Sunday, May 24, 2015
No Soliciting Signs
Lately, there have been a lot of sales people coming up to our doorstep and they always seem to come at times that are not good for answering the door. I feel very bad for them. I know this is their job and they are trying to make a living. But, because of our concern for identity theft and discomfort with people coming to our door with sales pitches, we put up a no soliciting sign this morning. I found one I loved online here. I printed them off and laminated them. I cut the top one out, taped it next to our door, and now hope it will help!
Monday, May 4, 2015
Guerilla Furniture Design...
My husband and I love to reuse rather
than buy new whenever we can. At our old house, I took off the
kitchen cabinet doors and painted the cabinets, rather than
purchasing brand new ones. I left the tile backsplash in the same
kitchen and found cabinets, paint, and floor tile that would make it
palateable. When all was said and done, I was pleased.
In our new home, we have had to do a
lot more repairs, but we've sought to do more painting than
replacing. Lots of projects in the house had been done 90%, but they
needed to be finished, so we tackled those. Rather than ripping out
the paneling in our school room, I painted it. I love the texture of
the walls and it was a lot less work. I do these things not out of
fear that our world will run out of resources and the landfills will
become full, but out of a desire to be a good steward of what we have
and waste less.
Will Holman shows that same desire in
his new book Guerilla Furniture Design. This book is all about
reusing construction debris and making economical furniture with a
modern design. I loved reading the book and seeing his ideas. The
beginning of the book was particularly interesting to me because of
his job history. He was an architecture grad who couldn't find a
job. But, he didn't give up and go on welfare. He pursued one
job/internship after another that knit together an interesting path
that took him all across the country. In the end, he's developed a
vision for economical ways to furnish his homes (and others) and as
he puts it-- “get his stuff off the floor”. I have a brother in law who feels the same way and who, I am certain, would love this book.
The plans and ideas in this book seem
clear and straight forward. I, a non-construction person, feel that
I could make these projects (or at least many of them). I
appreciated the information at the front about the history of other
guerilla furniture movements and his explanation of his vision. I
was also pleased by how he explains what should be done to dispose of
the furniture when it is no longer needed and what she kept for
another project down the road.
As with other Storey books, this one is
well edited with wonderful pictures and illustrations. I was taken
by surprised with how much I enjoyed it. My husband is looking
forward to reading it now!
Please note that I received a
complimentary copy of this book for review from Storey Books.
Thursday, April 16, 2015
Planning Meals
Last fall, I made some forms to help me cope with the holidays. My husband likes to know that everything is taken care of and these forms helped me feel like I knew everything was covered.
I'm not able to upload to this site on blogspot, so I've posted them on a Wordpress site HERE. If you scroll down to the Family Forms, I've posted 4 different Guest Meal worksheets. I use these for holiday meals or larger family get togethers.
The other forms I've posted are the ones I use for my kids' birthday parties. I let my kids decide what they want for breakfast, lunch, and dinner on their birthdays and I give them the Birthday Day Meals form. I use the birthday party form when I plan the parties :)
Thursday, April 9, 2015
Taking your blood pressure
A few weeks ago, I had a stress reaction to wearing a Vivofit bracelet. I broke out in hives for 4 days and after a few days I realized I was having a hard time breathing. I saw the dermatologist about the hives, but I wasn't quite sure what to do about the breathing. I figured it would calm down after a few days, but the next time I was in a grocery store, I took my blood pressure to make sure that was okay in light of my other reactions. It was easy enough to do. I realized that it can be helpful to have a blood pressure monitor around if there are any questions. High blood pressure runs in my family and I'm working on managing my stress. I've never had high blood pressure before and I'm hoping I won't. But, I recognize that it's a good thing to keep track of.
So, I tried a blood pressure monitor at home by Measupro, the BPM20A. This blood pressure monitor is very easy to use. The instruction manual gives very specific directions about how often and how to use it. I love that it records two people (up to 60 records). The date and time are recorded with the machine. It only takes AAA batteries which are very inexpensive to replace. The only direction that is missing is that you should plug the arm cuff into the side. The numbers are very clear, big, and easy to read.
As a person who has never used one of these myself before, I found it easy to follow. The white knob from the cuff goes into the side of the base. This is the one direction that is omitted and you do have to push it in. The directions do say to rest for 5 minutes before using (which is difficult for me with 3 kids running around that I need to take care of), but I rested for 2 or 3 minutes and then used it. My blood pressure was fine. The manufacturer does recommend sitting in the same location at the same time each day to measure your blood pressure--so that you can control more variables and get a more consistent reading. This makes sense. Also, for those who don't know which measurement to choose, you'll want to choose the mmHg in the US.
When I looked around at the prices of various monitors, it was interesting that they range in price from about $30-$50 or even more. This one is moderately priced at $45.
I am both pleased and surprised by how easy this was to set up and use!
Please note that I was sent a complimentary monitor by MeasuPro to review.
So, I tried a blood pressure monitor at home by Measupro, the BPM20A. This blood pressure monitor is very easy to use. The instruction manual gives very specific directions about how often and how to use it. I love that it records two people (up to 60 records). The date and time are recorded with the machine. It only takes AAA batteries which are very inexpensive to replace. The only direction that is missing is that you should plug the arm cuff into the side. The numbers are very clear, big, and easy to read.As a person who has never used one of these myself before, I found it easy to follow. The white knob from the cuff goes into the side of the base. This is the one direction that is omitted and you do have to push it in. The directions do say to rest for 5 minutes before using (which is difficult for me with 3 kids running around that I need to take care of), but I rested for 2 or 3 minutes and then used it. My blood pressure was fine. The manufacturer does recommend sitting in the same location at the same time each day to measure your blood pressure--so that you can control more variables and get a more consistent reading. This makes sense. Also, for those who don't know which measurement to choose, you'll want to choose the mmHg in the US.
When I looked around at the prices of various monitors, it was interesting that they range in price from about $30-$50 or even more. This one is moderately priced at $45.
I am both pleased and surprised by how easy this was to set up and use!
Please note that I was sent a complimentary monitor by MeasuPro to review.
Monday, April 6, 2015
My Easter Ham
I did not grow up eating ham on Easter, so I have very little experience cooking ham! Two years ago, I discovered the amazing trick of cooking a ham in a crock pot...
Cook a bone in ham (non spiral-sliced type) in a large crockpot. ALL DAY. It will fall apart like corned beef and be salty--in an especially yummy way. Put 1 cup of liquid in with the ham and some brown sugar if you'd like. This is a cheap way to make a cheap ham really yummy.
But, for Easter, I get a spiral sliced ham. Last year, I tried the oven cooking method at 275 degrees. I placed it in a pan and covered it in aluminum foil (I think), but after 2 hours, it still wasn't warm in the center. So, we sliced it off the bone and had to heat it in the microwave so that we could eat on time.
With that memory on my mind--of past hams not hot inside-- I looked online for directions. I had a spiral sliced ham to heat again this year and I really wanted my endeavor to be successful in heating it through. So, after looking around, I settled on how I was going to do it... and it worked!!
Directions for heating a spiral sliced ham:
Heat oven to 325 degrees.
