighborhood Market and picked up a few fill ins like milk and garden salad ingredients.  While I was there I noticed they had pimentos, which I haven’t been able to find for a while.  I picked up two jars for the pantry.
• I baked some cookies from our freezer slice and bake cookies.  I am pleased that I “guesstimated” about right on the amount I needed for October.  I have one roll left in the freezer.  Given that we were traveling one week, I’m supposing if we had been here we would have cooked those as well.

Monday October 29th
• We did a Sam’s Club run.  Not inexpensive, but I waited for their sales to start and picked up several items including two coffee pots that were on sale.  These were not from the food budget — one is for a Christmas gift and the other is a gift for my daughter for her first apartment — coming in next few months on both accounts.  Time’s flying.  I’ve already had experience with a less expensive version of the single cup brewers and it literally melted the top of the pot….so I consider this to be my best price for what I wanted.  I also picked up some household supplies in this run.
• I saw the eye doctor.  Surgery is scheduled for Wednesday on my right eye.
• We ate leftovers for lunch and then pulled a frozen pizza from the freezer for an easy supper.
• I ran the dryer for quilts and bedding.
• I started a new season of a mystery I watch on Acorn TV — a splurge for myself, but far cheaper than cable.

Tuesday October 30th
• I pulled some home canned items from the pantry for the last bean dish for the month of October.
• I spent the morning making out the November menu and preparing a grocery list.  Even though I know things will vary — that is life — I find we stick to the spirit of the menu if not the letter.
• I paid bills online saving on postage.


Wednesday October 31st
• In anticipation of surgery, I put stew in the crockpot.  I used my home canned pork, some home canned potatoes, and some frozen mixed veggies along with spices from the cabinet.  Normally we have a family chili night that my sister hosts so I was a little bummed about missing that.  I put an Aldi brand GF cornbread mix out (along with the needed bowl/pan/measuring utensils/etc) so my family could pull together a quick bread for us.

Thursday November 1st
• I really didn’t do much of anything this day.  Lunch was leftovers and we had a simple supper of pancakes and bacon.

Friday November 2nd
• I was feeling much better and worked on some light household chores.  We went out to vote, opting to go to the closest location to save on both time and gas.
• We cooked the last roll of cookies from our freezer prep session.
• We opted for a quiet night of BritBox mysteries, and I was asleep quite early.

Saturday November 3rd
• We picked up groceries from Walmart — taking advantage of the free pickup service.  We are set for the month other than a few fresh items and dairy.
• I ran laundry and hung what I could to dry.
• I put on dried black eyed peas in the Crockpot early in the morning. I served them with leftover cornbread from earlier in the week.
• I used the air fryer to make some homemade Doritos — an experiment using  food storage cheese powder and various spices.
• I made us a late night snack of pepperoni and cheese biscuits (think similar to Red Lobster type biscuits) in the air fryer.

The Bottom of the Bowl

We tried our hand at using the air fryer to make homemade Doritos.

They need a little tweaking before I share the recipe, but they weren’t too bad.

November’s Supper Plans

My eye surgery went well, but I’m still glad I planned a simple supper for tonight.  The next surgery will be Tuesday, and I may be switching that day out with something else.  Perhaps I’ll trade it with the day before.  

November’s Sam’s Club Haul

We did a Sam’s Club stock up on some freezer items, some household items, and also picked up two Christmas gifts.

Frugal or not so Frugal?

Last week’s frugal happenings in no particular order:

1. We filled out my daughter’s applications for graduate school.  Not a frugal task in and of itself, but we do keep an eye on both quality education and her graduating debt free.  We spent time researching a lot of options and are hopeful we are making the best choices.
2. I repotted a plant and winterized another.  (Using supplies I already had on hand.)
3. I printed and organized my Christmas season “to do” binder to keep myself on track.
4. I used our drying rack whenever possible for hanging laundry.
5. We ate at home every meal and as the month comes to a close I am excited to say we did a pretty good job of sticking to our monthly menu.
6. I checked a couple of books out from the library.

Doesn’t look like so much when I look at it....but I don’t think I did much spending or much out of the house so I suppose I’ll call it a win.

On the not so frugal front, but life update — I found out I have glaucoma — a closure variant that has quite possibly been causing the pain that my doctor thought was migraines.  I’ll be having eye surgery on the first eye tomorrow.  I don’t have a clue what my out of pocket expenses will be, but I honestly don’t care.  I’ve been in pain for almost 10 months at some level or another on a daily basis so if this offers any relief at all the costs will be worth it.

Frugal Happenings

This week was a bit of a different week — a welcome difference.  My husband had a conference to attend, and I tagged along.  It was a vacation week for me.

Sunday October 14th
• I worked on an income producing project and relied on the Crockpot to cook lunch.  There was enough leftover for supper.
• I cooked cookies from my slice and bake freezer dough.
• I ordered my gluten free flour. I use Better Batter blend and was able to get a great price on two damaged bags.  Saving $80 — 40 pounds for $120 versus $200.  I’ll freeze the extra.  This will get us through the next couple of months including our holiday baking.
• I went to Walmart to pick up some items for my daughter for the week, some items for me for on the road, and a few items for the pantry.  The costs weren’t as low as I would have liked, but things never are.  However, the ready made and convenience items are still less than us eating out.  

Monday October 15th
• I spent the day at home.  I had originally planned to go out and have my nails done as a splurge.  I opted to just do them myself.  Money saved — $90.

Tuesday October 16th – Saturday October 20th
• We were away at a conference.  I did pack snack foods for the hotel room to help keep costs down.  We shared a super sized coffee every morning.  Neither of us like strong coffee so by the time we diluted it to what we could stand to drink one was plenty for two of us.  Kind of amusing but true.
• We had meals with the conference for several at no cost to us.  The group also toured the aquarium.  We enjoyed a walk down to the ocean front.
• We had a couple of meals on the road during our travel, which we shared.  This also kept costs down, but more importantly kept either of us from over eating on things we shouldn’t be eating anyway — like fast food.

