No more pity parties

Yesterday was not my best day. I can't really complain, cause it definitely got better as it went along...

For Mother's Day I got a "coupon" for $100 of spa services. Of course, I told Jason I would have been more than happy with a clean kitchen and a back rub. He said that I could have all of those things, so last night he set to doing the dishes. I am thrilled. I was thrilled when I went to bed and was thrilled all over again when I woke up. As if that wasn't enough, Jason got on a cleaning/doing kick and cut the grass, cleaned the bathroom and hung up a good bit of his clothes. While he was hanging up his clothes he asked, "Do I do any housework?" That in itself told me that he was acknowledging all that I do (all by myself). All of these combined made for a terrific belated Mother's Day present!

We are working on routines this week in my family. The budget, the bedtime, and the housework routines. It's alot to tackle, so this may flow into next week as well. Bedtime routine went really well. M had really gotten off here (as had we). She was going to bed too late. She was waking in the middle of the night just to be rocked. She was waking up super early ready to get up. I was getting worried.

I began by waking her yesterday at 7:45 am (today at 7:30). My goal was to get her to sleep for naptime around 12:30 or 1pm. She was down around 12:45 yesterday and 1:30 today (since we had a big play date). Then I didn't want her to sleep much more than 2 hours. I woke her after 2 and a half. It's been 2 hours today and she's still asleep. We bathed her sooner after dinner because we noticed that the bath seemed to hype her up. Then we watched a sleepytime video and colored in the dimly lit living room. When the video was over we put on her pj's and read some books (everything was so out of whack from our old "routine" that I forgot to give her medicine or brush her teeth, so we'll try that tonight). We've instated a night light because M is now scared of the dark. It's an angel watching over some children. Her Nani let her borrow it, but last night she seemed to be a little afraid of the angel, so we'll see how long it lasts. We've also introduced a little lullaby music in there which she seems to really like.

Between all of these things, M was so tired she didn't even bother to play with her toys after I put her in the bed. She only whimpered for 10 seconds after I left as opposed to 5-7 minutes of screaming! I did leave the music playing, which I later read I shouldn't do, but she didn't wake up during the night at all and this morn I woke her at 7:30am. I'm hoping this new routine thing helps.

Now, Jason and I are going to take a night this week to plan out and type up a household routine. I'm hoping to find an example over at copper's wife because she is extremely organized and remembers to do and clean things that I completely forget. Any suggestions or good websites would help this greatly.

We are going to work on our budget (again) since summer is here. There will be no Mother's Day Out, and his company is finally picking up the insurance bill, so we won't have to pay for that out of our own pockets anymore. That's not just saving us our monthly hundred and whatever, but all the out of pocket meds and such that we have been stuck with since January! Hallelujah! But now to SAVE!

I'll post some pics and such from our fun play date later today or maybe tomorrow!

No Good Posts Lately!

So I feel a bit like pooh! I know...it's no one's fault but my own, but I misplaced my anti-depressant and hadn't taken it for 3 1/2 days and I literally feel awful! I found the bottle today and it had one left, so I finally took it! Hopefully it'll kick in. Now I just have to make sure that I get the refill before tomorrow! So that pretty much answers my question as to whether or not I'm ready to come off of it.

I took similar meds in college for about 6 months and was fine coming off of it, but this is way different! When it only costs $4 a month (Walmart baby!) who cares if you have to take it the rest of your life to feel human! Seriously though, what happened to us (human beings I mean!). Why are we all walking around medicated just to live mostly "normal" lives. Surely God didn't create it this way?! I'm just a stay at home mom and have no real complaints other than wishing for a little extra cash now and then. Why should I need these meds? I wish someone could explain this all to me. I know the whole brain function SSRI stuff. I took the classes! What I want to know is how did people get around "normally" before all these lovely drugs?!

Just frustrated slightly that when I feel really great it is cause my meds are correct. How silly.

To quote one of my husband's favorite lines from a movie (Zoolander) "I feel like I'm taking crazy pills!"

Probably the Best Thing I've Read In a Long Time

I'm redirecting my readers over to the homespunheart because I seriously think that this is the best, most creative, and sensitive I might add, thing I've read in a long time. Really challenges me to make the everyday more extraordinary!

Mother's Day Giveaways Galore

Yippee! More Mother's Day Giveaways! You've gotta check this out! Mom's you could win an ipod nano!!! and many other things. Click here!

Mother's Day Surprise!

Love this contest! For us blogging moms what a great Mother's Day Surprise. To sign up and/or just check out a really great site, click here.

Been A Long Time

I know I haven't posted anything real in a while. To tell you the truth, I just haven't been "in the mood." I suppose that's something others can relate to. Things haven't been bad or anything, I just haven't had it in me. Things are a little busier than they once were, but I don't like to blame or make excuses.

So here's what's been going on. I'm keeping Cuz and M, and LOVING it! It can be a challenge at times, but we are all doing very well considering the adjustment. Naptime is no big deal as long as I put M to sleep first. I even ventured out with them both today by myself. I took them to the zoo once, but at least I knew I'd have friends to help. Today I had tiny errands to run and I desperately needed bread. So, I did everything in the order that it came. I deposited a check at the bank, then mailed a letter at the post office, dropped off some freebies at a friends (who lives next door to the post office), went to ALDI, then got gas on the way home. I got paid for last week, so I used 2/5 of it at ALDI, 2/5 of it getting gas, and the 1/5 left is for my book I need for our new Bible/Book study that starts tomorrow! God really provides.

We are living on fumes right now for two reasons...one because it's the first of the month and every bill is due at the same time (bad planning), and two because M came down with a double ear infection from nursery. Since our insurance doesn't kick in till June first, the Dr. visit and the medicine (which was 2X what the Dr. visit cost) was all unexpected and out of pocket. No big deal...we have savings for those emergencies, but we spent half of it on our car emergency last month. We didn't use savings this time, we are just going to pinch and skrimp so that the next half of the month we'll be able to put some back into savings to replenish. Ah, the joys of balancing a house on one income.

I prayed a lot about it, and I know that this is where God has me to be right now. I love that...knowing that, because I know that no matter what, He will provide our every need...especially when we are in His will.

I've got tons of pics to post. I'll work on that. We just got back from a much needed weekend away to the mountains! It was WONDERFUL! Soooo quiet and just cool enough to have a fire the whole weekend. We slept in till almost 10 everyday (it's been years folks!) and read (also a very long time since I've read anything). Thanks to Mom and Dad for watching M for us. We know she is pure love and pure exhaustion all mushed together.

More blogging to come...

Meme...You're It!

I was tagged by my friend Miriam for this "random meme."

Here are the rules: Each player starts with 7 random facts/habits about themselves. People who are tagged need to write on their own blog about their seven things, as well as these rules. You need to choose 7 people to get tagged and list their names. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them that they have been tagged and to read your blog!

