No substance lately to this blog. Very Sad..I did asked to do 2 more book reviews which will hopefully come with some free books for my readers..look out..
tomorrow we are having a garage sale here at Casa de Christophers. Hoping to make some money to pay some bills and I am looking forward to simplifying things. We just have too much stuff. Junk. things we have collected over the years that we do not need or use. I mean, how much junk can one house hold? There are things that help us remember Good times, but we even have to much of that ! There are people all over the world ( even here in the good ole USA) that have nothing. nothing. I can not believe how much stuff we have. I feel pretty selfish sometimes when I "want" things.
I go back Sunday night to work, which means Michael gets baby duty. Since he is still on crutches, we are setting up nursery central in the TV room, so that everything will be close by. Of course we have our emergency numbers in case he needs anything, but I think he will be okay. He is still on disability and we are hoping he will get his cast off soon and get back to ambulating better. His blood numbers have started looking better and instead of going weekly, that doctor doesn't want to see him for another month..We will have infections disease and ortho to visit.
its been a crazy month. Stressful, YES? Do I have something to worry about every hour? YES! DO I choose to worry? NO!!!! I think I worry just enough to keep me on my toes. It has been nice to be forced to have quiet time at the house. WE have been watching lots of RED BOX movies and eating dinner at the house..Even though we ate dinner at trivia for 5 bucks (all 3 of us!!!)
LynnMarie is adjusting.Starting Sunday, we will begin our new routine. I am going back full time but will hopefully go to 32 hours once Michael gets back to work.
I am enjoying time with LM and hubby. Ready to go to work. Nervous as heck though!!!
Praying about changes in the near future
Friday, May 29, 2009
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Monday shopping
Yesterday was my first day of frugal shopping and I did pretty good. I spent more than most people cutting coupons, researching sales and even looking at some sites..I had all my stores organized but decided to stay with just 2 yesterday, Publix and Walgreens..
So at Publix I got
A1 SteakSauce
6 pack of dial soap
BIG bottle of Kraft dressing
Ball Park hotdogs
something else but i forgot.
I Had 2 bags for 5$!!!!!! Oh so proud!
At Walgreens I only got
Tropicana OJ (2.99- 1 dollar coupon plus 1 dollar register reward)
Colgate (same deal as above)
Because of the RR program, Walgreens has discontinued the rebate program
I took one of the RR from Walgreens at got a printer cartridge refill which was 10 dollar. The cashier found a 5 dollar coupon so I only paid 4 dollars.
Then we ended the day with a free movie from RedBox
So I am going to have to make some rules for our family.
-only use and print coupons for items we may actually use. It may for a different brand but we wont be stocking up for liver or anything
-be careful what I print off the coupon. Its not worth spending money of printer ink to save money at Publix
-Organize my trips
-stock up on the nearly free items
-use what I have on hand and constantly look at expiration dates.
-only buy mi;l 2 dollars or less a gallon (its possible, BJs and Publix)
-something else I learned bananas are very cheap at gas stations..didn't know that but thought I would share my knowledge with you!!
Thats it for this week. We are still hoping for a great garage sale this Saturday so if you live in Atlanta, come say hi!
So at Publix I got
A1 SteakSauce
6 pack of dial soap
BIG bottle of Kraft dressing
Ball Park hotdogs
something else but i forgot.
I Had 2 bags for 5$!!!!!! Oh so proud!
At Walgreens I only got
Tropicana OJ (2.99- 1 dollar coupon plus 1 dollar register reward)
Colgate (same deal as above)
Because of the RR program, Walgreens has discontinued the rebate program
I took one of the RR from Walgreens at got a printer cartridge refill which was 10 dollar. The cashier found a 5 dollar coupon so I only paid 4 dollars.
Then we ended the day with a free movie from RedBox
So I am going to have to make some rules for our family.
-only use and print coupons for items we may actually use. It may for a different brand but we wont be stocking up for liver or anything
-be careful what I print off the coupon. Its not worth spending money of printer ink to save money at Publix
-Organize my trips
-stock up on the nearly free items
-use what I have on hand and constantly look at expiration dates.
-only buy mi;l 2 dollars or less a gallon (its possible, BJs and Publix)
-something else I learned bananas are very cheap at gas stations..didn't know that but thought I would share my knowledge with you!!
Thats it for this week. We are still hoping for a great garage sale this Saturday so if you live in Atlanta, come say hi!
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
we are home
We are home. Christy, you won the book, I will get it to you soon. We had a great time and it was nice to see MIchael relax. He has more drs appts, home health visits and other things to do this week, so please keep praying for him. Please pray his blood levels stay up and his foot continues to heal.
I loved being with family, loved being in Florida. Even took a look at some job openings. Pics to come soon.
Not much going on. Idol has been so biased this season. They pretty much told Kris that Adam was winning and just told him what a great competitor he has been. They got rid of Lil so much earlier than expected. As much as I did not like Alison, I am surprised she left at the time she did. She had a great fan following and a lot of talent for her age.
No spoilers, but I am going to watch the Greys finale. The interview with the Shonda Rhymes )creator of the show) gave some hints and I think I missed a couple. I dont think the show ended the way we all thought it did!!!
