The end of another week here at the old homestead.
1. The last few days here have been nice and cool so windows have been opened to keep the house cool instead of having the air conditioners running.
2. At one point I had thought about donating all the sugar bags I inherited from Mom, but for some reason kept them all. Now I am glad because for a few pennies worth of thread, the use of an iron for the transfers (also inherited from Mom), and some embroidery thread, I will have some new tea towels and be able to recycle the old ones into rags for cleaning.
3. Saved $9.46 on the grocery bill this week (not a lot, but enough to make it worthwhile).
4. Reading books from the library for entertainment. Also watching free shows with the help of my box.
5. Got a free box of Kraft Dinner, which since I don't use it will be given to Kris when he comes home this weekend.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Friday, August 30, 2019
Thursday, August 29, 2019
Thursday Tidbits
This week has been much the same as previous weeks this month. I have watered plants, harvested beans, cucumbers, peppers, herbs and tomatoes from the garden. Processed beans, cucumbers and herbs, not enough of the other veggies to do other than eat them for various meals and in various ways.
Fall is coming, and with it cooler weather and trees rapidly changing colour. It seems as if an early fall is on its way. According to the Old Farmers Almanac this will move into a very cold and snowy winter. Time to make sure we are ready for that.
Painting is being accomplished, I have shopped around for a new living room suite (found one today) and tomorrow (after painting and household tasks) we will look for new carpet for the living room as well. This will more than likely be the last new set of furniture and flooring for the living room in our life time (we are getting up in age). Harvey does say that this will be the last time he paints, so I am going to make sure everything is freshly painted.
Next week I am going to start emptying baskets and pots. May as well clean things up before the snow falls. Been there, done that.
The next few weeks I will be finishing my winter stock up. I need some serger thread, flannelette, and of course reading material (though if worst comes to worst I can always reread books downstairs which might not be a bad idea).
Today I went shopping and for the first time ever I noticed lots of empty shelves in the store. I do hope this is not a harbinger of things to come this winter. Noticed also that the sales are not as good as they used to be either. It just might be time to go over the budget and figure out what we can delete or make a change to.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Fall is coming, and with it cooler weather and trees rapidly changing colour. It seems as if an early fall is on its way. According to the Old Farmers Almanac this will move into a very cold and snowy winter. Time to make sure we are ready for that.
Painting is being accomplished, I have shopped around for a new living room suite (found one today) and tomorrow (after painting and household tasks) we will look for new carpet for the living room as well. This will more than likely be the last new set of furniture and flooring for the living room in our life time (we are getting up in age). Harvey does say that this will be the last time he paints, so I am going to make sure everything is freshly painted.
Next week I am going to start emptying baskets and pots. May as well clean things up before the snow falls. Been there, done that.
The next few weeks I will be finishing my winter stock up. I need some serger thread, flannelette, and of course reading material (though if worst comes to worst I can always reread books downstairs which might not be a bad idea).
Today I went shopping and for the first time ever I noticed lots of empty shelves in the store. I do hope this is not a harbinger of things to come this winter. Noticed also that the sales are not as good as they used to be either. It just might be time to go over the budget and figure out what we can delete or make a change to.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Wednesday, August 28, 2019
Mid Week, Tired and Thinking I Have Over Extended Myself
The days are growing shorter and darkness is decending earlier each day. Soon we will be in the middle of winter.
I said that I would be a leader for the new bible study at the church, but after the meeting tonight I am wondering if I have over committed myself. Two sessions every Thursday for 6 weeks seems like they are asking too much of us in fact the afternoon session was the only one I thought I could do. Looking around the table at the very few who are willing to help, makes one realize that most people do not want to get involved, or at least not involved to this extent. Hopefully I won't break down, throw my hands in the air and say I give up.
Mona was curious about the steak casserole I am planning to make later this week, so I thought I would share the recipe.
Steak and Mushroom Casserole (from Company's Coming Casseroles)
1/2 cup flour
1/4 tsp pepper
2 tsp salt
1 tbsp. dried mustard
2 lbs sirloin steak cubed (though I have been known to make this with another steak cut, pretty much use whatever is on sale)
4 tbsp. oil
2 1/2 cups sliced mushrooms
1 medium onion cut up
2 tbsp. white wine or apple cider (I have used apple juice)
3 tbsp. brown sugar
1 1/2 tbsp. Worchestershire sauce
19 oz can of tomatoes
Mix first 4 ingredients together. Coat cubed meat with flour mixture. Heat oil in frying pan. Brown meat cubes well. Transfer to 2 quart casserole dish.
Add the rest of the ingredients. Cover. Bake in 350 F oven for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until meat is tender.
Serves 6
As it serves so many there will be some leftovers for lunches or even another dinner.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
I said that I would be a leader for the new bible study at the church, but after the meeting tonight I am wondering if I have over committed myself. Two sessions every Thursday for 6 weeks seems like they are asking too much of us in fact the afternoon session was the only one I thought I could do. Looking around the table at the very few who are willing to help, makes one realize that most people do not want to get involved, or at least not involved to this extent. Hopefully I won't break down, throw my hands in the air and say I give up.
