Organizability

Freebies: Week of October 27th, 2008

2008-10-29T08:04:00.000-07:00

Halloween Scapbooking Pages:

Here are some freebies courtesy of DigiFree that would delight any ghoul-get it? Check out their website for more free scrapbooking downloads. Here is just a sampling.

Scare up a free meal!

On October 31st, participating Ryan’s and Old County Buffets will be giving kids in costume a free meal (up to two free kids meals per adult). If you live near a County Buffet or a Hometown Buffet, I would call and see if they are participating since these buffets usually run the same promotions.

Shred Fest!

2008-10-24T08:45:00.000-07:00

Since moving this past week I've come across some paperwork, documents, etc. that have important information on them. Such information needs to be discarded appropriately and for good reason. We all know it takes a while to actually "move in" and since moving I've found there are boxes of information that is no longer needed and needs to be shredded. I called a shredding company last week to get prices on what they charge and what they told me I thought was reasonable, considering the amount of papers and boxes that have been sitting around for um, let's just say years! So while I was glancing through the local newspaper this morning I came across a bank that is having a Shred Fest this Saturday. The most wonderful thing about it is it's FREE. Yes I said free as in don't have to pay a dime to have outdated paperwork turn into garbage, safely. Talk about frugality! Yep, so that's where I'm headed to on Saturday.

3 Things That Need To Be Done Before Moving

2008-10-09T07:09:00.000-07:00

We finally sold our house! Read my post A House For Sale to read about that adventure. Anyway when it comes down to it, there are only a few items that I think really need to be done before moving, besides the changing of addresses, etc.

Pack up the small stuff ahead of time. I started moving the small stuff out of the house way back when I originally moved out. My situation was different though and that helped a whole lot! This would include extra linens, books, etc. Leave the bigger items to be moved out such as beds, dressers, etc. at a later date, the day you actually need to sleep in your new house. Get your drawers and closets cleaned out so that nothing is left behind. I've left "stuff" before in closets that I thought I cleaned out.

Rent a truck, hire some help, or do it yourself. I don't always advocate renting a truck or hiring help but at this juncture of my move, but that may be a possibility this time around. It seems that everyone is busy that I normally could count on. So that means other means. I can't believe that a 30 day time frame has almost come and gone! Maybe I will have to consider renting that truck. Does it come with helpers?

Clean for the next tenants. This may be obvious but I've actually moved into a place before that wasn't ready for us to move in. It was gross! When I moved into another house, not only did I have to clean after the previous owners, but after moving in, I felt like I needed to clean again after we moved in. That was not efficient to say the least. Save this job for the very last, after everything has been moved out.

Freebies: Week of October 6th, 2008

2008-10-08T07:45:00.000-07:00

I found a website called Scrapbookscrapbook.com that has Fall Graphics that you can download for free. These graphics are for scrapbooking pages. You will be 'downloading' a file onto your computer to print as many copies as you want, when you want. You will be asked where you want to put this file. The website suggested that you tell your computer to put the file on your Desktop. It will be easy to find there. The icon will be a PDF file. You just double click on it and the viewer will open. The graphics will be in the graphics viewer. Then just print as usual. This will take a minute or two for the file to come to you from them. So, just go to this website and follow directions on how to download this file. These would make for some simple cute scrapbooking background pages.

The Family That Paintball's Together...

2008-10-06T15:02:00.000-07:00

We've all heard the saying, "The family that plays together, stays together". This also applies to the game of Paintball. While I'm not one for the actual sport of Paintball, I have heard quite a few stories about the games my son and husband have played against others in their group. Here's a shot of my son and husband after a game. I bet you couldn't tell that huh?

Some of the group have included cousins, uncles, and brothers in which they have a great time shooting at each other. Here's a picture of one of the cousin's.

When the "group" gets together, it is usually up in a wooded area. Easier to hide I'm guessing. So here's a picture of a beautiful wooded area in northern Arizona. I would go just to take in the beauty of the forest, but a Paintball game is usually when the guys get together.

It's a wonderful time for family to get together doing an activity that they enjoy. Next time they go, I'm supposed to be taking the pictures. I hope there will be a tree or two wide enough to hide behind so I won't get hit!

October Conference

2008-10-04T11:59:00.000-07:00

For the next two days, Saturday and Sunday, is is about listening to the LDS General Conference in which we get to be inspired, uplifted, and most of all learn as the General Authorities of our church speak to us about important topics. This conference is held in Salt Lake City, Utah in which anyone can watch this via the BYU Channel on television or the internet, or one of the local channels of your television anywhere in the world. This is the activity in which I will be choosing this weekend.

3 Weird Foods I Like To Eat

2008-10-02T16:30:00.000-07:00

When it comes to eating food, there are some strange and interesting food combinations that I rather like. For some reason, these certain combinations taste really good to me. Now don't get grossed out when I tell you what I like to eat together:

Cottage Cheese and potato chips

Now with eating this combination I just use the potato chips in place of the spoon. Weird huh? Yeah, I know. Try it though, you may change your mind.

Apples and peanut butter

This is a really good and somewhat healthy snack. So maybe it's not that strange to some people but it's not what I eat all the time. Sometimes I just have this craving for something healthy...the apple, and something salty...the peanut butter.

Cantaloupe and ice cream

And not just any ice cream. It has to be a scoop of Breyer's Natural Vanilla-the one with the whole vanilla bean thing going for it. I got hooked on this funky combination by a family member. Let's just say they are a bit strange anyway.

See, I told you they were weird. I don't have any pictures for this post mainly so that your imagination can run with it. Just for curiosity's sake, I bet you that you too will try any one of these too. Go ahead, I dare you!

Freebies-Week of September 29th, 2008

2008-10-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

If you want a really cute and quick scrapbook idea for Fall or anytime, head to Smilebox.com. This is a photo sharing scrapbook that is free! You can email your online scrapbook to friends and family, or post it to your blog. Smilebox makes scrapbooking fun and easy! You can also share birthdays, holidays, special occasions, vacations, family time and more in their many wonderful designs. I thought that the Fall season with pictures of Halloween would be a perfect addition to a coffee table. Choose from hundreds of online scrapbook layouts from leading designers. Just add your photos, words, music, even videos, to make an online scrapbook. Scrapbooking just became easier!

Image by smilebox.com

A Salt Solution

2008-09-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

Here's a gardening tip I found at householdhintsandtips.com that can come in hand when dealing with that unwanted grass in sidewalk cracks. So unsightly! The solution is an easy one. Pour a good amount of regular table salt directly on the areas and the grass will eventually die off.

Want To Go To The Petstore?

2008-09-29T14:44:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted for a couple of days...been kinda busy but I had this post in my head. So here's just a small post. This last Saturday for lunch, we went out to eat and while we were sitting there, my grandson turned to my husband with those big brown eyes, out of the blue, and with a tilted head and a big smile said, "Wanna go to the petstore?". The way he said it was so priceless and adorable! He remembered the guinea pigs and puppies "getting a bath". Who could've resisted such a request. I sure couldn't!

Photo by http://freedigitalphoto.net

Frugality At The Mall-With A Toddler!

2008-09-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

You would think that going to a mall would be expense. Well, it can be if you're going to do some shopping on your own and without anyone else. Think toddler!

At my mall, I have found ways to make the mall experience inexpensive and still have a good time while doing so with a toddler in tow. If you have a small child here are some ideas for you and your little one to do at the mall that won't cost you a dime!

Inside the mall there is a play area where kids (usually of the smaller type) can play on various objects such as animals, slides, blocks, etc. While watching the children play and getting their energy out of their little systems, the parents can sit back and relax. It also is helpful to go there with the idea of "wearing them out" just before nap time.

You can taste a sample of a restaurant's food in the food court. They are usually standing by their restaurant enticing people to eat at their restaurant with their tidbits of food. Just go around to each of the restaurants you like, graciously accept the samples and fill up! Never having to buy anything if you don't want.

Then it's off to dessert time. Inside a See's Candy shop, they always have a free sample of mouth-watering chocolates to choose from. Just ask them for a sample. I am usually satisfied with this small bit of chocolate-free, although the aroma makes me want more. Children always want candy too. It's a win-win situation.

And lastly, usually at night, there is a band, a clown presentation, a school group, etc. playing in the courtyard outside that you can listen to for free. Though after the play area, we don't make it to the evening presentations. The toddler I'm with is ready for nap... And so am I!

Photos: http://seescandies.com/

Mothering At A Distance-A Care Package Timeline

2008-09-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

My son has been serving a church mission for the last two years and will be returning home November 7th. So to honor his last days I will be sending him a care package, but not jut any care package, a birthday care package since his birthday is in October. While I'm not a pro by any means, I've sent out a few in my lifetime (having sent out a few to my husband in Taiwan 30 years ago), I do have a thing or two to tell you about the timeline. Thankfully, sending care packages now is much faster than it was 30 years ago.

I usually start with a target date to send, marking that down in my calendar. I then know that I have a certain amount of time to start gathering things or making food items, such as cookies, to put inside the care package.

I like to have a theme. It makes it easier for shopping. For example, this time the care package will be centered around a birthday-his birthday.

Make sure that when you send the care package, to send it so it arrives around the birthday. It would be very sad that something does not arrive near or on a birthday.

So with a birthday theme in mind, this year I've planned on making my son a Rice Krispie Pizza. I saw this recipe and thought that he would love it. One thing I need to do is find some cardboard that is round, or make it myself.

Then I will need to buy the "pizza toppings" , aka candy, and the other ingredients. I will look for sales about a week prior to this so that I can maximize my money. I know that sending a care package is not cheap, but definitely worth it!

About a day before I get ready to send the care package, I will make the Rice Krispie Pizza. After refrigerating the "pizza", the next day I will prepare it for packing. Add more fun items if you want. I will add a birthday card as well.

The last thing I will do is go to either a UPS store or another shipping facility and send the care package, and pray that is makes it to its destination on time, and in tact. I get a tracking number so that I can at least know when it has arrived and not have to hold my breath one day more. UPS guy...the clock is ticking!

I will take a picture of the results the night before I pack this Rice Krispie Birthday Pizza so you'll know how it turned out. I will post it on one of my recipe posting days. Stay tuned...