Going back to work in less than 2 weeks, looking forward to the income, not worried about the baby, just nervous about the work itself!!!
I loved being with family, loved being in Florida. Even took a look at some job openings. Pics to come soon.
Not much going on. Idol has been so biased this season. They pretty much told Kris that Adam was winning and just told him what a great competitor he has been. They got rid of Lil so much earlier than expected. As much as I did not like Alison, I am surprised she left at the time she did. She had a great fan following and a lot of talent for her age.
No spoilers, but I am going to watch the Greys finale. The interview with the Shonda Rhymes )creator of the show) gave some hints and I think I missed a couple. I dont think the show ended the way we all thought it did!!!
Going back to work in less than 2 weeks, looking forward to the income, not worried about the baby, just nervous about the work itself!!!
Monday, May 18, 2009
Book review and contest ( gotta read the review to find the authros contest)
SO I once again got to read and review a book by Susan May Warren, one of my new favorite authors. Reading her books goes by so quickly and her stories are so easy to visualize. I hope you have picked one up, but if not, try this one!!!!! Want to read more about God's unconditional love, check out this book and Susan's other ones. I Loved Nothing But Trouble, just like her other ones. Pj is such an interesting character and I guarantee to you will see yourself just a little bit in PJ~~~This book tour is going on all week. Go check out other book reviews and interesting blogs
at http://www.litfusegroup.com/latest/current-blog-tours/81-nothing-but-trouble-blog-tour-schedule
About the book: PJ Sugar knows three things for sure:
After traveling the country for ten years hoping to shake free from the trail of disaster that’s become her life, she needs a fresh start.
The last person she wants to see when she heads home for her sister’s wedding is Boone—her former flame and the reason she left town.
After traveling the country for ten years hoping to shake free from the trail of disaster that’s become her life, she needs a fresh start.
The last person she wants to see when she heads home for her sister’s wedding is Boone—her former flame and the reason she left town.
Her best friend’s husband absolutely did not commit the first murder Kellogg, Minnesota, has seen in more than a decade.
What PJ doesn’t know is that when she starts digging for evidence, she’ll uncover much more than she bargained for—a deadly conspiracy, a knack for investigation, and maybe, just maybe, that fresh start she’s been longing for.
It's not fair to say that trouble happens every time PJ Sugar is around, but it feels that way when she returns to her hometown, looking for a fresh start. Within a week, her former teacher is murdered and her best friend's husband is arrested as the number-one suspect. Although the police detective investigating the murder--who also happens to be PJ's former flame--is convinced it's an open-and-shut case, PJ's not so sure. She begins digging for clues in an effort to clear her friend's husband and ends up reigniting old passions, uncovering an international conspiracy, and solving a murder along the way. She also discovers that maybe God can use a woman who never seems to get it right.
What PJ doesn’t know is that when she starts digging for evidence, she’ll uncover much more than she bargained for—a deadly conspiracy, a knack for investigation, and maybe, just maybe, that fresh start she’s been longing for.
It's not fair to say that trouble happens every time PJ Sugar is around, but it feels that way when she returns to her hometown, looking for a fresh start. Within a week, her former teacher is murdered and her best friend's husband is arrested as the number-one suspect. Although the police detective investigating the murder--who also happens to be PJ's former flame--is convinced it's an open-and-shut case, PJ's not so sure. She begins digging for clues in an effort to clear her friend's husband and ends up reigniting old passions, uncovering an international conspiracy, and solving a murder along the way. She also discovers that maybe God can use a woman who never seems to get it right.
Read the first chapter: http://gotsugar.susanmaywarren.com/
About Susan: Susan May Warren is the award-winning author of seventeen novels and novellas with Tyndale, Steeple Hill and Barbour Publishing. Her first book, Happily Ever After won the American Fiction Christian Writers Book of the Year in 2003, and was a 2003 Christy Award finalist. In Sheep’s Clothing, a thriller set in Russia, was a 2006 Christy Award finalist and won the 2006 Inspirational Reader’s Choice award. A former missionary to Russia, Susan May Warren now writes Suspense/Romance and Chick Lit full time from her home in northern Minnesota.
About Susan: Susan May Warren is the award-winning author of seventeen novels and novellas with Tyndale, Steeple Hill and Barbour Publishing. Her first book, Happily Ever After won the American Fiction Christian Writers Book of the Year in 2003, and was a 2003 Christy Award finalist. In Sheep’s Clothing, a thriller set in Russia, was a 2006 Christy Award finalist and won the 2006 Inspirational Reader’s Choice award. A former missionary to Russia, Susan May Warren now writes Suspense/Romance and Chick Lit full time from her home in northern Minnesota.
and just in case you are still wondering about this book, read what the author has to say
Here is a contest from the author
PJ Sugar's first novel - Nothing But Trouble is popping up all over the country! Go Hunting for Trouble, and let me know where you see the book.
Send me the Name of the Bookstore where you found it (and the city, please), and we'll put your name in a drawing for a preview copy of
The Great Christmas Bowl my Christmas Novella, coming out this fall! (Promo coming soon!) And…send me a PHOTO of you and the book in the bookstore, and we'll add your name 5x!
And you'll also be eligible to win a cool SUGAR Personal SPA BASKET!!