Mona was curious about the steak casserole I am planning to make later this week, so I thought I would share the recipe.
Steak and Mushroom Casserole (from Company's Coming Casseroles)
1/2 cup flour
1/4 tsp pepper
2 tsp salt
1 tbsp. dried mustard
2 lbs sirloin steak cubed (though I have been known to make this with another steak cut, pretty much use whatever is on sale)
4 tbsp. oil
2 1/2 cups sliced mushrooms
1 medium onion cut up
2 tbsp. white wine or apple cider (I have used apple juice)
3 tbsp. brown sugar
1 1/2 tbsp. Worchestershire sauce
19 oz can of tomatoes
Mix first 4 ingredients together. Coat cubed meat with flour mixture. Heat oil in frying pan. Brown meat cubes well. Transfer to 2 quart casserole dish.
Add the rest of the ingredients. Cover. Bake in 350 F oven for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until meat is tender.
Serves 6
As it serves so many there will be some leftovers for lunches or even another dinner.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Tuesday, August 27, 2019
Thrifty Tuesday
This week the usual thrifty practices of mending clothing, and using up have been taking place.
When I did the 4" squares of knitting, there were bits and bobs left of the yarns I used. I have packaged them up and will use them to embellish or make Icord with. I am bound and determined to get every last penny I can from my purchase.
The same can be said about my fabric. While right now I have enough squares to keep me quilting for a very long time, I have put the bits and pieces away to be used as trim, or on cards once I get proficient with my Cricut (that is a work in progress right now).
Food waste is almost nil as what isn't used for suppers we eat at lunch.
Harvey is using leftover ceiling paint to do what he can with the hall and bedroom painting he is doing this week.
Harvey is also making wine from his wine kits. While the kits are fairly expensive, by the time we bottle it, the cost is about $3.00 a bottle, which is very inexpensive. We use it as hostess gifts, and other gifts throughout the year. We also drink a bottle or two or three...…….
Twist ties are being saved to use on my reusable produce bags once I get them made. Hopefully next month. These are being made from some old lace panels I found at the Salvation Army thrift store. I noticed some old sheets there as well and will be looking to buy a few once I get started making quilts. Winter is coming quickly and according to the Old Farmer's Almanac it is going to be a cold and blustery one. Those extra quilts could come in very handy.
The garden is producing very well and I plan on using as much as possible this year. The way the world is right now being thrifty is the best possible way to go (add frugal in there as well).
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
When I did the 4" squares of knitting, there were bits and bobs left of the yarns I used. I have packaged them up and will use them to embellish or make Icord with. I am bound and determined to get every last penny I can from my purchase.
The same can be said about my fabric. While right now I have enough squares to keep me quilting for a very long time, I have put the bits and pieces away to be used as trim, or on cards once I get proficient with my Cricut (that is a work in progress right now).
Food waste is almost nil as what isn't used for suppers we eat at lunch.
Harvey is using leftover ceiling paint to do what he can with the hall and bedroom painting he is doing this week.
Harvey is also making wine from his wine kits. While the kits are fairly expensive, by the time we bottle it, the cost is about $3.00 a bottle, which is very inexpensive. We use it as hostess gifts, and other gifts throughout the year. We also drink a bottle or two or three...…….
Twist ties are being saved to use on my reusable produce bags once I get them made. Hopefully next month. These are being made from some old lace panels I found at the Salvation Army thrift store. I noticed some old sheets there as well and will be looking to buy a few once I get started making quilts. Winter is coming quickly and according to the Old Farmer's Almanac it is going to be a cold and blustery one. Those extra quilts could come in very handy.
The garden is producing very well and I plan on using as much as possible this year. The way the world is right now being thrifty is the best possible way to go (add frugal in there as well).
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Monday, August 26, 2019
Menu Monday
Cooler weather means perhaps a few more soup meals at supper time, more cooking hearty stick to your ribs kind of meals. Yet really since this summer was cooler overall than summers past my meals did not get noticeably lighter.
Remember things in the weekly menu get switched around a great deal, but usually just between days.
Monday
This was supposed to be a clean out the fridge night for dinner, but I noticed late yesterday that Harvey has made a darn good job of this in his late night snacking periods. So today will be leftover ham made into scalloped potatoes and ham. Should be enough of that leftover for later in the week. Serving this with some asparagus and a salad.
Tuesday
BBQ sausages, served with the remaining salad and a mixture of peas and green beans as well as creamed potatoes.
Wednesday
I have a meeting about the Bible Study tonight at 5:30 pm (why they always seem to have meetings around supper time I will never know) so I will start the leftovers from the week for Harvey and eat when I get home later.
Thursday
Hamburgers and tinfoil packs of veggies. Serving these with a cucumber salad as well.
Friday
Hopefully Kris will be home for the Labour Day weekend. I will be preparing Glace his favourite of all meals.
Saturday
Steak Casserole, mashed potatoes and a cucumber salad or raw veggies and dip.
Sunday
The start of a new month!!