Saturday October 20th
• We made it back home about midday.  I started laundry and did have to dry some in the dryer because of time constraints.  However, I did get two loads hung to dry.
• We went to the library, where I checked out two cookbooks.
• I went to the grocery store to pick up a few items.  While I was there I found Great Value brand cream of chicken soup (gluten free).  I can rarely find this.  To order it online is $3.30 a can.  However, when I can find it in the store it is $1.42 a can.  I did buy 12 cans for the pantry.
• I baked cookies from our freezer cookie dough.

Last Week’s Frugalities and Sundries

Sunday October 7th
• Baked cookies from scratch.  Gluten free and allergy friendly cookies are extremely expensive to buy and baking my own saves us money.  Plus, they just taste better, and my family feels like they’re being spoiled.  Wins on all fronts!
• I worked on crocheting afghan squares for a Crochet Along using a free tutorial on YouTube from Cheryl’s Country Home.  Her channel is here…..love it, by the way.
• Made two large batches of pancakes for breakfast — one with blueberries for my daughter and one batch of buckwheat — for us to eat on over the week.
• We ate leftovers for lunch and supper because we had so many in the refrigerator.
Monday October 8th
• I washed and hung bedding to dry.
• We had a “fake out” meal of home cooked chicken nuggets and fries.
Tuesday October 9th
• I washed and hung laundry to dry.
• I wiped kitchen cabinets with a homemade cleanser using vinegar and warm water as a base.
• I dehydrated a bag of lemons for us to use in our teas since cool weather is slowly becoming a reality in my area.
• My mama went into the hospital (emergency), and I carpooled with my sister and brother in law to check on her.
• I cooked beef stew in the Crockpot, baked a loaf of Italian bread in the bread machine, and cooked pumpkin oatmeal cookies (from my freezer rolls I make in advance for slice and bake cookies).
Wednesday October 10th
• I spent the day at the hospital with my mama.  Due to allergies I had to shop carefully in the small café the hospital has when it was meal time.  I ended up going with coffee, a cup of cheese, grapes, and an apple.  Not the most frugal, but it was safe — and I did not have to leave the hospital to do it.  The savings was in time and emotional toll on this one.
• As the day progressed it was decided my nephew was coming home with me.  We were late getting in.  I resorted to ordering pizza for dinner — not frugal, but sometimes emergencies happen.  We also had to run out and get some milk and some things he would need for school lunches.  Totally worth it because I enjoyed spending the time with him.
Thursday October 11th
• My mama had early morning tests so it was one of those days where I ended up buying an extra coffee on the road.  However, my brother took me out to lunch.  It was a crazy whirlwind of day, because my husband and I had already planned and paid for a date night show — Lord of the Dance.  We did the mad dash there in the remnants of Hurricane Michael and then back the same night.  Because of the days events we ended up buying my daughter and nephew take out for their supper — I simply did not have time to cook and be on the road in time to make our show.
Friday October 12th
• I spent the first half of this day on the road, too.  We got my nephew to school, checked on my mama, and got my husband to a business lunch meeting.  While he was in his meeting I went to Walmart to do a little shopping.  I had a few things I needed.  I picked up some mascara, eyeliner, Oil of Olay face cream, and protein shakes from the health and beauty section.  My daughter needed some small school supplies that I picked up for her.  Then I looked at the clothing.  I have several items on my list that I need for this fall.  I found one pair of jeans, an oversized sweater, and a winter nightgown.  (I had previously looked for all three of these at Goodwill with no luck.)
• I bought a tiny (1 ½ quart?) crockpot.  Even my smallest is often too large for our lunches.
• Once we were home I washed laundry and hung it to dry.
• I ate leftovers on a bed of lettuce for supper….I was just too tired to cook.  Everyone pulled together something from leftovers.
• We had a quiet movie night at home, watching a movie on the Roku.
Saturday October 13th
• I finished off the rest of the laundry.
• I worked from home on an income producing project.
• I used the crockpot to heat up leftover beef stew while I worked.  I baked a batch of cornbread with enough for two meals so we could have enough for supper, too.  Then after lunch I put on au gratin potatoes for our supper’s side dish in the crockpot.  Later that day my husband grilled burgers from the freezer.
• We went to the library.  I checked out a stack of slow cooker cookbooks to skim for ideas and recipes to downsize.


The week wasn’t a bad week — not 100% frugal — but not bad considering we had an emergency that required some altered plans.

Christmas Box

I've been working on my Christmas gift list.

I have finished a shawl for one of my cousins.  This is strictly a because I wanted her to have it kind of gift.

I have also finished 3 scarves in different patterns for the box.  I'll try to get photos of them to share soon.

Abstractly Chic Shawl Crochet A Long

I'm working on a shawl for the Abstractly Chic Shawl Crochet A Long.
If anyone is interested in the pattern, it is free.   https://marlybird.com/free-crochet-patterns/abstractly-chic-shawl-week-1/
I went with inexpensive Red Heart Yarn from Walmart in various purples with black for an accent.

I've finished week one's pattern release.  I think I like the pattern, but next time will make it with a larger hook for a looser finish.

I think there is a good chance I may kill the yarn on this one to make it drape a little better, but all in all I love the color combination and expect to get a lot of wear from it.

Life in General

I'm not even sure if anyone is still out here....I've been so slack about posting.  Life in general has taken on a strange ho-hum around here.  A new pace I suppose is the best way to describe it.  Not driving, being home full time except with planned outings with others, and in general doing things at my own leisure have all changed the pace of life.