So go....Hunt up Trouble! All the details here http://susanmaywarren.com/contest.htm
Send me the Name of the Bookstore where you found it (and the city, please), and we'll put your name in a drawing for a preview copy of
The Great Christmas Bowl my Christmas Novella, coming out this fall! (Promo coming soon!) And…send me a PHOTO of you and the book in the bookstore, and we'll add your name 5x!
And you'll also be eligible to win a cool SUGAR Personal SPA BASKET!!
So go....Hunt up Trouble! All the details here http://susanmaywarren.com/contest.htm
A note from Susan May Warren
Sometimes, do you feel like you just don’t fit in? You look around you and if anyone knew how difficult it was just to put yourself together, to smile when you feel completely overwhelmed, to even figure out what you were making for supper, they’d know what a mess you were. Maybe you totally relate to those words in 1 Peter – God’s elect, strangers and aliens in the world. Do you feel like when you look in the rear view mirror, all you see are your mistakes?
Maybe not. But if so, then PJ is your gal. I wanted to write a story about the person in so many of us who just wants to get it right…but can’t seem to stay out of trouble. My friend and I have what we call the “stupid mouth” club…and we report our weekly foibles (usually on Monday, after Sunday church!). PJ is our charter member. She’s the girl that changes her mind, always hopes for the best, is always discovering that she is just a little different than everyone else. PJ is us.
And that’s good news. Because God loves PJ. He loves her messiness, and her impulsiveness, her heart bent toward others, the hope that fuels her actions. And He has a plan for PJ – one that includes her weaknesses as well as her strengths.
Sometimes, do you feel like you just don’t fit in? You look around you and if anyone knew how difficult it was just to put yourself together, to smile when you feel completely overwhelmed, to even figure out what you were making for supper, they’d know what a mess you were. Maybe you totally relate to those words in 1 Peter – God’s elect, strangers and aliens in the world. Do you feel like when you look in the rear view mirror, all you see are your mistakes?
Maybe not. But if so, then PJ is your gal. I wanted to write a story about the person in so many of us who just wants to get it right…but can’t seem to stay out of trouble. My friend and I have what we call the “stupid mouth” club…and we report our weekly foibles (usually on Monday, after Sunday church!). PJ is our charter member. She’s the girl that changes her mind, always hopes for the best, is always discovering that she is just a little different than everyone else. PJ is us.
And that’s good news. Because God loves PJ. He loves her messiness, and her impulsiveness, her heart bent toward others, the hope that fuels her actions. And He has a plan for PJ – one that includes her weaknesses as well as her strengths.
Yep, I need to hear that – need to hear that I don’t have to be perfect for God to love me, use me, sing over me. Need to hear that although I don’t fit in, well, I’m not supposed to…in fact, I’m supposed to be a little…alien.
I wrote PJ for everyone who feels just a little messy, just a little like they can’t quite get it right. And who needs to hear that God loves them. Period. Full stop. Hallelujah.
I wrote PJ for everyone who feels just a little messy, just a little like they can’t quite get it right. And who needs to hear that God loves them. Period. Full stop. Hallelujah.
and if you read all the way to the end, if you leave a comment on this blog, I will draw a name to receive my copy of the book.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Catching up
Just wanted to check in. We are 3 or 4 days in on our trip home to Fl and family feels good. its so nice to see everyone loving on LM. Its also nice that Michael could come. Keep praying that is IV antibiotics are doing their job and that when this first cast comes off, there will be no issues with his foot. He is hobbling around on crutches, but making LM smile all of the time!!
Life is good. This trip makes me want to move home, really move closer to family. We will see! Although, I sure do love my job and friends in Atlanta!!!!
This afternoon, LM goes swimming for the first time!
Ok, what the heck!
Greys- About 70 minutes in, I said, there had not been to many surprises or shockers but that last 20 minutes..WOW 007. If you are worried about next season, find the interview with Chonda Rhymes, the creator of the show. She may put your worries to ease.
LOST- rock on Sawyer, what a great scene. Loved this episode
Hells Kitchen- this afternoon, we will be in the winners hometown, Edgewater, Fl. Apparently Danny and my brother our friends and no one ever told me. Yeah Danny, the underdog..Cant wait to see the episode and maybe try his restaurant here!
Life is good. This trip makes me want to move home, really move closer to family. We will see! Although, I sure do love my job and friends in Atlanta!!!!
This afternoon, LM goes swimming for the first time!
Ok, what the heck!
Greys- About 70 minutes in, I said, there had not been to many surprises or shockers but that last 20 minutes..WOW 007. If you are worried about next season, find the interview with Chonda Rhymes, the creator of the show. She may put your worries to ease.
LOST- rock on Sawyer, what a great scene. Loved this episode
Hells Kitchen- this afternoon, we will be in the winners hometown, Edgewater, Fl. Apparently Danny and my brother our friends and no one ever told me. Yeah Danny, the underdog..Cant wait to see the episode and maybe try his restaurant here!
Friday, May 08, 2009
what a crazy week
First of all, I apologize to all the blogger friends I have. I have not been a good commenter and plan on getting better again soon. I promise I have not forgotten about you!!