1. Hubby and I have planted a church (in New Orleans)

2. I was the Saturday Night Worship Leader (Celebration Church) for a little over a year.

3. My least favorite chore is cleaning the bathtub!

4. My new favorite thing is shopping at ALDI!

5. My husband says that I'm a terrible procrastinator.

6. I hated being a stay at home for the first 8 months...Now I love it!

7. Everytime I clean my ears with q-tips I am compelled to cough

I'm now tagging some of my bloggy friends and relatives!!! Minnah, Jamie, Meredith, Cheryl, can't think of anymore that haven't been tagged!

Another fun Contest!

I haven't been up to posting lately. Don't really know why. But I did find this cute contest for all you gals who have girls or granddaughters, or those of you whose friends have girls. I'm linking to the contest which is for these adorable hair bows/barrettes found at 5minutesformom. But don't miss out, check out the original source...the mom who makes these fabulous barrettes at madisonsroom. Right now they are running a sale at madison's room. Check out the codes at the first link 5minutesformom.

About My Dad

O.K. I have a spare moment during naptime! Cuz is up and happy, but M is still sleeping so I thought I'd play blog catch up.

My dad has a lovely genetic makeup that is plagued with heart disease. His grandfather and father both died with it. And the onset was right around 53...which my dad will be in June. At his yearly physical they decided to run some tests as a precaution. Dad's only complaint being fatigue...who doesn't feel that! The initial test was high...anything over 400 and dad's was 4 something. So they decided to do more tests. The options were the heart cath or a special stress test that may or may not have been conclusive. He and my mom decided to go ahead and do the cath just to be safe. Mind you some people have that first test and get numbers in the 800's and find nothing in the cath. That was the hope...but not the case.

They found 70%+ blockage in one artery, 80%+ in another, and 90%+ in two others. So they went in. They did the angioplasty and the stents in the 4 major blocked areas. There are 2-3 more that are 40-50% blocked, so they will likely have to go back in later and do more stents. Still, Modern Medicine is really a blessing! Could have been bypass surgery. He is on meds that he absolutely cannot miss a day of or forget in any way lest he fear a heart attack and impending bypass surgery in the future.

So pray. Pray that he will be responsible and his memory will far superior to mine. Pray as he recovers from surgery, though he is tons better. Pray for his family as we adjust to this new lifestyle. Pray that I will have the where with all to remember that I have these same genes and need to be doing certina things to better my heath as well as my brother and sister. Thanks for waiting patiently for my post.

Contest!!! And an update

My dad was in the hospital with heart issues. He is doing much better post surgery. I'll post more details tomorrow. I've been out of town at the in-laws for decoration and had a lovely visit as those generally go. I'll post some pics from that as well another day. To much stress (good and bad mind you) and not enough sleep. Tomorrow I start my first day on a new job...keeping Cousin Stone about 4 days a week. I'm excited, but I know it'll be a bit tiring at first making the adjustment. So sleep is calling.

Things are messy, but well here. Can no longer complain. Hope to partake in a large subdivision yard sale this weekend. J is most likely off to Anderson for a shooting competition and a class for the Greenville Gun Club membership on Sunday. Also his birthday!!!

ABOUT THAT CONTEST!!! Check out this lovely blogger lady contest! Found this fun site through my bloggy friend Jamie's site (ivey kids). This is for a Coach purse! Maybe you too could win. Why not give it a try?

Click here to link.

*Correction*

On my post regarding New Savings...I was informed that my walmart free samples link wasn't working. SO I fixed it. It works now, so please try it again and enjoy your something for nothing.

On another note...I may or may not post a real post today due to the chaos in my life. It is not the kind that I can control, so I'm going to just go with it, and go with God until it passes. I'll keep you updated as I can. Just say an extra prayer for me and my extended family today.

A Call For Prayer!

One of the ladies and friends of mine in Mom to Mom has been through extreme sickness. She has been in the hospital now for at least a week with little knowledge and understanding of what exactly has been going on. Fluid continues to fill and be drained from her right lung. They did surgery Monday and drained fluid and biopsied some "spots". They are quite sure that they are cancerous and there is a mass of tumors on her right lung...and they suspect it is in her lymphnodes as well. Still iffy right now, but they aren't sure what or if they can do for her. AND she has a precious little 5 month old and two other children that her mother is caring for right now. This is a call to prayer for anyone who feels so compelled or led by God. He is a soveriegn and mighty healer so I certainly feel the need to pray for healing. Also, He has a plan regardless of how it all looks to me, so I will pray for His Will in all things. Join me in prayer for Monica and her family!

**Update**

Dear All,

Monica and I just want to thank all of you for your prayers and responses. With all that is going on, I cannot at the moment respond to everyone, but we do greatly appreciate your concern.

Tonight the Oncologist came by and gave us what he knows at the moment and what needs to be done this week. Monica has been diagnosed with large cell adenocarcinoma cancer. The exact type and treatment of the cancer is yet to be determined, as well as the origin of it. It is stage 4 cancer, but it is not in the left lung, pancreas or the liver.

Treatment will be aggressive chemo over the months into the summer. The first concern to stop the fluid buildup in the lung, so that the tubes can be removed. This is a cancer that cannot be cured, but can be managed.

Please pray especially for the children as Meghan is a sharp girl and knows things are not right, and Jason who doesn't understand and is frightened. Please also pray that Monica can get some rest while at the hospital.

John

M's First Posted Video

Since I figured this out...You all can be tickled at M as well. This is one of her first attempts at those three little words.

Mom my Ride

Loved this when I found my way to one of my fave blogger's daughter's blog. Did you catch all the relations? I went to do a daily checkin' on Copper's wife (you can also find this in the margin) and decided to check Corin's blog (her daughter). Found this hysterical video clip!!! so hysterical I had to figure out how to post videos just so I could show ya'll! Enjoy!

Aunt Shebby's Cakes!

It's Here! Finally, my sister in law has jump started her cake business! Her cakes not only look pretty, but they taste out of this world! I can attest, I've had a bite of almost every one! If you need a special cake, don't go to wal-mart and have an O.K. cake...have an Aunt Shebby original! It is worth every penny! Not to mention, instead of putting your money into a huge conglomerate that spends there pennies in ways we don't necessarily approve of, help out a fellow Work At Home Mom! Check out her site!

New Info on Savings!

Walmart! Did anyone know that Walmart has a section online for Free Samples?! I found this out through Spoofee.com I've request a free sample of each item available! It may not be much, but it is still something for nothing.

Ace Hardware! Did everyone know that Ace Hardware has a rebate program?! That wouldn't be a big deal to everyone, but it should be because everyone had to clean! I was reading a blog and the lady said that you should never pay more than pennies for you cleaning supplies...I read on to find out she stockpiles her cleaning supplies from Ace Hardware when they are rebate items. Go to their website to download their rebate form. Not much as far as cleaning supplies this month, but I'll keep watching it so as to claim some free cleaning supplies!