I've had a lot of time for art projects, a lot of time for crocheting, and just a lot of time in general.  Ironically I don't have a lot of people around me to take care of, there isn't a lot of land to tend, or a lot of meals to prepare.  It's quiet.  Some days it is almost too quiet, but then other days I can kind of lose myself in the rhythm of my days.  A cup of coffee in the morning, some household chores, time in my craft room, evenings with my daughter, and repeat.  Although I will admit it does make it harder to find things to write about and share here.

I've been doing a lot of playing with watercolor paints.  These are just a few of the doodles I've done in my art journal.  I've also discovered that I love mixed media art better than any other form of artistic creativity I have tried.  I'll try to be a little better about sharing what I've been up to and share some photos of some of my mixed media projects soon.

An Easy Chicken and Noodle Casserole

This was a pretty easy casserole that can be made as frugally as you chose.  In fact, I think it would be an ideal pull together to use up leftovers of various kinds.

Frugal Happenings for the Last Two Weeks

1.  This week in an effort to get myself out of the “no cooking” doldrums I created a supper menu plan that included mostly crockpot meals.  We did pretty well at sticking to it.  A win-win because we ate a little better, I continued to use up things from the freezer, and we used less electricity.

2.  We used Walmart Grocery Pickup, which kept us out of the stores.  I also picked up some items to fill in some pantry blanks from Sam's Club and Aldi.

3.  We had family over for supper and I was able to pull everything except for bread from our supplies....due to the heat I did not bake bread though.  Instead I bought rolls from Dollar Tree.

4.  I finished up an almost completely recycled from “would be trash items” book.  It has kind of been a self-care therapy project.  I figure the cost of supplies and goodness only knows what the cost of therapy would be is all saved.  LOL

5.  A crafting supply I ordered from Amazon — the best price I could find after shopping around — came damaged.  I contacted customer support.  They had me keep the damaged item (parts of which I can use, just not the whole thing) and sent me a free replacement that arrived the next day.  

6.  We packed a picnic for a day trip.

7.  I packed a thermos of coffee for a second road trip we took since we were leaving super early in the morning.  This thermos lasted us the entire ride.

8.  I've been doing laundry once a week and washing larger loads since I am having to use the dryer.  It seems to be helping and the electric bill has stabilized.

9.  We are still working on eating down some items.  I've actually emptied several jars from our home canned items as well in my attempt to rotate things in and out.

It's Never Too Early

I've been working on Christmas...yes, Christmas.  It's never too early.  This year I really wanted to give the people on my Christmas card list handmade cards that I made with each family in mind.

Slack Blogger

I’ve been so slack about blogging.  I think in part because I spend a lot of time crafting and lost in what I am doing.  I’ve also been doing a lot more filming than I have been writing down words.  Somehow it just seems easier right now.

I’ve finished an altered book journal for my daughter-in-law that was a very fun project to make.

I’ve also finished a book that is for my sister that is to be used as a bullet journal type set up with removable pages.  It has a mermaid theme and a totally different set up than the other books I’ve been working with.  

The last book I worked on is a brag book for a new grandmama.  This one is pretty blank inside, but I think it is quite adorable.

Each book has been a little different than the previous and with each one I feel like I have learned something new.  I have a million ideas floating around in my head for various projects and what seems like endless hours to spend in my craft room.  

Mid July -- Frugal Happenings for Last Week

It's mid July, and it seems like the last 30 days have been a roller coaster ride.  I've had a few weeks visit with my grandson, general life, my daughter has turned 21, and life has (in general) kept rolling along.

I'd love to say that things have been super frugal, but as usual they've been this insane mix of some times things are and sometimes they just aren't.

In no particular order:

1. I had three doctor's appointments.  Never a frugal venture.  
2. We didn't do badly on groceries for the week -- even with guests coming.  I spent less than $90.
3. My computer died -- turned out it was simply so old it couldn't handle the workload I was forcing upon it.  Buying  a new computer even with sales prices and discounts was not inexpensive, but we did use the discounts.  
4. I did (because I killed the drying rack) save all the laundry to do at once.  I don't know if it is more frugal or not, but at least I only ran the dryer one day.
5. I have been using a lot of recycling materials in my journaling, which is both frugal and feels good.
6. My freezer (the one that is part of the refrigerator) is dying.  I've transferred everything to the chest freezer.  Thank goodness I had been working to clear it out.  We are looking at having to replace the refrigerator.  Repair cost estimates are to high to be cost effective.  For now I have opted to go as is. The refrigerator is working fine.
7. The microwave, which is over the stove, appears to have a crack in it.  Not sure why.  I'm keeping an eye out for a good sale.  I would normally just say forget it, but we actually use the microwave for reheating things....especially when there is just one of us at home.  It makes leftovers a lot easier to use up.

My Latest Crafting Project

Where has the month gone?

I can’t believe I have been so long without sharing anything here.  I’ve got to confess that I am finding it easier to do videos than to sit and type.  Maybe because I find myself more restless.

In no particular order:

1. I broke my giant drying rack — probably beyond repair — and my current utility bill shows it. Sigh, but to be fair using the dryer was easier when I couldn’t go up the stairs and someone else had to do the laundry.  Then to add insult I was the one, who when I did go upstairs, broke the thing.  Sigh!
2. I did do some traveling to visit with family.
3. I’ve been doing some thrifting and some crafting.
4. I’ve been baking, cooking, and trying to use up some things.

Doesn’t sound like much of a month, but somehow I’ve been busy.

We did try a new to us recipe that was pretty good.

Thrifted Books

I found some cute books at the thrift store.  One for my grandson, one devotional, two cookbooks, and a couple of crafting/educational type books.