What a crazy week. Its been a crazy,fearful, full of praying and crying to God, just crying, laughing, serious, scary, makes you think thoughts you never thought you would be thinking kind of weeks.
Thanks to all who have helped. To all of you single moms out there, ROCK ON!!!
Michael has been in the hospital since Monday night and until yesterday, yucky fear tried to control my spirit. My fear robbed me of joy, and my sweet girl deserves more than that. Some crazy thoughts have run through my head, so crazy I am embarrased to post them. I can not wait to have my Michael home. Life will be different for the next few months, but we will manage.
As much as I have had some really really hard emotional moments this week, I still heard God. More than a whisper sometimes and that makes those moments okay. I will say this, if you are going to ask God for something, give Him time and room to do it. You can not control God or the things in your life.
It was also a humbling week. LynnMarie got to play with several new friends this week. You have to understand, I despise asking for help. I feel like a failure, always have. This was another burden, as I did not want to burden my friends. I can not stand that feeling. Friends took LM for a few hours each day so I could spend time at the hospital with Michael and talk to some of the doctors. Friends, the time you gave me was the best gift in the world. Sometimes, you have to ask for help. Some people need the opportunity to help.
LM and I have some moments of our own. Talking to God together is a precious thing. She has no idea what I am doing, but she gets quiet at the right time. Oh she is the sweetest thing.
So, keep praying for the Christopher family. Gonna leave you with some lyrics that are pretty summing up how I feel these days.
Whatever You're Doing by Sanctus Real
It's time for healing time to move on
It's time to fix what's been broken too long
Time make right what has been wrong
It's time to find my way to where I belong
There's a wave that's crashing over me
All I can do is surrender
(Chorus)
Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos somehow there's peace
It's hard to surrender to what I can't see
but I'm giving in to something heavenly
Time for a milestone
Time to begin again
Revaluate who I really am
Am I doing everything to follow your will
or just climbing aimlessly over these hills
So show me what it is you want from me
I give everything I surrender...
To...
(Chorus)
Time to face up
Clean this old house
Time to breathe in and let everything out
That I've wanted to say for so many years
Time to to release all my held back tears
Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but I believe
You're up to something bigger than me
Larger than life something heavenly
Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but now I can see
This something bigger than me
Larger than life something heavenly
Something heavenly
It's time to face up
Clean this old house
Time breathe in and let everything ou
What a crazy week. Its been a crazy,fearful, full of praying and crying to God, just crying, laughing, serious, scary, makes you think thoughts you never thought you would be thinking kind of weeks.
Thanks to all who have helped. To all of you single moms out there, ROCK ON!!!
Michael has been in the hospital since Monday night and until yesterday, yucky fear tried to control my spirit. My fear robbed me of joy, and my sweet girl deserves more than that. Some crazy thoughts have run through my head, so crazy I am embarrased to post them. I can not wait to have my Michael home. Life will be different for the next few months, but we will manage.
As much as I have had some really really hard emotional moments this week, I still heard God. More than a whisper sometimes and that makes those moments okay. I will say this, if you are going to ask God for something, give Him time and room to do it. You can not control God or the things in your life.
It was also a humbling week. LynnMarie got to play with several new friends this week. You have to understand, I despise asking for help. I feel like a failure, always have. This was another burden, as I did not want to burden my friends. I can not stand that feeling. Friends took LM for a few hours each day so I could spend time at the hospital with Michael and talk to some of the doctors. Friends, the time you gave me was the best gift in the world. Sometimes, you have to ask for help. Some people need the opportunity to help.
LM and I have some moments of our own. Talking to God together is a precious thing. She has no idea what I am doing, but she gets quiet at the right time. Oh she is the sweetest thing.
So, keep praying for the Christopher family. Gonna leave you with some lyrics that are pretty summing up how I feel these days.
Whatever You're Doing by Sanctus Real
It's time for healing time to move on
It's time to fix what's been broken too long
Time make right what has been wrong
It's time to find my way to where I belong
There's a wave that's crashing over me
All I can do is surrender
(Chorus)
Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos somehow there's peace
It's hard to surrender to what I can't see
but I'm giving in to something heavenly
Time for a milestone
Time to begin again
Revaluate who I really am
Am I doing everything to follow your will
or just climbing aimlessly over these hills
So show me what it is you want from me
I give everything I surrender...
To...
(Chorus)
Time to face up
Clean this old house
Time to breathe in and let everything out
That I've wanted to say for so many years
Time to to release all my held back tears
Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but I believe
You're up to something bigger than me
Larger than life something heavenly
Whatever you're doing inside of me
It feels like chaos but now I can see
This something bigger than me
Larger than life something heavenly
Something heavenly
It's time to face up
Clean this old house
Time breathe in and let everything ou
Tuesday, May 05, 2009
pray
Pray for my sweet sweet husband who is back in the hospital with something going on with his foot and anemia. he has already had a transfusion, bone marrow aspiration and now we are waiting for treatment for his foot.
Honestly, there are too many needs in my heart but God is good and knows all!
Pray for peace, joy and comfort for my sweet husband
Honestly, there are too many needs in my heart but God is good and knows all!
Pray for peace, joy and comfort for my sweet husband
Thursday, April 30, 2009
3 part post
PART 1
TV Show Updates
- We have not watched last nights LOST YET!