Take ham out of wrapper. Place ham inside a Reynolds oven bag (I used a turkey size.) The directions on the bag say to put 1 Tbsp of flour in the bottom. Then, you tie the bag with some cooking twine. The bag comes with a metal twist tie, but I wasn't comfortable using it. So, I folded the end over and tied it. The plastic bag isn't supposed to go over the pan, so this helps it stay tighter. Then, Cut six 1/2" slits around the top. Cook a 10 lb. ham for 1 hr. 30 min. Check at 1 hr. 15 min.
Here's a link to the cooking info on Reynolds' site. http://www.reynoldskitchens.com/media/3020138/orgoventempstob.pdf
A second faq I found helpful is:
http://www.reynoldskitchens.com/media/13943325/oven_bags_faq.pdf
I so thankful and pleased that it worked! My ham heated through! Yippee! I am definitely doing it this way in the future. Easter is trickier than other holidays because go to church and get home around 1 pm and want to eat around 3 pm. This method of doing the ham is going to make our Easter dinner so much easier from now on!
I made two sauces to serve on the side: Pineapple Sauce and a simple mustard sauce.
Cook a bone in ham (non spiral-sliced type) in a large crockpot. ALL DAY. It will fall apart like corned beef and be salty--in an especially yummy way. Put 1 cup of liquid in with the ham and some brown sugar if you'd like. This is a cheap way to make a cheap ham really yummy.
But, for Easter, I get a spiral sliced ham. Last year, I tried the oven cooking method at 275 degrees. I placed it in a pan and covered it in aluminum foil (I think), but after 2 hours, it still wasn't warm in the center. So, we sliced it off the bone and had to heat it in the microwave so that we could eat on time.
With that memory on my mind--of past hams not hot inside-- I looked online for directions. I had a spiral sliced ham to heat again this year and I really wanted my endeavor to be successful in heating it through. So, after looking around, I settled on how I was going to do it... and it worked!!
Directions for heating a spiral sliced ham:
Heat oven to 325 degrees.
Take ham out of wrapper. Place ham inside a Reynolds oven bag (I used a turkey size.) The directions on the bag say to put 1 Tbsp of flour in the bottom. Then, you tie the bag with some cooking twine. The bag comes with a metal twist tie, but I wasn't comfortable using it. So, I folded the end over and tied it. The plastic bag isn't supposed to go over the pan, so this helps it stay tighter. Then, Cut six 1/2" slits around the top. Cook a 10 lb. ham for 1 hr. 30 min. Check at 1 hr. 15 min.
Here's a link to the cooking info on Reynolds' site. http://www.reynoldskitchens.com/media/3020138/orgoventempstob.pdf
A second faq I found helpful is:
http://www.reynoldskitchens.com/media/13943325/oven_bags_faq.pdf
I so thankful and pleased that it worked! My ham heated through! Yippee! I am definitely doing it this way in the future. Easter is trickier than other holidays because go to church and get home around 1 pm and want to eat around 3 pm. This method of doing the ham is going to make our Easter dinner so much easier from now on!
I made two sauces to serve on the side: Pineapple Sauce and a simple mustard sauce.
Thursday, April 2, 2015
Cracking Eggs Cleanly...
Yippee!!!!! Yesterday, my kids and I dyed Easter Eggs along with another boy from church. I do it every year in conjunction with stuffing the eggs for our church egg hunt. Planning it this way makes it fun for the kids and for me and I know that I won't procrastinate dying eggs and miss it.
My kids love hard boiled eggs. But, in recent years, they have been a thorn in my side. Every time I tried to peel one, the peel would stick. I could never get a cleanly peeled egg. Until today!! My mom is always looking for fun tips on how to cook eggs. She's the one who told me how to cook them:
Place eggs in cold water in pan. Bring to a boil. Place lid on pan. Turn off heat and let sit for 15 minutes. Then, drain and eat.
Less energy used to cook and this method works well--for the cooking.
But, my mom found a new tip for the cracking this week and this is it:
Gently crack your egg(s) all over. Then, place them in a bowl of water for a few minutes. Don't try and leave them there for just 30 seconds. They'll still stick. But, 2-3 minutes will do the trick. Pull out the eggs one by one and peel!
I was so amazed and pleased that this worked. Deviled eggs with smooth surfaces! Yippee!!!
It's the little things that can make one smile!
My kids love hard boiled eggs. But, in recent years, they have been a thorn in my side. Every time I tried to peel one, the peel would stick. I could never get a cleanly peeled egg. Until today!! My mom is always looking for fun tips on how to cook eggs. She's the one who told me how to cook them:
Place eggs in cold water in pan. Bring to a boil. Place lid on pan. Turn off heat and let sit for 15 minutes. Then, drain and eat.
Less energy used to cook and this method works well--for the cooking.
But, my mom found a new tip for the cracking this week and this is it:
Gently crack your egg(s) all over. Then, place them in a bowl of water for a few minutes. Don't try and leave them there for just 30 seconds. They'll still stick. But, 2-3 minutes will do the trick. Pull out the eggs one by one and peel!
I was so amazed and pleased that this worked. Deviled eggs with smooth surfaces! Yippee!!!
It's the little things that can make one smile!
Wednesday, April 1, 2015
Not as simple as it might seem...
I have taught myself how to do many craft projects. Scrapbooking, quilting, calligraphy... But, I have always struggled with helping my children make beaded necklaces. My knots never seem to stay!
Needless to say, I was thrilled when I opened up an envelope a few days ago and I found 3 helpful books inside. #1 Beaded Jewelry: Wirework Techniques, #2 Beaded Jewelry: Knotting Techniques, and #3 Beaded Jewelry: Stringing Techniques. These are fairly small books (probably 5 x 7 inches) and thin (about 1/4"). But, they are packed with great information! Sometimes it is true that great things come in small packages...
Storey published these three books by Carson Eddy, Rachael Evans, and Kate Feld. They answered so many questions I've had over the years, but have felt silly for wanting to ask! I know many people like websites and youtube, but I'm still partial to books. There are a few reasons why.
#1 All the information is in one place--ONE place. I don't have to click around searching for what I can't figure out. It's all there.
#2 I don't have to sit in front of my computer. I spend enough time in front of this thing as it is!
#3 I am less distractable... Oh, what's that other page talking about? Do I need to read that first? Oh, that looks more interesting... you get the idea. There's always something else to look at on the interest and so it's easy to miss out on enjoying what's right in front of me.
Those are just a few of my reasons, but basically, I love books. I prefer books. And these three are great books that helped me understand how to make jewelry far better than the information I've found on the internet.
But, back to these books.
Book #1 Wirework Techniques
This book covers the basics about wire, basics about chain types you can use (not make yourself), findings (clasp, earrings, etc.), what you need to know about tools and then techniques. Theses books are black and white so the pictures are drawings, but they are very clear and the directions/drawings are very easy to follow.
Book #2 Knotting Techniques
This book covers cords, clasps, tools, knotting techniques, and pearls. When using this book (and the others for that matter), you'll want to use either a cookbook holder or a heavy object to keep the book propped open while you work. The square knot directions were easy to follow and I was very thankful for the information about adjustable ways to end a necklace. I had always wanted to know how to do this!
Book #3 Stringing Techniques
This was the book that surprised me the most of the three. I had not realized how interesting it would be to learn about the different types of beads and how helpful it would be to understand them! The other chapters explain the types of stringing materials and findings. There is a chapter on beading tools as well as one about planning jewelry. All of the chapters were easy to understand and full of information.