First week of June Menu Plan and Grocery Haul.

Cook with Me — Broccoli Cornbread

This is one of my favorite recipes.

Frugal Happenings for the Last Week of May

Sunday May 27

• I decided this would be the perfect week to only cook from what we had on hand.  I made one exception and picked up some lettuces for salads.  In keeping with that plan, I made up a menu.
• I baked gluten free chocolate chip cookies and froze half the dough in a log for future use.  I used up two partial bags of chocolate chips in this recipe.
• We pulled "yellow sticker" ribs from the freezer and cooked them in the crockpot with BBQ sauce I bought in bulk (and froze) some time back.  I served it with rice (from food storage).  For veggie sides we had slaw (cabbage from CSA box) and tomato slices (from same box).
• I washed and hung laundry to dry.
• I wanted Memorial Day themed stickers for my planner and used the computer/printer to make my own.

Monday May 28

• I cooked 28 waffles and froze what wasn't eaten for breakfast.  These will last a couple of weeks and give my daughter quick, easy breakfasts/snacks.
• I used up 2 bananas and some lingering raisins to make a dozen muffins for my husband to take with him.  He'll put these in the freezer and take them out as needed.
• I had 5 lingering apples that became a pint and about a cup of applesauce.
• I used the crockpot to cook hamburger steak -- it was too rainy to grill out.
• Lunch was hot dogs, squash from our CSA box, and a tin of Aldi pork n beans that I doctored into baked beans.  We used up 4 lingering hot dog buns.  (I ate mine without a bun.)
• I moved my potted plants outdoors for a free drink.
• I bought lettuce for the week.  I was going to buy organic, but it looked horrible.  Instead I picked up "regular" and for two heads spent $2.61.

Tuesday May 29

• Physical therapy day and since I was going by Goodwill anyway I decided to stop.  
• I found a couple of shirts and a dress for myself.
• I ran the dryer for a load of towels....not frugal, but I hate stiff towels.
• We're working on using up bits and pieces from the fridge.  Tonight's supper will be fried rice instead of the risotto I had planned.  

Wednesday May 30 

• I baked a cake. 
• We had family over for supper.  I cooked a simple casserole and made a garden salad for the side.

Thursday May 31

• I made crockpot mac and cheese.  Kept the house cooler.  My sister came over to eat with me, and we had a good visit.  
• My daughter picked up our CSA box.
• We attended our watercolor art class and I really enjoyed it.

Friday June 1

• I inventoried the freezer and picked up what few groceries we needed.  

Saturday June 2

• We went to TJ Maxx and I bought a couple of huge floppy summer hats.  Thanks to medication any time I step outside I am frying.  
• I checked out three cookbooks and a book on CD from the library.
• We went to the Town Common and walked.
• Not so frugal, but planned.... special shampoo for my hair.
• We had a quiet family night at home.

That is it.  A relatively quiet and relatively frugal week.

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Plan with Me First Week of June

What’s Cookin’?

Just a sampling of some of the things we’ve cooked over the last week or so.

Easy Crockpot Macaroni and Cheese

This is an easy and quick meal.  The beautiful thing about it for this time of year is that it doesn't heat the house up.  We're already experiencing some humid days and the summer isn't even officially here.

This Week's Veggie Box

Goodwill, Dollar Tree & My Art -- What a Combo!

Things around here seem to be moving along at a pretty even pace.  The days have fallen into a routine of sorts, and I'm slowly feeling more and more like myself.  Patience isn't my best virtue, but I'm getting there.  This is just a quick video of a few things I've been up to -- most of my days are spent doing the routine.  I'm spending a lot of time doing painting and paper crafts.  I dont' seem to be able to really sit and read or crochet.  That is okay.  I'm enjoying what I am doing.

Plan with Me and a Sneak Peek of My Latest Art Projects

Frugal Happenings (May 20 to May 26)

Sunday May 20

• We took my daughter out to get her birthday present.  This was budgeted for, but was still a big ticket item.  She's been asking for an Apple watch for a while, and she is one of those people who truly uses her gadgetry.
• I bought a small package of canvases for a class on Monday.
• We went to Staples and had something laminated (a requirement) and purchased some pens my daughter needed.  We used rewards from returning toner cartridges to pay for the pens.
• While we were out we decided to hit drive thru, but while waiting in line decided to head home and heat up leftovers instead....so at least one frugal win for the day.
• I used the crockpot to cook two meals worth of Greek Lemon Chicken.

Monday May 21

• I had physical therapy and was actually allowed to walk without the walker.  Not frugal, but totally worth the cost!  Thank goodness for insurance helping cover part of the cost is all I can say!
• I attended my art class and was the only person that showed up.  I ended up having a private art lesson for $15.  
• I paid a medical bill online to save on postage.  I am also paying these on our CC and then immediately paying them off.  I'm doing this for tracking purposes for taxes and for the rewards.  (As soon as they hit the statement I pay the CC.)

Tuesday -- Thursday

• I came home feeling miserable with what turned into a full blown migraine.  I was down from about 5:30 Monday night until basically Friday morning.  I did minimal anything so in that respect life was pretty frugal.  I believe my daughter picked up two cartons of eggs for us.  That was the extent of our spending.  Mostly I didn't eat and she fended for herself....from whatever was on hand and whatever was easy.  She did pick up the farm box for me.

Friday May 25

• I had an eye doctor's appointment.  My vision has not returned to normal since that last "spell" and my doctor has ordered more tests.  She is worried I have lost part of my field of vision.  I'll be having tests in June to see if we can figure out what is going on.  For now, I am driving the mile to physical therapy.  I literally go down a parking lot type road from my house to there -- and that is it.  It's limiting, but we feel like it is safest for now.
• We went to the library, and I picked up a couple of refresher course type painting books.