-AI- not surprised Matt got the boot. I do think he sounded a lot like Justin Timberlake and he had some solid performances but he just didn't shine like the others. I may be the only non Adam fan out here. He is a great performer, too good for AI. The judges push for him every week and I think they pushed Lil out of the competition. He will probably win, I hope not. AI was meant for undiscovered talent. As nice as this guy is, I cant imagine no one "finding" him yet.
I am not a fan of Alison's, although she can sing for a 17yo. I would be happy for Chris or Danny to win but I totally forgot about Chris the first half of this show.
Biggest loser- I am a Mike fan. I still cant believe Ron is still on.. Helen and Laura and done so well so regardless, I would be happy. Will be surprised if Helen wins though!
Part 2
Weight loss- Lost 1.8 pounds this week, need to lose 13.2 more before the middle of June or else WW is getting cut from the budget. I have not been to the gym, but LM and I have been walking at the park and doing laps which has been fun. If you are in the Atlanta area and want to meet sometime, let me know
Part 3
Frugal living
I am trying. The easiest thing is unplugging things, trying not to do laundry until evening, and not buying anything. I haven't started the coupon thing because it overwhelms me. I was at Walgreen's yesterday and there was a lady and her buggy with a HUGE 3 ring binder. I asked her if she works there if she was one of those special coupon people. She laughed and said yes she was special. She showed me her layout and said if you can organize your life and give yourself 45 minutes a day, you can save hundreds of month. Its a form of self discipline. Tried printing some coupons and will try to do some more things. We have such a long way to go. The Saturday before Mothers Day we will be having a HUGE garage sale. Getting rid of things to simplify our life and make some money. Everything will be super cheap, there will be some new items and there may be a few families joining us. Let us know if you want to stop by or participate.
Holy Cow, this is the longest post in a while!
Keep praying for the Compassion Bloggers. They are seeing things you don't see here in the US and there hearts are opening more..I'm so excited for them and what God is going to do through them!
New pics of LM at www.thechristopherfamily.blogpspot.com
TV Show Updates
- We have not watched last nights LOST YET!
-AI- not surprised Matt got the boot. I do think he sounded a lot like Justin Timberlake and he had some solid performances but he just didn't shine like the others. I may be the only non Adam fan out here. He is a great performer, too good for AI. The judges push for him every week and I think they pushed Lil out of the competition. He will probably win, I hope not. AI was meant for undiscovered talent. As nice as this guy is, I cant imagine no one "finding" him yet.
I am not a fan of Alison's, although she can sing for a 17yo. I would be happy for Chris or Danny to win but I totally forgot about Chris the first half of this show.
Biggest loser- I am a Mike fan. I still cant believe Ron is still on.. Helen and Laura and done so well so regardless, I would be happy. Will be surprised if Helen wins though!
Part 2
Weight loss- Lost 1.8 pounds this week, need to lose 13.2 more before the middle of June or else WW is getting cut from the budget. I have not been to the gym, but LM and I have been walking at the park and doing laps which has been fun. If you are in the Atlanta area and want to meet sometime, let me know
Part 3
Frugal living
I am trying. The easiest thing is unplugging things, trying not to do laundry until evening, and not buying anything. I haven't started the coupon thing because it overwhelms me. I was at Walgreen's yesterday and there was a lady and her buggy with a HUGE 3 ring binder. I asked her if she works there if she was one of those special coupon people. She laughed and said yes she was special. She showed me her layout and said if you can organize your life and give yourself 45 minutes a day, you can save hundreds of month. Its a form of self discipline. Tried printing some coupons and will try to do some more things. We have such a long way to go. The Saturday before Mothers Day we will be having a HUGE garage sale. Getting rid of things to simplify our life and make some money. Everything will be super cheap, there will be some new items and there may be a few families joining us. Let us know if you want to stop by or participate.
Holy Cow, this is the longest post in a while!
Keep praying for the Compassion Bloggers. They are seeing things you don't see here in the US and there hearts are opening more..I'm so excited for them and what God is going to do through them!
New pics of LM at www.thechristopherfamily.blogpspot.com
Monday, April 27, 2009
Frugal Living
The other day I asked your ideas on how to live frugally. Some of you commented here and some found me on facebook. So I thought I would share all the ideas and if you have more, please comment and I will add them as well!!!
Check out Aldi stores
Store brand items
Unplug appliances when you are not using them
- Dining out is the easiest place to cut your expenses. The best you can do is to not dine out at all, but that's unrealistic for most families. Here's ways I try to limit spending in restaurants:
1. Order tap water instead of sodas, teas, or adult beverages. Take a look at some of your restaurant receipts and you'll see beverages ranging anywhere from $.99 to over $2.50! For two people that's $5 just fora what might amount to 1 two liter bottle (~$1.50 at the grocery store). Water is free and generally better for you anyway.
2. Kids eat free! Pay attention when you're out and about and memorize places where kids meals are free and when. Around Orlando we now have Steak & Shake free on weekends, Ale House on Mondays, Beef O'Bradys free on some night I can't remember, Logan's roadhouse free on Tuesdays, Jersey Mike's Subs free on Wednesday and Sunday, and on and on and on. This will be a valuable tool when the little one starts eating more....