Staples! I don't do alot of art/business/supply shopping yet, but I found out on homespun heart that Staples also has a rebate program! This if fabulous for a woman who's husband loves office supplies (even as gifts). Besides we are always looking for writing utensils.

Just for the sake of repetition, I will list the other places that have rebate programs. If any of you know of others, please let me know via comments!

Rite Aid
Eckerd
Walgreens
Ace Hardware
Staples
CVS (This is an Extra Care Bucks Program--slightly different)
Walmart (Free Sample Offers online)

Funny Things Happen Everyday

In the fort on Sunday! Did it again on Tuesday evening! So fun!

These stories usually involve me doing the dishes and peeking in on my babes (Mand her cousin at times). So, yesterday I was doing the dishes and M and cousin were entertaining eachother. I peeked in on them to make sure they weren't into trouble and Choo Choo Soul was on. A little short hip hop clip on Disney. M loves the beat, so I find her standing on the coffee table bobbin' and dancin her heart out. I am pretty amused, but I put on the firm Mommy look and voice to deter her from teaching her cuz bad things. Then I look over and see that he too is standing in a chair and bobbin and groovin! I had to be firm, but I more wished that I had had a camera!


I slightly rearranged M's room in preparation for her future Christmas present...don't laugh I've already decided what it'll be. I moved in her cradle for her baby dolls which was previously stashed in the dining room in plain view. This morning she spots it and says "Ooo Wee!" And proceeds to get in it with her dolls! It was definitely cute the first time, but she did it again when she was getting ready for bath time. Wearing a huge smile and a diaper...I wish I had this pic!



The last was also today. Doing the dishes and working on a meal for a friend who is really sick right now, I peek in to make sure she is busy, and find that she is definitely busy! She has pulled out one of the drawers in the dining buffet and climbed in it with her crackers and her baby doll "Maggie". So hilarious. I took pics and then coaxed her out. She was too cute to scold!
The last pic is from Saturday when Mercy discovered the second line of ants in our house. Something about the fireplace that keeps them coming back...even after Apex has sprayed specifically. She is no longer afraid of ants since she realizes that she is big enough to squish them. This was very intriguing to her and I got several pics of her looking and looking.

Easter Family Pics!

Here are our Easter Family Pics. I found out just yesterday that my best friend and I, even thought we live on opposite coasts still both managed to be one of the few gals in our circles to wear out Easter Bonnets! So here are my pics. Unfortunately, we had a cold spell here and I was unable to wear my vintage look Easter dress that I got at Goody's for $9.98. I'll bring it out for another Sunday. I went shopping in my mother's closet for a top to complete my outfit. New to me and free! Of course, I gave it back during Easter lunch! Still...We all ended up coordinating surprisingly. J's tie and coat managed to disappear long before our pic was taken though. And, I had to bring 3 bows just to make sure that one made it in M's pic. Nani had planned to make a beautiful Easter dress for M form one of her Creative Needle magazines (or Sew Beautiful), but all the recent and consecutive deaths and trips crunched our time, so we found this beautiful silk dress at TJ Maxx! Always good prices there. Enjoy the pics. So much more to post another day!

Jesus Is Alive

What a day of Celebration! Tears of joy and a great feeling of overwhelming love! Thank you God and Christ for your sacrifice and power over the grave!

Death Where is Your Sting?!

Grave Where is Your Victory?!

While the Cat's Away...

So, I left M with J for 4 days while I traveled via car to Shreveport, La from Greenville, SC. That's 14-15 hours each way! Still, the funeral was nice. Seeing family I haven't seen in a while was even nicer. Getting to know Aunts and Uncles in a new way (as an adult) was the nicest of all.

However, this post is about the homefront while I was gone from the scene. All in all things were fine. Jason kept M at nights and on the weekend, and Shelby was in charge during the working day. Thank the Lord I had such options! Let's see...Here is the quick break down: M had an anxious tummy and had 3-5 dirty diapers everyday causing a pretty hefty diaper rash and a cranky child. On top of that she managed to eat 2 bananas each day till I put a stop to it (couldn't have helped the tummy issue any). Cousin S got mad at her lack of personal space and decided to bite her. She was fine but had a nice impression of his top and bottom teeth on her arm. Daddy decided that the paci must go (thank goodness he did this and not me). Except for her refusing her nap the first day, she did fine. Now they are in the garbage...I had a hard time throwing them out, but finally buckled down and did it today. J only called once to ask how to get her to stop crying...his solution was to strip her down and let her run around with no clothes on. Hey, it worked! I only called the Dr. once, but on the return trip I was called by Aunt S to say that M had "eaten" deodorant (the squishy gel kind) and they were calling poison control. That was fine too. I got the feeling she was putting it on her lips like lipstick. She's seen me do that 100 times with the lipstick and the motions and such are the same...remove the top, screw the bottom, rub on.

JDaddy was on a roll spending money even though we had just done the whole budget thing. I put him and I both on lock down financially until next Friday (payday). He loves to do Lowe's runs. This time I do have to say he has been paying attention. He went to PepBoys to get Oil Changing products (a project he has chosen to do to help save the pennies) He purchased a case of Valvoline for a great price and has applied for the rebate of $6.00 (some kind of coupons online too). Then the filters were really great quality and they were regular $3 and he was going to apply for the rebate of $1, but the lady at the register thought that was so silly that she gave him $1 automatically! He thinks he might still apply for the rebate! Technically he can! I was impressed and he did this all on his own without telling or consulting me till it was already taken care of. He also managed to go to the grocery store for a milk run, but ended up getting all kinds of superfluous things not using sales or coupons! My $50 weekly budget had nearly been used up when I got here. I took back 4 items that hadn't been used yet, so at least I still have $25 for the weekly budget. We are going to play raid the pantry for a while though. Still figuring out the new budget with the new job.

The only other event happened on JDaddy's watch, but in the end appeared to be my fault after all. As soon as I realized it, I confessed. The kitchen sink was clogged again. Apparently, paint is the likely culprit, and since I did unknowing rinse my brushes out in the sink, I'm guessing it was my fault. Maybe even the last time too...now that I think about it. My poor landlords are so great, I will certainly be more cautious.

Well, JDaddy's home tomorrow for good friday so that should be really fun! May you all have a blessed Holy Weekend! Remember what it is we reflect on and Celebrate. The full gamit of love and pain entwined.

The Do-Over

So this was the sad state of the living room when I was taking my spring cleaning "before" pics. I'd love to say that it was oh so significantly cleaner, but with a very active, very smart, and curious toddler running around it is rare that there isn't "stuff" all over the floor. What I want to note here is the painting hanging on the wall over the couch. It was tall, but not wide which obviously did nothing to balance the area and furniture. I tried to remedy that with these hanging lanterns that I had laying around unused. I took one look at the "ensemble" and told my husband that it looked tacky. I really wanted to turn the picture long-ways, but the painting wouldn't work that way...