Photo: http://freedigitalphotos.net/

Freebies As Of 09-22-08

2008-09-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

Here are some freebies I've found this week:

Mobile Cell Phone Strap:

Ringtone Hall is offering for a limited time only their $3.99 Mobile Cell Phone Strap free of charge. Click HERE to request a free Ringtone Hall Cell Phone Strap. I thought this was cute so I requested one for a Christmas gift.

Home Made Simple Coupon Book:

Click Here for you free Home Made Simple Coupon Book with Over $27 in Savings + Sign up for the Home Made Simple® newsletter and find out about special offers, samples, coupons and sweepstakes.

Free Tote Bag:

Cost Plus World Market has a tote bag - Click Here Print out the coupon and take it to any Cost Plus World Market store to receive a Free cotton tote bag.

Free Pizza:

On Friday, Sept 26th, 2008 at participating Peter Piper locations, sample Gourmet Pizza while your kids eat their cheese/pepperoni pizza. Go to http://www.peterpiperpizza.com/ for your invitation. Enjoy.....

Decorating With Gourds

2008-09-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

When I think of Fall, I think of its warm rich colors of red, orange, yellow and brown. It's no mystery where the classic earthy colors of the season come from; just look out the window at the natural world around you. Leaves are changing color to intense reds, oranges and yellows become vivid, to more subdued browns.

The produce of the season crops up in all kinds of rich tones as well; the deep orange of the pumpkin, lively apple reds and greens, gourds and squash in all sorts of shades and patterns of deep greens and buttery neutrals. Go to any farmer's market and you'll find decorative Indian corn with its pale yellow and dark red, brown, and black kernels. Simply adding a variety of any of these items to the interior as well as the exterior of your home will immediately give it a splash of Fall.

Wicker or paper mache cornucopias are just a couple of items that may be used for decorations around the home as well. Some of these even look like the real thing! You can group them in three's of varying sizes or simply place one here and there around the house for a splash of color. You can find real gourds at the grocery store or at a vegetable/farmer's market. The decoration possibilities are endless.

Let’s not forget the pumpkin. It is a kind of gourd but more traditional. Pumpkins are, perhaps, the stars of Fall decor with their orange flair. Here are some ideas: Simply adding various sizes of pumpkins to a window sill can provide seasonal appeal. From jack-o-lanterns to hollowed-out pumpkins filled with potpourri, pumpkins are a simple way to add Autumn accents to any room of the home as well as the patio and porch. Trade your regular planters for a few iron plant cages; fill them with small pumpkins and colorful ornamental gourds for a great new look beside the front door.

Put large pumpkins in flower beds or along side them. Buy more than 1 pumpkin and arrange them along the driveway or around the front porch. You don't have to carve them, just place them outside. Why not “plant” your Fall flowers in a pumpkin? Just clean out the pumpkin, place a potted Fall flower arrangement inside the pumpkin. This looks so cute.

Any way you choose to use your gourd, they are sure to add that touch of Fall to your outside decorations as well as for your inside decor.

Image of gourds:
url:http://www.umassvegetable.org/images/soils_crops_pest_mgt/crop/pumpkin1.jpg

Image of pumpkin:
FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Wait, How Much?

2008-09-22T09:44:00.000-07:00

There are things that can be done to entertain the little ones. Some can be activities that don't cost anything to activities and events that can be costly. Such is the last statement this weekend. While it didn't hardly cost much to get in, I would say it was made up around lunch time. There was a kids fair in which my daughter and I took my grandson Jameson to. We arrived right at the opening of the doors to the coliseum.

There were vendors selling their wares at booths and booths to promote the good of the community such as child protection. Jameson spotted a booth that he wanted to check out. Here he is inside jumping around with other kids until we decided that kids would enevitably get hurt 'cause there were too many of them at one time. That's him in the plaid shorts.

While there were many, many booths to see, way at the back of the coliseum were carnival rides. Jameson spotted a ride that he really wanted to go on. The Airplanes. So I stood in line to purchase additional tickets for that one plus I got more for any other he spotted. He was so proud of himself "flying" that big ole' plane!

I had only enough tickets for 1 more ride for him to go on, by himself, 'cause that would've cost more, believe me! So we waited and waited in that line what seemed like an hour, until it was time for Jameson to ride the swings. He was so cute on them wasn't he?

After lunch (I guess you could call it that) consisting of a hot dog each,which was outrageously priced, and a small drink each, I figured out that I just spent equivalent to the price of admission just for lunch. No frugality here. I had forgotten how ridiculously overpriced food was at public places. Yikes! Next time, we'll sneak in our own lunch and drinks.

After a few hours and a much needed nap, we finally were heading towards the exit when Jameson discovered Cookie Monster. Now who could resist a cute picture with a Sesame Street character to tease him with when he's 16? I had to get it. So darn cute I tell you!

After trekking our way back to our car with a few weary family members, no longer had we been out of the parking lot and we looked back in his car seat and he was out! Out as in asleep! Fighting the crowds, a 2 1/2 year old, and let's just say lack of decent food, I was ready to be knocked out as well. Even though I had spent more than I had anticipated, it made up for it 'cause I think that Jameson had more fun that his Mom and I put together. Way more!!

Cherry Chicken Lettuce Wraps

2008-09-21T12:27:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness! I've found a recipe from Safeway that I want to try. This teriyaki chicken recipe never had it so good. Go ahead, you know you also want to try it.

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons canola oil
1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger root
1 1/4 pounds skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into bite size pieces
2 tablespoons rice vinegar
2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 pound dark sweet cherries, pitted and halved
1 1/2 cups shredded carrots
1/2 cup chopped green onion
1/3 cup toasted and sliced almonds
12 leaves of lettuce

Directions:

Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add ginger and chicken and saute until cooked through, about 7 to 10 minutes. Set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk together remaining 1 tablespoon oil, vinegar, teriyaki sauce and honey until mixed together. Add chicken mixture, cherries, carrot, green onion and almonds; toss together.

Serve by spooning a little of the chicken/cherry mixture onto the center of each lettuce leaf; roll up leaf around filling and serve.

Prep Time: 15 Minutes
Cook Time: 10 Minutes

Serves: 6

How I Made $250 In Less Than 30 Minutes

2008-09-19T18:45:00.000-07:00

The other day, I noticed an advertisement in the paper about a new bank that just opened up in the neighborhood. They were giving away free money just to open up a checking account. On top of that, with each and every service attached to that account, the bank will deposit $25 extra dollars into that account. That was a deal that was too good to pass up.

I quickly went down and proceeded with the opening of my account. I put $25 in to start it ( I would have put it into the family account anyway, might as well put it to good use and get a return on that money).

I have the intention of taking that money that the bank will deposit and using it to help out with Christmas this year. I have to keep that in there for 90 days, exactly 2 weeks before Christmas, which works out perfect! I then can cancel after that.

After receiving my new checkbook, I only spent about 30 minutes inside the bank. I left knowing that I've got a great return on my own money I deposited. I feel a little more at ease with the struggling economy in knowing that I will have at least $250 to spend this Christmas.

Now that's how I made $250 in less than 30 minutes. Now that's a nice chunk of change.

Photo by FreeDigitalPhotos.net

3 Ways to Use Apples

2008-09-18T07:35:00.000-07:00

We've all heard how an "apple a day keeps the doctor away", well, with the arrival of apple season, it's hard to stick to the one-a-day rule. Having had my apple cravings this month, here are three ways I've come across to use apples.

Use in Food:

Apple pie comes to mind. Need I say more?

Also Caramel Apples are a favorite this time of year. These are one of my favorites. Yum!!

Use in Activities:

Bobbing for apples can be a fun activity especially around Halloween. Take a bunch of apples and place in a container full of water. Without using your hands try and get an apple out of the container. This is a fun activity!

Have a Johnny Appleseed Birthday Party (born 9/26/1774) with apple snacks, such as applesauce, apple slices, dried apple rings, apple cookies, apple cake, apple pie, apple juice. Consider going to an orchard and picking your own apples then making your own treats. Plant some apple seeds and observe.

Make applesauce with the kids. Children can use plastic knives to chop up the apples. They will love this.

Make prints, cards or wrapping paper. Turn apples into decorative stamps by slicing the fruit horizontally, exposing the inside star shape. Or create more elaborate designs -- hearts, moons, Hitchcock's profile -- with a small knife. Then stick a fork in the rounded side of the fruit, dip it in paint and press the stamp on paper. Sounds fun!

Use in Beauty:

Whip up a facial mask. Treat your skin to an apple mask.

Combine one grated apple with honey, smooth the mixture on your face, then rinse it off after 10 minutes. For a pastier consistency, add some uncooked oatmeal.

Photos: courtesy by cardcow.com and kaboose.com

National Coupon Month

2008-09-17T11:10:00.000-07:00

September is National Coupon Month.

Clipping and organizing coupons for as little as 20 minutes per week can save 20% off your grocery bill. Over the course of a year, this can add up -- with $1000 extra dollars in your pocket you can off-set rising food and gasoline prices.

Here are some interesting 2007 coupon facts according to the PMA Coupon Council:

89% of the United States population uses coupons.
Shoppers saved approximately $2.6 billion last year by using coupons.
The typical coupon was worth $1.25 savings in 2007.
Coupon users report an average of 7% savings on their grocery bill with coupons.
The typical family saves between $5.20 and $9.60 per week using coupons.
Manufacturers offered more than approximately $350 billion in coupon savings in 2007.

Since January, I've been tracking my grocery spending totals. I've spent over $3,000 on groceries and saved just under $2,000. That's a savings of 61%. If you break it down even further, that's spending only $83.00 per week for just 2 people. Can't beat that kind of savings!

Don't make just September be National Coupon Month. You can have that kind of savings last all year long!

70+ Uses For Vinegar

2008-09-16T19:05:00.000-07:00

Did you know that there are over 70 uses for vinegar besides cooking? Yes, the vinegar that we all have in our cupboards. Along with using vinegar for cleaning or cooking, I will point out a few under each category, sparing you the other 65+ for now.