- 3. If your schedule permits, do your dining out at lunch time on weekdays and use the lunch specials offered by most restaurants. One of my favorites is the Ale House. Each Ale House has a different lunch specials menu. In Waterford Lakes it's a two-item menu priced at $4.95 or $5.95. One item stays the same each day of the week, the other ...
- We consolidate trips when out so as to save gas. We stock up on sale items. A deep freezer can be your best friend. I also buy seasonal items and put them up for later. Ex: Now it's time for strawberries so I am picking them and making strawberry jelly for the whole year. In late June I will buy 2-3 bushels of Corn and make homemade cream ...
- Here's my best money and time saving tool. If you eat chicken...I buy a whole 3 1/2 lb chicken...I use a knife to lift up the skin gently and put garlic and spices and herbs mixed with olive oil under the skin and over the skin (you can also use a rub). I cut up some red potatoes and but some baby carrots. I stick all of this in the crockpot with about a cup of water on low all day. You can make gravy with the juice at the end of the day. Then we have roasted chicken and vegetables for dinner one night. Then I take the remaining chicken and remove it from the bones(discard bones where doggy cannot find). I put it in two separate tupperwares ready for use in the coming day and already shredded. I usually have enough for two more casseroles. You can also use those chicken meal bakes from the store but they are high in preservatives and all the bad stuff... So two other nights of the week I make Chicken Divan, Chicken tacos, chicken stir-fry, chicken pot pie, chicken salad, a literal salad with chicken on top for lunch...you can look on the campbell's soup website for lots of ideas. I can get three meals out of a chicken and I even buy the organic whole chicken for about $9, but you can get a regular roaster for a whole lot less. it is also pretty lowfat. You can do this once or twice a month tops and then the chicken is overkill.
Also, we cut coupons from the Sunday paper and target the ads that we have coupons for in order to get extra savings. I organize those coupons in a little plastic divider I got at K-Mart. You can download coupons on coupons.com as well. It takes time but I do it while watching television...
- Freecycle. It's your best friend for clothes and other kid items. www.freecycle.org will tell you all about it and how to find your local group. NEVER buy new clothing for a child! Except maybe underwear. :)
Plan your meals ahead, at least by the week but preferably by the month. This stops you from eating out due to that "I'm tired and I can't think what to make" feeling so common when you have a little one. Also, look into doing once a month cooking and freezing meals. This and the menu planning has really cut down on our waste of food and eating out unnecessarily.
- I agree with thrift stores, garage sales, etc. for baby clothes. And buy bigger sizes too - not just what she's wearing now.
When I go grocery shopping, I buy things that are on sale and stock up on them. If chicken breasts are on sale, I'll buy about 4 or 5 packages and freeze them. The next week, if it's ground beef, I'll buy that. Buy big packages and separate them and freeze. Buy paper products at Walmart or Big Lots - never buy in the grocery unless they're on a big sale.
On hot days, keep your blinds closed to keep out the sun. Open your windows in the evening when it cools off. Cooler showers. Wash clothes in cold water. Don't run the dishwasher until it's full.
Entertainment - stay home and play games or cards with friends. Watch movies on TV for free. Use the library for books for yourself and LynnMarie.
- Here;s an entertainment tip:
You ever see those Redbox movie vending machines at Wal-Mart? I became the king of those things - but there's the kicker - for FREE!
There are tons of FREE codes all over the internet - I had a stretch at one point of like 11 movies in a row for free.
Good luck - frugal is better!
We read the ads for all the local grocery stores and map out who has the best deals on what we need.
Buy several loaves of bread when they are on sale - then freeze. Defrost a day in advance - perfectly soft and ready to go.
Defrost three to four things for dinner at a time - then you can pick and choose on the actual day from what you have ready to go. If it's frozen, chances are you'll eat out and spend a ton more.
Consider the $1 menu at fast food places before ordering a "meal deal". Many times, they have the same thing in smaller portions and it's only a dollar. We've eaten for $5 by doing this (family of three!)
Forgo the pricey coffees and drinks. At $4 to $5 each, you can pocket that and have date-night instead at the end of the week.
- One change my hubby and I have made is we use cash! Buying stuff with a debit card is like playing with monopoly money. When we spend cash we know that when it's gone, it's gone!
Grocery shopping we buy a lot of store brands shop the bottom shelves in the grocery store. When I find a good sale on chicken, boneless, skinless, I'll buy 10 or 15 pounds at a time and freeze it in 8 oz portions.
Clothes- good will or a good 2nd hand shop.
We used to do the envelope system. We had an envelope for clothes, gas, shoes, groceries, haircuts, fun and a special item that we were saving for. When my husband got paid we would take x number of dollars out and put the alloted amount in each envelope and put it in the drawer. Out of site, out of mind! We never had to worry about overspending, and if we did happen to take from one of the other envelopes, it was already accounted for.
Also made balancing the checkbook sooooo much easier! :) There was only 5 or 6 transactions every month and then the deposits!
- Always use a list when grocery shopping.
Keep a list of some meals that can be made with what you have on hand.