If you're interested in beading, but don't have the time to take a class, these books would be a great place to start beyond making a simple string with beads and tying it in a knot. I think these books are a great introduction for the crafty person who wants to start beading. But, they will give you information and techniques that you can do an amazing amount with!
We're so focused on being entertained by what we see on the computer screen that we often miss the enjoyment of sitting and doing. These beading books remind me of how valuable it is to get off this silly computer and do something (like my girls, who are making origami rabbits in the other room at the moment for our church's egg hunt this weekend).
Please note that I received complimentary copies of these three books for review from Storey Publishing.
Needless to say, I was thrilled when I opened up an envelope a few days ago and I found 3 helpful books inside. #1 Beaded Jewelry: Wirework Techniques, #2 Beaded Jewelry: Knotting Techniques, and #3 Beaded Jewelry: Stringing Techniques. These are fairly small books (probably 5 x 7 inches) and thin (about 1/4"). But, they are packed with great information! Sometimes it is true that great things come in small packages...
Storey published these three books by Carson Eddy, Rachael Evans, and Kate Feld. They answered so many questions I've had over the years, but have felt silly for wanting to ask! I know many people like websites and youtube, but I'm still partial to books. There are a few reasons why.
#1 All the information is in one place--ONE place. I don't have to click around searching for what I can't figure out. It's all there.
#2 I don't have to sit in front of my computer. I spend enough time in front of this thing as it is!
#3 I am less distractable... Oh, what's that other page talking about? Do I need to read that first? Oh, that looks more interesting... you get the idea. There's always something else to look at on the interest and so it's easy to miss out on enjoying what's right in front of me.
Those are just a few of my reasons, but basically, I love books. I prefer books. And these three are great books that helped me understand how to make jewelry far better than the information I've found on the internet. But, back to these books.
Book #1 Wirework Techniques
This book covers the basics about wire, basics about chain types you can use (not make yourself), findings (clasp, earrings, etc.), what you need to know about tools and then techniques. Theses books are black and white so the pictures are drawings, but they are very clear and the directions/drawings are very easy to follow.
This book covers cords, clasps, tools, knotting techniques, and pearls. When using this book (and the others for that matter), you'll want to use either a cookbook holder or a heavy object to keep the book propped open while you work. The square knot directions were easy to follow and I was very thankful for the information about adjustable ways to end a necklace. I had always wanted to know how to do this!
Book #3 Stringing Techniques
This was the book that surprised me the most of the three. I had not realized how interesting it would be to learn about the different types of beads and how helpful it would be to understand them! The other chapters explain the types of stringing materials and findings. There is a chapter on beading tools as well as one about planning jewelry. All of the chapters were easy to understand and full of information.
If you're interested in beading, but don't have the time to take a class, these books would be a great place to start beyond making a simple string with beads and tying it in a knot. I think these books are a great introduction for the crafty person who wants to start beading. But, they will give you information and techniques that you can do an amazing amount with!
We're so focused on being entertained by what we see on the computer screen that we often miss the enjoyment of sitting and doing. These beading books remind me of how valuable it is to get off this silly computer and do something (like my girls, who are making origami rabbits in the other room at the moment for our church's egg hunt this weekend).
Please note that I received complimentary copies of these three books for review from Storey Publishing.
Monday, March 30, 2015
New Addition to Cookbook List!
On this blog, I keep a list of my favorite cookbooks. I haven't added a new one in a long.... long time.
A few years ago, I searched for a kids' cookbook that I could love and that my kids could enjoy and follow easily. I was so surprised by the variety of cookbooks and the poorly written directions they included. In particular, I remember looking at Paula Deen's cookbook for children. The small print, light type, and colored background... I wanted a better cookbook for my kids! For me, cookbooks are inspiring (even if I almost never follow a recipe exactly)! I ended up finding one that I loved-- Kids Cook!, a Williamson Kids Can book that is now back in print. But, there are no photographs in the cookbook. My kids love color and they are not drawn to that cookbook. On the other hand, a new cookbook arrived at our doorstep last week and my kids hovered over it--drinking in the recipes, excited to cook!
That cookbook is Cooking Class by Deanna F. Cook. A few years ago, Storey published two
cookbooks for kids about sewing that I like: Sewing School and Sewing School 2. With this cookbook for kids, Storey followed the same format and editing style--which I loved back then and love again with this new cookbook.
Cooking Class is divided into seven sections that cover the basics, meals, snacks, and of course--dessert! The Basics section is what I have found lacking in most kids' cookbooks, but in this one, it is done well. Good tips, good pictures, and even a page on how to clean up! I like that they added two pages on how to fold a fancy napkins and setting the table. I have a feeling that our next holiday meal will have some beautifully folded napkins!
From there, the recipe sections begin. The recipes are divided into 1, 2, or 3 spoons. 1 spoon recipes can be made by kids themselves. 2 spoon recipes might need an older sibling or parent's help. 3 spoon recipes use sharp knives and the oven/stove, so an adult is most likely needed for kids under 10 or 11. My daughters are 9 and 11 and are uncomfortable with the oven and can turn on the gas stove, but usually prefer me to do that.
The recipes are easy to follow and have great pictures which give clear instructions. The reading level (because of the size of the type) is probably 3rd grade and above. I know that my first grade son can read most of the words in these directions, but the size of the type would be a stumbling block for him.
Our first recipe we tried from the cookbook was the grab and go granola bars. I was a little skeptical about how my kids would like them since they aren't baked, but my whole family ended up loving them! I think next time, though, I am going to try and mix the chocolate chips into the mixture and then press into the pan so that the chocolate chips are mixed throughout the bars and aren't just on top.
I suspect that within a few months every recipe in this cookbook will have been tried by my kids!
Aside from the recipes, the cookbook includes some fun stickers, place cards, and conversation questions for the dinner table. These are of high quality and my kids have enjoyed them all.
I think you get the idea... when choosing a great kids' cookbook, this one tops my list! (and has been added to my list of favorite cookbooks on this blog)
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this cookbook for review from Storey publishing.
A few years ago, I searched for a kids' cookbook that I could love and that my kids could enjoy and follow easily. I was so surprised by the variety of cookbooks and the poorly written directions they included. In particular, I remember looking at Paula Deen's cookbook for children. The small print, light type, and colored background... I wanted a better cookbook for my kids! For me, cookbooks are inspiring (even if I almost never follow a recipe exactly)! I ended up finding one that I loved-- Kids Cook!, a Williamson Kids Can book that is now back in print. But, there are no photographs in the cookbook. My kids love color and they are not drawn to that cookbook. On the other hand, a new cookbook arrived at our doorstep last week and my kids hovered over it--drinking in the recipes, excited to cook!
That cookbook is Cooking Class by Deanna F. Cook. A few years ago, Storey published two cookbooks for kids about sewing that I like: Sewing School and Sewing School 2. With this cookbook for kids, Storey followed the same format and editing style--which I loved back then and love again with this new cookbook.
Cooking Class is divided into seven sections that cover the basics, meals, snacks, and of course--dessert! The Basics section is what I have found lacking in most kids' cookbooks, but in this one, it is done well. Good tips, good pictures, and even a page on how to clean up! I like that they added two pages on how to fold a fancy napkins and setting the table. I have a feeling that our next holiday meal will have some beautifully folded napkins!
