I'm supposed to be working, but my head hurts. I'm not very productive when my head hurts...all that thinking! So I thought I'd post a quickie fun thing. Maybe the less daunting task of sharing a recipe will help the ache disappear.
Last year, I came across an appetizer recipe for BLT stuffed tomatoes, which featured grape tomatoes. I prepared it the first time as written and loved it, but hollowing out all those tomatoes was a lot of work. This week, I tried the recipe again but as a sandwich spread. So it's a dual-purpose recipe for your pleasure.
BLT Spread/Stuffing
1/2 lb bacon, cooked & crumbed (small pieces are best)
1/2 c mayo (maybe a little more for more spreadable consistency)
1/4 c green onion, finely chopped
1/4 c cream cheese, softened
1 T parsley
1 t dill (optional; maybe a little more depending on taste)
(Note for stuffing: Use only 1/4 c mayo for thicker consistency. Other than that, the recipe is the same.)
Instructions: Mix all together! :)
The original recipe did not call for dill, but I really like pickles on my BLT sandwiches. Thought it added a nice touch. I made up a sandwich with turkey and sliced tomoto this afternoon....mmmmm. The sandwich spread turned out a little thick; therefore, spreading on regular bread was tricky. I think next time if I know we will use regular bread, I may add more mayo for a thinner (more spreadable) consistency. The recipe as written would be awesome on a more firm bread like a bagel. Enjoy!
PS - This took about 10 minutes to write, and my headache is almost gone. Mission accomplished!
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Saturday, March 20, 2010
To Homeschool or Not To Homeschool...
...that is THE question around our house as Ray is old enough for preschool. Should we or shouldn't we? One might think that the standard schooling versus home schooling debate would be similar to the working mom versus stay-at-home mom debate, but it is really quite different. For all the negative and encouraging comments I received when I decided to be a SAHM, I'm expecting a whole new slew of comments if we decide to homeschool our children. In truth, I'm not expecting a lot of encouraging comments, and that is really quite sad.
We enjoy a lot of freedoms in this country, and one of those freedoms is deciding how to educate our children. Usually that choice is between public or private education, but many often forget (or don't want to think about) the third option, which is home education. I don't have nearly enough time here to convince everyone (or anyone) that homeschooling is a viable option...nor do I want to try. Whatever your opinion, I will tell you that, in our family, it most definitely is a consideration.
-- Insert the collective groans, gasps and giggles here --
Whatever your opinion, let me say that unless you've done your homework, you probably don't really understand how homeschooling works or how well it works, and you probably have a lot of incorrect assumptions. I am privileged to know a number of homeschooling families and am the benefactor of their experiences. This is not a decision hubby & I take lightly. There are lots of things to consider. And I'm not interested in convincing others that homeschooling is the only way to go. I'm simply sharing why it's a consideration for our family.
First, private schools are out. I grew up (all 12 years) in private schools, and the education I received was priceless. I would most definitely consider it if not for two problems. Tuition is downright ridiculous; hubby and I would both have to work full-time. God has blessed us by allowing me to be at home w/my girls now, and we do not wish to change that picture in the near future. We would also spend a small fortune on transportation as the private schools in our area are not nearby.
Second, our public schools are disintegrating. Whether or not you agree w/my logic, you have to agree that public schools are headed downhill at an alarming rate. For all the so-called efforts made by politicians and administrators...and for all the taxes they constantly take from us...our school system is in disrepair. Our kids are not getting what they need, and the schools have become a haven of agenda-pushing and cookie-cutter learning styles.
Yes, there are certainly exceptions. Our school district is one of them...at least from what we hear. Over the last year, we've heard numerous compliments about our district, and that gives us tremendous peace. Knowing our school system is good is like music to our ears; it makes our decision making process easier. That isn't true of all schools in our general area though. I feel very fortunate to live where we do as we weigh the pros and cons of education options.
It all comes down to this. What is best for your child? Of those three options, which one would give your child the power to learn and continue to learn...continue to be successful in as an adult? Because no matter what I think about how others educate their children, and no matter what you think of how we educate ours, what matters is that we do what's best for our kids. Your definition of "best" and mine may differ, but isn't that what makes this country great? We have options!