So, I did something I've always wanted to do...I painted my own picture. I've never tried it, but have always wanted to, and it WAS as fun as I had hoped. I painted over the print so that I could indeed hang it length wise! I can't wait to hang it and show you the living room "after" picture!

Enjoy!

Another Try it Free!

OK coupon coopers...I was checking my fave blogs when in the background I heard an ad on tv about trying Coffee-Mate for free! I checked it out. It is legit. So, if this peaks your interest, click here to sign up for your own.

This is my 101st post!

On my 101st post I have to announce that my great grandmother, who was 103, finally passed away today. She was an incredible lady! The legacy will live on in all of us who knew and loved her...and hopefully will be passed on and on to those around us and our children!

Esta Reese Hettler, "Ahda", was a woman of character and strength. She loved God and those around her. Even in the nursing home she would push "the old people" around in their wheel chairs to make sure that they didn't miss the church services live or on tv. She kept her husband straight ;-) and her children as well. She adopted! That alone, so many years ago, is a beautiful thing. She was always so independent and always so positive. She prayed fervently and study the Word. She is the perfect person for my daughter to be named for. M's middle name is Reese.

I'm not sad. I'm thrilled that she is "ahda" again in heaven. I have no idea how heaven works, but maybe she'll see her hubby for the first time in 20 years! Not that she'll care about all that since God/Jesus will be there.

Live on Ahda! Live Real Life! Welcome Home!

FreeBate Alert!

All you fellow couponers out there...and my faithful coupon coopers, there is a coupon and rebate for scotchbrite disposable toilet brush starter kit that make this item FREE in the end. Just click here and print it!

How Much Do I Pay?

These kinds of lists usually help me:

likemerchantships says that she buys when:

• chicken quarters hit .29/lb
• whole chickens .69/lb **Bloom has had these at .49/lb on more than one occasion
• bone-in chicken brests .99/lb
• boneless, skinless chicken breasts are $1.69/lb or less
• lean ground beef is .99/lb
• turkey breasts are .99/lb
• steaks are $2/lb
• sausage is .99/lb
• fresh shrimp is $5/lb
• salmon is $3/lb
• canned wild salmon is $1/14oz.
• canned tuna is .35/can

I couldn't tell you any better than this. Here is the catch. A lot of these prices are rare, so when you find them, stock up. Fill your freezer or borrow some room in a friends deep freeze.

Now for random other things that I have found;

I try not to pay more than...

• Cereal--$1 or less
• Canned veggies--.35-.25 cents
• Bag Salad--$1.50-.96
• Coke--4/$10
• Deodorant (no brand preference)--free-$1
• toothbrushes--free
• toothpaste--free
• shampoo--$1-free
• spaghetti sauce (premade)--$1--less
• pasta--.26-.50
• little debbies--.69
• pringles--.76
• apples--.99/lb
• grapes--.99/lb
• liquid fabric softener (i prefer gain)--$3-3.50
• liquid detergent--$2-$2.50
• dishwasher detergent--$1-$1.50
• diapers--176/$26 (Sams!)
• spiral sliced ham--1.49/lb
• bread (loaf)--.59-.79
• boxed potatoes/rice--.40-.69
• milk--$2.25-2.50
• bottled water--3.33-$4/24 pk.
• cake mix--.20-.63
• brownie mix--.25--.63
• yogurt--.33/cup
• pain reliever 1.99/small bottle
• frozen pizza--$1.00-$1.50 medium/large
• frozen waffles--$1.00/10 count
• Toilet Paper (cottonelle) $3.50/12
  

Who knows what else. I think I'll keep this list going and try to revise and update it as I can. There are some things on our list that you would never buy, but some are for lunch making and taking, and others are for fast breakfasts so as to avoid a husband who would rather sleep late and eat fast food out.

Also note!!! this link if you have an ALDI near you, this blogger made a price list of everything in her ALDI, so before you go out and shop the deals, check her list to make sure it is a better deal.
http://www.momadvice.com/blog/2006/08/aldi-supermarket-price-sheet-store.htm

Meals and Coupons

I've had several from the coupon coop ask me to post about making meals from the list and how this saves me money. That is far more detailed than my brain tends to work, but I will say that I did sit down and make up a mock meal plan from the list this week. Where it is now, I couldn't say. It took forever, and I'm not sure I actually finished it, but I came really close.

So here are the things I want to say. First, you have to build up your stockpile and this can take up to 3 months, AND you may feel as if you are spending extra money because where you may need only 1 of the items immediately, you will end up buying 3 of those items to last you through the 3 months of stockpile. They way this actually saves you money is that you buy 3 at the rock bottom price instead of buying just the one you need right now at the rock bottom price and then having to buy it two more times at higher prices. The stores and coupons work on a 3 month cycle, so they do come back around, so for something you need every month, one may find it rock bottom sale 4 times a year or so. The remaining months of the year you will end up over paying unless you stock enough to get you through till the next sale. So...Initially you may have to put in more money than you expect, but in reality you are saving a bundle!

Here is my personal example. Last time detergent was on sale for 1.98 I bought two or three (can't really remember). I'm nearly out, so I've been keeping my eyes peeled for a similar deal. I didn't find anything even close until this week at Eckerds when I found larger quantities for 2.50. I bought 2. I didn't have to pay for them out of pocket though because last month I bought items that had free-bates (rebates that match or exceed the price paid). I paid nothing out of my grocery budget for my two large detergents (stockpile and need) and something else that I can't remember now.

The story for Walgreens is similar and better. My rebates are bigger there. I went to Walgreens for water because 24 pack was 3.99 and for easter eggs and baskets for Stone and Mercy's Easter Egg hunt on Saturday because they had hinged eggs for .59. I bought a few other items that I don't recall off hand, but I didn't spend any of my grocery budget because of the huge rebate I have on a Walgreens gift card. I chose the gift card because I made 10% on my rebate. My rebate that month was $60 so I made an additional $6.

As for dinners in my home, it varies. Sometimes we nearly spend no more than .60 a person, and sometimes we spend up to 3.00 a person, but you compare that with eating out and you are saving a bundle! If you dig from your stockpile for most of your food, you spend even less. Today we splurged. There are these new frozen skillet dinners that literally take 10 min. to cook and looked superb. They are Jose Ole. They had coupons for then in the paper and they were on sale at Bi-Lo yesterday. After the sale and the coupon it still cost 5.00 a bag, but the bag states that it feeds 2, however it feeds 3 1/2 in our family. Jason and I both ate sizzling rice, black beans, and chicken (and all kinds of onions and peppers and sauce) fajitas, Mercy ate the rice and beans but didn't want the chicken. And!! I have leftovers for my lunch tomorrow. Now as for tortillas, I had in my stockpile those taco dinner kits and only used half of the shells (didn't get the tortillas).

Another thing in my house is that I try to not waste any food (as long as it is still good). Often when we have a chicken and rice dish the leftovers are never enough for more than one person, but I like to recreate it into soup using chicken boullion. combine the soup with a sandwich and you can feed 2-3 people. Or I just eat it for lunch the next day.