- hang your clothes (indoors on hangers on the shower rods, ropes strung in rafters -what ever you have to do).
- Stock up on clearance items for gifts and create a "gift closet" an area where you can store those items purchased on clearance. When you are invited to a birthday party or need a hostess gift, check your gift closet before running out and impulse buying the first thing you see.
After Christmas sales are the best time to stock up on bath and body gift sets and toys.
- 1. fully utilize the public library
2. make soup once a week
3. shop thrift stores-especially on half off days
4. wash most loads on cold
5. choose a week or so to buy no groceries, rely on what's on hand
instead of meeting friends out for dinner or brunch, do potluck at home
These days, with a baby at home, "dinner and a movie" means a dvd and a favorite plain frozen pizza with our own yummy toppings - about $10 for all this, as opposed to sitter + theater tickets + dinner out = >$100
WEBSITES that you have recommended
www.frugalmom.net
http://frugalmommie.blogspot.com/
http://www.fillingamefamily.blogspot.com/
http://www.fiddledeedeemom.com/
http://www.frugalcouponliving.com/
http://www.southernsavers.com/
http://www.afullcup.com/
http://hotcouponworld.com/
www.couponmom.com
www.smartsource.com
Check out Aldi stores
Store brand items
Unplug appliances when you are not using them
- Dining out is the easiest place to cut your expenses. The best you can do is to not dine out at all, but that's unrealistic for most families. Here's ways I try to limit spending in restaurants:
1. Order tap water instead of sodas, teas, or adult beverages. Take a look at some of your restaurant receipts and you'll see beverages ranging anywhere from $.99 to over $2.50! For two people that's $5 just fora what might amount to 1 two liter bottle (~$1.50 at the grocery store). Water is free and generally better for you anyway.
2. Kids eat free! Pay attention when you're out and about and memorize places where kids meals are free and when. Around Orlando we now have Steak & Shake free on weekends, Ale House on Mondays, Beef O'Bradys free on some night I can't remember, Logan's roadhouse free on Tuesdays, Jersey Mike's Subs free on Wednesday and Sunday, and on and on and on. This will be a valuable tool when the little one starts eating more....
- 3. If your schedule permits, do your dining out at lunch time on weekdays and use the lunch specials offered by most restaurants. One of my favorites is the Ale House. Each Ale House has a different lunch specials menu. In Waterford Lakes it's a two-item menu priced at $4.95 or $5.95. One item stays the same each day of the week, the other ...
- We consolidate trips when out so as to save gas. We stock up on sale items. A deep freezer can be your best friend. I also buy seasonal items and put them up for later. Ex: Now it's time for strawberries so I am picking them and making strawberry jelly for the whole year. In late June I will buy 2-3 bushels of Corn and make homemade cream ...
- Here's my best money and time saving tool. If you eat chicken...I buy a whole 3 1/2 lb chicken...I use a knife to lift up the skin gently and put garlic and spices and herbs mixed with olive oil under the skin and over the skin (you can also use a rub). I cut up some red potatoes and but some baby carrots. I stick all of this in the crockpot with about a cup of water on low all day. You can make gravy with the juice at the end of the day. Then we have roasted chicken and vegetables for dinner one night. Then I take the remaining chicken and remove it from the bones(discard bones where doggy cannot find). I put it in two separate tupperwares ready for use in the coming day and already shredded. I usually have enough for two more casseroles. You can also use those chicken meal bakes from the store but they are high in preservatives and all the bad stuff... So two other nights of the week I make Chicken Divan, Chicken tacos, chicken stir-fry, chicken pot pie, chicken salad, a literal salad with chicken on top for lunch...you can look on the campbell's soup website for lots of ideas. I can get three meals out of a chicken and I even buy the organic whole chicken for about $9, but you can get a regular roaster for a whole lot less. it is also pretty lowfat. You can do this once or twice a month tops and then the chicken is overkill.
Also, we cut coupons from the Sunday paper and target the ads that we have coupons for in order to get extra savings. I organize those coupons in a little plastic divider I got at K-Mart. You can download coupons on coupons.com as well. It takes time but I do it while watching television...
- Freecycle. It's your best friend for clothes and other kid items. www.freecycle.org will tell you all about it and how to find your local group. NEVER buy new clothing for a child! Except maybe underwear. :)
Plan your meals ahead, at least by the week but preferably by the month. This stops you from eating out due to that "I'm tired and I can't think what to make" feeling so common when you have a little one. Also, look into doing once a month cooking and freezing meals. This and the menu planning has really cut down on our waste of food and eating out unnecessarily.
- I agree with thrift stores, garage sales, etc. for baby clothes. And buy bigger sizes too - not just what she's wearing now.
When I go grocery shopping, I buy things that are on sale and stock up on them. If chicken breasts are on sale, I'll buy about 4 or 5 packages and freeze them. The next week, if it's ground beef, I'll buy that. Buy big packages and separate them and freeze. Buy paper products at Walmart or Big Lots - never buy in the grocery unless they're on a big sale.
On hot days, keep your blinds closed to keep out the sun. Open your windows in the evening when it cools off. Cooler showers. Wash clothes in cold water. Don't run the dishwasher until it's full.