Roast pork, creamed potatoes, green beans and possibly corn (perhaps even corn on the cob if I can find anything decently priced that looks good).
Everybody have a wonderful day.
God bless.
Remember things in the weekly menu get switched around a great deal, but usually just between days.
Monday
This was supposed to be a clean out the fridge night for dinner, but I noticed late yesterday that Harvey has made a darn good job of this in his late night snacking periods. So today will be leftover ham made into scalloped potatoes and ham. Should be enough of that leftover for later in the week. Serving this with some asparagus and a salad.
Tuesday
BBQ sausages, served with the remaining salad and a mixture of peas and green beans as well as creamed potatoes.
Wednesday
I have a meeting about the Bible Study tonight at 5:30 pm (why they always seem to have meetings around supper time I will never know) so I will start the leftovers from the week for Harvey and eat when I get home later.
Thursday
Hamburgers and tinfoil packs of veggies. Serving these with a cucumber salad as well.
Friday
Hopefully Kris will be home for the Labour Day weekend. I will be preparing Glace his favourite of all meals.
Saturday
Steak Casserole, mashed potatoes and a cucumber salad or raw veggies and dip.
Sunday
The start of a new month!!
Roast pork, creamed potatoes, green beans and possibly corn (perhaps even corn on the cob if I can find anything decently priced that looks good).
Everybody have a wonderful day.
God bless.
Sunday, August 25, 2019
Sunday Ramblings
It has been a quiet day on the old homestead. It rained this morning so while the temperature was not really that high, most of the day was muggy and since the garden was soggy no harvesting was accomplished (did not feel like scraping mud off my shoes or fighting off mosquitos, left that until tomorrow when it should be a slight bit dryer out there).
Instead, I spent time in the sewing/craft room completing another project, much like I did yesterday. Today though was the finishing off of Christmas gifts for our sons.
A banner for the hockey pins we got over the years. For some odd reason I thought there was more for Kurt, but then again many times he played on the same team two years in a row.
Two blue bath scrubbies for Kurt, three cotton knit dishcloths, and a knit bag for all those plastic bags he usually leaves lying around the house.
Instead, I spent time in the sewing/craft room completing another project, much like I did yesterday. Today though was the finishing off of Christmas gifts for our sons.
A banner for the hockey pins we got over the years. For some odd reason I thought there was more for Kurt, but then again many times he played on the same team two years in a row.
Two blue bath scrubbies for Kurt, three cotton knit dishcloths, and a knit bag for all those plastic bags he usually leaves lying around the house.
Kris got the same things as Kurt only he has some washed out purple scrubbies.
I am hoping this organizes them just a little bit and helps them get rid of the clutter.
I finished this
a couple of days ago. Not quite what I had hoped it would look like, but it will make a lovely lap blanket on chilly winter days.
I hope to get more accomplished in the goal department over the next week. Wish me luck.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Saturday, August 24, 2019
Saturday Roundup
I have managed to keep up with all the household chores plus the harvesting and processing of the garden. Today was supposed to be a harvest day, but we have been having thunder storms all day, ground is wet and muddy so things will be put off until tomorrow after Mass. Great thing is that I haven't had to water the boxes and pots.
Decluttering is moving along. I have now removed 368 items from the house and perhaps I will reach my goal of 500 items yet.
Sewing of one cut out pattern, and setting up the machine for the next project is done. Hopefully I can continue with getting some of my project goals done for the month. Perhaps even get ahead a bit, though time is running out.
I have been noticing that the trees are changing colour with greater speed. I think we are getting closer to having an early fall and winter. Not looking forward to that at all as it means treadmill time. Since I broke my wrist Harvey does not let me walk outside if it is icy just in case I fall and break another bone.
Really it has just been another week like any other here on the old homestead. Projects for both Harvey and I are being completed, discussions with our financial advisor, and just plain living from day to day. So looking forward to our trip to the cabin early next month, hiking and just removing ourselves from the usual day to day chores.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Friday, August 23, 2019
Frugal Friday
Just a few of the frugal happenings around here this week.
1. Free supper on Tuesday evening before our meeting.
2. Grocery bill was very low this week, so my savings were the same. I only managed to save $6.59.
3. Repaired clothing to get another year or two of wear.
4. Used the larger cucumbers in my dill pickle recipe by slicing them thinly. These will be perfect for burgers or on a relish plate.
5. Processing the garden for use this winter.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Thursday, August 22, 2019
Thursday Tidbits
Busy day as I did all my errands, paid bills online, picked in the garden, sliced lemons to freeze (must drink more water and hopefully this will help).
I worked on sewing the knitted squares together and finished that project!!! I can now move on to the next project and actually see things being marked off on my goals list. Really, I have decided that there is no way I can ever do multiple projects at the same time mainly because nothing really seems to be finished completely by the end of the month.
Tomorrow I will be heading to the sewing room and getting the last part of Kurt and Kris's Christmas gifts done and perhaps some sewing done on those cut out patterns. Once all is done there I will move on to the next project....new tea towels.
I still will have lots to accomplish on that list but at least I can see it shrinking.