Do I think I can educate better than our local school system? I don't have an answer to that yet. If I did, then I wouldn't be on the fence about homeschooling the girls. Hubby & I have had a very hard year with our oldest, and at this moment in time, we think a few hours a day at the public preschool will be good for her. The problems we face with her are correctable though, which means this fall we may decide not to send her. It's all about evaluating your child's needs and your educational goals and then deciding the best path to get from point A to point B. We are on that journey now.
I'm constantly asked about the "socialization" factor. Good grief, have our schools been reduced to nothing but a social experiment? Because that's what it feels like when someone asks me about socialization. Schools are supposed to be for learning, folks...not socializing. So many people are worried about homeschoolers not being able to socialize with their peers, and I have to ask...do we really want our kids to socialize only with their peers because that's exactly what happens in public/private schools. Homeschooled children socialize with all ethnicities, ages and personalities. They are able to socialize with everyone. Isn't that better?
Even though I haven't been asked, I know people wonder why we would want to shelter our children by homeschooling them. And I can't help but wonder...how do I want my children to be prepared for "the real world"? Do I want to expose them to it in my way, with my values, in my timing? Or do I want the school system to do it for me? Because let's be honest. Even with a lot of family time, children in public/private schools are spending way more time in school or with their school friends/influences than with their family. If your child is being taught a certain way and under a certain influence for several hours a day, how much impact will you really have on your kids? Won't the majority of your time be spent combating what they learn at school? And at what point do you get beyond that point and make progress when all you have is a few hours a day and some extra time on the weekends?
Because hubby & I are Christians, I've also heard (from other Christians), "We are to be salt and light in our community". In other words, we are to be in the world to make a difference for God's kingdom, and we can't do that when we're "hiding" from the world. This applies to our children as well. I couldn't agree more. I want my kids to make a difference. I want my kids to have the opportunity to defend what they believe and influence others. I don't agree, however, that young children are prepared to do that. As a child grows, matures and thinks for him/herself, they most definitely have the power to impact and influence their friends and teachers. But when a kindergartner starts school, I don't believe they are fully prepared to be an influence of that magnitude. Furthermore, I think some Christian parents give lip service to that concept. They use it to defend their educational choices (with a Christian homeschooler), but they don't actually reinforce the idea with their children. They don't actually teach their children to be influential instead of influenced. Yes, there are many wonderful Christian parents who have very influential kids in public/private schools. I know many of them, and I am in awe. I can only hope that if we do become public school parents that we can model their example so that our girls can influence their friends & teachers.
Let me be clear. I do not judge anyone who educates their children in the public or private schools - not in the least. I think arguments can be made for and against all three educational options. Homeschooling is not for everyone. Heck, we're still not 100% sure it's for us! But I think that we should be free to consider it without the comment, judgement or criticism of others. We are trying to decide what's best for our family. That's all. Homeschooling isn't as nightmarish as people make it out to be. Homeschoolers aren't the disfunctional, anti-social crybabies that people make them out to be. If we chose to send the girls to our public school, you can be sure that we will be right there every step of the way...helping, volunteering, supplementing...doing everything we can to ensure that the girls have the necessary tools to be successful....just as we would if they are educated at home.
I look forward to the day when we make our final decision and move forward. I am not, however, looking forward to telling our family & friends. Many of them already know we are considering the homeschool option, so I doubt that it will be a great shock to them. But I also hope & pray that they can just ask us questions...not judge, not lecture, not condescend...and then listen to our answers...not assume, not ridicule and not debate...and support our efforts. We want only the best for our girls, and we're considering all the options available to us. Believe it or not, public and private schools are not the only options.
We enjoy a lot of freedoms in this country, and one of those freedoms is deciding how to educate our children. Usually that choice is between public or private education, but many often forget (or don't want to think about) the third option, which is home education. I don't have nearly enough time here to convince everyone (or anyone) that homeschooling is a viable option...nor do I want to try. Whatever your opinion, I will tell you that, in our family, it most definitely is a consideration.
-- Insert the collective groans, gasps and giggles here --
Whatever your opinion, let me say that unless you've done your homework, you probably don't really understand how homeschooling works or how well it works, and you probably have a lot of incorrect assumptions. I am privileged to know a number of homeschooling families and am the benefactor of their experiences. This is not a decision hubby & I take lightly. There are lots of things to consider. And I'm not interested in convincing others that homeschooling is the only way to go. I'm simply sharing why it's a consideration for our family.
