At 2:30 yesterday afternoon we had nearly 70 mph straight line winds. They flattened fields of corn, bent billboard supports in half, and snapped power lines. Like a giant, invisible hand, the storm sent an aging power pole up the street from my house to wherever it is that power poles go when they die. Literally minutes … Read morePowerless: A Lesson In Preparing for the Unexpected
I am about to get very real with you about a problem that I have (and maybe you have, too.) When I make a mistake, for which I would gladly forgive another individual, I have a really hard time doing the same for myself. I HATE making mistakes. I recently loaded the oven up with … Read moreThe Importance of Learning to Forgive Yourself
Last week, I gave you 25 suggestions for reducing stress. Then, I asked my social media readers what they do to reduce stress. Boy did I get a lot of great ideas that I had not mentioned in my original post! So, without further ado, here are twelve more free and easy ways to reduce … Read more12 MORE Free and Easy Ways to Reduce Stress
Being stuck inside 24/7 is taking an emotional toll on us all. Sheltering at home may have started with a sense of anticipation of more time to enjoy family, hobbies, reading, catching up on household projects. However, after a few weeks all that time together is beginning to fray nerves. Finding balance will be essential … Read moreReduce Stress when You Practice Free and Easy Self-care
Drum roll, please! I have challenged myself to wait 28 days before my next grocery shopping trip. That’s right! I want to test the waters of once-a-month grocery shopping. Over the years, I’ve stretched the amount of time between grocery visits and found that it really does save me money. However, even for me, an … Read moreMy New Challenge: Once A Month Grocery Shopping
Two years ago, my world fell apart, as my husband of nearly 30 years was diagnosed with end-stage heart failure. When COVID-19 hit, I was instantly taken back in time, to that moment of disbelief, emotional turmoil, and the recognition that life had been turned upside down and would forever be changed from that moment … Read moreFinding Balance in a Time of Crisis
Ever since the 2008 recession, I’ve heard rumblings of another economic downturn, coming soon. While experts pontificate on when and how it will happen, those of us who have lived a life of consistent frugality are preparing in a little different manner. If you are concerned or just want to throw up your hands in … Read more5 Reasons the Frugal Fare Well in a Recession
School’s out for a few weeks and your kids are ready for some fun! Today, let’s talk about how to keep them busy and enjoy some family togetherness without breaking the bank. Day #1: Bake Cookies. Nothing is better for bonding than cooking together. Decorate your baked creations with colored frosting after they cool. … Read moreWinter Break: 20 Days of FREE Family Fun!
I looked my husband in the eye and said, “Our children may not be raised with a lot of money, but they will be raised with a lot fo FUN!” This is especially true during the holidays. Over the years, we sought out free or nearly free opportunities for family holiday fun.
I love looking at elegant photos in magazines of the way that other people decorate their homes for the holidays. Although, I have to admit to myself that my abode has fallen short of Better Homes and Gardens status, I also believe that when it comes to decorating, there are a LOT of hacks for … Read more6 TIPS FOR CHRISTMAS DECORATING ON A BUDGET