All this fun will be sandwiched in between regular household chores and processing the garden produce. This time of year always seems to be jam packed with things that need to be accomplished before winter sets in.
Last week it was just a few poplars turning colour, this week the Manitoba maples and my pear tree are slowly changing. Fall will be here in no time, and after that the dreaded prairie winter will appear. So winterizing the house will be taking place before we know it.
Harvey has totally patched the holes in the walls where our baseboard heaters had their thermostats, and the rather large hole left behind by the in the wall air conditioner. Now he gets to paint walls, hopefully while we can open windows to keep the smell of paint to a minimum.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Wednesday, August 21, 2019
Stocking Up For Winter Projects
When we do a stock up shop, not only do we stock up on food we also stock up on hobby and craft items.
This trip was no different than the many we did before.
First we hit the wine making shop and picked up a few kits for Harvey. Wine making (along with wood work) is his hobby. So right now he has two different wines cooking in the basement. A red wine from Chili, and an ice wine (peach flavoured so I am not too sure about that one). Once those are bottled he will make the white wine.
Me, well I stuck to my usual haunts, Michael's and Fabricland.
In Michael's I picked up some embroidery floss, yarn, some items for my Cricut (other items will need to be ordered online next month) and a glove to help support my wrist and fingers when knitting. I almost bought a swift, but put it back (kicking myself for doing so as they are really hard to find.
All the yarn (except for the sock yarn in front) was on deep discount and the Cricut items were 25% off. The glove and floss were regular price, but I had a 45% off coupon printed out and used it on the glove.
Fabricland, my haul was a bit larger and much more expensive even though I bought on sale fabric and got 20% off any accessories I purchased. To make matters worse I forgot a few things.
This portion of the haul shows the batting I purchased, the embroidery thread, some flat lingerie elastic (I am going to try making some underwear that hopefully holds up much better than the stuff I purchase), and some heavy fabric to make Hubby a BBQ apron for Christmas and a skirt for me. The two fabric remnants are upholstery or décor fabric that I plan on fashioning into a couple of purses or bags.
This portion of the stock up is mostly knits with some black lining fabric. The lining fabric will hopefully be used in the making of a heavier fall coat for me (something between winter and
summer), the knits are mostly going to be fashioned into dresses, and one selection (the grey) will be made into pants for this winter.
What did I forget? Well regular thread, serger thread, and soft flannel to make Hubby a couple of pairs of pj bottoms. Hmm, perhaps I can find some flannel sheets at one of the second hand stores for those pj bottoms.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
This trip was no different than the many we did before.
First we hit the wine making shop and picked up a few kits for Harvey. Wine making (along with wood work) is his hobby. So right now he has two different wines cooking in the basement. A red wine from Chili, and an ice wine (peach flavoured so I am not too sure about that one). Once those are bottled he will make the white wine.
Me, well I stuck to my usual haunts, Michael's and Fabricland.
In Michael's I picked up some embroidery floss, yarn, some items for my Cricut (other items will need to be ordered online next month) and a glove to help support my wrist and fingers when knitting. I almost bought a swift, but put it back (kicking myself for doing so as they are really hard to find.
All the yarn (except for the sock yarn in front) was on deep discount and the Cricut items were 25% off. The glove and floss were regular price, but I had a 45% off coupon printed out and used it on the glove.
Fabricland, my haul was a bit larger and much more expensive even though I bought on sale fabric and got 20% off any accessories I purchased. To make matters worse I forgot a few things.
This portion of the haul shows the batting I purchased, the embroidery thread, some flat lingerie elastic (I am going to try making some underwear that hopefully holds up much better than the stuff I purchase), and some heavy fabric to make Hubby a BBQ apron for Christmas and a skirt for me. The two fabric remnants are upholstery or décor fabric that I plan on fashioning into a couple of purses or bags.
This portion of the stock up is mostly knits with some black lining fabric. The lining fabric will hopefully be used in the making of a heavier fall coat for me (something between winter and
summer), the knits are mostly going to be fashioned into dresses, and one selection (the grey) will be made into pants for this winter.
What did I forget? Well regular thread, serger thread, and soft flannel to make Hubby a couple of pairs of pj bottoms. Hmm, perhaps I can find some flannel sheets at one of the second hand stores for those pj bottoms.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Tuesday, August 20, 2019
Thrifty Tuesday
While this past week (from Wednesday to today) has not been the thriftiest of my life there has been a few thrifty things happening here at the old homestead.
Harvey removed the old air conditioner from the wall in the hall and was able to fix the hole left behind with items we already had. Good thing we saved (should say he saved) the leftover siding. It sure has come in useful for things like this and the door replacement.
I sewed two buttons on Harvey's work shorts and did a bit of darning on a pair of socks.
Visited the library and picked up some reading material for free.
We used a coupon when shopping at Costco on Saturday.
I never can seem to get the cucumbers picked when they are the right size for making dill pickles so some of the larger ones were sliced and made into what I am calling dill pickle chips. I have only made 4 pints of these, but they are perfect for hamburgers and if we like them this year, next year I will make more.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Monday, August 19, 2019
Menu Monday
Sorry for being gone for a couple of days, but things kind of piled up here at home and they needed clearing up after being gone for an entire day.