This is the way it's done. This is the way we live. The grocery game doesn't seem to work for everyone. It does take time and effort...at least at first. But into the 2nd month, it seems to me that the work is now beginning to take off and the ease of it is setting in.

This is a pic of many of my freebies. This is not all mind you. There are two more things of Kotex pads and one thing of tampons, there are 2 tubes of Crest toothpaste and another of colgate that we are currently using. There is the deoderant that I'm using now that was a freebate. There are two more bags of cat food all of which I hope to give to my friend with the cat. There is one more thing of dog food and another bag which my friend is already using and loving. She'll be getting all of the dog foods (all free--no need for rebates). If I had been on the ball last week I would have gotten as many blood glucose testing kits as I had coupons for, but I wasn't able to get to it. Between the sale price at CVS and the coupon in the paper, I was able to walk out of the store without paying a penny. I'll be donating those to the local free clinic run by our church.

Spring Cleaning 2

Mercy's room is done all but the hanging of one shelf that will house an old doll of mine! At least I'm still trekking along however slow. My room never got completed...though very near truly. However, there is no other place to put clean laundry because of our space limitations and all you moms know how never ending both laundry and dishes are! Still...After Easter for sure I will get back on the cleaning streak. My husband and I did put in a lot of work one weekend. We clean swept, organized stuff into attractive bins and baskets, we hung pictures! Lots of them. Jason built, painted, and hung shelves, and then cleaned and trimmed the yard. Still...always so much more to be done you know. Always. So here are the pics of Mercy's room. Enjoy, all those who've always wondered. This is very nearly as good as it gets.

Best Trip Yet

Before I get into my best savings trip yet, lets have an update. Yes, we are still sick around here. I am starting to really feel better, but I finally had to get an antibiotic. Oh well. M is headed back to the Dr. today. Hopefully our yard sale this weekend will cover the cost of that. Of course, she was acting totally sick yesterday, but this morning she seems perfectly fine. Maybe we'll go to the Dr. and find out everything is fine. At least then we won't have the cost of medicine on top of that. I'm really ready for us all to be well. Plus! I don't get my MDO free time today cause I've gotta take M to the Dr. Oh well, such is life and motherhood.

Now about that best trip ever!!! So I went to CVS with "the list" and bought things I needed and things that ended up being free! Amazing! Seriously. The cashier was so impressed she asked me about it and said in the end that she was hooked and was going to look it up when she got home. According to the receipt, I saved $74.27 just shopping the sales. Then you add in my coupon savings of $37.00, and the use of my Extra Care Bucks from my last visit of $21.50. Total savings was $132.77. Total spent was $22.43 (includes tax)! Wow!

On the Upswing

I'm pretty sure we are finally on the upswing of all this sickness! We've never all been sick at the same time! Believe it or not we actually have gotten some clean sweeping and organizing done...since we were all confined to the house, we figured we'd make ourselves useful! Still spring cleaning and I suppose I may never claim to be "completed" since I can be sort of a perfectionist about this stuff. I do have to say I appreciate Lola's comment (Charlie and Lola on Disney). "It's not messy, it's just all spread out." Love it! Will post later!

Time Off

A Whole Lot has been going on in my family and extended family and this is why you haven't heard from me recently. Mercy has an ear infection, diagnosed today. We are thankful that God provided a way for us to afford her getting sick. You other parents of little ones understand that I'm sure! We had a short but sweet visit from her Uncle Patrick (which she can say very well mind you). She entertained him and would hardly let him out of her sight. Anytime she couldn't see him she would say, "Where'd Patrick go?" Pretty funny little girl! Except for the runny nose and the obvious hoarseness, you would never know she was sick! It was the fever last night that gave it away. This one was not nearly as obvious as the rest.

I'm not feeling 100% either. I certainly don't think I have an ear infection, but I have an awful headache that just won't quit and a dry scratchy throat. No fun.

My mom is in Baton Rouge with my great uncle who is in and out of being on the brink of death. It's really only a matter of time at this point. Other health issues and marital issues in my extended family are resurfacing as well. Interesting how when it rains, it pours. The only good thing is that apart from this scratchy throat, non of these are actually my problem. That is a nice relief. Still I love them all and want peace and rest for their lives.

My house is a medium grade mess which I'm not so thrilled about, but dinner is in the oven, and M is playing happily in her room. For these things I'm thankful. I missed mom to mom today, which was really sad, since I look sooo forward to it every week...that and I was excited about dishing with the ladies in the coupon coop about their first week trying out the game. It'll have to wait. I've organized my unwanted coupon pile so that they can easily peruse and share. I've got free things to give away. I gave one of my friends to bags of nice dog food, cause I got it for free. I gave one friend to things of feminine products because they were free and I don't use that kind. I have a tube of toothpaste that I got for free, but I don't use that brand. I have a razor (very nice refillable kind) that I was able to get for .34 cents. Oh the fun! At least I can officially say I have a hobby now...Couponing! (shopping always was sort of a hobby) I'll try to keep you posted as things get a little less hairy around here. I have some great pics to post too of M and S at the park! Coming soon

Spring Fever Fun

I told you all to be holding me accountable for my spring cleaning posts! You know how it is with a toddler. You get something just how you want it, but if you don't take that picture at that moment...the Hurricane M is bound to come through and change the scenery a bit! I have kept the buffet clean, I have kept her room clean, though there are just a few reorganization things I'd like to get done before Patrick comes to be our first over-night guest. My closet is nicely purged and reorganized. Our Master Bedroom is nearing the end of its amazing transformation...I can't wait to show you the pics! I am ill though because my serger is on the fritz and I'll probably have to have it serviced! That has thrown a slight kink in my sewing projects.

I am posting some pics of the very little projects I have gotten done. I didn't take a before pic of my front porch area because I didn't think I'd be doing any changes besides putting up my spring wreath. I did put up the spring wreath I made for $1 last year, but I also reorganized the porch. The rocking chair stays cause I love that thing. I switched out the table though and brought out an M sized chair so she can be with me when I'm out there. I hated the table that was there before. It was dilapidated and I was going to sell it in the garage sale. I had this other little table that was originally for M's first New Orleans nursery that was all white wicker except the bed. I didn't really know what to do with it cause I had no room for it. So out if goes on the front porch. Pleasantly repurposed and with an addition to the yard sale!

I'm also posting pics of my kitchen. My home is a rental...we don't care, we love it, but we can't paint and they picked the colors. I'm not a big yellow fan, but I'm determined to make it work. I found these curtains on the 75% off clearance rack at Lowe's for $3.24 a piece. There's the swag (which you see in the pics), but there is also a tier. I bought 3 of each. Now that I have put up the swags, I realize my windows aren't really long enough for both pieces, so I get to take back the tiers and save $10! I will have windowed my entire kitchen for $10 and no sewing! The ceiling fan left something to be desired though. There is so much you can do with lighting, but there was no good way to go about it. So, I experimented. I took a preexisting lampshade that was not being used and tested to see if it would somehow work in place of the existing attached light on the ceiling fan. If placed upside down it would work great! It was a little different, but added alot of spunk. So, before I put it up I decided to spruce it up a bit with some big black polka dots. I used a stencil from the remainder a sheet of used up stickers and colored it in with a sharpie. It turned out great! Can't wait to finish that room either, but one room at a time. My goal is to complete the bedroom tomorrow!