From there, the recipe sections begin. The recipes are divided into 1, 2, or 3 spoons. 1 spoon recipes can be made by kids themselves. 2 spoon recipes might need an older sibling or parent's help. 3 spoon recipes use sharp knives and the oven/stove, so an adult is most likely needed for kids under 10 or 11. My daughters are 9 and 11 and are uncomfortable with the oven and can turn on the gas stove, but usually prefer me to do that.
The recipes are easy to follow and have great pictures which give clear instructions. The reading level (because of the size of the type) is probably 3rd grade and above. I know that my first grade son can read most of the words in these directions, but the size of the type would be a stumbling block for him.
Our first recipe we tried from the cookbook was the grab and go granola bars. I was a little skeptical about how my kids would like them since they aren't baked, but my whole family ended up loving them! I think next time, though, I am going to try and mix the chocolate chips into the mixture and then press into the pan so that the chocolate chips are mixed throughout the bars and aren't just on top.
I suspect that within a few months every recipe in this cookbook will have been tried by my kids!
Aside from the recipes, the cookbook includes some fun stickers, place cards, and conversation questions for the dinner table. These are of high quality and my kids have enjoyed them all.
I think you get the idea... when choosing a great kids' cookbook, this one tops my list! (and has been added to my list of favorite cookbooks on this blog)
Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this cookbook for review from Storey publishing.
Sunday, March 15, 2015
Freezer Issues
Freezers and I have a love/hate relationship. It drives me crazy that I lose food in them and that they get disorganized so quickly because I'm in a rush and have to stick stuff back in them.
But, this week I began implementing one of my new grocery plans--to go to Wegmans once a month (or every 6 weeks) to buy meat/chicken/pork and stock up. I came home and divided up the meat into ziplocs... but I knew that I needed to organize our freezer(s) so that I'd be able to find it when I needed it. So, I got started and came to a conclusion.
Freezing meals doesn't work for me. I don't defrost things well. I often change (or even decide in the first place) what I'm going to cook for dinner an hour or two before we're going to eat. So, I keep a stock of basics (dry goods and frozen) on hand.
I sorted my meats by type, frozen vegetables together and breads, freezer strawberry jam and blueberries, grains, coconut, bread crumbs, ice cream... One of the issues I faced was the jumble of partially used frozen fruit and vegetable bags. They would drive me crazy when they'd fall out of the freezer. So, I found that the shoebox size plastic boxes fit perfectly. I put one with the bags of fruit in my freezer upstairs and one with the open frozen vegetables. It's amazing how boxes and baskets can make me feel less cluttered and more organized because it gives things a place to belong.
One of the biggest lessons I've learned this past year is about comparing ourselves to others. When it comes to saving money, the same thing applies--just because someone else can manage and juggle something doesn't mean you should. What works for one person won't necessarily work for another. I know there are a ton of cookbooks about cooking for a month and freezing ahead. But, I realized the other day that my brain just doesn't think ahead to defrost such meals so they end up being a waste of money for us. I love the ideas that I get from hearing how other people feed their families and what strategies they use for saving money. But, I see the wisdom in taking what applies to me and then simply appreciating that the other strategies bless the other people using them. It's not an all or nothing deal. For example, I don't use coupons much anymore. But, I did for years! I still love to clip them some times, but they don't end up being used much anymore. I don't have the time to shop and use them. I'm in a time of life that requires me to be more time efficient with my grocery trips. So, that means I am making a monthly trip to Wegmans for meat, asian rice (when needed), and generic spiral mac and cheese. An almost weekly trip to Aldi for the bulk of our groceries, and an every other week trip to our local grocery store for deli meat, buttermilk, and a few things that Aldi doesn't carry (like red leaf lettuce heads, cilantro, and fresh jalapenos). Not worrying about coupons right now takes a lot of stress off of me. And decreasing my stress right now is worth a lot to me.
But, this week I began implementing one of my new grocery plans--to go to Wegmans once a month (or every 6 weeks) to buy meat/chicken/pork and stock up. I came home and divided up the meat into ziplocs... but I knew that I needed to organize our freezer(s) so that I'd be able to find it when I needed it. So, I got started and came to a conclusion.
Freezing meals doesn't work for me. I don't defrost things well. I often change (or even decide in the first place) what I'm going to cook for dinner an hour or two before we're going to eat. So, I keep a stock of basics (dry goods and frozen) on hand.
I sorted my meats by type, frozen vegetables together and breads, freezer strawberry jam and blueberries, grains, coconut, bread crumbs, ice cream... One of the issues I faced was the jumble of partially used frozen fruit and vegetable bags. They would drive me crazy when they'd fall out of the freezer. So, I found that the shoebox size plastic boxes fit perfectly. I put one with the bags of fruit in my freezer upstairs and one with the open frozen vegetables. It's amazing how boxes and baskets can make me feel less cluttered and more organized because it gives things a place to belong.
One of the biggest lessons I've learned this past year is about comparing ourselves to others. When it comes to saving money, the same thing applies--just because someone else can manage and juggle something doesn't mean you should. What works for one person won't necessarily work for another. I know there are a ton of cookbooks about cooking for a month and freezing ahead. But, I realized the other day that my brain just doesn't think ahead to defrost such meals so they end up being a waste of money for us. I love the ideas that I get from hearing how other people feed their families and what strategies they use for saving money. But, I see the wisdom in taking what applies to me and then simply appreciating that the other strategies bless the other people using them. It's not an all or nothing deal. For example, I don't use coupons much anymore. But, I did for years! I still love to clip them some times, but they don't end up being used much anymore. I don't have the time to shop and use them. I'm in a time of life that requires me to be more time efficient with my grocery trips. So, that means I am making a monthly trip to Wegmans for meat, asian rice (when needed), and generic spiral mac and cheese. An almost weekly trip to Aldi for the bulk of our groceries, and an every other week trip to our local grocery store for deli meat, buttermilk, and a few things that Aldi doesn't carry (like red leaf lettuce heads, cilantro, and fresh jalapenos). Not worrying about coupons right now takes a lot of stress off of me. And decreasing my stress right now is worth a lot to me.
Thursday, February 26, 2015
Meat Rolls
When I studied abroad during college, I went to Australia. Many of the other students ate meat pies, sausage rolls, and the like. I have to admit that I never tried one. They just never appealed to me... until yesterday.
I make a monthly menu every month so that I'll have an idea of something I can make every day of the month. But, I often veer away from that at the last minute. Yesterday was one of those days. I opened up America's Test Kitchen's Lost Recipes cookbook, an out of print ATK cookbook that I found at a book sale. I found a recipe for Runsas and thought it might be worth a try. My family ended up loving them!
They weren't as hard as they sounded, but having a breadmaker make the dough does help. I did forget the cabbage when I went to the store, though, so I substituted 4 oz. steamed spinach and 2 cups of carrots (sauteed) for the cabbage. I also substituted mozzarella for the American cheese. Two of my three kids had them for lunch today, which says a lot in my family!
Here's a link to the recipe for the Runsas... http://www.food.com/recipe/runsas-386848
My son has already asked me to make them again!