First, private schools are out. I grew up (all 12 years) in private schools, and the education I received was priceless. I would most definitely consider it if not for two problems. Tuition is downright ridiculous; hubby and I would both have to work full-time. God has blessed us by allowing me to be at home w/my girls now, and we do not wish to change that picture in the near future. We would also spend a small fortune on transportation as the private schools in our area are not nearby.
Second, our public schools are disintegrating. Whether or not you agree w/my logic, you have to agree that public schools are headed downhill at an alarming rate. For all the so-called efforts made by politicians and administrators...and for all the taxes they constantly take from us...our school system is in disrepair. Our kids are not getting what they need, and the schools have become a haven of agenda-pushing and cookie-cutter learning styles.
Yes, there are certainly exceptions. Our school district is one of them...at least from what we hear. Over the last year, we've heard numerous compliments about our district, and that gives us tremendous peace. Knowing our school system is good is like music to our ears; it makes our decision making process easier. That isn't true of all schools in our general area though. I feel very fortunate to live where we do as we weigh the pros and cons of education options.
It all comes down to this. What is best for your child? Of those three options, which one would give your child the power to learn and continue to learn...continue to be successful in as an adult? Because no matter what I think about how others educate their children, and no matter what you think of how we educate ours, what matters is that we do what's best for our kids. Your definition of "best" and mine may differ, but isn't that what makes this country great? We have options!
Do I think I can educate better than our local school system? I don't have an answer to that yet. If I did, then I wouldn't be on the fence about homeschooling the girls. Hubby & I have had a very hard year with our oldest, and at this moment in time, we think a few hours a day at the public preschool will be good for her. The problems we face with her are correctable though, which means this fall we may decide not to send her. It's all about evaluating your child's needs and your educational goals and then deciding the best path to get from point A to point B. We are on that journey now.
I'm constantly asked about the "socialization" factor. Good grief, have our schools been reduced to nothing but a social experiment? Because that's what it feels like when someone asks me about socialization. Schools are supposed to be for learning, folks...not socializing. So many people are worried about homeschoolers not being able to socialize with their peers, and I have to ask...do we really want our kids to socialize only with their peers because that's exactly what happens in public/private schools. Homeschooled children socialize with all ethnicities, ages and personalities. They are able to socialize with everyone. Isn't that better?
Even though I haven't been asked, I know people wonder why we would want to shelter our children by homeschooling them. And I can't help but wonder...how do I want my children to be prepared for "the real world"? Do I want to expose them to it in my way, with my values, in my timing? Or do I want the school system to do it for me? Because let's be honest. Even with a lot of family time, children in public/private schools are spending way more time in school or with their school friends/influences than with their family. If your child is being taught a certain way and under a certain influence for several hours a day, how much impact will you really have on your kids? Won't the majority of your time be spent combating what they learn at school? And at what point do you get beyond that point and make progress when all you have is a few hours a day and some extra time on the weekends?
Because hubby & I are Christians, I've also heard (from other Christians), "We are to be salt and light in our community". In other words, we are to be in the world to make a difference for God's kingdom, and we can't do that when we're "hiding" from the world. This applies to our children as well. I couldn't agree more. I want my kids to make a difference. I want my kids to have the opportunity to defend what they believe and influence others. I don't agree, however, that young children are prepared to do that. As a child grows, matures and thinks for him/herself, they most definitely have the power to impact and influence their friends and teachers. But when a kindergartner starts school, I don't believe they are fully prepared to be an influence of that magnitude. Furthermore, I think some Christian parents give lip service to that concept. They use it to defend their educational choices (with a Christian homeschooler), but they don't actually reinforce the idea with their children. They don't actually teach their children to be influential instead of influenced. Yes, there are many wonderful Christian parents who have very influential kids in public/private schools. I know many of them, and I am in awe. I can only hope that if we do become public school parents that we can model their example so that our girls can influence their friends & teachers.
Let me be clear. I do not judge anyone who educates their children in the public or private schools - not in the least. I think arguments can be made for and against all three educational options. Homeschooling is not for everyone. Heck, we're still not 100% sure it's for us! But I think that we should be free to consider it without the comment, judgement or criticism of others. We are trying to decide what's best for our family. That's all. Homeschooling isn't as nightmarish as people make it out to be. Homeschoolers aren't the disfunctional, anti-social crybabies that people make them out to be. If we chose to send the girls to our public school, you can be sure that we will be right there every step of the way...helping, volunteering, supplementing...doing everything we can to ensure that the girls have the necessary tools to be successful....just as we would if they are educated at home.