For Cleaning:

Cleans glass- Mixed with water or simply sprayed full-strength on glass and mirrors, vinegar does a great job quickly and easily. Simply wipe windows dry with crumpled-up newspapers . Your windows sparkle!

Clean and deodorize a garbage disposal -Make vinegar ice cubes and feed them down the disposal. After grinding, run cold water through. Vinegar ice cubes? Be careful not to offer your guests a drink with those ice cubes.

For Hair and Bath:

Cracked, dry skin- Smooth a little vinegar on dried skin to help it heal.

Bathwater-Add ½ cup of vinegar or so to warm bath water when bathing and get double benefits... softer skin and a cleaner bathtub with less work!

For Food and Cooking:

Fluffier meringues- Add 1 teaspoon vinegar for every three egg whites and you'll have fluffier meringues.

Boiling eggs -Add a bit of white vinegar to the water you're boiling your eggs in, and the shells won't crack.

For Gardening and Yard:

Kills grass-Undiluted vinegar will kill grass between bricks and sidewalk cracks.

Keep cats away- Sprinkle vinegar on areas you don't want the cat walking, sleeping, or scratching on. This one would be interesting.

For Health:

Mosquito bites- Use a cotton ball to dab mosquito and other bug bites with Heinz Vinegar straight from the bottle.

Sinus infections and head colds- Add 1/4 cup or more vinegar to the vaporizer.

For Pets:

Fish bowl cleaner- Eliminate that ugly deposit in the gold fish tank by rubbing it with a cloth dipped in vinegar and rinsing well.

Pet's drinking water- Add a teaspoon of vinegar to your pet's drinking water to encourage a shinier coat, and reduce odor. Haven't tried this one for fear of the cat killing over.

A Partnership With Nature

2008-09-15T15:18:00.000-07:00

When a man plants a seed, nature proceeds to complete the work. So as a seed is dropped into the soil, if often lies for a long time. But with a dose of water, sunshine, and soil, the seed sprouts and pushes forward into the maturity it was meant to be. So it is with our children. When we raise them to hopefully become respectable, mature adults, with love and respect, in essence we've planted that seed.

And so it is with nature ...

These are my small bell peppers that are just now maturing after about 4 months. They've been through a lot with the Arizona summer, the monsoon season, and not to mention getting hit with a ball. They've seamed to be pulling through unscathed.

Autumn Casserole

2008-09-14T17:44:00.000-07:00

I'm starting to gather up recipes for the upcoming holiday seasons and came across this Fall recipe from Taste of Home. Instead of making this for a holiday, I thought it looked delicious to make anytime of the year. Can you tell from Saturday's post about the Autumn Handprint Wreath that I'm awaiting the arrival of Fall?

Ingredients:

3 cups sliced unpeeled tart apples
3 cups sliced carrots, cooked
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon butter
3/4 cup orange juice

Directions:

Place half the apples in a greased 2-qt. baking dish. Cover with half the carrots.

In a bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, cinnamon and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly; sprinkle half over apples and carrots. Repeat layers. Pour orange juice over all.

Bake uncovered at 350° for 30-35 minutes.

Yield: 6 servings.

Autumn Handprint Wreath

2008-09-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

I was looking for an activity to do with my grandson to keep him entertained this weekend and came across this one by DLTK.com. I think I may have found the perfect age appropriate activity. It's one that is sure to be a hit.

Materials needed:

glue
scissors
yellow, orange, and red construction paper.

Directions:

There are two ways to do this craft.

Ttrace the child's hand onto paper and cut out the prints

Make paint handprints on the paper and cut those out.

Make nine handprints (3 of each color). Cut out the prints and glue to form a wreath.

You can decorate the wreath further with pictures (like leaves, pumpkins or corn, or candy corn). Some of these decorations can be stickers, hand drawn artwork by the children, pictures from coloring books or magazines.

Frugal Grocery Shopping Tips

2008-09-12T08:31:00.000-07:00

When shopping for groceries or for other items, there are a few tips that you should remember:

Avoid buying non-food items such as detergent, toothpaste, shampoo, napkins, and facial tissues at the grocery store, unless there is a really good deal. Usually you can get these items much cheaper at your discount or warehouse stores.

Always do your grocery shopping alone. Keep the husband and the kids home. This way you will spend less money.

If you have storage space, stock up on staples when they are on sale. You can then "shop" in your own "general store" when you run out.

Plan your meals in advance and try not to go to the grocery store without a shopping list.

Don't trust the register scanners at the check-outs. They have been known to make mistakes. Trust me, I know. When possible, know the price of what you're buying, and watch it scan.

You can also save money on mileage as well as your time by picking one day a week to do all of your shopping. You can plan out your most gas saving route by doing this.

Photo by grocerylists.org

5 Things To Do With A Library Card-Check It Out

2008-09-11T06:48:00.000-07:00

Celebrate September by signing up for a free library card. September is National Library Card Sign Up Month. What better way to celebrate libraries than to do just that? There are many things you can do with your own library card. Take a look below.

Check out books:

This month has been an interesting one with the hurricanes and the presidential campaigning underway. If this is what you want to learn about, look for books about weather or hurricanes. If you want to learn about Government at the local and national levels, why not check out a book about just that. There are so many books to read and just as many subjects to learn about. If you're anything like me, I could spend hours in a library just wandering through the vast aisles of information.

Activities:

A public library has activities for the very young up to the elderly alike. Some of the these activities include baby storytimes, toddler and school-aged programs. There are game nights, crafts that you can do with your children or for yourself, films to watch, and musical performance groups to listen to. Check with your local library to view their activities for the month.

Computer Access:

Having access to a computer can be valuable if you don't have one at home. Children can do their homework at the library and if they need to look for reference books, etc., they can do so right there without having to drive back to the library. Adults too can have access to a computer at the library.

Movies & DVD's:

Have you every watched a movie or DVD from your local library? You can while saving money at the same time. It doesn't cost anything to check out any movies or DVD's. They usually have quite a selection to choose from. Think of all the money you saved instead of renting them from a nationally recognized store.

Workshops & Lectures:

Learning something new is always a good thing, even presented at the library. There are local and sometimes even national speakers that you can listen to for free. These classes are educational and informative as well. There are book discussion groups and also, book authors sometimes have book signings at the library.

So take the time this month to sign up for your library card if you havent' done so. Take advantage of this wonderful service that is provided to you. You never know what you might read, watch, have fun doing, or listen to. You might even learn something. Check it out!

Freebies: Week of September 8th, 2008

2008-09-10T09:39:00.000-07:00

Here's a couple of freebies that I've found for this week.

Buddy Brush Coloring Book

There is a Milk Matters campaign going on designed to teach parents, children, and the health care providers about the importance of calcium for children and teens. It is a 14-page coloring book for children ages 4-8 explaining why calcium is critical not only to good health, but also to healthy teeth, through the eyes (or bristles) of Buddy Brush. It outlines how to take good care of your teeth. Go this this website to order: www.nichd.nih.gov/publication. If you have any questions about publications, or if you need to order quantities greater than the online order limits will allow, please contact the NICHD Information Resource Center at:

Phone: 1-800-370-2943TTY: 1-888-320-6942Fax: (866) 760-5947Mail: P.O. Box 3006, Rockville, MD 20847E-mail: NICHDInformationResourceCenter@mail.nih.gov

Quaker Simple Harvest Granola Bars

Simple and easy. Just fill out your name and address and a free sample will be mailed to you, while supplies last. Go to this website: www.startsampling.com. to look for these delicious granola bars for the Fall.

Another Use for Dove Candy

2008-09-09T09:27:00.000-07:00

The other day I was looking for something chocolate to go over my ice cream. And we all know ladies, that chocolate is a craving that will not go away! I proceeded to find the chocolate syrup that I thought I had in the house. I was out! It was Sunday and I didn't want to go to the store so the only alternative was to make it myself out of something else. But what? I saw that I had a bag of Dove chocolate candy and went to work.

I opened up all of the chocolate pieces and put them in a bowl so that I could melt them in the microwave for about 1 minute, stirring until melted. That'll do the trick! It worked. Yeah...

After all the chocolates have melted, I drizzled it over my ice cream. Oh my goodness, gracious me!! It was sooo delicious! Because the chocolate was now this hot and yummy sweetness, it became hardened and crackled almost instantly when drizzled on the cold ice cream. It's amazing what you can come up with in a chocolate emergency plus also without spending more money at the store.

PC Family Management

2008-09-08T15:14:00.000-07:00

Do you know where each of your family members needs to be at a certain time each day, every day? If not you suffer from a case of famnesia. I found a website called Cozi.com that will take care of all the little details of life for free! It's designed especially for busy families to be accessed from any PC or mobile phone anywhere, anytime, and the best part is - it's free!

Keep track of everyone’s appointments in one place. Color-coded by family member, you can look at an individual’s page or get a quick overview of what the whole family is up to with the calendar feature.

Say goodbye to pieces of paper laying around the house or sticky notes stuck everywhere and say hello to this nifty feature. Organize your grocery lists, shopping lists, to-dos, and more. Even paste ingredients from online recipes to streamline your family meal planning. Need to stop by the grocery store on your way home? This will keep your shopping list handy.

Do you have all those digital photos piling up on your PC? There is a featured screen saver download to keep track of your pictures. It even has appointment reminders built in. What could be more practical and easy?

So check out Cozi.com to learn more. I wish that this was around when I was raising my children 'cause I was the one who had all the sticky notes and piles of lists laying around. Was mind you. Not good back then.

Walnut-Crusted Tilapia With Maple Sauce

2008-09-07T12:21:00.000-07:00

I guess the Fall season is upon us because for some reason I have had a craving for all things maple-flavored or apple-flavored. I found a recipe this week that has can satisfy at least my maple craving. With this recipe it calls for Tilapia, but I have Bass in the freezer from when my husband went fishing a while back. So I will use that instead of Tilapia, even though he says that they are basically the same flavor. This sounds divine!