Tonight I attempted challah bread and Caribbean Black Bean Soup with Fruit Salsa. The challah was a salvaged disaster! The author of the bread cookbook hadn't doubled the recipe correctly and the dough came out of my bread maker as soup. Well, you win some and lose some! I pulled it out and dumped a ton of flour on it. Then, I had to add extra yeast dissolved in water with some sugar to it because the multiplication hadn't been done correctly. Then, more flour. My bread didn't turn out to be challah, but in the end it did turn out to be edible and I'm thankful for that. The soup was more of a success as two people at the table ate seconds and it will definitely be made again in the future. I couldn't find this recipe online, though, so I can't link to it...
I like making new dishes, but sometimes you never can tell how they're going to turn out!
I make a monthly menu every month so that I'll have an idea of something I can make every day of the month. But, I often veer away from that at the last minute. Yesterday was one of those days. I opened up America's Test Kitchen's Lost Recipes cookbook, an out of print ATK cookbook that I found at a book sale. I found a recipe for Runsas and thought it might be worth a try. My family ended up loving them!
They weren't as hard as they sounded, but having a breadmaker make the dough does help. I did forget the cabbage when I went to the store, though, so I substituted 4 oz. steamed spinach and 2 cups of carrots (sauteed) for the cabbage. I also substituted mozzarella for the American cheese. Two of my three kids had them for lunch today, which says a lot in my family!
Here's a link to the recipe for the Runsas... http://www.food.com/recipe/runsas-386848
My son has already asked me to make them again!
Tonight I attempted challah bread and Caribbean Black Bean Soup with Fruit Salsa. The challah was a salvaged disaster! The author of the bread cookbook hadn't doubled the recipe correctly and the dough came out of my bread maker as soup. Well, you win some and lose some! I pulled it out and dumped a ton of flour on it. Then, I had to add extra yeast dissolved in water with some sugar to it because the multiplication hadn't been done correctly. Then, more flour. My bread didn't turn out to be challah, but in the end it did turn out to be edible and I'm thankful for that. The soup was more of a success as two people at the table ate seconds and it will definitely be made again in the future. I couldn't find this recipe online, though, so I can't link to it...
I like making new dishes, but sometimes you never can tell how they're going to turn out!
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Salt Shaker Solution
I was recently sent a little bamboo jar for review. We are using it filled with salt on our dining room table.
Friday, February 6, 2015
Mashed Potatoes and Chicken with mushrooms and cream gravy
Last night I made a dinner my family all loved. Steamed green beans, cranberry sauce (from a can), mashed potatoes, and chicken with mushrooms and cream gravy.
My mashed potatoes were better than usual, but I did something different. I usually just throw things in, but I thought I'd actually try and put in measurements. So, here's what I put in.
Mashed Potatoes
Peeled, chopped, and cooked 2 1/2-3 lbs. of potatoes
3/4-1 tsp. minced garlic.
2 large spoonfuls of sour cream (probably 3-4 Tbsp.)
2 Tbsp butter
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
2 large splashes of half and half on the pile of potatoes in my kitchen aid bowl (again probably 3-4 Tbsp.)
I mixed everything till smooth in my kitchen aid (as smooth as your family likes them). My kids were very happy with them. Yay! I'm going to try and be more exact on the sour cream and half and half next time ;) and then I'll come back and revise this.
I also tried a new recipe today from the Betty Crocker site for Chicken Breasts with Creamy Mushroom Gravy, but I modified it so much that it turned out very differently. The recipe on the site got only 3 1/2 stars, but my family would have given dinner tonight 5 stars! But... I changed it a ton.
So, here's what I made last night:
Chicken with Mushrooms and Gravy
2 very large chicken breasts = 1 1/4- 1 1/2 lbs. chicken breasts defrosted
1 cup flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 Tbsp butter
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 egg
1/4 cup milk
8 oz. mushrooms, sliced
3 Tbsp. diced white onions
3/4 cup milk
1 cup chicken broth
1 1/2 tsp soy sauce
1 1/2 Tbsp butter
butter and canola oil
1. Cut the chicken breasts into pieces that you'd normally use for making breaded chicken sandwiches on a normal size hamburger bun. Then cut these pieces in half or thirds horizontally if they're really thick. Some I cut in half and some in thirds--to about 1/2 inch thickness. Place pieces flat (with room to spare) in gallon size ziploc bag. Use a mallet to pound the pieces to 1/4 inch thickness. I have a mallet like this one:
My mashed potatoes were better than usual, but I did something different. I usually just throw things in, but I thought I'd actually try and put in measurements. So, here's what I put in.
Mashed Potatoes
Peeled, chopped, and cooked 2 1/2-3 lbs. of potatoes
3/4-1 tsp. minced garlic.
2 large spoonfuls of sour cream (probably 3-4 Tbsp.)
2 Tbsp butter
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
2 large splashes of half and half on the pile of potatoes in my kitchen aid bowl (again probably 3-4 Tbsp.)
I mixed everything till smooth in my kitchen aid (as smooth as your family likes them). My kids were very happy with them. Yay! I'm going to try and be more exact on the sour cream and half and half next time ;) and then I'll come back and revise this.
I also tried a new recipe today from the Betty Crocker site for Chicken Breasts with Creamy Mushroom Gravy, but I modified it so much that it turned out very differently. The recipe on the site got only 3 1/2 stars, but my family would have given dinner tonight 5 stars! But... I changed it a ton.
So, here's what I made last night:
Chicken with Mushrooms and Gravy
2 very large chicken breasts = 1 1/4- 1 1/2 lbs. chicken breasts defrosted
1 cup flour
1 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1 Tbsp butter
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 egg
1/4 cup milk
8 oz. mushrooms, sliced
3 Tbsp. diced white onions
3/4 cup milk
1 cup chicken broth
1 1/2 tsp soy sauce
1 1/2 Tbsp butter
butter and canola oil
1. Cut the chicken breasts into pieces that you'd normally use for making breaded chicken sandwiches on a normal size hamburger bun. Then cut these pieces in half or thirds horizontally if they're really thick. Some I cut in half and some in thirds--to about 1/2 inch thickness. Place pieces flat (with room to spare) in gallon size ziploc bag. Use a mallet to pound the pieces to 1/4 inch thickness. I have a mallet like this one:
I've read that people can even use the rubber mallet you use for working around your house--just be sure to disinfect it with white vinegar afterwards because invariably, the chicken breaks through the bag. After I've pounded the chicken, I cut it into the size pieces I want to be a serving size of 1-2 pieces per person. Then, I place the chicken in a bowl next to my stove and move on to the next step.
* After pounding the chicken and setting it aside, I use white vinegar and a paper towel to disinfect my countertop where I was working by pouring a little vinegar on the counter and then rubbing it all over.
2. Beat the egg and milk in a bowl together and place next to the chicken.
3. Place flour, baking powder, salt, and 1 Tbsp butter in a bowl. But the butter into the mixture until it disappears and you don't even know it's there. I don't use a pastry blender for this. I just use my fingers and squish over and over until it's all mixed in. Place flour in a bowl next to the egg. Set 1/4 cup aside in a measuring cup for the gravy later.
4. Heat 1 Tbsp butter and 1-2 Tbsp canola oil in large skillet (I use my cast iron one) over medium heat . When butter is melted, dip the chicken first in the egg mixture and then coat in flour mixture and place in pan. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes on each side--this depends on your stove and your pan. Watch it. It should be a nice golden brown on each side after 5 minutes. It took me two rounds to cook all of my chicken. Set aside chicken on a plate.