I look forward to the day when we make our final decision and move forward. I am not, however, looking forward to telling our family & friends. Many of them already know we are considering the homeschool option, so I doubt that it will be a great shock to them. But I also hope & pray that they can just ask us questions...not judge, not lecture, not condescend...and then listen to our answers...not assume, not ridicule and not debate...and support our efforts. We want only the best for our girls, and we're considering all the options available to us. Believe it or not, public and private schools are not the only options.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
T.M.I.
I've explained in previous entries how anal retentive I am when it comes to our finances. I don't just track how much comes in and how much goes out, but I track exactly where it goes. Take groceries as an example. Every week, I review my receipts to determine how much was spent on dairy, meat, junk food, etc. That amount accumulates (via my spreadsheet), so that at the end of the month, I can tell exactly how much we spent in each category.
You may be asking yourself....WHY?!?!
Before implementing this routine, I tracked just the total amount we spent on groceries. And quite honestly, I got tired of asking myself every month, "How in the world did we spend THAT much money on food?!" I answered that nagging question with my new routine, and it's been smooth sailing ever since. I can tell you exactly how much I spent last month on meat or soda or produce. It really does make a difference in our budget, but I've noticed that it's time to implement the same practice with household items...those pesky little things like paper towels, cleaners, batteries, etc.
Again, I hear you asking....WHY?!?!?!
Boy, that junk really eats away at our income! I feel like changes need to be made, but I need to confirm it through this weekly review. Before I started the weekly grocery review, I thought I could determine where we spent the most money, but after a short period of time, I realized that I was dead wrong. So I need this weekly review in writing to confirm or disprove what I'm thinking...which will in turn change my shopping habits. I cannot avoid buying things like laundry detergent or toilet paper, but if I'm buying it every month, maybe I would be better off buying the next larger size or in bulk. You really have to pay attention! The bigger option is not always the best value.
And still, I hear you asking....WHY IN THE WORLD ARE YOU DOING THIS?!?!?!
Is this "too much information"? Am I that much of a geek that I need to have all these numbers and stats in front of me to be at ease about my finances? Yes and no. I am a numbers geek, so I really dig this kind of analysis, but I don't do this just because I need a fix. I don't like the unknown, and control is really the issue here. Either my money is going to control me, or I'm going to control it. By closely monitoring our spending throughout the money, we are keeping tighter reign on our money; therefore, we are keeping more of our money in the end.
Aren't you tired of asking yourself where in the hell your money goes every month and not having a good answer? I got fed up, so I did something about it. If you find yourself in the same situation, then do something about it! Don't just ignore the question; take charge. Master your money or it will master you. That's the way it goes, and this kind of detailed, weekly review of our spending is how we keep the "beast" in line. This practice doesn't prevent us from slipping up, but it does help us to be accountible and to behave well.
Master your money - do what is necessary to keep as much of your money in your pocket for as long as you're able. I promise you will not regret that practice!
You may be asking yourself....WHY?!?!
Before implementing this routine, I tracked just the total amount we spent on groceries. And quite honestly, I got tired of asking myself every month, "How in the world did we spend THAT much money on food?!" I answered that nagging question with my new routine, and it's been smooth sailing ever since. I can tell you exactly how much I spent last month on meat or soda or produce. It really does make a difference in our budget, but I've noticed that it's time to implement the same practice with household items...those pesky little things like paper towels, cleaners, batteries, etc.
Again, I hear you asking....WHY?!?!?!
Boy, that junk really eats away at our income! I feel like changes need to be made, but I need to confirm it through this weekly review. Before I started the weekly grocery review, I thought I could determine where we spent the most money, but after a short period of time, I realized that I was dead wrong. So I need this weekly review in writing to confirm or disprove what I'm thinking...which will in turn change my shopping habits. I cannot avoid buying things like laundry detergent or toilet paper, but if I'm buying it every month, maybe I would be better off buying the next larger size or in bulk. You really have to pay attention! The bigger option is not always the best value.
And still, I hear you asking....WHY IN THE WORLD ARE YOU DOING THIS?!?!?!