More Coupon Fun

Made a quick run out to BiLo and CVS by my house. They are literally right next door to eachother in a strip mall. At CVS, I bought three things...I would have bought a few more, but they were out of what I needed. I got Secret Platinum for $1, feminine products for free, and downy fabric softener for $2.49 (liquid concentrate). And the register printed out an additional $15 in Extra Care Bucks! So, I now have $25 in Extra Care Bucks.

I then went to BiLo to get one of my WIC lists: Milk, Eggs, Beans, 5 Juices, and 3 Cereals for free. Then I followed my list to get the rest of the deals. I even bought some weird stuff that actually ended up being free to add to my freebie/donation pile to others in need. (Hey, It's free!) The list of scanned coupons that follows the list of items is equally long! That's hilarious! I even bought 2 big packs of hamburger meat cause we were really low! At 1.99/lb I spent nearly $11. My subtotal before savings was $67.29, my savings on coupons alone (not including sale priced items) was 35.02, and my sub-total after savings was 32.27! I bought a Gillette Venus Razor which normally runs at least $9 and after the close-out price and the coupon, it literally cost me .34 cents! Love It!

I guess Walgreens, Publix, and Ingles are tomorrow...Maybe.

Celebrate Small

In the midst of one of the busiest weeks I've had in 2 years, I did manage to get some cleaning done! I wish I had taken a before picture of my closet! But alas, I did not. We have a very old house, which we love! That said, we only have three closets in the entire house! One in the Master bedroom, one in the kids bedroom, and one in the hall in between. The one the Master Bed is 1/3 taken over by the hot water heater, so I use it for my closet and the hall type closet. Jason uses the hall closet as his own, and we store linens for the bath in a lingerie chest that fits just so in the hall, next to the bathroom. The sheets are stored in the basket turned make shift side table next to the bed. You do what you have to do. The only entrance to the attic that hasn't been used in 70 years according to the landlord is through the top of the closet. I took the entire Master bed closet apart! I wanted to scope out the attic and see if some of our storing type stuff could go there.

Maybe it could, maybe it could not. I was unsure, so I simply reorganized the closet, weeded some things to the garage sale pile. It is so cleaning. I did the laundry and folded it and put it up (this is never ending though!) I nearly finished the Master Bedroom itself. I took everything out from under bed and cleaned and organized it all. Hopefully Monday I will get to finish it up and take an "after pic."

I also managed to sort through, clean, and organize the "catch all" dining buffet. I do have a before and after of that, though not of the inside. So, here's to small victories!

Another Success

My sister was in town and wanted to watch the kids (M and her cousin), so I got to run all my grocery errands so as not to miss out on any freebies from the list (or really good deals). I didn't get to do as much preparation as usual and so my route for shopping hopping was not pre-arranged. This cost me in a little of time and extra gas. Not too much hopefully. Needless to say, that is my only complaint!

One of my bloggiest friends asked me if I ever got anything that could make an entire meal or was it mostly just toiletry items that I got the best deals on. When you see my pics, you do see a lot of toiletries. I think that is because I typically get meal type things and meat and such in my Angel Food Box each month.

That ministry is so helpful to us. Some months are better than others, but so far we are still getting far more than the $25 we pay for it. In fact, I'll post this month's list below.

1) 26 oz. Chicken & Stuffing Bake Dinner
(4) 8 oz. Hamburger Steaks
(1) 2 lb. Lasagna Dinner
(1) 5 lb. Breaded Frying Chicken
(1) 12 oz. Philly Steak Portions
(1) 3 lb. Popcorn Chicken
(1) 1 lb. Hot Dogs
(1) 16 oz. Gourmet Bean Soup
(1) 7.5 oz. Mac & Cheese
(1) 7.5 oz. Southern Style Biscuit Mix
(1) 24 oz. Steak Cut Fries
(1) 16 oz. Peas & Carrots
(1) 16 oz. Turnip Greens
(1) 15 oz. Sliced Pears
(1) 8 oz. Pineapple Chunks
(1) 10 oz. Peanut Butter
(1) 13.75 oz. 10 ct. Waffles
(1) Dessert Item

AND, for another 4 months we qualify for WIC in our area, so that usually takes care of eggs, milk, cheese, cereal, and juice. (Free)

That is one reason why you may see less foodie type stuff in my shopping collections for now. It won't always be this way, AND "the list" does give you heads up on good meat prices, produce, etc. Ingles is typically the cheapest of all "the lists," but I haven't compared them to Aldi, Quality Foods, or Sav More (sp?)

As for the picture, there are 46 items seen. Each item individually was less than $1.19. In fact, the toilet papers are the only things over $1. 9 items were free (after coupons and rebates), some were even less than the rebate amount which means that I'll be making a few cents here and there to put towards other things. The only other things I bought today were a $2 pair of cute socks with stars, 2 special flosses at regular price (long overdue in needing these), and a box of Nice n Easy hair color that ended up costing $2 after coupons and rebates. I had Extra Care bucks to put toward my sock purchase, so I ended up getting 5 pair of socks for $2.18 Pretty amazing. Want the grand total?

Total value: $160.12

Total spent: $49.85

Savings: 69%

Spring Cleaning

This spring cleaning thing is not something I have ever much aspired to before. And this year I'm not just anxious to get it done because it's spring. It's just long overdue. Some of the clutter is the result of never having fully moved in and gotten things where we want them. Some clutter has to do with the smallness of our space and the fact that we have not yet simplified and found enough places for certain things to go. AND of course we have the natural clutter that comes from having a very rambunctious toddler in the house. Some things are not worth straightening up until she has gone to sleep.

I am starting a series on Spring cleaning. Yesterday I focused on our Master Bedroom. I actually did not get it completed though I did get rather far. I would love to finish that today and get to work on the kitchen, but my presence has been requested to help another family member get ready for their big move tomorrow. I will clean that kitchen though. It's filthy...at least I'll get the dishes taken care of.

The next several posts will hopefully be of before and after photos or my progress. That way, if you don't see any for awhile, you can hold me accountable for what I'm supposed to be doing...aka cleaning.

Off to tackle the dishes if nothing esle.

Inexpensive Fun!

Superfrugality led me to these vinyl stickems on sale the week after valentine's day! They were .75 cents! I chose the ones with other pics besides typical v-day things. This one has funny little bugs on them. We have a clear glass door behind our regular door (or in front of depending on what direction you're looking from I suppose). We like to keep it open to let in the natural light, and so I brought out the stickems which was so much fun. Mercy was so tickled over my .75 find! So much fun to be had on three little quarters...AND they aren't stickers, so you can reuse them over and over! Even better!