Things are cooling down here on the Canadian prairies, We are keeping our fingers crossed that nicer weather returns soon, or at least warmer weather.
Monday
Soup and sandwiches. Pulling a container of stock out of the fridge and making some soup today (extra will be frozen for use later). Sandwiches will more than likely be egg salad as I have onion, eggs and celery to use up.
Tuesday
BBQ pork chops, tin foil potatoes, stuffed banana peppers,asparagus and coleslaw.
Wednesday
Frozen chili and toast.
Thursday
Either a clean out the fridge day or I will make something with a bag of leftover cooked chicken and the cauliflower.
Friday
Tuna casserole, probably with a serving of asparagus on the side.
Saturday
BBQ chicken breasts or legs (whichever has more packages in the freezer), tinfoil packets of veggies.
Sunday
I have it down to make a roast ham, but I think this would be a good day to use up some homemade hamburger patties. It isn't that I forgot about them, more the I want Hubby to do some more cooking. Along with the all dressed hamburgers I think I will serve the remaining cabbage made into coleslaw, and whatever other veggies raw along with dip.
Everybody have a wonderful day.
God bless.
Friday, August 16, 2019
Frugal Friday
It is the middle of the month already and things are coming to fruition in the garden. I have been busy grating, freezing, dehydrating (when the weather has been appropriate) and picking in the garden. I have even had to get Harvey involved in the picking.
1. Eating veggies from the garden. No need to buy potatoes any more for awhile. Onions as well.
2. Saved $5.69 on my grocery bill. It was a very small shop, so I am happy with that savings.
3. Made a sympathy card for a funeral I attended this morning, for a savings of around $3.00.
4. Usual frugal exercise of walking every day, and I have added some stretches through the day.
5. Ate all the leftovers in the fridge.
6. Printed off some coupons to use in our stock up shop tomorrow.
7. Taking some of our produce to Kris in order not to waste anything we manage to pick.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Thursday, August 15, 2019
Thursday Tidbits
The harvesting of the garden is in full swing. Yet more beans were processed for the freezer today, zucchini picked washed and ready to be shredded first thing tomorrow morning, and cukes picked ready to be pickled tomorrow.
I plan on sending a text to Kris tomorrow to see if he would like some cukes, potatoes and banana peppers (the bell peppers aren't big enough to take him any as of yet). I know he will enjoy the fresh produce.
On top of the produce picked I managed to cut out two more patterns, pull fabric for another project, and am busy sewing the 4" squares together.
Mornings are cool with lots of dew, and some of the trees are already changing colour. I wonder if this is an indication of an early fall. An early fall means an early winter usually in these parts and that is something that I am not really looking forward to in the least. However this type of weather really isn't a surprise here.
I have our stock up lists done (might be a few additions tomorrow) and will be hunting for coupons tomorrow for various places. Harvey does have a discount coming to him at the shop where he picks up his wine kits. I may just have to wait until the morning we leave for Regina to print out coupons for Michael's and The Body Shop.
I am still having problems typing posts on this laptop, but hopefully I will get better at it and not drag my arm over the mousepad thingy, or hit the wrong sequence of keys and delete everything I have typed.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
I plan on sending a text to Kris tomorrow to see if he would like some cukes, potatoes and banana peppers (the bell peppers aren't big enough to take him any as of yet). I know he will enjoy the fresh produce.
On top of the produce picked I managed to cut out two more patterns, pull fabric for another project, and am busy sewing the 4" squares together.
Mornings are cool with lots of dew, and some of the trees are already changing colour. I wonder if this is an indication of an early fall. An early fall means an early winter usually in these parts and that is something that I am not really looking forward to in the least. However this type of weather really isn't a surprise here.
I have our stock up lists done (might be a few additions tomorrow) and will be hunting for coupons tomorrow for various places. Harvey does have a discount coming to him at the shop where he picks up his wine kits. I may just have to wait until the morning we leave for Regina to print out coupons for Michael's and The Body Shop.
I am still having problems typing posts on this laptop, but hopefully I will get better at it and not drag my arm over the mousepad thingy, or hit the wrong sequence of keys and delete everything I have typed.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Tuesday, August 13, 2019
Thrifty Tuesday
This past week I have been busy in the garden harvesting and processing what is harvested. Well at least processing what we don't eat, and using up leftovers. Seems to be helping me keep busy, so busy in fact that yesterday and today have been the only afternoons that other than doing the usual household chores, I have been able to finish some Christmas gifts and make some dishcloths for myself.
I used up some leftover fat quarters and backing fabric to cut out the hanging pin holders. I am using leftover batting for them as well.
Used up some leftover cotton yarn on the dishcloths as well. So Christmas gifts have cost pennies so far this year.
I also did some mending, there was a hem that needed fixing, a sock that needed darning, a seam that had come lose in one of Harvey' shirts as well as a button or two that needed replacing.
Some old towels have been turned into rags, and some very nasty rags gotten rid of.