Saturday May 26

• Michaels was offering canvas and a few other painting supplies at prices ranging between 50 and 70% off.  I picked up right many supplies.  I was careful to be selective and even though I felt like I spent a lot, I am set for 6 months on most of my supplies.
• I picked up two glass oil bottles from Bed, Bath and Beyond.  
• I had my hair trimmed, and my daughter had her hair cut and colored.  
• We made homemade pizza.

Ultimately this week was a weird mix of spending and not spending.  Nothing except my big purchase of art supplies wasn't budgeted and planned for.  However, technically even the art supplies have a budget line.  I simply hadn't intended to pick them all up at once.  

YouTube Creator Tag

This just shares a little bit about me and how/why I set up my YouTube channel.

CSA Box Week 5

Dirty Page Brownies Recipe

These are great pantry basics brownies.  They have a good texture for slicing and freezing, which makes them perfect for baking in large batches.

Weekend Shopping for Guests

We’ve had an unusual month of shopping patterns.  A combination of guests coming and going and changes in my cooking habits have had us in and out of the store more frequently than normal.  The end of last week was no exception.  We went from feeding two to three to having six on hand.  I also needed to make two dishes to carry to my sister and brother in law’s get together.

Frugal Happenings Week Week 3 May 18

Sunday

• We ate leftovers for lunch.
• We watched a movie using the Roku/internet.

Monday

• I used a single lingering hamburger bun to make my husband a bacon, egg, and cheese sandwich for breakfast.
• I was able to use an online service to avoid having to go out to pay a bill.
• I baked oatmeal bars using supplies I had on hand.

Tuesday

• I cooked a turkey roast in the crockpot. I reheated leftover rice to go with it, made some gravy using the broth, and sautéed the last of our asparagus.  We had enough leftovers for the next day.  A low energy kind of day.
• My husband was traveling so I cooked him a hearty breakfast before he left and packed him coffee to go.  Far healthier and much more frugal than eating on the road.
• We had popcorn for a snack.

Wednesday

• This was not a no spend day.  We actually shopped at three stores.
• at Michaels we bought supplies for our art class and some small planner supplies for my daughter.  These were bought with a combination of coupons and sales.
• at Marshalls (which is doing a grand opening week) we found my daughter several work appropriate tops.  On Tuesday we went through her wardrobe and determined what we thought she needed to supplement her current summer wardrobe.  We also bought me two pairs of shoes.  One pair of leather loafers that were regularly $65 and on sale for $40 and one pair of black dress sandals that were on sale, but I cannot remember the exact price as I am typing.  All of my summer shoes were either heels or wedges and I don't foresee me wearing them this summer.  I will be keeping my eyes out for one more pair of sandals.
• at Ulta I bought a hair dryer to replace one that died.  I also bought new foundation.  My skin has changed -- I don't know if it is a result of the weather, hormones, or my new medication.  Either way my old foundation isn't working.  The new one I've chosen is more expensive, but I dont have to add a separate SPF so I'm going to go with it for now. I will be keeping my eyes open for any coupons Clinique might offer though.  I also bought eyeliner.  My daughter picked up a bottle of nail polish.
• When we got home we treated ourselves to home pedicures.
• We made a trip to the library (with my husband) in the evening and I checked out some large print mysteries to read.  I also checked out a cookbook to read for inspiration.
• We needed to replace a toilet seat and took advantage of Lowes 10% military discount to reduce the cost slightly.

Thursday

• My daughter and I attended an art class together.  We were able to share most of our supplies helping keep the cost down. 

Friday

• We had a huge weekend planned with family events and out of state guests coming in.  I had physical therapy and some shopping that had to be done.  
• We picked up some items for the weekend.  Going from feeding two to six for a few days requires some adjustments.  We also pulled together some gift baskets for the youngest children, and I bought some crafting supplies.
• By the time we made it home midday I was exhausted.  We put supper in the crockpot.  I did bake a cake -- using a mix and canned frosting from my pantry.  Not my first preference, but everyone enjoyed it.

Saturday

• My contribution to the family dinner was two crockpots of macaroni and cheese. This was the easiest dish for me to make and I really appreciate them letting me do that part.  

We didn't have a low spend week.  Nothing too outrageous and pretty much everything that was spent was on the calendar so we knew it was all coming....no shocks so to speak.  

Plan with Me for the Upcoming Week

How my upcoming week is shaping up and a glimpse at an exchange I am participating in.

An Adorable Visitor and Week 4 CSA Box

Gluten Free Chocolate Chunk Oat Bars Recipe (with "regular" flour directions included)

Chocolate Chunk Oat Bars Recipe

1 cup of Better Batter flour (or all purpose flour if not making gluten free)
1/2 teaspoon of baking soda
1/2 teaspoon of salt
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1 large egg
1 tablespoon water
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cups uncooked old fashioned oats certified gluten free (or not gluten free as desired)
2 cups semisweet chocolate chunks (I like Enjoy Life brand), divided

Preheat oven 375 F.  Grease an 8" square pan and set aside.
In small bowl mix flour, baking soda, and salt. Stir in oats.  Set aside.
In larger bowl, cream sugar and butter.  Add egg, water, and vanilla mixing until well blended.  Stir in flour and oats.  Stir in 1 1/2 cups of chocolates.
Spread dough evenly in the pan.  Sprinkle the last 1/2 cup of chips on top of the bars and press down slightly.  Bake about 30 minutes or until the center feels firm.  Cool on wire rack.

Cut into bars.

Chocolate Chunk Oatmeal Bars

I'm feeling better each day, and I really wanted to get into the kitchen and bake something.  However, I didn't want to do anything that would require me to spend hours in the kitchen.  I decided to try these oatmeal bars from a book we picked up from Goodwill for 25 cents.  It has nothing but cookie recipes.