Ingredients:

1 egg

1/4 cup chopped walnuts

2 tablespoons dry bread crumbs

2 tilapia fillets (or bass fish) about 6 ounces each, thawed, if frozen

1 tablespoon pure maple syrup

1 tablespoon butter, melted

Directions:

Heat oven to 450 degrees. Grease a small baking sheet. Beat egg in a shallow bowl. Place walnuts in a resealable plastic bag, seal and use something heavy to finely crush walnuts. Empty nuts onto a plate, add bread crumbs and stir to combine. Rinse and pat dry fish fillets. Dip fish in beaten egg, coat with walnut mixture and place on greased baking sheet. Bake 10 minutes. Meanwhile, combine syrup and melted butter. Drizzle over fish before serving.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Photo courtesy by AZCentral.com

Saturday Night At the Park

2008-09-06T20:50:00.000-07:00

Having spent the day with my grandson and my daughter, doing the usual thing when she comes over like going to the mall, it was kind of nice to just go to the neighborhood school playground near the end of the day. The mall is starting to get a little boring every weekend, although my grandson likes to play in the play area. We arrived at the playground just before dark so as to not be too warm outside. I just couldn't resist some cute pictures of him playing. Above is a picture of him and my daughter swinging.

This picture shows a true kid at heart. Can you tell which one? My husband and grandson were going to go down a big slide before this one was taken.

My grandson thinks he is just as big and wanted to go down the big slide by himself. I thought that this picture was the cutest!

It is always fun going to the local playground and watch my grandson play and have fun. I can think of no other activity that is both cheap and entertaining and that he likes to do.

Used Book Stores

2008-09-05T13:59:00.001-07:00

Do you love to read but can't stand to pay full price for new book? Try a used book store. Not only can you buy books, CD's, DVD's, magazines, comic books, etc., you can even sell your used items to them. That's right. Need some extra cash? I went around the house and gathered up books that I no longer need or want, dusted them off, went to a used bookstore to have them buy them from me and voila! Instant cash! Now mind you , it's not all that much but enough, say maybe... lunch with the hubby or for some other use...another book? We all know that we can always find uses for extra cash. There's always some treasure when I shop at a used book store. Selling to them can be addicting too. Try it, you may get hooked!

Reasons to Celebrate Grandparents Day

2008-09-04T12:05:00.000-07:00

There is a day celebrated every year called Grandparents Day. It is an annual observance that honors grandparents and other seniors, seeking to strengthen relationships between the generations. I don't have any living Grandparents anymore but I will try and honor them by remembering them and the heritage they left. They have a lot to offer us and we can learn from them. Below is the history about Grandparents Day and ways to honor them:

When is Grandparents Day?

Grandparents Day is celebrated each year on the first Sunday after Labor Day, although the specific day changes from year to year. This year it is on September 7th, 2008.

How did Grandparents Day begin?

It began in 1970 by Marian Lucille Herndon McQuade, a mother of 15 children as a way to honor her Grandparents. After much campaigning and attracting the support of businesses, churches and political leaders, National Grandparents Day was created by then President Jimmy Carter in 1978, after passing Congress.

Why was Grandparents Day created?

According to an excerpt from the National Grandparents Day Proclamation:
"As we seek to strengthen the enduring values of the family, it is appropriate that we honor our grandparents. They are our continuing tie to the near, the past, to the events and beliefs and experiences that so strongly affect our lives and the world around us...our senior generation also provides our society a link to our national heritage and traditions."

What is the purpose of Grandparents Day?

To honor our grandparents
To give grandparents an opportunity to show love for their children's children.
To help children become aware of the strength, information, and guidance elderly people can offer.

What ways can you honor your Grandparents?

You can show them your love by visiting them wherever they may be. In nursing homes, their own homes, putting flowers on their grave site, reading their journals, reading family histories, just spending time talking to them, writing them a special note or letter, or buying them a special gift. Also family reunions are a great way to remember our Grandparents. Our family will be doing this not on Grandparents Day but in November when most of us can be together at one time. There is a website I've found for buying special gifts. It is at personalizationmall.com . We all need to remember where we came from and honor our Grandparents in our own special way.

Freebies-Week of September 1st, 2008

2008-09-03T10:04:00.000-07:00

Here are some items I've found free for this week:

In All Things Scrapbooking.com, a featured artist, Lucie B. is giving away a beautiful scrapbooking page called Summer In Monet's Garden. You can download it for free! Above is a sample of what it looks like.

Participating FTD Florists are celebrating Good Neighbor Day on Sept. 3rd by giving out free flowers. You can read more about this Freebie Event at "Deal"ectible Mommies.

When you enter Dress for the Sevens Sweeps you will receive a sample of Tide Total Care from P&G. Thanks goes to Mommy Helper for sharing this sample. When a sweeps offers a free sample just for entering, I think it's worth taking the time to fill out an entry, don't you? You should receive your sample in 6 to 8 weeks.

Walmart is offering a new sample of John Frieda Luxurious Volume hair care products. It sounds like the sample is for the Full Splendor shampoo and conditioner, and includes a coupon for a Luxurious Volume product. Enjoy trying your new hair care products!

Many Uses For...

2008-09-02T07:30:00.000-07:00

I found some interesting items around the house that can be used for other uses besides what they were intended for. For example, did you know that there are a million (well, maybe not a million) uses for baby wipes? Check out my other finds.

Baby wipes have their typical use but did you know that they are especially good for carpet stains? Rub a baby wipe on a stain and see the results!

How about Kool Aid? Kool Aid can be used as a dye in paint. You can also put Kool Aid in some plain yogurt and make finger paint with your kids. Swirl in different flavors. Use a cookie sheet to let them experiment with this new paint. Your kids will love it! I think I'll have to try this one with my grandson.

Kool Aid also can be used to make a tie dyed t-shirt. Cool huh? Just mix a solution of Kool Aid in a container, tie a rubber band around a section of the t-shirt and soak until it is the shade you want.

Toothpaste can be used to fill nail holes in walls instead of using the expensive wall patch. I've tried it and it works.

How about body paint made out of Crisco? Crisco mixed with food coloring can be used as body paint. Who knew? Heat the Crisco in the microwave (be very careful here), pour into an empty container (a film container works good) and mix with the food color your choice. Let this cool down. I'm thinking this could be used for Halloween face painting.

Broken crayons can be recycled into fun different shapes by sorting by color, melting in an old can, then pouring into molds that come with Jello gigglers. Then kids have new crayons in all sorts of shapes. How fun is that?

And speaking of old crayons. Why not make a crayon suncatcher? Just use a pencil sharpener and shave crayons onto a sheet of wax paper. Fold the wax paper in half, covering all the shavings. Press with a warm iron until the crayon shavings melt. You can cut the wax paper into a shape when cool, then thread string through the top of the wax paper and hang in a window. If I can remember doing this in grade school (and that has been ions ago), imagine what your kids will remember if you do this with them at home.

Raspberry No-Bake Cupcakes

2008-09-01T09:49:00.000-07:00

While I was searching for a dessert recipe I came across one that just simply looked heavenly! The directions for this are very simple and it looks like this would be fun to make as well. These are like mini no-bake cheesecakes. A delightful favorite with everyone. This would make a wonderful ending to a long hot summer!

INGREDIENTS:
3/4 cup graham cracker crumbs
1/4 cup chopped pecans
3 tablespoons butter, melted
3/4 cup fresh raspberries, crushed
1/2 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
10 1/2 fluid ounces sweetened condensed milk
1 cup frozen whipped topping, thawed

DIRECTIONS:
Line a 12 cup muffin pan with paper cup liners. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, crushed pecans and melted margarine, mixing well to blend. Spoon mixture evenly into a 12 cup muffin pan lined with paper cup liners. Press mixture with a spoon to firm bottom. Puree raspberries and set aside.

Beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add condensed milk and 1/2 cup of the raspberry puree and mix until well blended. Fold in whipped topping.

Spoon evenly into baking cups. Freeze for at least 5 hours. When ready to serve, remove paper liners. Invert cakes onto individual serving plates. Drizzle remaining raspberry puree over cakes. Garnish with a few whole raspberries. Serve frozen.

Frozen raspberries can also be used. When thawed, drain some of liquid and use in the raspberry puree.

Prep time: 15 minutes

Ready in: 5 hours/15 minutes

Makes: 12 cupcakes

Photo by: Muffinmom

Boyce Thompson State Park

2008-08-30T10:15:00.000-07:00

While looking at pictures this morning, I had forgotten about this little spur-of-the-moment activity my husband and I did. About three years ago this week, we took our son up to his first year of college at Eastern Arizona College. My time flies! Anyway, on the way back down to the valley, my husband had this hair-brained idea to suddenly stop off at the Boyce Thompson Arboretum State Park which is located near the historic copper mining town of Superior, roughly about 55 miles east of Phoenix. I wasn't happy about going there after helping move my son into his dorm(I was tired)and mainly 'cause it was really hot and humid out. Oh well, he won out. While we've never been there it actually was a nice experience to take our own personal tour without tour guides despite almost dying of thirst and killing over! The area was peaceful and quiet with beautiful plants, flowers and trees. So here's some pictures that we took while we were there.

Above is a picture of me on a bridge crossing a dry creek (how I wish there was water in it, I would have jumped in). Above on my main page there is a picture of some of the trees in the Arboretum. They were absolutely beautiful! To the right is a picture of my husband in the Cactus Garden. With a living collection of over 800 kinds of cacti, the Arboretum has become a center for the study of this family of desert plants. Most of the 800 species are displayed in the Cactus Garden. No, we didn't tour all of the 800 species thank goodness. Cacti are inseparably linked with the Sonoran Desert landscape; their many sizes and bizarre shapes may go far beyond our mental image of a typical cactus. There are skyscraper saguaros; paddle-shaped prickly pears; twisted, tree-like chollas; diminutive pincushions; globular barrels; and squat, branched hedgehogs. The Boyce Thompson hedgehog cactus was first identified at the Arboretum.

Now that I look back on these pictures, I'm glad that we did go to the Arboretum because in reality, we probably wouldn't have come here otherwise. If you want more information on this beautiful state park click here: arboretum.ag.arizona.edu

A Recipe For A Perfect Day

2008-08-28T17:10:00.000-07:00

I was reading a section today out of a book titled "How To Help Your Missionary" by Raymond E. Beckham about having a perfect day. All of us experience days where everything was perfect, life went well, life was wonderful. Those days stand out in our minds. Here's a bakers dozen of basic ingredients that will guarantee a perfect day, every day, if they are applied. While my son is serving a church mission, these "ingredients" can be applied to everyone in our everyday lives, no matter what your religion or beliefs. That is why I tweaked this a little.