5. While my chicken was cooking, I threw my mushrooms and onions with 1 Tbsp butter in a nonstick fry pan and cooked over med-high heat so that they would cook quickly and nicely. Medium-high lets them cook through but not get soggy, just watch them so they don't burn. If you think they're cooking too fast, just turn it down to medium for a few minutes. This probably takes about 8 minutes or so. Once cooked, set aside in a small dish with a lid to keep them warm.
6. When the chicken is done, add 1 1/2 Tbsp of butter to the pan and let it melt, then stir in the 4 Tbsp of flour mixture that you'd set aside until it absorbs the butter. Then, add the chicken broth little by little. Whisk as you go so that it's all absorbed. Pour in about a quarter cup at a time. There are lumps at first, so keep stirring till all absorbed and add 2 Tbsp at a time if that makes it easier. If you add too much, you will need to let your gravy come to a low boil/simmer so that it can thicken up. It will thicken, but it will take time. After finishing adding all the chicken broth, add the soy sauce. Then, add the milk a few Tbsp at a time until you've added about 3/4 cup. You can add less if you want it thicker or don't need as much gravy.
7. I served steamed green beans and cranberry sauce on the side. I placed a mound of mashed potatoes on each plate along with a piece or two of chicken. We topped the chicken with some mushrooms/onions for those in our family who liked them and then put some gravy over top. My middle daughter doesn't like gravy, so having the elements of this meal separate makes things more edible for her.
So, that's my recipe... My husband has declared that it's a keep and is one that we'll definitely make for company soon!
Friday, January 9, 2015
One thing each day...
My goal lately has been to do one thing each day on my house--to clean or organize one thing. Sometimes it's small, sometimes big (mostly small). The small things have made such a difference to how I feel about the space I live in.
I put all of our kitchen medicines in a basket one day.
I cleaned the shower one day.
I put the extra dishes in bags in the basement one day.
I moved the fish food to a different drawer so they weren't so in the way-- one day.
A friend of mine told me a few years ago that the Fly Lady said to start each day by clearing off your kitchen counters. I do that. It gives me a less cluttered feeling as I start each morning.
I'm finding that organizing a husband, children, dog, and house doesn't become a smaller job as the kids get bigger. Rather, the job gets bigger. More stuff to keep track of. More school assignments. More books (speaking of which--one library book has gone mia right now :( ).
Recently, my oldest daughter admired a larger home that one of her friend's lives in. I agreed with her. I love their house. But, I shared with her that it's also more to take care of. She realized that if more people were living in that house, there would also be more to take care of than there is now. Comparing apples to oranges always makes the oranges look like something's not right with them.
So for now, I'll stick to my one thing a day and continually make little steps that will hopefully make my home more comfortable for everyone living in it!
I put all of our kitchen medicines in a basket one day.
I cleaned the shower one day.
I put the extra dishes in bags in the basement one day.
I moved the fish food to a different drawer so they weren't so in the way-- one day.
A friend of mine told me a few years ago that the Fly Lady said to start each day by clearing off your kitchen counters. I do that. It gives me a less cluttered feeling as I start each morning.
I'm finding that organizing a husband, children, dog, and house doesn't become a smaller job as the kids get bigger. Rather, the job gets bigger. More stuff to keep track of. More school assignments. More books (speaking of which--one library book has gone mia right now :( ).
Recently, my oldest daughter admired a larger home that one of her friend's lives in. I agreed with her. I love their house. But, I shared with her that it's also more to take care of. She realized that if more people were living in that house, there would also be more to take care of than there is now. Comparing apples to oranges always makes the oranges look like something's not right with them.
So for now, I'll stick to my one thing a day and continually make little steps that will hopefully make my home more comfortable for everyone living in it!
Thursday, December 4, 2014
Unorganized Organized
The other day I was walking into Walmart with my children when I said with a smile to my oldest daughter, "Guess what? I have a list! And it has everything on it!" My children smiled and laughed with me. You see, I don't often have a list with me. I keep it in my head--or at least try my best to. I do have a smart phone and I put some notes on it, but not as many as I should.
As I walked into Walmart, I looked at Autumn and told her that many people think I'm very organized. She burst into laughter and my other two children smiled. I laughed along with her. I knew what she would think when I told her.
Often our family sees us very differently than our friends and strangers do. Autumn sees me every day. She sees that I struggle to stay on time and that I always have so much to do and so much that I want to do. She sees my piles of papers and the pressure I put on myself.
But, she is a child. That night I told my husband the story. His response was a smile with the acknowledgement that I am organized by that I have a lot going on that I'm keeping track of. I'm not a perfectly organized person who lives by a calendar and is always on time. But, I would describe myself as "organized". I think I'm not as organized as people think I am, but I think I'm also a bit more organized than Autumn thinks I am, you see...
My daughter is a child and so she doesn't see my planner with my monthly menu that is my own way of organizing. She doesn't realize that I can always find things in my home when my family needs them. She doesn't realize that all of their school books and folders are organized. She has seen me organize bit by bit, but doesn't know yet that organization is a process. I take one step at a time. Last summer, I organized and labeled the bins in my school room and our school supply drawers. A few years ago, I made my mom notebook. This fall, I made a medical notebook with pages of information for my husband, myself, and our children. And yesterday... I was given a drawer organizer by a friend and I took everything out of my desk drawers. It's finally organized.
I've realized that organizing my home and my life is a process. To do everything in a day would be overwhelming because it would make me feel like such a failure! But, tackling one thing at a time makes it doable. Because life keeps on going. You can't just take a week and stop everything to organize things. But, the biggest thing that I've learned about organization is to compensate for my weaknesses.
When I see a weakness in my organization that I'm not able to manage, I consider how to cope with it. Can I change my weakness? Usually not, I've found. Can I put a routine in place or make something that will help? Do I just need to simplify and get rid of something? This is how I cope with my life.
This is why we have laminated checklists for setting the table and cleaning the house.
This is why my oldest daughter helps me by getting up in the morning (she's highly motivated). Once she's going, she helps the rest of us get on track. The Lord blessed me with her!
My middle daughter loves to organize her room. She's also my child that leaves everything everywhere. But, I can count on her to redo her room when it's needed--she has a knack.
My children help me get out the door by helping and taking responsibility for what they need wherever we are going. I prep them as we're getting home about what we need to do and about what we need when we go certain places each week.
If I need to take something to church on Sunday or another place during the week, I put it in my church bag by the door or straight into the trunk of my car.
The music bag sits by the piano and gets filled every Wednesday morning and then put in the car so we won't forget it for lessons in the afternoon. (I've found myself two blocks away from my house several times without the bag...)
But, that's my life. We each have families that need different things from us. We're all wired differently. I am amazed at how much some of my friends tackle and keep track of. I realize that we're all in the trenches together. In the end, we love our families and our friends and we just do the best we can.
I just watched a movie titled Paradise Recovered and it was interesting. It was about a young woman who was in a cult-like church and two young men who try to help her see her way out of it. The main character has a very skewed sense of grace and what it means to be a Christian. The theology of the church is very twisted. Being a Christian doesn't mean that we are perfect or that we can be perfect. It means that we are forgiven. We try to glorify God in our lives because we love him, not out of obligation and guilt, but out of love.
I get excited when God helps me see a different way to be organized or keep track of things. I'm thankful for the times when I get to purge my home and pass things on. But most of all, I'm thankful that I'm a work in progress who knows God's grace.