I altered the recipe to make them gluten free and to make certain they were nut free.

Week 3 CSA Box

Week Planned Out and a High Minded Cat

My daughter gave me a few planner related items for my Mother's Day gift.  I'm loving them.  I'm being extra careful to keep lists of things just in case something slips my mind.  I'm blaming it on medication for now....LOL  It's not horrible, but a list is nice to have around.  Plus we have planned out weeks in advance right many appointments for medical things and having everything written down in one spot really helps me make sure I don't overlap appointments.

I've included some bonus footage of one of our crazy cats.  Ironically my cats that live with me full time never get on my counter or my cabinets.  They occasionally get on the island and as a result I always clean it thoroughly before I use it for cooking.  This cat, who normally stays with my husband, honors no boundaries.

Frugal Happenings Second Week of May

Sunday May 6th

• We had a lingering banana and a scant cup of lingering gluten free Bisquick.  I added a packet of instant oats to buff it up and we ended up with 6 banana oat muffins when it was all said and done.  
• To make sure we are not wasting produce from our CSA box I planned taco salads.  We used ground beef from the freezer, lettuce and tomatoes from our box, and dairy from the stock up.  I was out of premade seasoning so we pulled together our own.  I opened home canned black beans and added a jar of home canned corn -- stirred in a small can of green chilies -- and let it "cook" in the crockpot for adding to the salads.  
• I priced my GF pasta at the local stores online and compared it to Amazon's price.  The Amazon price in bulk was better so I placed an order.  Money spent, but savings in the long run.

Monday May 7th

• My daughter hung clothes to dry.
• I turned the leftover beans and corn from the night before into soup by adding a can of tomatoes and various dehydrated veggies from my pantry.  For protein I chopped up a lone leftover turkey burger from the refrigerator.  
• My daughter and I culled some items in the kitchen to rearrange things for my ease, and I chose two pans that were my grandmama's to pass on to my sister.
• Our old bed frame that I bought second hand for $100 broke.  I shopped around online and had a new one shipped to me for less than renting a truck would be.  We didn’t need new mattresses, etc. I also didn’t need or want a super nice frame.  I have a nice metal frame at our home away from home that is mine.  When we “retire and consolidate to one home” it will come back to our master bedroom.
• My daughter baked a cake using supplies from our pantry.  We sent home part of it with my sister.

Tuesday May 8th

• We continued to use up items on hand.  I used pantry, freezer, and farm box supplies to make a crock pot chicken alfredo.  It was an easy meal.
• We rummaged through my daughter’s backpacks and found one I could use for a temporary purse to carry when using the walker....free and I’m really hoping short term.
• I checked out a large print book from the library.  I’m still having some vision issues, but want to hold off a few more weeks before returning to the eye doctor in hopes that things begin to straighten themselves out.  I picked up two cookbooks.  One was a dud and one was a keeper.

Wednesday May 9th

• I pulled a package of “yellow sticker” ribs from the freezer that had 6 good sized pieces. I put them in the crockpot with some BBQ sauce for a simple meat for supper.  For sides we went with instant potatoes and sautéed asparagus.  Nice and easy.
• My husband came home and we attended a free concert on the town commons.  It took a little more work and effort to get me there, but it was totally worth it.  I needed the normalcy of getting out.  

Thursday May 10th

• I placed my first grocery order using the Walmart pick up app.  I normally like to “see” my groceries, but I felt like the first order of business was to conserve my energy.  I had a few items on my list that we had depleted in our last “use it up” campaign as well as some items we need over the next two weeks.  My son and his family are coming home and while I didn’t need much I had a few items I wanted simply because they will make things easier on me.  
• We picked up our CSA box and we so far have had no waste from them.

Friday May 11th

• I had physical therapy and we went out to run errands. I needed some non slip socks and couldn’t find any. We found some slippers on clearance for $6.  We also bought me a backpack. My daughter’s had these straps that slide all around to be used as a purse, too. It kept tripping me up.  
• While we were out anyway I visited our newly relocated Michaels to pick up a gift, which I cannot share here.  However, I did use coupons to reduce this cost. I picked up a journal insert for my planner.
• We picked up some bread (wheat and gluten free) from Aldi so that I won’t have to bake any this weekend.

Saturday May 12th

• We got up early and pulled supplies from my pantry to make my grandson's requested blueberry pancakes.  
• We picked up an already potted plant to go by the front door (outside).  We were able to use my husband's military discount to get 10% off.  This was easier than trying to manhandle the potting soil, etc.
• We picked up a $5 take and bake pizza from Aldi and served with a salad for lunch.  
• Supper was our crockpot cubed steak.  I ended up only needed 1 1/2 packages so I put 4 slices in the freezer for a second meal.  (I still had enough leftovers for a lunch for one.)
• We baked a pan of brownies using a Dollar Tree box.

All in all I don't think it was a bad week.  We kind of live on a sliding scale and we were within what I consider our safe parameters.  

Trying Walmart’s Pick Up Service

Our son and his family are visiting for the weekend.  They’re combining some time with her family for graduations and Mother’s Day and some time with us.  I knew I would have physical therapy just before they would arrive, and I didn’t know how I would feel by the time they’d get here.  I made the executive decision to try Walmart’s grocery pickup service.

I had some gaps in my pantry and some items I needed for this weekend.  I also picked up some convenience items. Right now my focus is on taking care of what I can do and on healing.  While I am not out to blow the budget, we have decided that making some allowances is well worth it right now.  As always, my philosophy is that even convenience foods at home is less than sending people out to pick up take away.