Today I will adjust myself to what is and not try to adjust everything to my own desires. I will take my challenges and adjust myself accordingly.

Today I will strengthen my mind. I will study or read as I have time for. I will learn something new and useful.

Today I will solve today's problems and will not tackle my whole life's problems at once or worry about those of yesterday. Good one!

Today I will be happy. Abraham Lincoln once said, "Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be." I will make up my mind to be happy and will not let anything interfere with it.

Today I will take care of my body. I will exercise it, care for it, nourish it, and I will not abuse or neglect it.

Today I will exercise my soul in three ways: I will do somebody a good turn and not let him know about it; I will do at least two things I do not want to do but that I should do; and I will not show anyone that my feelings are hurt.

Today I will be agreeable. I will look as nice as I can, dress as smartly as possible, talk low, act courteously, be flattering to others, criticize no one and find fault with no one.

Today I will have a plan and will follow it. I will set down realistic goals and priorities, and I will accomplish every one of them.

Today I will spend a few moments in meditation and will pray at least morning and night.

Today I will be unafraid. I will have courage as I go about my activities.

Today I will forget myself and will do things for others. I will enjoy the spirit of sacrifice and service.

Today I will have a positive mental attitude. I will not be discouraged. I will look for the good in everything and goodness rather than be a reflection of the moods of others.

Photo by FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Freebies-Week of August 25th

2008-08-27T14:12:00.000-07:00

They say some things in life are free. I found a website that proves just that. Everything from entertainment to financial planning to junk mail control. We all need that now don't we? It's called Kiplinger.com and they have 30 absolutely free goods and services that they found that don't cost a thing! Just click on the Fabulous Freebies 2008 slideshow to see what's free!

Plus on Labor Day, September 1st, anyone that comes into any Chick-Fil-A store wearing anything related to football will receive a three piece chicken strip for free. So grab your favorite football team's hat and head on over to Chick–Fil-A. To find out more details go to their website http://www.cheerforchicken.com/.

My Birthday Kitchen Guests

2008-08-26T10:49:00.000-07:00

With today being my birthday(I've been counting backwards since 30), I decided that I wanted to do something special for ME. I turned on the television and Martha Stewart just happened to be making goat cheese with one of her guests. I wanted to make SOMETHING from the kitchen too, but not goat cheese. I decided I was going to make a cake, except in my kitchen MY guest was Betty Crocker with special guest appearance by Duncan Hines. Yup, that'll do the trick. And with that being said, I quickly went to work.

Make sure you have all the necessary ingredients that the recipe calls for. I did and I didn't have to run to the store. Yeah!

Plan enough time for the cake to bake before you frost it. Leave it on the counter to cool-down.

Tell others in the house that this cake is off limits, until I cut it of course.

There, now I've had my Martha-esque cooking moment without all the hassle of cooking a cake from scratch! Now that's what I call sweet!

A Summer Night's Dream

2008-08-25T21:52:00.001-07:00

There's nothing like an Arizona summer storm to listen to just before going to bed. I usually listen to a soothing massage CD to put me to sleep but not tonite! I will just go to bed with the natural sounds of Mother Nature presenting her rumble of thunder and rain rocking me to sleep. Ahhh...

5 Frugal Ways to Save for a Work-At-Home Mom

2008-08-22T17:05:00.000-07:00

If you are a work-at-home mom with a job (besides the most important one called MOM), you can learn how to become frugal with your money. Here are five frugal ways to save money while working at home:

Save on clothing. You never have to get dressed in clothes for someone else to see. Work in your PJ's if you want!

Save on gas. With the price of gasoline you can save big here.

Save on daycare or babysitter expenses. This can be a major expense to most people.

Save on eating out for lunch. You don't have to eat out everyday during your lunch break, thereby saving even more money. Just keep your fridge stocked.

Save time and money by cooking meals for your family ahead of time. FrugalMom.net can show you how. Although this will take one day to do, it is worth the time for one less stress during the week at about dinner time.

You can afford to stay at home with your children if you practice frugality. It will take some practice and discipline but it can become a way of life.

Southwestern Chicken Tostada Salad

2008-08-14T08:53:00.001-07:00

Who would have thought that you can have a salad on a tostada shell? Well I found this recipe from Pillsbury and it looked really yummy and the good thing about it, it's a unique main meal salad ready in 10 minutes! It sounded too good to be true.

Ingredients:

1 package (9 oz) frozen cooked fajita-seasoned chicken strips

4 Old El Paso tostada shells (can use any other shells too)

4 C. shredded lettuce

1/4 C. quartered pitted ripe olives

1 medium tomato, cut into thin wedges

1/2 C. ranch dressing

2 tbs Old El Paso taco sauce (can use other if you like)

1/2 C. shredded Mexican cheese blend

Directions:

Heat chicken and tostada shells as directed on packages. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, gently toss lettuce, olives and tomato. In a medium bowl, mix ranch dressing and taco sauce. pour dressing mixture over salad; toss gently to coat.

Place warm tostada shells on individual plates. Spoon salad evenly onto shells; top each with warm chicken and sprinkle with cheese.

Prep time: 10 minutes

Total time: 10 minutes

Makes: 4 servings

Freebies-Week of August 13th

2008-08-13T15:41:00.000-07:00

I came across a blog that is actually a search engine that you can get free digital scrapbooking layouts and supplies for free. Yes I said FREE. This site has tons of scrapbooking layouts-all on this one site! It's called DigiFree.blogspot.com There are so many beautiful layouts and designs to choose from. One can't go wrong here. Just click on the layout of your choice and it will take you to the owner's blog. From there you will be able to download it. Go see for yourself.

Summer Olympic Recipes

2008-08-07T10:25:00.000-07:00

We all know that on 8-8-08 the Olympic ceremonies will begin. In honor of the Summer Games' host county, China, why not host your own Olympic party with guests or just have your own Olympic family dinner. Why not make it fun for all? I've found a couple of recipes that will do just that. Below is a simple and easy main dish that can be served over rice.

Olympic Chicken

Ingredients:

1/4 C rice vinegar (unseasoned)
3 tbs. soy sause
2 tbs. honey
1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and minced
1 1/2 tsp. chili powder
8 chicken thighs, skinned (or can use breasts)
10 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
Handful of chopped green onions, use also the dark green part for color

Mix together the vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Heat enough oil in a large skillet until it just covers the bottom. When it's hot and shimmering, saute the chicken thighs until well-browned on all sides, about 10 minutes. Add the garlic and chili powder and cook for 2 more minutes, stirring constantly so the garlic doesn't burn. Pour in the vinegar mixture, cover and simmer for 15 minutes, or until done. While the chicken is cooking, turn them a couple of times in the marinade. Once they're done, remove the cover, add the green onions, and cook for another minute or so, until the sauce is slightly thickened. Serve with rice. Also good with steamed green beans drizzled with sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds sprinkled on top. Serves 4.

And I know that we need to include an American recipe here (the kids will love this one):

Olympic Rings Desssert

Ingredients:

1 roll of prepared cookie dough (any brand)
1 container vanilla frosting
1 large bag of M&M's (any variation)
10-20 black jelly beans

Separate the red, blue, green, and yellow M&M's and the black jelly beans into their own bowls. Set aside for later. Flatten the cookie dough, and mold the dough on a cookie sheet into the chape of the Olympic rings (3 circles on top, 2 circles on the bottom). Bake the cookie dough in the oven according to directions on the dough wrapper. If the shape of the rings has somehow metamorphasized in the baking process, while the cookie is still warm, trim the rings back to the desired proportion. Once the cookie rings are cooled off, frost them completely with the vanilla frosting. Be generous so that the M&M's and jelly beans have something to sink into. The colors of the rings are blue, black, and red across the top and yellow and green on the bottom. When it is finished, you will have a replic of the Olympic rings for your Olympic party. Enjoy!

My Color-Coordinated Hang Ups!

2008-08-05T14:43:00.000-07:00

I finally went through my basket of clothes to be ironed, and believe me, it was a stack to be reckoned with. So after tackling the Mt. Everest of a pile, I hung my clothes by like colors. It is now a pastel-filled collection of summer wear. It's a beautiful thing! I also am going to go through my shoes. "Out with the old and in with the new" I say. And speaking of shoes, there is a new store on my website called Endless.com where you can buy beautiful shoes and handbags providing the best prices, selection, and an overall shopping experience. There is free overnight shipping, free return shipping, 100% price guarantee, and 365-day returns window. Endless is THE destination for shoe lovers. Can't go wrong with this site. Check it out below!

Easy Oatmeal Blueberry Muffins

2008-07-31T20:53:00.000-07:00

With school right around the corner, mornings can be quite chaotic trying to get the kids to eat a good breakfast. Well, I've found a recipe that I thought would be great, especially for the quick out-the-door-for-school kind of breakfast. This is a quick recipe that can be made the night before so there is no rushing around in the morning.

Ingredients:

1 C. Buttermilk
1 C. Oats
1 C. all-purpose flour
1 tsp. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
1 large egg
1/4 C. butter, melted and cooled
3/4 C brown sugar
1 C. blueberries, fresh or frozen

Heat oven to 400 degrees. Coat a muffin tin with cooking spray or use paper muffin cups. In a small bowl, combine buttermilk and oats. Let mixture soak for 10 minutes. In a large bowl, stir together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt. In a medium bowl, whisk the egg with a fork until light in color. Add melted butter, brown sugar and oat mixture to the egg.

Gently fold wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined. Do not over mix. Fold in blueberries. Fill muffin tins (or paper cups) 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean.

Makes 12 servings.

Freebies-Week of July 30th, 2008

2008-07-30T11:08:00.001-07:00

We all know how important Amber Alerts are! The speed in which an Amber Alert reaches the public and the percentage of that public that is reached can be critical to how fast a missing child can be found. Sign up for FREE Amber Alerts sent right to your mobile phone.