As I walked into Walmart, I looked at Autumn and told her that many people think I'm very organized. She burst into laughter and my other two children smiled. I laughed along with her. I knew what she would think when I told her.
Often our family sees us very differently than our friends and strangers do. Autumn sees me every day. She sees that I struggle to stay on time and that I always have so much to do and so much that I want to do. She sees my piles of papers and the pressure I put on myself.
But, she is a child. That night I told my husband the story. His response was a smile with the acknowledgement that I am organized by that I have a lot going on that I'm keeping track of. I'm not a perfectly organized person who lives by a calendar and is always on time. But, I would describe myself as "organized". I think I'm not as organized as people think I am, but I think I'm also a bit more organized than Autumn thinks I am, you see...
My daughter is a child and so she doesn't see my planner with my monthly menu that is my own way of organizing. She doesn't realize that I can always find things in my home when my family needs them. She doesn't realize that all of their school books and folders are organized. She has seen me organize bit by bit, but doesn't know yet that organization is a process. I take one step at a time. Last summer, I organized and labeled the bins in my school room and our school supply drawers. A few years ago, I made my mom notebook. This fall, I made a medical notebook with pages of information for my husband, myself, and our children. And yesterday... I was given a drawer organizer by a friend and I took everything out of my desk drawers. It's finally organized.
I've realized that organizing my home and my life is a process. To do everything in a day would be overwhelming because it would make me feel like such a failure! But, tackling one thing at a time makes it doable. Because life keeps on going. You can't just take a week and stop everything to organize things. But, the biggest thing that I've learned about organization is to compensate for my weaknesses.
When I see a weakness in my organization that I'm not able to manage, I consider how to cope with it. Can I change my weakness? Usually not, I've found. Can I put a routine in place or make something that will help? Do I just need to simplify and get rid of something? This is how I cope with my life.
This is why we have laminated checklists for setting the table and cleaning the house.
This is why my oldest daughter helps me by getting up in the morning (she's highly motivated). Once she's going, she helps the rest of us get on track. The Lord blessed me with her!
My middle daughter loves to organize her room. She's also my child that leaves everything everywhere. But, I can count on her to redo her room when it's needed--she has a knack.
My children help me get out the door by helping and taking responsibility for what they need wherever we are going. I prep them as we're getting home about what we need to do and about what we need when we go certain places each week.
If I need to take something to church on Sunday or another place during the week, I put it in my church bag by the door or straight into the trunk of my car.
The music bag sits by the piano and gets filled every Wednesday morning and then put in the car so we won't forget it for lessons in the afternoon. (I've found myself two blocks away from my house several times without the bag...)
But, that's my life. We each have families that need different things from us. We're all wired differently. I am amazed at how much some of my friends tackle and keep track of. I realize that we're all in the trenches together. In the end, we love our families and our friends and we just do the best we can.
I just watched a movie titled Paradise Recovered and it was interesting. It was about a young woman who was in a cult-like church and two young men who try to help her see her way out of it. The main character has a very skewed sense of grace and what it means to be a Christian. The theology of the church is very twisted. Being a Christian doesn't mean that we are perfect or that we can be perfect. It means that we are forgiven. We try to glorify God in our lives because we love him, not out of obligation and guilt, but out of love.
I get excited when God helps me see a different way to be organized or keep track of things. I'm thankful for the times when I get to purge my home and pass things on. But most of all, I'm thankful that I'm a work in progress who knows God's grace.
Monday, October 27, 2014
Ah... the complications of computers!
A few days ago, an app asked for permission to be added to my computer. It looked genuine and seemed to come from Chrome... Well, it didn't. All of a sudden, I had pop-ups all over the place. Ugh!
I looked all over and did a little google searching (amidst pop-ups) to try and figure out how to get rid of them. I checked my chrome settings, my internet settings, and ran an anti-virus scan.
Nada. Still Pop-Ups!
So, I went into Norton AntiVirus and went to support. On the Norton website, I was prompted to download the Norton Power Eraser and uninstall unwanted programs. It found it! It was an adware/malware program called Stormwatch. Nope. I don't want it. I really don't want it! A click of a button and it was gone. Yay! No more pop-ups. It was the stormwatch ad that was able to override google Chrome's setting to block pop-up ads.
Then, today...
Flash Player opened a tab on me asking for me to update the outdated of their player on my program... hmmm... So, first, I googled what they were asking to include... It was something by conduit that would change my homepage. Didn't sound good. So, I declined it. Then, another app that was being included came up... Stormwatch... Stormwatch!!! Nope. Definitely don't want it. Then two more came up after I declined the others. I closed the whole tab and didn't do the update. Hopefully, if my flash player really needs to be updated down the line, the company will actually just sent out an update for-- flash player!
I wanted to share this story to let everyone know about what these updates are trying to sneak onto your computer. I knew that a lot of programs try to sneak McAfee onto your computer (Adobe being one of them) which is bad. If you download a second anti-virus program onto your computer and you already have one, they will fight against each other, slow down your computer and potentially cause it to freeze up.
I am no longer going to just say yes to a program update. I always opt for the notify me option before my computer updates itself or programs update themselves instead of giving blanket permission..
Post Script...
It's been a few weeks since this has happened and I've had to be vigilant. I learned that what looked like the flash player update was not from them. It was just a very good imitation. It has popped up again since then and I've had to erase unwanted programs. I have to be very careful about where I search and click on the internet. My husband and I've made the decision to switch me to a mac the next time my computer breaks. We had such a horrible experience with my children's Dell laptop and my Dell desktop is finicky. For now, I'm thankful we have computers that work, but I'm very aware that technology does not just make our lives easier. It also makes it more stressful in many ways. I prefer tangible books. I'm going to stick with them as much and as long as I can!
I looked all over and did a little google searching (amidst pop-ups) to try and figure out how to get rid of them. I checked my chrome settings, my internet settings, and ran an anti-virus scan.
Nada. Still Pop-Ups!
So, I went into Norton AntiVirus and went to support. On the Norton website, I was prompted to download the Norton Power Eraser and uninstall unwanted programs. It found it! It was an adware/malware program called Stormwatch. Nope. I don't want it. I really don't want it! A click of a button and it was gone. Yay! No more pop-ups. It was the stormwatch ad that was able to override google Chrome's setting to block pop-up ads.
Then, today...
Flash Player opened a tab on me asking for me to update the outdated of their player on my program... hmmm... So, first, I googled what they were asking to include... It was something by conduit that would change my homepage. Didn't sound good. So, I declined it. Then, another app that was being included came up... Stormwatch... Stormwatch!!! Nope. Definitely don't want it. Then two more came up after I declined the others. I closed the whole tab and didn't do the update. Hopefully, if my flash player really needs to be updated down the line, the company will actually just sent out an update for-- flash player!
I wanted to share this story to let everyone know about what these updates are trying to sneak onto your computer. I knew that a lot of programs try to sneak McAfee onto your computer (Adobe being one of them) which is bad. If you download a second anti-virus program onto your computer and you already have one, they will fight against each other, slow down your computer and potentially cause it to freeze up.
I am no longer going to just say yes to a program update. I always opt for the notify me option before my computer updates itself or programs update themselves instead of giving blanket permission..
Post Script...