I was pleasantly surprised with how easy the process was.  I placed my order online and spent just under $175.  A good portion of that being items for the family visit this weekend plus our Mother’s Day breakfast.  I also planned a big meal that included $22 worth of beef, and I bought a turkey roast.  The actual pantry and true “household groceries” really weren’t that horrible.

I checked in on the phone when we left the house and when we arrived they brought the groceries out and loaded them into the car.  I did not have to even get out.  I signed the “reader” in the car, and we came back home.  Everything was exactly as I had ordered, the produce was in excellent shape, etc.  I don’t know that I will use this service all the time, but I will definitely consider it again in the future.

A Sweet Gift (And a Laugh)

5 Ingredient Slow Cooker Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo

Thank you all for the well wishes.  I’m mending.  Never as fast as I want because I am not used to being still, but I am grateful none the less.  I’m relying quite heavily on the crockpot for my meals.  I’m aiming for cooking supper and eating leftovers midday on the next day.  It is a cycle I prefer anyway.  It also works well because I wake up feeling refreshed and at my strongest.  My daughter, who still declines to be on camera, helped me film this one.  It was actually good enough that we will keep sauce hidden in the pantry just for this.  (I’m sure you could easily use homemade sauce and perhaps I’ll test it in the future.)

MIA

It's been a bit of a rough ride around here.  Those of you that have been here for a while know I have had some past medical issues.  Recently I had what I can only refer to as a spell...that resulted in temporary paralysis of my left side, a 3 day stay in the stroke ICU, and a list of prescriptions with names I cannot pronounce.  I'm on the mend though.

May's Groceries

I've done our main shopping for May.  I didn't do a formal menu plan.  Instead, we will be eating from the freezer and planning around our produce boxes.

Our First CSA Box

Yummmmmmm!  And they started a week earlier than we expected.

Canning Split Pea Soup

Sharing a bit of my small batch canning.  I like to cook a family sized recipe and can the excess so I have ready-made soups.  (The recipe is typed out under the video on the YouTube site.)

Motivational Monday -- Untraditional Shopping Sources

We ordered from Amazon Prime Pantry for the first time.  Normally this isn't a source I consider, but with the cost of gas going up and the need for some items for my daughter.....I decided to give it a try.  (We've been back and forth with medical for her stomach and mid-May she has more tests.)  I don't believe this is necessarily more frugal than shopping in a regular grocery store.  However, we could not find the items that are working well for her locally.  I know compared to driving to Raleigh this was the more frugal option.

How My Week is Shaping Up

I used stickers I printed in this week's plan layout.  You can buy large label sheets from an office supply and print your own.  There are tons of free options out there.  These are from Victoria Thatcher.  She has a lot of great collections.

Frugal Happenings for Last Week

Sunday through Wednesday we were in survival mode.  We did eat homecooked meals all for except one meal.  May not sound frugal, but I am counting this one as a win.

Thursday —

• I spent my day cleaning, and  I used up several small bits of cleaners.
• I went to the thrift store and found several items on my list.  Among these were three summer skirts and fabric for two gowns.  (I’ll share those as soon as I get them made.)
• I picked up a 5 ingredient or less cookbook for inspiration.
• We ate from what was on hand and delayed grocery shopping.
• I washed all the heavy bedding to put away.  I did have to dry these, but I hung our regular laundry to dry.
• I went to Michaels and found a planner for 70% off along with some paper and stickers at 50% off.  The planner is on my shelf for next years use.  It won’t matter to me about it not being the latest...and since it is undated I feel fine about saving it.  I’ll use the paper and stickers in my planning as I go along.
• I made a simple cake stand to replace the last one I broke.

Friday —

• I continued my spring cleaning and extra laundry.
• Company that was supposed to come Thursday had their days mixed up and came Friday instead....to coincide with a required trip to town.  I pulled a simple crockpot meal together from my home canned items and served it with cornbread.
• We ate leftovers for supper, watched a movie we already owned, and popped popcorn for our snack.
• I took the lid off of a bottle of face cleanser so I could bang the bottom of the bottle to get the last out — waste not, want not!
• I printed some stickers for my planner.
• I repurposed some items from around the house and added a Pier 1 vase from the thrift store.

Saturday —

• My brother and his family came to visit and while they were here my sister and her husband came over.  We splurged on a family breakfast out....not frugal, but budgeted for and we had fun.
• We finished our spring cleaning and did most of the outside work.  Saves a bundle doing our own.
• I made homemade pizza for supper using on hand supplies.
• We have made it three days without running to the store.  Tomorrow I will have to get milk though.

Updating Decor for less than $5

DIY Cake Stand Using Thrift Store Finds

Chatter

I’m so far behind on my blog reading I don’t know if I will ever catch up.

I spent most of the day doing the neglected housework, and I ran a few errands.  Today was wash the bedding day.  I gave all the heavy blankets one last wash before we pack them away.  It was late, but I think spring is finally here.

I have company coming tomorrow and then again Saturday morning.  I’m trying to decide on a crockpot dish for tomorrow.

My electric bill was down to $154!!!!  Yay....of course, we will go into a/c weather soon.

Operation eat down the freezer hasn’t been a total success because I got stuck away for a while, but nothing new has been added to the freezer so that was good.

And that is it....I survived the last minute chaos so I hope to be back to posting regularly.

5 Ingredient Chicken Chili

Plan with Me -- the last week of tax season

All About Me Tag

This is just a quick getting to know me tag.  I'll be back after the weekend.  The tax deadline is upon us.  Thank goodness!!!!!

$5 Meal Challenge

This was a fun challenge that was right up my alley.  I went with a pressure cooker soup.  Amusingly we like it better this way over the more expensive version.

Monday's Retro Projects Update

A quick update on my projects.  I was able to make the sweater (with enough yarn left for a second vest) for about $12.  The yarn for the blanket was purchased with coupons, but I don't have the receipt in front of me.  