Other great freebies (and inspiration) for the digital scrapbook enthusiast can be found at Sugarplum Paperie. I love her colors she uses and the kits. There are several items on sale for 50% off as well. You can find her website by clicking on the above link or there is a link on my blog as well. Give it a try!

And...almost free! Today, July 30th, in celebration of their 30th year of business, The Cheesecake Factory is promoting their dine-in guests a $1.50 per slice of cheesecake. To confirm this, visit their website at http://www.cheesecakefactory.com/ Enjoy!

Mama Mia!

2008-07-29T07:27:00.000-07:00

I normally don't like to go to the movies because of crowds, or the movies out lately have unsuitable content, but when I went to see "Mama Mia" with my cousin Sharon last Friday, I had a blast! Not only did we surpass the long lines by using the "ATM" of movie tickets, but the movie was actually fun! As for Pierce Brosnan singing? He can't but I'll give him an A- for trying. Yes, it did have a couple of suggestive comments/scenes, (which they could have left out) but all in all we were laughing a lot and I know I was singing to the tunes of ABBA in my head the whole time. Ahh, it brings back memories...Anyway, where was I? I would recommend this movie especially for the crowd who delights in the songs of ABBA, or for a quick back in time to the 70's. It truly was a hilarious and fun movie! Don't forget to stay through the credits or you'll miss more songs and action-packed fun!

Caging Vegetable Plants

2008-07-22T17:25:00.001-07:00

I found some tomato cages just laying around the backyard. I almost threw them away thinking that there was no use for them. Then I thought I could use them another way other than how they were intended for. Although they are hard to see in this picture, I just simply turned them upside down and covered my cucumber plants, bell peppers, and my tomato plants with them, so that the heavier end is at the bottom. One of my tomato plants' has the cage the normal way, due to my husband's "help". Then my plants can crawl up their cage and wrap themselves around it so that the cucumbers and tomatoes can nicely hang from it. In another one of my posts, Tomato Plant Support, there are some other ideas I've found on the internet if you don't like the caged ideas using wire. I've also found the last month and a half or so since I've started my container garden, that the amount of sunlight that my container garden spot receives has been perfect. It receives about 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. According to a master gardener at the Arizona Cooperative Extension office, root crops and leaf crops can tolerate partial shade, but vegetables grown for their fruits generally need at least 5 hours of full, direct sunlight each day, and perform better with 8 to 10 hours. Container gardening lends itself to attractive plantscaping. A dull patio area can be brightened by the addition of baskets of cascading tomatoes or a colorful herb mix. With my little garden on the back patio, I now have a nice little salad display.

A Pain in the...Wrist!

2008-07-17T21:09:00.000-07:00

So I finally went to my doctor's office today. I somehow sprained or strained by right wrist and for the last few days it's been hurting. After examining and x-ray'ing my wrist, I've needed to purchase a wrist thingy (well, actually it's called a Wrist/Thumb Immobilizer by Ace). So I'm gingerly typing this post. Who knows what the next few days will bring with me typing and in pain. Stay tuned...

Layered Summer Pasta Salad

2008-07-16T10:39:00.000-07:00

Since there have been sales lately on boxes of Betty Crocker's Suddenly Salads, I figured I'd post this recipe that I found. It a very healthy and refreshing dinner meal enough for 10 servings.

Ingredients:

1 box Suddenly Salad Ranch & Bacon pasta salad mix
1 1/4 C. Ranch dressing
3 C. torn romaine lettuce
2 C. shredded carrots
2 C. fresh broccoli florets
2 plum (Roma) tomatoes, coarsely chopped (or handful of cherry tomatoes)

Directions:

Empty pasta mix into a 3-quart saucepan with 2/3 full of boiling water. Gently boil uncovered for 12 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Drain pasta; rinse with cold water. Shake to drain well. In medium bowl, stir together seasoning mix and dressing. Add pasta; toss to continue.

In a 3-4 quart salad bowl (or glass bowl to show layers) or 13 x 9-inch glass baking dish, layer lettuce, carrots, broccoli and pasta mixture. Top with tomatoes. Serve immediately, or refrigerate.

Prep Time: 15 minuutes
Start to Finish Time: 25 minutes
Makes: 10 servings (1 C. each)

Do-Ahead:

Make this salad up to 24 hours before serving.

Time-Saver:

For easy preparation, purchase bags of shredded carrots, broccoli florets and romain lettuce.

Layer, toss and serve. What could be easier for a simple 30-minute summer salad!

Summertime Pandamonium!!

2008-07-15T17:17:00.001-07:00

2008-07-15T17:07:00.001-07:00

So I didn't post anything yesterday 'cause my grandson and daughter came over early Saturday morning. My grandson, Jameson, ended up staying overnite, which means I didn't get much done. He's 2 1/2 years old, full of fun, mischief and wonder. So I'm making up for it tonight by posting at least something. We went to a multi-level indoor playground on Saturday called Makutu's Island for something fun to do. When living in Arizona in the summertime, all the activities should be indoors. I have to say that the place was very crowded, loud, and tons of kids running around. We were mostly running after my grandson Jameson so he wouldn't get lost in the crowd. He had fun, I had a headache! After spending about 2 hours there, we went to lunch and then headed home. Because he didn't have a nap, he fell asleep in the car. The rest of the day was devoted to Jameson. Water activities in the backyard and watching "Clifford the Big Red Dog's Really Big Movie" and "Peter Pan" for the 3,000th time (although "Chicken Little" peaked his interest for 1/2 of the movie). He finally went to bed or I should say I put him to bed (he still wanted to do the "Panda Dance" to "Kung Fu Panda") at 10:00 p.m. I was wiped out to say the least but knowing he had a fun day at Grandma's means all the world to me.

The Business of Paperwork

2008-07-15T14:00:00.001-07:00

So I got down to business today. The business of filing that is. It has been about two weeks since I filed all the paperwork that was sitting in a basket, in its respective folders. These are papers such as bills, receipts, letters, and other documents. I usually do this on a weekly basis, however, time just slipped away from me this past week and it was starting to become out of hand. So here I've listed my usual 3 rules for filing:

File your papers on a weekly basis

If you do this, paperwork will not start to pile up making it harder to just sit down and file them.

Have a "home" for each piece of paper

Create folders for each bill, subject, etc. in a file cabinet.

See if it's tax deductible.

If it's tax deductible, file right away in that folder so you will be ready come tax season. I make a tax deductible file in January.

Keeping your papers organized, you will feel a sense of relief knowing that you can go to where it's filed and it will be there when you need it.

How to Feed Your Family Frugally

2008-07-11T16:36:00.000-07:00

When it comes to feeding your family, it can be quite tough trying to stay under budget, especially when food prices have soared through the roof. I have a menu plan for 1 week, keeping with the advertised sales and still be able to eat. When you shop Albertson's grocery stores this week, you can feed a family of 4 quite inexpensively, under $20 per week. Here's a sample menu with what's on sale.

Breakfast: Waffles and sausages

1 pkg. Farmland Sausage = $1.00

1 Albertson's Waffles with slices peaches = $1.00

1 1/2 gallon milk = $1.00

Total: $3.00

OR

Breakfast: Cinnamon Rolls & Milk
1 pkg (4 count) Bakery Fresh cinnamon rolls = $1.00
1 1/2 gallon milk = $1.00

Total: $2.00

OR

Breakfast: Cereal & cantaloupe

1 box Albertson's cereal = $1.00

1 1/2 gallon milk = $1.00

1 cantaloupe = $1.00

Total: $3.00

OR

Breakfast: Cinnamon Rolls & Fruit Juice

1 pkg (4 count) Bakery Fresh cinnamon rolls = $1.00

1 pkg (3 count) Tree Top Apple juice = $1.00

Total: $2.00

OR

Breakfast: Cereal & Peaches

1 box Albertson's cereal = $1.00

1 lb.sliced peaches = $1.00

1 1/2 gallon milk = $1.00

Total: $3.00

Lunch: Bologna sandwiches & chips

1 pkg. bologna = $1.00

1 loaf Country Farm bread = $1.00

1 Pringles potato chips = $1.00

1 Minute Maid punch (64 oz) = $1.00

Total: $4.00

OR

Lunch: Hot Dogs, potato chips & potato salad

1 pkg hot dogs sliced = $1.00

1 Pringles potato chips = $1.00

1 lb. Reser's potato salad = $1.00

4 SoBe Life Waters = $4.00

Total: $7.00

OR

Lunch: Macaroni and hot dogs

1 Suddenly Salad box = $1.00

1 pkg hot dogs sliced = $1.00

4 AquaFina Flavor Splash bottles = $.400

Total: $6.00

OR

Lunch: Tacos

2 cans Taco Bell refried beans = $2.00

1 pkg. Taco Bell shells = $1.00

1 iceberg lettuce = $1.00

1 pkg Albertson's Mexican cheese(use 1/2 pkg) = $1.25

1 2-litre pop =$1.00

Total: $6.25

OR

Lunch: Chili

4 Dinty Moore or Hormel Chili = $1.00

1 pkg Albertson's Mexican cheese = $2.50

Total: $3.50

Dinner: Spaghetti & Salad

1 Albertson's pasta noodles = $1.00

1 Hunt's spaghetti sauce =$1.00

1 fresh leaf lettuce = $1.00

1 avocado = $1.00

1 pkg mini carrots =$1.00

1 2-litre bottle of pop =$1.00

Total: $6.00

OR

Dinner: Pork Chops & pasta

1-2 lbs pork chops =$1.00 or $2.00

1 box Pasta Roni = $1.00

Total: $2.00 or $3.00

OR

Dinner: Chicken Tacos

2 cans Hormel chicken = $2.00

1 pkg Taco Bell shells = $1.00

1 iceberg lettuce = $1.00

1 pkg Albertson's Mexican cheese(us 1/2 pkg) = $1.25

1 16 oz sour cream = $1.00

1 2-litre pop = $1.00

Total: $7.25

OR

Dinner: Pasta Salad & bread

1 box Suddenly Salad = $1.00

1 loaf Country Farms bread = $1.00

Total: $2.00

OR

Dinner: Chicken,pasta & cole slaw

1 Sanderson Farms family pack of drums, thighs, or leg quarters(1 lb = $1.00)

1 box Pasta Roni = $1.00

1 pkg Fresh Express Cole Slaw = $1.00

Total: $3.00 - $4.00

After dinner Desserts:

4 Blue Bunny, Haagen Dazs, or Ben & Jerry's Personal cups = $4.00

OR

1 box Albertson's Microwave Popcorn = $1.00

OR

1 box Little Debbie snacks = $1.00

OR

1 box Albertson's frozen novelties = $1.00

OR

peaches (1 lb = $1.00) or cantaloupe = $1.00

If you have a larger family, just double up on the sale items. This sale is good now through July 15th. So you see, you can feed your family this week for cheap!