Color Catastrophe

I heard the noise, but thought it was something else. Sure enough when I went to check on dinner, with M* on my heels I spotted it. I stopped in my tracks and said, "Who could have done this?" She didn't do or say anything, so I asked again. Then she started crying. Amazing that children know what they should and shouldn't do. Even at 20 months. I picked her up and told her she knows that this is not acceptable and that I would have to "scold" her. Mr. Sad Spoon took care of it. I think she was sad just knowing that she had disappointed me. I told her I was going to have to clean up the crayon mess. To which was said, "Cleamup?" And so I asked, "Can you help mommy do it?" And so we did it "together". Wipes didn't work, but Mr. Clean is a Crayon Catastrophe Lifesaver!

Filling in the Gaps

I'm no longer the worst blogger ever. There is still alot for me to learn, and I realize some of my pics displaced stuff, but I just wanted ya'll to know that I filled in the last 3 months worth of pics. It sounds overwhelming, but it really isn't. Just check out December and January in my archives, and be sure to scroll around in February to make sure you didn't miss anything. Enjoy!

The !Sucker! Incident

Been meaning to post this for a while now. After a fall with a half eaten !sucker! M* needed a bath in the middle of the day. She was so ill about it that she waved it around and around trying to bat it out of her hair. Needless to say that only made things worse!

*M's* first Pics

M* took the camera hostage for a bit today. Luckily, it did not ensue much damage and we were able to reclaim it with enough distraction to cause a minimal meltdown. Here are the results of her first "shoot".

Bloons and Co-Cakes

You must re-read the above title and pronounce it with a thick southern drawl and a slight lisp. Here is the first of several pic posts with *Miss* M* in them. Enjoy. And thank you Aunt Shebby for the "blue" co-cakes. They were a hit. sorta dreading tomorrow when *M* asks for them and they aren't there.

A Good Laugh

It finally happened. I got an out and out condescended laugh/snort from the teller in the check out line today at the home goods store. I had chosen to purchase a very eclectic something for someone who reads my blog so I can not say too much. It was on clearance more than 75% off. There was a matching one of these eclectic items only made slightly bigger and because of their large discount I was tempted to buy them both and give them as separate gifts. The larger one was more expensive (of course use that word in its context noting that it too was at more than 75% off). After milling around the remainder of the store with two other gals, I decided I would only get the one (less expensive one), save the money, save the space (mine for storing till gift giving time, and the receivers since the item is of a decent size as it is). The gift by itself is great! Being more than 75% off means it came with a scratch and a dent here and there, but nothing a little paint can't make seemingly unnoticeable.

I get up to the counter and hassle the clerk about another clearance item that is broken and would involve a major gluing task, but was cuter than the non-broken clearance one. I wanted to see if they would mark it down any further since the one that was broken was marked the same as the one that wasn't broken. They turned me down, so I didn't get that item. So, she only had this gift to ring up. She looked at me inquisitively and asked, "wasn't there another one just like this over there?" Too which I replied, "Yes, but it cost more ($3 more mind you)." That's when I heard it...the laugh/snort. I finally heard what I fear from most cashier clerks! It was sort of a relief because my suspicions have been verified and now they can be laid to rest! Apparently, some people do think I'm crazy, cheap, or an over-the-top bargain hunter!

VICTORY!

First Day of Shopping and Saving

Those of you who know me, know that I am and have always been a bargain shopper, but this new "Coupon Coop" (hehe) takes it to a whole new level! I took a pic of my purchases today so that I can post it tomorrow so look for that. But, I have never been on such a delightful shopping extravaganza. I'll explain. I went to Walgreens and Ingles today because their weeks run from Sunday to Saturday. At Walgreens I shopped the list (grocery game) and of course had to check out the after valentine's day sale, as well as a ream of paper that I needed desperately, and a few little $2 gifts to stash away for Mercy and Stone on their birthdays! I had trouble at first finding everything that I wanted. They weren't where they should have been, but a very kind employee who spotted me wandering and looking slightly confused offered her assistance. She didn 't even seem slightly perturbed when I sought her out two more times.

I had noticed that the store manager and another manager that came across as being even higher up than the store manager were talking about sales, promotion, and such as they were redoing an isle for Easter. On my way to the check out counter I let them both know what a terrific employee she was. They seemed thrilled, and she (the employee) told me bye with a big smile, so the word must have made it to her quickly! That just made the shopping experience ten times better. I felt light and carefree almost.

As if that alone didn't make for a great first day of shopping and saving, I also went to Ingles. I followed the list nearly exclusively with the exception of fabric softner which I was totally out of. I actually found one that was only $1 and didn't smell like a moth ball had been dropped into the mix!

When I got home, I took a pic of all I got and then sat down and figured up how much I spent, saved, and the percentage. Here are the results:
The total cost was right at $40.00 (give or take a few cents). It's original total value was right at $123.50. My savings percentage was 67.5%!!! Can't wait to go for Bi-Lo and Publix! And I can't wait to post a pic!

Happy Heart Day!

Onions, Onions, Good for your heart

The more you eat them, the more...

So for the first time in a VERY long time my husband, who is allergic to onions, splurged and had onion rings with lunch. Not only was it easily noticeable on his breath when he kissed me for Valentine's Day, but the gas is so fiercely loud and atrosciously smelly! All I can say is ... good thing we are really celebrating Love Day on Sunday evening. Maybe his allergy will have worn off by now!

Coupon Coop

Today I started gathering the hens for the newly imagined and hopefully soon established Coupon Co-op. I passed around a sign up sheet that said Coupon Coop, and in all actuality I did realize it came out that way, I just thought it was kind of cute and amusing...and sort of "me".

This should be a really exciting new venture for a lot of us. Hopefully, it will prove to be a money saving venture as well. In the next few weeks, we mothers will be getting together for coupon clipping and money saving advice (and lunch of course with all the kids in tow). I plan on putting together a packet of info and maybe (if I'm nice) I'll pick up some of those organizers in the dollar bins at target for everyone. Then I think I'll open the floor for suggestions on how often to meet and those who may want to lead a session on a certain money saving topic.

The asset that sent this "Coop" into full blown frenzy was the two websites that my mom and I recently found. The first is called the Grocery Game. This lovely lady does all of the really hard work for you...matching coupons with your local grocery sales and telling you what is at its rock bottom prices and what is priced well for stock piling. The second site is a site called Coupon clippers. This is a pastors family WAHM business. They do the clipping and where you can not legally sell coupons for money, you can charge a handling fee for the clipping and mailing and such. It is minimal and you can get multiples of certain coupons that you use frequently. This is especially good for stockpiling. Plus, you are giving business and money to this well deserving family.

My mom and I are extremely excited and I'm sure we will periodically report back our savings!