Is this "too much information"? Am I that much of a geek that I need to have all these numbers and stats in front of me to be at ease about my finances? Yes and no. I am a numbers geek, so I really dig this kind of analysis, but I don't do this just because I need a fix. I don't like the unknown, and control is really the issue here. Either my money is going to control me, or I'm going to control it. By closely monitoring our spending throughout the money, we are keeping tighter reign on our money; therefore, we are keeping more of our money in the end.
Aren't you tired of asking yourself where in the hell your money goes every month and not having a good answer? I got fed up, so I did something about it. If you find yourself in the same situation, then do something about it! Don't just ignore the question; take charge. Master your money or it will master you. That's the way it goes, and this kind of detailed, weekly review of our spending is how we keep the "beast" in line. This practice doesn't prevent us from slipping up, but it does help us to be accountible and to behave well.
Master your money - do what is necessary to keep as much of your money in your pocket for as long as you're able. I promise you will not regret that practice!
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Hanging In and Checking Out
Hubby has successfully completed one week of employment at the new job. Hurrah! The first day was probably our biggest concern. We both had a lot of unanswered questions; questions that could only be answered once he started working. Thankfully, he came home at the end of his first day in a very positive mood. Obviously the longevity of this job after only one week is still uncertain. But he likes the work, and he likes the people. Doesn't get better than that! Even when he came home on Friday night, he was in a positive mood. He was even given a lot of positive feedback by the hiring manager on Thursday and Friday, and he's happy about that. So until the permanent job offer comes, we'll just keeping hanging in there...doing what we do best, praying like crazy and living our lives. Writing about all that I've learned over the last six months would take me weeks, but I can tell you one of the most important lessons I've learned...not putting our lives on hold in bad times. Yes, we had to make financial cutbacks and sacrifices, but we were still able to have good times and make plans. It's not easy, but it is possible. And that's the word I want to spread to anyone out there who is looking for work and/or has been out of work for a long time. Don't postpone the part of life where you enjoy something positive every day...no matter how small. Enjoy a good conversation w/your spouse or a close friend. Enjoy a good 15-minute tickle & giggle session with your younger child. Enjoy a fun experience away from the house with an older child, spouse and/or friend. Enjoy life! All worry and depression do is rob us of our lives. Little by little...minute by minute...our lives are on a countdown. Don't waste a single moment!
Hubby is currently a temporary employee on this job, so that brings a certain amount of uncertainty with it. The hiring manager has told him that they will offer him a permanent job if he "works out". It's a try-before-you-buy situation. Maybe it's not ideal, but it is work. The pay during this trial period isn't terrific, but it is more than unemployment. And did I mention that it gets him back to work??
Because the salary at this new job is about 35% below his last salary, we still have to mind our P's and Q's where money is concerned. Even though there will be a little extra each week, we've agreed to shove the extra into savings for now. When he's offered a permanent job (whenever and wherever that is), we will use the funds that we need for big projects around the house....not a second sooner though. We have no plans to deviate from the current budget any time in the near future. Even though we could spend more on groceries, household items or stuff for the kids, we've recognized the need to get serious about saving for some rather big items like a newer car, a bigger emergency fund, kid's college, retirement, etc. So yup, that stingy budget will be around for awhile!
In an effort to stay under or on budget, I'm looking for alternatives to cut expenses. Groceries and eating out use up a lot of our money, so I'm educating myself on how to make all our expensive favorites myself. I've tried a few new recipes that have turned out very nice and will continue in the weeks to come. In addition to making my own convenience foods, I'm also building a cache of freezable recipes. I would love to make my cooking chores a lot easier not only for myself but also for hubby. Depending on the size of our tax refund, I plan to purchase $200-300 worth of staple groceries that I can vacuum seal and store in the freezer or store in the pantry. It might be a big expenditure up front, but I know it will save time and money in the long run. Who couldn't love that?! I'll keep you updated on all my kitchen adventures in the coming months!
I'm also doing research on a raised bed garden for our backyard. Every year we plant tomatoes, but that's all I've ever had time for. Because our girls are older now, I'd really like to add a couple small raised beds to plant additional veggies. The raised beds may just get us through our veggie eating habit for the summer, but that would be okay. It's an experiment. I don't want to sink a ton of money into an experiment that doesn't work well. If we're successful, we can always add on later. I'm most excited about planting a ton of herbs. I love cooking with herbs, and fresh herbs are the BEST! Lots of work will be involved, but that will give the girls & I just one more reason to be outside in the fresh air. Hopefully I can keep them entertained enough to help me for longer periods of time than in the past. Jordi is a little copycat and will do whatever her big sister does, so if I can get Ray to help me for more than 5 minutes, I know Jordi will follow suit.