Homemade Bread Simply Made

2008-07-10T09:41:00.000-07:00

I made my homemade bread this morning in my Bosch bread machine, and the smell lingering in the air as I write this post is a wonderful aroma in the house. Ahhh!!! I make bread about every other week and what I don't use, I either give some away or I freeze the rest to last me the week. Bread prices at the stores have soared lately as has everything else. Below is a simple recipe I use, making approximately 4 medium loaves. You can use about 3 C. of white flour and the rest whole wheat flour if your family aren't big fans of wheat.

Whole Wheat Bread

5-6 C. hot tap water (hot to the touch but not enough to burn finger)
2/3 C. vegetable oil
2/3 C. honey
2 Tbs. dough enhancer
2 Tbs. instant yeast (I recommend SAF Yeast)
2 Tbs. salt
2 Tbs. wheat gluten
12-16 C. freshly ground whole wheat flour

Pour warm water into your Bosch mixing bowl. Add approximately 6 C. flour on top of the liquid. Add dough enhancer, oil, honey, yeast, and gluten. Use the momentary (M) switch to mix well. Then add approximately 5 additional C. of flour, and your 2 Tbs. salt. Turn to speed 2 on your machine. Continue adding flour 1/4 C. at a time until the dough pulls away cleanly from the sides of the bowl. Continue kneading at this speed for another 5 minutes. Oil or grease hands and counter with oil. Divide the dough into equal portions and shape into loaves. Put into well greased pans. Let rise until doubled in size. Bake at 350 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top. Remove from pans and cool on wire rack. Top of loaves can be rubbed with water or butter for shiny and moist appearance. This dough can also be used for the pizza crust or cinnamon rolls. Yummo!!

Freebies of the Week

2008-07-09T12:21:00.000-07:00

Here is a listing of miscellaneous freebies for this week that I've found while searching the internet:

Free 14 day supply of Nature Made Liquid Soft Gel Vitamins (US only)

Free sample of Pledge Multisurface Wipes (US only)

Free Tend Skin sample

Free Apple-Cinnamon Nutri-Grain Bar

Free Nivea Extreme Comfort

Free Symbicort information pack

Free Target $5 gift card if you purchase 10 SoBe Life waters or 10 Aquafina Alives.

Five Freebie Foods:

Free ice cream cone from Dairy Queen. http://dairyqueen.com/- Join the DQ crew (US only)

Free taco at Del Taco. http://deltaco.com/ - Choose your favorite hot sauce and get a coupon for a taco (US only)

Free appetizer at the Macaroni Grill. http://macaronigrill.com/ - Join their "Mac Pack" club. (US only)

Free appetizer/purchase of two adult entrees at Red Lobster. http://redlobster.com/- Join their club (US only)

Free coupon for a free appetizer/purchase of entree at TGI Friday's. http://tgifridays.com/ (US only)

Naturally Reducing High Food Costs

2008-07-08T17:42:00.000-07:00

Want to reduce the high cost of food prices? Did I get your attention? I sure would like to. It seems that as of lately, due to the high cost of food, we are needing to get back to the basics in order to feed our families. I came across an article in a local newpaper regarding seeds. It got my attention. I'm talking about saving seeds from vegetables grown in your own family garden. Now my brother does this and at first I thought he was crazy! He has a garden and he saves (or recyles) the seeds. Why not just go and buy another vegetable plant instead? Good solution I thought. He not only saves money by doing so, he has become self-sufficient. Well, as it turns out, this article shows you how to make the most of your garden seeds. For example, did you know that the large seeds produced by melons, peas, squash, beans and corn are simple to gather and clean? For the most consistent results from seed collecting and saving, try these tips:

Steer clear of hybrids and other varieties such as broccoli and radish that tend to cross-pollinate with other plants.
Look at your calendar for your hardiness zone.
Gather seeds from your hardiest plants in your garden rather than those that are earliest to mature.
When you harvest your seeds, label and store them in either dry envelopes, plastic containers or glass canning jars. Keep them cool and dry.

If you would like to learn more about gathering and saving seeds, there is a book called "Seed Sowing and Saving: Step-by-Step Techniques for Collecting and Growing More than 100 Vegetables, Flowers and Herbs by Carole B. Turner. Click on the Amazon.com button below on my site if you would like to see or purchase this beautiful book. Happy harvesting!

I Put My Foot Down!

2008-07-07T12:15:00.000-07:00

As I am writing this I have my foot propped up with an ice bag (mine's a frozen vegetable bag) around my ankle. I must have done a lot of walking lately... This last Saturday I went to the mall with my daughter and grandson, and while I was walking along, one of my ankles suddenly became extremely painful! I hobbled over to a chair and rested awhile after which it became easier to walk again with this rest. Now my daughter has the same problem every now and then so I decided to look towards the internet for any information and here's what I found on http://webmd.com/. From reading the articles I probably had a high ankle sprain. In a "high" ankle sprain, a less common type of injury, the ligaments that join the two lower leg bones together above the ankle, called the syndesmosis, are injured. This usually happens if the foot is forced up, or if the leg is forcefully twisted while the foot is planted. This injury can occur either by itself or with an inversion or eversion sprain. If the ligaments of the syndesmosis are injured, the sprain is more severe and takes longer to heal. I don't know how I caused this painful ankle situation but I do know that it sure hurt to put my foot down. The symptoms range from extreme pain at the site first, such as I had, to feeling better soon thereafter. The treatment for an ankle sprain is to use is the PRINCE approach:

Protection-Use a brace of some sort, or wrap it for 24-36 hours.
Rest-Do this until the pain subsides
Ice it-Use an ice pack every 10-20 minutes until swelling goes down.
NSaids (acetaminophen)-These include ibuprofen (such as Advil, Motrin, or Nuprin) Commmon types of acetaminophen include Panadol, Tempra, or Tylenol.
Compression. Use an elastic compression wrap to help decrease swelling. This should be worn for the first 24 to 36 hours. with an elastic bandage. Compression wraps do not offer protection, except by reminding you to be careful of your ankle.
Elevation. Raise your ankle above the level of your heart for 2 to 3 hours a day if possible to decrease swelling and bruising.

So I rested my ankle on Sunday, and kept off of it for most of the day feeling much, much better thanks to the information I found. I still have some tenderness in my ankle today though, hence the need for the "ice" bag.

A House for Sale

2008-07-06T20:20:00.001-07:00

We have a house for sale and I went to check on it and tidy it up today. I did this because I thought that the open house was today, or at least I thought that. Well, I either didn't hear my realtor say that it would be next weekend, or I just didn't listen. In any case, it's spit spot once again and ready for the open house on Saturday, July 12th.

Summer Water Fun!!

2008-07-05T22:45:00.000-07:00

There are some summer activities that can be as memorable for children as well as for the adults. Take for instance water activities. Give a child a garden hose and a bucket and they're set for some outdoor fun. Throw in some fun, colorful floating toys to enhance the activity. Please remember that toys in the water or pool will draw the attention of small children. Always bring in the toys when done playing so that children will not be enticed to reach for them when you're not there to watch them. Then there is the good ole' sandbox. Kids will have fun digging in the sand and making sand castles out of different shaped buckets. Make it fun for children to enjoy their summer and you will also have fun with them creating memories to last a lifetime.

Cupcakes & Sprinkles

2008-07-04T21:58:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July everyone! Well, today was a good day. I had fun with my grandson. I made these cupcakes and he put the sprinkles on top. He was delighted and was so proud of himself. I just made it from a cake mix and plain vanilla frosting in a can. A fun and simple recipe that everyone loved! This picture says it all.

Where's That Bill?

2008-07-03T17:58:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I made a goal, if you will, to write about finance tips on Fridays, but since this Friday is a holiday, I will post finance tips this Thursday instead. Have you ever gone to pay a bill and found that you cannot find where you put it, let alone when it's due? I may have a solution for you. I've organized a system dedicated to opening, paying my bills, and organizing them. Here's what I do. When I get a bill in the mail, I immediately open it up, glance over it for any suspicious activity on the account, then I jot the due date down on my calendar. My calendar happens to be inside my "Bills Due" folder, so it's effortless. I then file it away in a 3-ring binder under that bills' title. For example, if my electricity bill from SRP is due on July 7th, I note that down on my calendar, then file the bill under SRP in my notebook. Do this with all of your bills so you know when they are due. I also have my bill categories in alphabetical order so I know where to easily find the bill.
So, here's the rundown:

Receive bill
Look over for unauthorized charges
Write down the due date on a calendar
Immediately file the bill away

This simple process of opening and scanning your bills as they come in is how you start controlling your money so it doesn't control you. It also takes very little effort if you stay on top of this every day. Nothing lost, nothing overlooked.

Freebie Forwarned!

2008-07-02T14:29:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of freebies for the upcoming week:

July 11th: Chick-Fil-A is giving away a free combo meal (breakfast, lunch, or dinner) IF you come dressed head to hoof like a cow. What? That's right, it's Cow Appreciation Day. Or, if you're chicken, go for the partial cow look. If that's the case, you can get a free entree for your effort. It's udderly insane!!

July 11th : 7-Eleven stores are giving away a free slurpee. I always do this one every year. What a fun treat for the summer.

You can't go wrong with free!!

http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/

Tomato Plant Support

2008-07-01T16:30:00.000-07:00

My 1 tomato plant (out of 3 I bought) is in need of support soon. So I turned to the internet in hopes of finding some help. I had forgotten I recently subscribed to a gardening club. I wanted to get more exposure on the how-to's of gardening, especially vegetable gardening. I came across an article about how to support your tomato plants. Here are some good ideas that members sent in that I'd like to share.