Clearance and Coupons

I'm a bargain hunter at heart; out of necessity and out of pleasure. Someone recently described it as my "high" or my "crack". Well, I certainly don't condone that, and like any other "habit" it can be a bad one if not kept in check. Need vs. Want...Need vs. Want. That's my Dave Ramsey mantra. Still, like dieting there are going to be times when that Chocolate Molten Lava with Ice Cream for only $1 more gets the better of you. At least at those times, you've got your bargaining principles in line to make the backsliding less harmful.

Today some of my wants overtook my needs at Goody's. Of course, though I cannot blame my lack of self discipline on my mother, our favorite hobby does tend to be shopping. Here was the loot we came away with. I got my Easter dress for 9.88 (originally $70), a very trendy, sassy, U.S. Polo blue jean jacket for 11.98 (originally $44), a black and a brown pair of my favorite wedge shoes 9.98 each (originally $35), a beautiful black velvet Duck Head jacket for 6.38 (originally $60), and 4 other tops, a pair of earrings (these I needed cause my others broke(and they were 1/2 off)), and a pair of black leggings with tiny white polka dots. All in all, I spent almost $72, BUT it was all worth three bucks shy of $400!!!

Using a 20% off coupon for the entire purchase and only shopping the clearance items, I was able to purchase my clothes at an average of about 83% off! Brand new! On the rack! Tags on!

Moral of the story..."Even still...never go shopping with your mother when you're hungry."

Worst Blogger Ever!

Hah! OK. Here in South Carolina, blogging is no new thing for these Mommys! I am soooo far behind it's not even funny! I've been told that for starters the name of my blog is totally uncreative. Then, the fact that I rarely post pics is because I barely have a clue how to do it and have to elicit help from my computer geek hubby. Then!!!! Some of my new found friends put video clips on theirs! I want to do that! I have been taking pics all week to put on the blog. Last Wednesday it snowed and I took pics to post, but haven't sat Jason down to help me do it. I had a productive thrift shop-a-thon, the results of which I photographed to post, but still haven't sat Jason down to help me do it. I took a video clip of Mercy and her daddy engrossed in her new computer favorite, the dancing banana singing Peanut Butter Jelly Time...just for the blog and yet I have no clue how to put it on. Ladies...I think I need a private tutorial! I'll trade, singing lessons or tightwad tips for blogging aide!

And We Get It

No, this post is not about SunCom or Harry Connick Jr. We got the job! Jason had his 2nd interview with a local family owned company. They are a very good company apparently, so word of mouth around here tells us. The interview was superb! And we waited for the call. And it snowed...And no one went to work or school. And his last day doing contract work for his previous company came. And we had our taxes done. And finally, he called them and they filled him in that he got the job, it pays the same as his previous one (which is great!), and they went through all the nitty grittys...the perks, the responsibilities, etc. AND we are thrilled! He starts Feb. 15th.

Thank you all for your fervent prayers. There was never a doubt that God had this. He has always been faithful.

Psalm 40

I waited patiently for the Lord to help me,

and he turned to me and heard my cry.

He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire.

He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along.

He has given me a new song to sing, a hymn of praise to our God.

Many will see what he has done and be amazed. They will put their trust in the Lord

Oh, the joys of those who trust the Lord!

Tightwaddery is back!

Yippee! I discovered the Tightwad Gazette late in life. Too late to actually get the newsletter. But I read all the books and in true tightwad fashion, I didn't pay a penny for them. I got the first one that hooked and roped me in from my dear friend Adele. She was playing cleansweep at her old abode and I was the beneficiary of the book #1. Then I went in search for 2 and 3. And checked them out of my local library and read and made notes almost immediately. I longed for more, but Ms. Amy D had retired.

Well, my mom just recently found the family who picked up the torch. The Economides family! You guys would really be missing out if you didn't check there website out. www.homeeconomiser.com This family really works hard to be dubbed The Cheapest Family in America. Apparently, I'm way behind cause they've been feature on television several times even recently, but we rarely watch it during the day. I'm very tempted to buy the book used and/or split a subscription to the newsletter. Might make a really great valentine's day present!

Anywho...that's just a heads up to all you who check in on this periodically. Gotta go get ready for dinner with the SS class!

Working on Thriving

So, I was scolded for not having blogged in a while. I've learned my lesson and now I'm back. Do you need an explanation or an excuse? OK well here's the short version. I haven't really had anything interesting to say. AND there was the whole getting a new computer thing that set us back. AND my husband seems to have taken up permanent residence at the computer. He's asleep now, so I have my chance.

I have been working on thriving, and I must say it seems I might be good at it (with help of course). I have a friend! And I have the possibility of many more friends, real opportunity. In fact, we've already begun the relationship building process. Jason and I are going over to a couples house in our SS class next week for dinner. I am involved in a Mom to Mom group which I feared might be slightly cheesy and super baptisty, but I have found it to be essential to my spiritual, emotional, and parental health. I have only been two or three times, and already I have learned and been challenged so much! I'm singing in the choir and loving every minute of it! And we are starting dinner groups in our enormous SS class next month! This church and what God is doing here is amazing! And I'm so glad we're in the middle of it. I'm even studying God's word on a regular basis, which is a challenge for someone with a toddler and sleeping problems, but it really hasn't been difficult at all. And I miss it when I have forgotten or don't wake up in time. Now we just need to pray for Jason...

He needs a job. He has a lot of possibilities, but no job. This is new to him and it seems he is easily discouraged. I know what it feels like to be in a new city and have no real friends or a job where he could make friends. Then there's the man thing where they find a lot of their self worth in being able to provide. And so far, we have wanted for NOTHING. Don't ask me how, cause my only answer would be God. Not just a job though, I pray for him and uplifted spirit. One that is not hesitant to reach out to new people in order to build the relationship. One that shows determination and perseverance in putting himself out there to find a job. I hear cynicism and/or bitterness, maybe even resentment in his voice sometimes when he talks about "friends" or a "job". So, I just ask that ya'll pray for him with me. I don't want him to be where I was just a few months ago!

Mercy is tremendous! We marvel over her daily! She is super smart! She speaks in sentences very clearly for the most part! Of course not everything she says is a sentence, but she uses them fairly often. She says "watch a movie", yesterday she said "make you feel better", and she sings more than before. She knows more songs than I thought she did! I'm going to post some pics soon cause Jason uploaded them.

Well, just the last few things. I gave my resume to a church just for clerical work a few hours a week. Don't know how that should go, but I'm hoping God will open and close those doors for me. I've been invited to a women's bible study in the homes of some of the younger minister's wives in the church. I'm not usually a workbook bible study kind of gal, but Jason encouraged me to try it and see. I am trying out for the Soprano part in a classical easter performance of the 7 Last words of Christ. Haven't much done the classical thing in a while, so we'll see. And last but not least, I am exploring taking community Spanish communication classes. I really hope the latter works out.

OK. I will try not to be gone so long next time. Gotta get Mercy and Jason up so we can go to Janet's for BOGO breakfast today.