I'm really looking forward to my upcoming experiments. Hopefully I will get to enjoy the benefits of it, so that I can pass it along to you as well!!
Hubby is currently a temporary employee on this job, so that brings a certain amount of uncertainty with it. The hiring manager has told him that they will offer him a permanent job if he "works out". It's a try-before-you-buy situation. Maybe it's not ideal, but it is work. The pay during this trial period isn't terrific, but it is more than unemployment. And did I mention that it gets him back to work??
Because the salary at this new job is about 35% below his last salary, we still have to mind our P's and Q's where money is concerned. Even though there will be a little extra each week, we've agreed to shove the extra into savings for now. When he's offered a permanent job (whenever and wherever that is), we will use the funds that we need for big projects around the house....not a second sooner though. We have no plans to deviate from the current budget any time in the near future. Even though we could spend more on groceries, household items or stuff for the kids, we've recognized the need to get serious about saving for some rather big items like a newer car, a bigger emergency fund, kid's college, retirement, etc. So yup, that stingy budget will be around for awhile!
In an effort to stay under or on budget, I'm looking for alternatives to cut expenses. Groceries and eating out use up a lot of our money, so I'm educating myself on how to make all our expensive favorites myself. I've tried a few new recipes that have turned out very nice and will continue in the weeks to come. In addition to making my own convenience foods, I'm also building a cache of freezable recipes. I would love to make my cooking chores a lot easier not only for myself but also for hubby. Depending on the size of our tax refund, I plan to purchase $200-300 worth of staple groceries that I can vacuum seal and store in the freezer or store in the pantry. It might be a big expenditure up front, but I know it will save time and money in the long run. Who couldn't love that?! I'll keep you updated on all my kitchen adventures in the coming months!
I'm also doing research on a raised bed garden for our backyard. Every year we plant tomatoes, but that's all I've ever had time for. Because our girls are older now, I'd really like to add a couple small raised beds to plant additional veggies. The raised beds may just get us through our veggie eating habit for the summer, but that would be okay. It's an experiment. I don't want to sink a ton of money into an experiment that doesn't work well. If we're successful, we can always add on later. I'm most excited about planting a ton of herbs. I love cooking with herbs, and fresh herbs are the BEST! Lots of work will be involved, but that will give the girls & I just one more reason to be outside in the fresh air. Hopefully I can keep them entertained enough to help me for longer periods of time than in the past. Jordi is a little copycat and will do whatever her big sister does, so if I can get Ray to help me for more than 5 minutes, I know Jordi will follow suit.
I'm really looking forward to my upcoming experiments. Hopefully I will get to enjoy the benefits of it, so that I can pass it along to you as well!!
Sunday, February 14, 2010
The End in Sight?
On the eve of a new week, I can't help but wonder. Is this the end? Is this the end to days, weeks and months of praying & wondering? Hubby starts his new job in the morning. The best way to describe our attitudes would be reserved excitement. The job is temporary. It's a try-before-you-buy situation. If they like him, they will offer him a permanent position at the company. If not, they'll let him go after his contract is up. So his nerves are wound tight; a lot is riding on him and on this job.
At this point, neither of us want this to be a just temporary job. But however it turns out, we're at peace and know that God will provide. We'll continue to pray for the best and for wisdom. Who can go wrong w/the kind of wisdom and blessings that comes only from God? He has definitely been good to us; I wish I could explain all that's happened in our lives over the last six months. We love to brag on Him and what He's done. And we'll continue to find every opportunity to do so!