Windows have been open over the last three days to take advantage of the cooler weather. No air conditioning at all.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
I used up some leftover fat quarters and backing fabric to cut out the hanging pin holders. I am using leftover batting for them as well.
Used up some leftover cotton yarn on the dishcloths as well. So Christmas gifts have cost pennies so far this year.
I also did some mending, there was a hem that needed fixing, a sock that needed darning, a seam that had come lose in one of Harvey' shirts as well as a button or two that needed replacing.
Some old towels have been turned into rags, and some very nasty rags gotten rid of.
Windows have been open over the last three days to take advantage of the cooler weather. No air conditioning at all.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Monday, August 12, 2019
Menu Monday
Monday
Mini meatloaves, mashed potatoes, frozen mixed veggies and the remains of the coleslaw.
Tuesday
Leftover beef roast (changed menu around a bit) made into beef rolls with mushroom sauce, sauted mushrooms, and coleslaw (making a new batch today).
Wednesday
Clean out the fridge night. I will add some hard boiled eggs if there is not enough leftover protein.
Thursday
Pork chops, creamed potatoes, peas and leftover coleslaw (might get tired of coleslaw, but I need to use up the cabbage and shredded carrots).
Friday
Baked Trout fillets, braised cabbage, and corn.
Saturday
Eating out as we will be doing a stock up shop.
Sunday
The roast chicken that was supposed to be made last Sunday, mashed potatoes, green beans and a salad.
Everybody have a wonderful day.
God bless.
Sunday, August 11, 2019
Sunday Ramblings
The past couple of days have flown by, probably because I have been busy with garden produce. Once again things seem to be coming all at once, but I am not going to complain. Every little bit we eat, freeze or can from our garden helps lower the grocery bill.
Finished the knitted Christmas gifts for Kurt and Kris. I am still trying to figure out how to bring my vision to reality for the hanging bands for their various pins. I plan on cutting them out and sewing them on Tuesday. I had thought about doing them tomorrow, but a visit to the garden late this afternoon yielded more produce to be processed.
Mass actually ended almost on time. It seems that Father is getting a bit better about cutting his homilies and not repeating the same thing over and over. My thoughts on todays homily are slightly strange. Trying to match what Father said with what I have heard before. I do think that as long as we use the talents God gave us to further his kingdom we are doing what we are asked. The problem being that not everyone knows their talents and that talents change as we get older and hopefully wiser. I know that what I felt called to do 20 years ago is not feeling like a good fit right now. I want a more hands on approach and so I have been contemplating in which direction to move.
I am sure once I have it figured out things will be full steam ahead, no holds allowed.
There is one other thing I noticed on my short walks today (between pickle making and dehydrating), lots of the poplars here in the city have started to change colour. It looks as if we could have a very early fall.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Finished the knitted Christmas gifts for Kurt and Kris. I am still trying to figure out how to bring my vision to reality for the hanging bands for their various pins. I plan on cutting them out and sewing them on Tuesday. I had thought about doing them tomorrow, but a visit to the garden late this afternoon yielded more produce to be processed.
Mass actually ended almost on time. It seems that Father is getting a bit better about cutting his homilies and not repeating the same thing over and over. My thoughts on todays homily are slightly strange. Trying to match what Father said with what I have heard before. I do think that as long as we use the talents God gave us to further his kingdom we are doing what we are asked. The problem being that not everyone knows their talents and that talents change as we get older and hopefully wiser. I know that what I felt called to do 20 years ago is not feeling like a good fit right now. I want a more hands on approach and so I have been contemplating in which direction to move.
I am sure once I have it figured out things will be full steam ahead, no holds allowed.
There is one other thing I noticed on my short walks today (between pickle making and dehydrating), lots of the poplars here in the city have started to change colour. It looks as if we could have a very early fall.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Saturday, August 10, 2019
Saturday Roundup
Today it has been cold and rainy, so because of this I did not get all the dehydrating or garden harvesting done. I did however manage to process more of the previously picked produce from the garden.
Since I could not go for my walk, I blanched and froze beans, made pickles in a bucket (though in my case I use a large glass jar with lid), and grated zucchini to freeze. Still have to make dill pickles, but I plan on getting those done tomorrow.
Today I finished up the dish cloths I want to give to Kurt and Kris for Christmas, next it will be trying to come up with a pattern for a hanging pin holder. I want to get all their hockey, baseball, and scouting picture pins on to something they can hang up on the wall. I have an idea and hopefully I can make it come true.
Pictures of all the gifts will be posted at some point next week.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Since I could not go for my walk, I blanched and froze beans, made pickles in a bucket (though in my case I use a large glass jar with lid), and grated zucchini to freeze. Still have to make dill pickles, but I plan on getting those done tomorrow.
Today I finished up the dish cloths I want to give to Kurt and Kris for Christmas, next it will be trying to come up with a pattern for a hanging pin holder. I want to get all their hockey, baseball, and scouting picture pins on to something they can hang up on the wall. I have an idea and hopefully I can make it come true.