It's been a few weeks since this has happened and I've had to be vigilant. I learned that what looked like the flash player update was not from them. It was just a very good imitation. It has popped up again since then and I've had to erase unwanted programs. I have to be very careful about where I search and click on the internet. My husband and I've made the decision to switch me to a mac the next time my computer breaks. We had such a horrible experience with my children's Dell laptop and my Dell desktop is finicky. For now, I'm thankful we have computers that work, but I'm very aware that technology does not just make our lives easier. It also makes it more stressful in many ways. I prefer tangible books. I'm going to stick with them as much and as long as I can!
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Clorox Disinfecting Wipes and Kitchen Counters
This morning as I watched a television program online, I saw two commercials for Clorox Disinfecting Wipes. Both commercials were focused on cleaning up from raw fish or chicken.
Save money! Don't buy them. Just use white vinegar. Pour a bit of it on your counter and wipe it all over the contaminated area with a paper towel.
Much, much cheaper option! :)
Save money! Don't buy them. Just use white vinegar. Pour a bit of it on your counter and wipe it all over the contaminated area with a paper towel.
Much, much cheaper option! :)
Thoughts on Coffee, Starbucks, and Dunkin Donuts
We like Starbucks. We've gone there many times over the past ten years. So, of course years ago, we got "gold cards". The refillable cards that turn into gold cards with your name on them when you've earned a certain number of points in a year.
This past week, I realized that my account wouldn't tell me how many points I had. I contacted customer service so that I could access the card online and sort things out... No help. Then, I tried to call and ended up on hold for over half an hour. I left the phone on speakerphone while doing other things. Then, I hung up. My time is compressed these days and I knew I didn't have the energy or time to figure this out beyond what I'd tried. I'd tried.
I talked with my husband about it and we thought about the pros and cons of the Starbucks rewards system. The question we found ourselves asking was, is it worth it? How does it benefit us? What affect do the cards have on us?
Really, these cards are a genius marketing ploy that get people (including us) to spend more money at Starbucks. You load your card. Then, you spend from your card and it doesn't feel like you're spending as much. It's easier to justify stopping and getting a cup of coffee. There's lots of psychological effects, I'm sure.
When we took a closer look, we realized that the benefits weren't really that much for us. What it did was make us feel like we should choose Starbucks over going somewhere else that we would have enjoyed too--that may have been closer to home (save money on gas) or different (local ice cream for a snack).
Credit cards do that too--when someone has a Kohl's card or JCPenney's card, we're more tempted to shop at that store. See this article HERE. Interestingly, the article focuses very little on that con, but on others instead. I realize that the idea to not have store cards is very counter-cultural right now.
It's also counter cultural not to have a store rewards card/refillable debit card. Although, I found this great post HERE that summarized the conclusions I came to. The gold card is really a gold cage. So, my husband and I've decided to use up what's left on our cards and move on--without regret. We'll still go there when we want to, but that's the key--when we want to. When we want to go to Dunkin Donuts or an ice cream spot, that's what we're going to do instead!
As a side note, the one tip I have for Starbucks users who have kids--- I order a Venti frappuccino for my kids and ask them to split it 3 ways (which they've never minded doing). It saves us a lot! 1 large drink instead of 3 talls saves about $5.50.
Friday, October 10, 2014
Love this Idea!
I don't have much time these day to look around the internet for ideas. But, my oldest daughter is getting ready for her 11th birthday and we started looking around for game ideas. We found this one and I love it! So, I wanted to share a link here.
http://thingswevehandeddown.blogspot.com/2013/05/toss-talk-ball.html
Obviously, I'm going to skip the Justin Beiber question at the bottom and a few others like the favorite boy at school question, but it's a great list and there's plenty of questions to choose from.
This ball has huge potential at other birthdays and get togethers in our house. I'm excited to have it around once I get a ball from the store and use our Sharpie markers to write the questions!
http://thingswevehandeddown.blogspot.com/2013/05/toss-talk-ball.html
Obviously, I'm going to skip the Justin Beiber question at the bottom and a few others like the favorite boy at school question, but it's a great list and there's plenty of questions to choose from.
This ball has huge potential at other birthdays and get togethers in our house. I'm excited to have it around once I get a ball from the store and use our Sharpie markers to write the questions!
Thursday, September 4, 2014
Doll Bed
The new American Girl doll catalog arrived in the mail yesterday. My oldest daughter loves the bed in the book. I was curious, so I looked at the price...
ay ay ay! $175. Not doable. So, I began searching the web for an alternative--one that would be more affordable and I found this...
http://ana-white.com/2012/12/plans/kid039s-kit-doll-bed
I've printed off the plans and look forward to trying to make two with the kids!
ay ay ay! $175. Not doable. So, I began searching the web for an alternative--one that would be more affordable and I found this...
http://ana-white.com/2012/12/plans/kid039s-kit-doll-bed
I've printed off the plans and look forward to trying to make two with the kids!
Friday, August 29, 2014
Listening
I was telling my girls that I love to talk to people because I care and I love hearing people's stories, but I have to admit that I also do love the little things that I learn from people.
Last week, I listened as a friend remarked that she always filled her glass half full of water before adding sweet tea from a bottle. I felt my brain go, "Hmmm..." And since we had almost a full bottle in our fridge this week after having friends for dinner last week, I experimented. I filled my glass half full of ice and then filled that half with water. Then, I added sweet green tea to fill the glass. It tasted just fine! And I have to admit that I felt better about having less caffeine and sugar in the process. I did buy Tradewinds Tea because it was made with sugar instead of Arizona Iced Tea's comparable version made with high fructose corn syrup. It was pretty good!
The same friend and I were talking on the phone a few weeks ago about high school math. Her husband teaches their children math at that level. She shared his sentiment that any solid high school math book will work. I asked whether he had ever needed a teacher's edition. She answered that he hadn't and that all high school texts have the answers to the odd problems in the back of the book. I had completely forgotten this! In school, teachers always assigned the even problems because they didn't want us to cheat on our homework. BUT, as a homeschooler the answers are handy if my child's honest. They will keep me from needing a separate answer key! Yay! I am glad that I will get to save money on high school math and just purchase a public school text!
Little things... but they're little things I'm glad to know!
Last week, I listened as a friend remarked that she always filled her glass half full of water before adding sweet tea from a bottle. I felt my brain go, "Hmmm..." And since we had almost a full bottle in our fridge this week after having friends for dinner last week, I experimented. I filled my glass half full of ice and then filled that half with water. Then, I added sweet green tea to fill the glass. It tasted just fine! And I have to admit that I felt better about having less caffeine and sugar in the process. I did buy Tradewinds Tea because it was made with sugar instead of Arizona Iced Tea's comparable version made with high fructose corn syrup. It was pretty good!
The same friend and I were talking on the phone a few weeks ago about high school math. Her husband teaches their children math at that level. She shared his sentiment that any solid high school math book will work. I asked whether he had ever needed a teacher's edition. She answered that he hadn't and that all high school texts have the answers to the odd problems in the back of the book. I had completely forgotten this! In school, teachers always assigned the even problems because they didn't want us to cheat on our homework. BUT, as a homeschooler the answers are handy if my child's honest. They will keep me from needing a separate answer key! Yay! I am glad that I will get to save money on high school math and just purchase a public school text!
Little things... but they're little things I'm glad to know!
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