I'm also praying long & hard that this temp job converts to permanent soon. Last year, we saved a lot of money to pay for necessary home projects, new appliances, a new couch and some extra things we've been wanting for a long time. Fortunately (or unfortunately) when he lost his job, we hadn't spent that savings yet, and we agreed not to until he found a new job...just in case we needed the cash to pay bills or buy food. Thankfully almost all of that savings is still there!! We agreed that we would still not spend the money until he gets a permanent job offer, but I'm starting to see a light at the end of the tunnel. When he does get that permanent job, we'll be going on a spending spree!! :) The only exception might be the purchase of a new fridge right now. Our state will be offering a "cash for clunker appliances" deal starting next month. Funds are limited, so we have to act fast. Since we have the cash to buy a new fridge outright and because we could save several hundred dollars through the program, we just might have to spend a few bucks before he gets that permanent job. You have no idea how happy I am about that prospect. I HATE my refrigerator!!!! I also despise my broken down 15-year old couch, but since it technically holds our butts in relative comfort (e.g. off the floor), I can't argue that we have to buy a new one right this minute. We've waited six months already; what's a few more months?
That's all inconsequential though to what will happen tomorrow. MY HUSBAND IS GOING BACK TO WORK, and I cannot be more excited for him!! I'm going to miss him greatly, but I am so happy that he will find himself on a new path in the morning. And I have a feeling (deep down in my bones) that tomorrow is the start of something super, super awesome. Whether or not you believe, let me be the first to tell you that God is good all the time...good times, bad times, easy times, hard times, happy times, sad times, mad times, glad times, fun times, icky times, troubling times, peaceful times. God is good ALL the time, and He has been so good to us! Praise God from whom all blessings flow...material and otherwise!!
At this point, neither of us want this to be a just temporary job. But however it turns out, we're at peace and know that God will provide. We'll continue to pray for the best and for wisdom. Who can go wrong w/the kind of wisdom and blessings that comes only from God? He has definitely been good to us; I wish I could explain all that's happened in our lives over the last six months. We love to brag on Him and what He's done. And we'll continue to find every opportunity to do so!
I'm also praying long & hard that this temp job converts to permanent soon. Last year, we saved a lot of money to pay for necessary home projects, new appliances, a new couch and some extra things we've been wanting for a long time. Fortunately (or unfortunately) when he lost his job, we hadn't spent that savings yet, and we agreed not to until he found a new job...just in case we needed the cash to pay bills or buy food. Thankfully almost all of that savings is still there!! We agreed that we would still not spend the money until he gets a permanent job offer, but I'm starting to see a light at the end of the tunnel. When he does get that permanent job, we'll be going on a spending spree!! :) The only exception might be the purchase of a new fridge right now. Our state will be offering a "cash for clunker appliances" deal starting next month. Funds are limited, so we have to act fast. Since we have the cash to buy a new fridge outright and because we could save several hundred dollars through the program, we just might have to spend a few bucks before he gets that permanent job. You have no idea how happy I am about that prospect. I HATE my refrigerator!!!! I also despise my broken down 15-year old couch, but since it technically holds our butts in relative comfort (e.g. off the floor), I can't argue that we have to buy a new one right this minute. We've waited six months already; what's a few more months?
That's all inconsequential though to what will happen tomorrow. MY HUSBAND IS GOING BACK TO WORK, and I cannot be more excited for him!! I'm going to miss him greatly, but I am so happy that he will find himself on a new path in the morning. And I have a feeling (deep down in my bones) that tomorrow is the start of something super, super awesome. Whether or not you believe, let me be the first to tell you that God is good all the time...good times, bad times, easy times, hard times, happy times, sad times, mad times, glad times, fun times, icky times, troubling times, peaceful times. God is good ALL the time, and He has been so good to us! Praise God from whom all blessings flow...material and otherwise!!
Monday, February 8, 2010
Tummy Trouble
In light of other concerns over the last several months, I forgot all about the "Funnies" category for my blog. We certainly have experienced several funny moments in that time, but I just haven't made the time to write the stuff down. Thought I'd share one that happened this week and still has me in chuckling. My 4-year old approached me and began the conversation:
Ray: Mommy, I want a snack.
Me: (Because it was too close to lunch) No, not right now. We'll eat in a little bit.
Ray: Puh-leeeeez
Me: No
Ray: (in a huff) Well then tell my tummy to stop asking for one!!!
Where do they get this stuff?!?!
Ray: Mommy, I want a snack.
Me: (Because it was too close to lunch) No, not right now. We'll eat in a little bit.
Ray: Puh-leeeeez
Me: No
Ray: (in a huff) Well then tell my tummy to stop asking for one!!!
Where do they get this stuff?!?!
Amazing Aluminum
Lots of cleaning tests being done in this house lately!! Looking forward to trying many, many more! This week's test was an attempt to cut back on the amount of money we spend on laundry products. We spend enough on the water to wash the five tons of laundry every week. Why not try to offset some of the costs for cleaners?