Pictures of all the gifts will be posted at some point next week.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Friday, August 9, 2019
Frugal Friday
It seems as if Fridays are coming up faster and faster. The beginning of a weekend for those that work, a continuation of the week for those of us who have retired.
1. Booked a few days away at a cabin about 6 hours from us. Since it is the off season we saved approximately $100.00 a night and did not have to book for the full week.
2. Laundry all hung on the outside lines.
3. Using water from the rain barrel for watering my plants.
4. Eating more and more produce from the garden, and now I am beginning to freeze and probably can things for the winter. I am also using up my leftovers from the fridge regularly thus saving money and not wasting anything.
5. My savings grocery shopping weren't that great this week, but at least I managed to save $9.62.
6. More decluttering done, and I spoke to my sister and asked if her granddaughter would like my Nancy Drew books (I do have most of the hard cover series). I had been saving them in case I had a granddaughter, but that does not look like it will happen. This way they stay in the family and I empty a couple of shelves on the bookcase.
7. Still using up leftover yarn to knit a few Christmas gifts.
Everyone have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
1. Booked a few days away at a cabin about 6 hours from us. Since it is the off season we saved approximately $100.00 a night and did not have to book for the full week.
2. Laundry all hung on the outside lines.
3. Using water from the rain barrel for watering my plants.
4. Eating more and more produce from the garden, and now I am beginning to freeze and probably can things for the winter. I am also using up my leftovers from the fridge regularly thus saving money and not wasting anything.
5. My savings grocery shopping weren't that great this week, but at least I managed to save $9.62.
6. More decluttering done, and I spoke to my sister and asked if her granddaughter would like my Nancy Drew books (I do have most of the hard cover series). I had been saving them in case I had a granddaughter, but that does not look like it will happen. This way they stay in the family and I empty a couple of shelves on the bookcase.
7. Still using up leftover yarn to knit a few Christmas gifts.
Everyone have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Thursday, August 8, 2019
Thursday Tidbits
Quiet days, harvesting, working on projects, even close to finishing one or two. Things are moving right along here on the old homestead.
We are trying to book a couple of days away in order to have a bit of time to ourselves. I found out my operation is way down the road so still under a bit of stress and angst. Really sometimes our health system in Canada fails miserably, or perhaps it is the fact that many of our doctors go south for bigger pay cheques. Whichever it is, it is the patient that suffers. I suppose I can be thankful that I don't have cervical cancer (though I would have gotten operated on much sooner). I also live in one of the least populated provinces in Canada with only a few hospitals and doctors that do the type of surgery I need. Enough whining, and on to more interesting things.
Today Harvey did some cleaning in the two sheds outside. More recycling and decluttering took place. Meaning that things are being cleared out around here nicely. He is also more on board than ever with using things up, wearing things out, and recycling old into new. Got to love it, it only took 43 years of marriage and watching me do that each and every day. Still better late than never I say.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
We are trying to book a couple of days away in order to have a bit of time to ourselves. I found out my operation is way down the road so still under a bit of stress and angst. Really sometimes our health system in Canada fails miserably, or perhaps it is the fact that many of our doctors go south for bigger pay cheques. Whichever it is, it is the patient that suffers. I suppose I can be thankful that I don't have cervical cancer (though I would have gotten operated on much sooner). I also live in one of the least populated provinces in Canada with only a few hospitals and doctors that do the type of surgery I need. Enough whining, and on to more interesting things.
Today Harvey did some cleaning in the two sheds outside. More recycling and decluttering took place. Meaning that things are being cleared out around here nicely. He is also more on board than ever with using things up, wearing things out, and recycling old into new. Got to love it, it only took 43 years of marriage and watching me do that each and every day. Still better late than never I say.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Wednesday, August 7, 2019
A New Set Up
The desk is up, sewing machines placed, and a bit of organizing accomplished.
I promised to share some pictures of what I am calling the new improved sewing/craft room when I was finished, but decided to share a few with you all now.
I promised to share some pictures of what I am calling the new improved sewing/craft room when I was finished, but decided to share a few with you all now.
My two sergers finally up and both almost ready to use. There is one that is scaring me a little bit as it is a 5 spool. I had forgotten that until I took it out of the case. I may be rethinking how I am going to thread it, plus I need a bit of practice threading it.
My embroidery machine and the machine I usually use for quilting and regular sewing. Notice the white desk top. Harvey made me a new extention, he plans on adding a bit of trim to make it look a bit more put together. He used MDF that he had in his basement work room.
The old desktop computer. Now I can download embroidery patterns right onto my machine.
My Cricut machine just tucks right in and will be moved out when in use. It is also attached to the computer. Thank heavens for USB hubs.
You probably noticed the boxes and storage drawers under the desks. Those contain some of my yarn stash and fabric stash.
Now on to the areas that I am still working slowly on.
More storage, The fabric on top is ready to be cut and packaged into cut out projects so things will get much neater as time goes on.
The sewing machine is my mother's old one. It is solid metal and is just wonderful for fixing hems on denim jeans and heavier sewing. The machine Kurt gave me as a Christmas gift a couple of years ago is tucked under the computer. That is staying as a portable machine, cause I know I will want to sew in the living room once in awhile.