Rack it:
One woman uses old wooden clothes-drying racks. She plants 2 or 3 tomato plants at the center of the racks, and ties the tomatoes to the racks as they grow. Then in the winter, the racks fold flat to store.

Don't fence me in:
You can use welded-wire fencing (although where you live, you will have to be careful not to burn the plants in the summer). Roll into a cylinder and place over the plants. Harvesting of tomatoes is a breeze with large cut openings in the wire.

Climbing over:
Use an arbor that normally is used for a dramatic entrance. This makes an impressive addition to your garden.

Frame it up:
Another member used an A-frame type of support. Here's what he did. String twine from the center ridgepole of the frame to the ground. As the plant grows, wrap it around the twine.

Fencing lessons:
One way of saving space and picking tomatoes is to use staple basic fencing (looks like plastic chicken wire) to the fence and train the tomatoes to grow up the fencing. They get plenty of sun by growing up instead of out.

The stakes are high:
Cut (1) ten-ft. horizontal piece of electrical conduit and (2) 7 1/2-ft. vertical pieces. Attach them and push the vertical pieces into the ground, approximately 18 inches. Hang (6) cords across the 10-ft. crosspiece. Tie them to the stakes and anchor the stakes next to the tomato plants. As the plants grow, pinch off the suckers and wrap the plants around the cord.

As you can see, these are just a few examples I've read, about how-to take care of your tomato plants. Can you think of different ways to support your plants?

Ten Excuses To Not ...

2008-06-30T21:01:00.001-07:00

Listed below are some of the excuses I've found to not (drumroll please)... exercise.

1. I'm too tired

2. It's too hot outside

3. I'm too sore from the last time I exercised

4. Don't want to use any more gasoline to get there

5. I have "better" things to do today

6. Too crowded in the gym

7. Clothes not in fashion

8. Not coordinated enough

9. Did that class already this week

10. Rather watch t.v.

We all have excuses why we don't want to exercise. Even Oprah says she hates to exercise, but if you just DO IT, you will feel much better afterwards. What is your excuse?

Keepers of the Flame

2008-06-29T18:39:00.000-07:00

I was sitting in church today listening to the various speakers about the topic of families. Now I don't know about you, but I've heard some of these comments hundreds of times. So I will make a list of a few things I heard today to share with you. Some of us may need a little reminding.

1. Make time for your family

2. Making time is verb. It's an action word.

3. Establish a pattern to put your family first.

How you make time is just schedule it. Schedule it on your calendars so nothing else can take you away from this important time. For instance, make 1 night a week a priority with your family. Go to a movie together, play board games, or just sit and talk with each other. These are of course just a few examples of what you can do as a family. The action word here is schedule. When you establish a certain night for family time, you have created a pattern. We as parents are responsible for this decision to put our families first. And just as the Olympic torch is touched by one person at a time, we also can touch the lives of each individual in our families by making time with them. We are the "keepers of the flame".

The Summer Calm Before the Storm

2008-06-28T20:49:00.000-07:00

It all started with "Mom, what are you doing tomorrow?". I replied "well, not much, just the usual Saturday stuff". When she asks that question, I know that's my que for me to bolt down the house 'cause my 2 year old grandson will be coming over. Although he is as adorable as can be, he also can be quite a handful! So I proceed to take a deep breath and relax before my daughter and her son arrive. I have approximately 1 hour to do so as they live 1 hour away. The house is picked up and in order like a "calm before the storm". After they finally arrive, I do my usual grandmotherly stuff like hug him, kiss him, give more hugs and kisses, kiss, kiss, and kiss him some more. After our greetings, things start to unravel. DVD's are strewn about waiting to be watched, toys from the toy box seem to somehow crawl out and make their way around the room, and the cat, well, she nervously watches the whole thing from a distance. Then there are the computer programs that he likes to watch and interact with. After the boredom of all the visual viewing he does tends to wear down, there is also activities to be done outside on the backyard porch. These include water play with the hose, sliding down a slide, and a sandbox to build castles in. Then there are fun snacks to eat: Popsicles, summer fruits, and PB & J's. A game I came up with today is called "Fruit Punch". As crazy as this sounds, is has nothing to with a drink. I told my grandson to roll a ball on the floor to me and said to "punch the ball, like fruit punch". He could relate well to that type of drink. Well, he now thinks that is the most funnest game to play on the floor with a ball. It's one game he'll remember, the name that is. After spending all day with my grandson and his mom, it's sure a relief to hear my daughter announce that it's "time to go home now". Although I love having him over, the tornadic trail left behind means little in comparison to the love I have for that little boy.

Financial Friday: Cash Basis Only

2008-06-27T21:36:00.000-07:00

I've learned over the years that in order to secure a stable checkbook scenario, I've had to put my husband on a "cash basis" only. That means that he has no access to the checkbook, nor does he have a debit card that he can use for that account. The reason behind this dual budget system is simple. I needed to know how much money is in the family account-exactly, to use for the bills without tracking miscellaneous expenditures. This creates two fixed budgets that are much easier to manage. Cash is king!!

Simplicity Summer Shake

2008-06-26T20:38:00.000-07:00

Well, another day has gone by, busy at my computer screen, mind you, most the day! Living alone(for the last year-long story) has made me come up with some creative and simple solutions to dinner, especially since the hot weather is here. This is a fast, cold, and easy way to incorporate fresh fruits that are in abundance during the summer. So tonight I have found a recipe that I have "tweeked" just a bit (mostly due to lack of ingredients) so that I can have a healthy, quick "meal-in-a-glass". Ahhhhh!! This is very refreshing!!

Ingredients:

1 1/2 c. of water (or juice of any kind)

2-3 c. fresh or frozen fruit(s)

1 banana (best if frozen ahead of time)

handful of raw almonds (if you like a "nutty" flavor)

1-2 scoops of protein power or any other milk power

1-2 c. ice (if fruit is fresh)

1 tsp. of any of the following:

sesame seeds (calcium)

flax seeds (use the ground kind-good for Omega 3)

bee pollen (high in minerals)

ginseng granules (nutritional balance)

In a blender, blend all the ingredients together for 1-2 minutes or until smooth. Below are other fruit combinations that you can use for the 2-3 c. fruit that are called for in the recipe:

apricot and apple

strawberry and raspberry

blueberry and peach

cantaloupe and coconut

papaya and pineapple

pineapple and coconut

If these combinations don't sound good, create your own!

http://freedigitalphotos.net/

This Makes Sense-Coupons That Is!

2008-06-25T19:09:00.000-07:00

It's summer, it's hot and I don't know what to cook!! What is a girl to do? Well, the first solution to this heated debate is to go through my Wednesday paper and look for the grocery store ads. Therein lies the solution. Sale items listed for every store! First I look in each stores' paper to see if there is a coupon that I could use. Then I log on to CouponSense where as a member, I can look to see what's on sale at each store by browsing and taking advantage of those items and use them against my coupons, thereby reducing my grocery bill. This week Fry's has 1 gallon milk on sale for $1.99 I will take advantage of this sale and buy the limit and possibly freeze the rest. I do not have a coupon for this but this is a good deal nonetheless. Another good deal this week is to take advantage of the $5 off your grocery bill. Albertson's has a mix and match promotion, meaning you can buy 10 items from any of the price and the $5 will come off instantly! They are limiting this to 2 $5 rewards per transaction; thus, you can buy 20 items and get $10 off in a single transaction! A simple meal plan for a family of 4 would be:

1. Totino's Pizza
2. Suddenly Salad
3. Alberton's croutons
4. Gatorade
5. Snack Pudding for dessert

Final cost = $2.50

Next meal plan with this sale could be:

1. Spaghetti
2. Prego Spaghetti sauce
3. Seasoned summer vegetables
4. Water
5. Popsicles for dessert

Total cost = $5.00

Of course if you have other coupons you could use along with the sale items, that will drastically reduce the total cost. This is called stackable couponing. Coupons and I have gotten along rather well over the past. When you take the time to have your coupons organized, you really can take advantage of any sale items that may come along. It all makes perfect sense, CouponSense!

If it's Tuesday or Friday it must be...

2008-06-24T18:40:00.000-07:00

Laundry day! Yes, the piles seem to creep up ever so slowly throughout the week. With white peaks of socks topping a giant mound looking like a snow-capped mountain, it's no wonder we as women hate laundry. Somebody has to do it. So I "climb" this dreaded mountain by always setting Tuesdays and Friday mornings for this particular job. Make it easy on yourself by having a central laundry basket in the laundry room. That way, all can contribute during the week so you don't have to go around looking for everyone's dirty clothes. Also let family members know when laundry days are so that they may gather their own clothes beforehand. My philosophy is if it's not in the laundry basket by Tuesday or Friday mornings, you are on your own! I start early in the morning sorting by like colors. Then after putting the first load in, I do other chores around the house. After the first load is done, start the next load right away. When the first load has dried you can hang up cotton shirts or anything that shouldn't be shrunk up on a hanger to dry naturally, and fold the clothes. Start the next load. Keep this routine up until all the clothes have been ran through the washer and dryer. After I've completed this chore, I've "Gain"ed cleaner smelling clothes, am full of "Cheer" for having clean clothes, and most of all, it will "Tide" me over until that next dreaded Tuesday and Friday.

Yoga Does a Body Good

2008-06-23T14:04:00.000-07:00

Have you ever wondered why the commercials say that milk "does a body good"? While that may be the case nutritionally, our bodies also need to exercise and stretch. One way to do this is by taking a Yoga class. Yoga can strengthen our tight muscles making us feel good again and less sore. I've been taking a Yoga class for about 1 1/2 months now at a local gym and I can honestly say that each and every time I go, my back and sore muscles thank me for it. Today I went to class after 1 week off. I can tell you that I really needed to go because I was getting pains where there shouldn't be pains in my back and hips. After class I felt energized and relaxed. I try to go to class 2-3 times per week. One way to keep on track is to schedule this time on my calendar. That way it's written down so that I know it's one of the things I need to do for that day. Just like having a serving of milk daily, Yoga can also "do a body good".