And I've definitely found a replacement for dryer sheets....aluminum foil.
First, I've gotta say that I hate liquid softener. I've been burned too many times in the past by stains that I can't get out. The dryer sheet is a staple in my house, but they can be a little costly. I've tried using vinegar in the wash as recommended by some sites...especially when hanging my laundry on the line during the summer when dryer sheets aren't feasible. The vinegar recommendation worked okay, but I really wanted to try this other method before I gave up.
Crumple a few small sheets of foil into a loose ball and throw into the dryer with your clothes. It prevents static electricity and doesn't leave a residue in your lint trap. I've tried this with several loads of laundry now, and I'm in love.
The cost savings? A box of the 80-count dryer sheets I buy (generic, of course) costs about $2.80. If I'm feeling particularly stingy, I can use one dryer sheet for two loads. So best case scenario is 160 loads of laundry for the cost, which works out to approximately 2 cents per load.
Now for the aluminum foil cost breakdown. A 50 sq feet roll of generic aluminum foil (heavy duty) costs about $2.30. For my two balls of foil, I use a total of 1 square foot approximately. Here's the kicker...I was able to use those two balls for about four loads of laundry. That's 200 loads of laundry for the cost, which works out to approximately 1 cent per load.
Okay, okay...we're talking pennies here. What's the big deal? First, that's half the cost. Given the amount of laundry I do, that's a huge percentage! I don't know about you, but it's usually the small things that end up killing our budget. This is just ONE of many household cleaning options I plan to try in an effort to cut back on our spending in this area. Only time will determine how much we can save in a year, but if we can manage (at the very least) to cut our spending in this area by half, we will be saving $40/month. That's almost $500 in a year! And THAT is if we save only half...what if we save more? I don't know about you, but $500 could buy me something awfully nice!!!!
I've also tried using aluminum foil and baking soda as a silver polisher. While it works very well...not nearly as expensive or harsh on the skin...this particular cleaning option works best with flatware, platters, picture frames - things that are flat. I tried cleaning a small silver piggy bank. It worked, but it was difficult for that particular object. Definitely worth trying for yourself though!
Until next time....
And I've definitely found a replacement for dryer sheets....aluminum foil.
First, I've gotta say that I hate liquid softener. I've been burned too many times in the past by stains that I can't get out. The dryer sheet is a staple in my house, but they can be a little costly. I've tried using vinegar in the wash as recommended by some sites...especially when hanging my laundry on the line during the summer when dryer sheets aren't feasible. The vinegar recommendation worked okay, but I really wanted to try this other method before I gave up.
Crumple a few small sheets of foil into a loose ball and throw into the dryer with your clothes. It prevents static electricity and doesn't leave a residue in your lint trap. I've tried this with several loads of laundry now, and I'm in love.
The cost savings? A box of the 80-count dryer sheets I buy (generic, of course) costs about $2.80. If I'm feeling particularly stingy, I can use one dryer sheet for two loads. So best case scenario is 160 loads of laundry for the cost, which works out to approximately 2 cents per load.
Now for the aluminum foil cost breakdown. A 50 sq feet roll of generic aluminum foil (heavy duty) costs about $2.30. For my two balls of foil, I use a total of 1 square foot approximately. Here's the kicker...I was able to use those two balls for about four loads of laundry. That's 200 loads of laundry for the cost, which works out to approximately 1 cent per load.
Okay, okay...we're talking pennies here. What's the big deal? First, that's half the cost. Given the amount of laundry I do, that's a huge percentage! I don't know about you, but it's usually the small things that end up killing our budget. This is just ONE of many household cleaning options I plan to try in an effort to cut back on our spending in this area. Only time will determine how much we can save in a year, but if we can manage (at the very least) to cut our spending in this area by half, we will be saving $40/month. That's almost $500 in a year! And THAT is if we save only half...what if we save more? I don't know about you, but $500 could buy me something awfully nice!!!!
I've also tried using aluminum foil and baking soda as a silver polisher. While it works very well...not nearly as expensive or harsh on the skin...this particular cleaning option works best with flatware, platters, picture frames - things that are flat. I tried cleaning a small silver piggy bank. It worked, but it was difficult for that particular object. Definitely worth trying for yourself though!
Until next time....
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