Sometimes Plans go Awry

Chocolate Cake Cook with Me

Gluten free and all purpose flour recipe.  Can be made egg and dairy free.

Frugal Happenings for the First Week of April

In no particular order:

1. We pulled together Easter dinner from what we had on hand -- with the exception of chocolate milk that I needed for the cake.
2. I paid bills online.
3. I repurposed some old baskets rather than looking for new storage.
4. I gave away three pairs of shoes and some kitchen items -- sharing and preventing things going to the dump.
5. We rented a movie from RedBox that I had been debating buying.  I may rent it one more time, but don't feel the need to have it on hand.
6. I downloaded some free sticker printables.
7. We continued to eat from the freezer and the pantry.  However, I did pick up some convenience items for my daughter's lunches.
8. I finished a sweater and an afghan on our long rides.

Canning Spaghetti Sauce

Needs have changed in our house, and I rarely pull out the big stovetop canner anymore.  In this video, I demonstrate some small batch canning using an electric pressure canner.

This is perfect for those of us who find due to arthritis and other issues that lifting and fiddling with the larger canner has become more difficult.

Blueberry Muffin Recipes

The Bisquick blueberry muffins are found here:

https://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/blueberry-muffins/ca00251f-d317-4b55-bdce-d32fa7d8c142


I do not thaw my blueberries.  I add 1 teaspoon of vanilla and 1 teaspoon of orange zest.




The Gluten Free Blueberry Muffins:
by Nicole Hunn https://glutenfreeonashoestring.com/

This recipe is from Gluten Free on a Shoestring and the following is my pithy directions:

Preheat oven to 350F.

Cream together:
1 stick of room temperature butter
2/3 cup of sugar

Add in:
1 large egg
1 teaspoon of vanilla
Beat until fluffy.

Add in:
1/2 cup low fat sour cream
2 medium super ripe bananas, mashed
Mix well.

In separate bowl combine:
1 1/2 cups of gluten free flour
3/4 tsp xanthan gum  (if using Better Batter flour, omit this.)
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt

Mix the flour mixture into the wet ingredients until it becomes thick.  Fold your blueberries in.
Bake at 350F for about 25 minutes or until done.

Blueberry Muffins Two Ways

A quick video using up some frozen blueberries as part of my April plan to clear that freezer.

Plan with Me -- First Week of April

Just a quick plan of how my week is shaping up.  I'm going to be back at our home place with my husband for the week....so things will be a little "shook up."

Baked Spaghetti -- typed recipe

Baked Spaghetti (preheat 350F)

8 ounces of cooked spaghetti noodles, drained
1 egg
1/2 cup of milk
1 to 2 cups of shredded mozzarella
about 4 cups of pasta sauce with your choice of meat and veggies
parmesan cheese for sprinkling on top

Mix egg, milk, 2/3 of mozzarella, and pasta together.  Pour into greased dish.
Top with rest of mozzarella and the parmesan.  Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes.
Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Cook with Me -- Baked Spaghetti

Join me as I cook baked spaghetti as part of a two-part series.  I also make extra to go in the freezer.
Next week I'll share how I canned the extra sauce.

Frugal And Fun Happenings Last Week of March

I always start with the frugal, but how about the not so frugal first this time.  Just to change things up — Haha!

1.  I ran the dryer.  I’m on a time crunch with work and needs must kind of thing.
2.  I ordered a few scrapbooking supplies....low cost as I could, but still an expense.
3.  We had to replace a scanner — never inexpensive.
4.  The coffee pot died.  As in smoking!!!!  We had to replace it.  (I did use some rewards to help with part of the cost.  Then the carafe was broken.  They sent me back more than double what it cost to replace the carafe, which reduced the cost even further.)


On the frugal front:

1.  I have been using Dollar Tree supplies in my planner.  Nice since I am still learning how I want to set it up.
2.  I canned 8 pints of spaghetti sauce.
3.  We did a reasonable job of sticking to our menu.  Not perfect, but not too bad.
4.  I made a clean out the fridge salad to make sure we had zero waste on our veggies.
5.  For Easter dinner, we decided to cook ham steak instead of a ham.  We just don’t need a whole ham.
6.  We packed my daughter’s lunch for the two days she is on campus full time.


On the fun front:  (I feel like fun should be included because life is short!)
1.  We had guests over and spent a fun night just talking.
2.  We caught up on some Murdoch Mysteries.
3.   I worked on a sweater I am knitting for myself.
4. I made great progress on an afghan I am crocheting.

Review of March and April's Goals

I can't believe another month has flown by, and it is already time to review March.

My goals were:

1. Finish the skull shawl.
2. Film one of my grandmama's recipes.
3. Spend a week with my grandson.
4. Rotate spring clothes out and update.  I got rid of a lot in a major purge last fall.
5. Plant flowers to go by the front entrance.
6. Clean out and organize my coat closet.
7. Read one good book that isn't associated with school work -- a pleasure read.
8. Work on a give away.
9. Have a girls' night
10. Catch up on all my correspondence.

I was pleasantly surprised to find I had accomplished most of them.  I'm glad I didn't plant the flowers given our weather.  The book reading -- I feel slack about, but I just had other things I wanted to do.  

Now for April's Goals:

1. Eating down the freezer to empty to clean it out and organize.
2. finish a summer sweater top for myself
3. work on my quilt
4. work on my afghan
5. finish out tax season work without losing my patience
6. try at least one new recipe
7. finally plant those flowers
8. sew myself a summer nightgown
9. make pinto bean burgers
10. make some brownie mixes

It's not a bad list.  I'm not sure if it is too ambitious given that tax season goes until the 17th, but who knows -- maybe I can do it all.