Now on to an even more disorganised area.
I have been working on this area today and managed to clean it up a bit. Still more work is needed and once done I will take a photo to show the improvement.
I did my first sewing in the room yesterday. Just a bit of mending, but it was nice to have room to move around.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Tuesday, August 6, 2019
Thrifty Tuesday
Ahhh, it is that time of the week again.
My thrifty moves for the week are as follows.
Made my own lavender oil, though I think it leaves much to be desired. Perhaps I did not use enough lavender blossoms in concocting it. Still I will give it a try with some of my headaches.
Been harvesting from the garden. This should continue and start saving us some cash very soon.
Dehydrating lots of herbs. I don't know how much basil I will get but will dry what I can before the plant gives up the ghost.
Mended a pair of Harvey's pajama bottoms.
Reused the old desk set up for my sewing/craft room.
Sold the old sewing machine cabinet on our online garage sale group. Making a bit of money to buy some crafting supplies or fabric later on.
All in all a pretty thrifty week
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Monday, August 5, 2019
Menu Monday
The weather is still very warm, with little to no rain happening. Harvey said that we had a storm last night that quite lit up the sky, however no rain fell to speak of. We could use a lovely gentle rain that lasts the entire day.
Monday
Warmed up leftover chicken, creamed potatoes and cucumber/tomato and sliced onion salad.
Tuesday
Meatballs in mushroom soup, noodles, green beans and the leftover cucumber/tomato sliced onion salad.
Wednesday
Chicken burgers, homemade fries and a salad.
Thursday
Clean out the fridge.
Friday
Salmon patties, rice, and mixed veggies. Perhaps some coleslaw.
Saturday
Hot dogs, baked beans, and the leftover coleslaw.
Sunday
Roast chicken, creamed potatoes, and peas/carrots.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Sunday, August 4, 2019
Sunday Ramblings
A day of getting small projects finished, and larger projects almost completed.
We have a new computer desk in the office area of the dining room (our dining room is much too large).
We have a new computer desk in the office area of the dining room (our dining room is much too large).
A large manly desk, which is what Harvey wanted. I had wanted something a bit different. This set up actually gives us much more room in the eating area.
I also did a bit more harvesting from the garden.
Beans were picked. Topped and tailed. Sliced ready for cooking. There is enough for us to have two meals as one of the sides.
A very few strawberries, but since we transplanted them and added a few plants this is to be expected. Next year should be much better we hope.
Two fairly large zucchini, cleaned, and shredded. These now reside in the freezer. It is much too hot to bake, even with air conditioning.
A few cucumbers, many of which were made into a salad. There are more, but by the time I picked these I was tired of fighting off all the blood sucking mosquitoes. They seem to love me, and I still have a few scars from our family reunion trip.
I have started to move items back into my sewing/craft room and organize a few things. I hope to have some pictures to share with you in a day or two (more likely three).
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Friday, August 2, 2019
Frugal Friday
My frugal Friday happenings are few, but they have managed to save us some cash and time.
1. I saved $39.44 at the grocery store this week.
2. Using up yarn I have had in my stash to make Christmas gifts for the boys.
3. Decluttering is simplifying my life.
4. Went to the library to get more reading material.
5. Harvesting is coming along in the garden and herb beds. I have been dehydrating and picking a little most days.
Today we picked up the new desk so more decluttering is taking place. Lots to move so we can get everything set up in both the office space and in the sewing/craft room.
Hopefully I will remember to take pictures once everything is set up the way I want/need.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
Thursday, August 1, 2019
Thursday Tidbits
I just can not believe that summer is coming to an end. Where have the days flown to?
We got some rain today which helped the lawns a little bit. Almost 1/2 inch which will make the garden a bit easier to weed. Those weeds seem to like dry ground and don't let go of their hold very easily, except when the ground is a bit damp.
Working on Christmas gifts. Kurt and Kris will be getting baskets (or rather fabric bags) of knitted goodies. Most of them are quickly knit so I should be done in record time. Harvey's gift could take a bit longer as I want to knit him another sweater. It will also take some shopping to be done at a later date as I don't have any suitable yarn.
Still using things up here and trying to keep the fridge as cleaned out as is possible. Sometimes that seems to be a project all on its own. I wonder how some things just seem to linger in there. Still I am keeping up and not wasting much of anything.
Lots of little projects to accomplish this month, with a couple of larger ones from last month. Still everything is doable as long as the garden does not start producing too quickly.
We had our first pick of the pole beans this week. Just a little taste teaser as there were only enough ready to be picked to give us one meal. Lots of flowers though, and lots of small beans forming. We should get many more meals and lots frozen for the winter.
I have put off baking bread for the rest of the summer. We have really cut back on the consumption of that product and it is just too hot to make my own. Come fall though, bread making will begin once again. I do miss the taste of homemade bread and the knowing of what is exactly in each and every loaf I make. Still weighing the cost of the air conditioner running more, it just might be less expensive to buy for the next while.
Everybody have a wonderful evening.
God bless.
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