Entertainment - stay home and play games or cards with friends. Watch movies on TV for free. Use the library for books for yourself and LynnMarie.
- Here;s an entertainment tip:
You ever see those Redbox movie vending machines at Wal-Mart? I became the king of those things - but there's the kicker - for FREE!
There are tons of FREE codes all over the internet - I had a stretch at one point of like 11 movies in a row for free.
Good luck - frugal is better!
We read the ads for all the local grocery stores and map out who has the best deals on what we need.
Buy several loaves of bread when they are on sale - then freeze. Defrost a day in advance - perfectly soft and ready to go.
Defrost three to four things for dinner at a time - then you can pick and choose on the actual day from what you have ready to go. If it's frozen, chances are you'll eat out and spend a ton more.
Consider the $1 menu at fast food places before ordering a "meal deal". Many times, they have the same thing in smaller portions and it's only a dollar. We've eaten for $5 by doing this (family of three!)
Forgo the pricey coffees and drinks. At $4 to $5 each, you can pocket that and have date-night instead at the end of the week.
- One change my hubby and I have made is we use cash! Buying stuff with a debit card is like playing with monopoly money. When we spend cash we know that when it's gone, it's gone!
Grocery shopping we buy a lot of store brands shop the bottom shelves in the grocery store. When I find a good sale on chicken, boneless, skinless, I'll buy 10 or 15 pounds at a time and freeze it in 8 oz portions.
Clothes- good will or a good 2nd hand shop.
We used to do the envelope system. We had an envelope for clothes, gas, shoes, groceries, haircuts, fun and a special item that we were saving for. When my husband got paid we would take x number of dollars out and put the alloted amount in each envelope and put it in the drawer. Out of site, out of mind! We never had to worry about overspending, and if we did happen to take from one of the other envelopes, it was already accounted for.
Also made balancing the checkbook sooooo much easier! :) There was only 5 or 6 transactions every month and then the deposits!
- Always use a list when grocery shopping.
Keep a list of some meals that can be made with what you have on hand.
- hang your clothes (indoors on hangers on the shower rods, ropes strung in rafters -what ever you have to do).
- Stock up on clearance items for gifts and create a "gift closet" an area where you can store those items purchased on clearance. When you are invited to a birthday party or need a hostess gift, check your gift closet before running out and impulse buying the first thing you see.
After Christmas sales are the best time to stock up on bath and body gift sets and toys.
- 1. fully utilize the public library
2. make soup once a week
3. shop thrift stores-especially on half off days
4. wash most loads on cold
5. choose a week or so to buy no groceries, rely on what's on hand
instead of meeting friends out for dinner or brunch, do potluck at home
These days, with a baby at home, "dinner and a movie" means a dvd and a favorite plain frozen pizza with our own yummy toppings - about $10 for all this, as opposed to sitter + theater tickets + dinner out = >$100
WEBSITES that you have recommended
www.frugalmom.net
http://frugalmommie.blogspot.com/
http://www.fillingamefamily.blogspot.com/
http://www.fiddledeedeemom.com/
http://www.frugalcouponliving.com/
http://www.southernsavers.com/
http://www.afullcup.com/
http://hotcouponworld.com/
www.couponmom.com
www.smartsource.com
I will not live in fear
Satan has tried to take my peace this week. Not cool! I have been fearful of things I can not control. I will not live in fear. I will not seek hope in humans because I know where my Hope is.
We are living in what could be considered scary times. Its what you do with it that counts. I can not worry about what might happen because that in turns robs me of joy..
Anyway, I thought I would just share whats in my head today.
The frugal ideas below are awesome. I am compiling a list of whats been giving here, on facebook and other things I have found and will post tomorrow.
On another note, BJs has milk for 1.98!
We are living in what could be considered scary times. Its what you do with it that counts. I can not worry about what might happen because that in turns robs me of joy..
Anyway, I thought I would just share whats in my head today.
The frugal ideas below are awesome. I am compiling a list of whats been giving here, on facebook and other things I have found and will post tomorrow.
On another note, BJs has milk for 1.98!
Thursday, April 23, 2009
need help/ asked this before
Ok, the Christophers are getting on a strict budget like most Americans. My questions are how do YOU live frugally? I am talking groceries, entertainment, clothes. Looking for all of your ideas..I am going to try to find my old post on this.
I think I need to get myself mentally ready to live frugal. I need to quit thinking I can get what I want when I want and that would help tremendously!!
I think I need to get myself mentally ready to live frugal. I need to quit thinking I can get what I want when I want and that would help tremendously!!
Thursday, April 16, 2009
It feels so wierd to think of myself as a mom, but that indeed what I am! I am loving it. I love the nights when she wakes up. Ok, I will be honest, I want more sleep but I love seeing her cries turn to smiles once I get her diaper changed..Her smile is wonderful.
Struggling- My voice is gone along with a clean house. I have never been a very organized person but now its pretty bad. I laugh when I think of how things have changed and how other things have become bigger priorities.
Random things, we are watching Idol, Hells Kitchen, LOST, Greys, Private Practice and working on getting things caught up..We missed a lot. That's okay. I now watch Little Einsteins and some of the free baby shows on Comcast now!!!! Love it!!
Life with a baby is crazy cool. Working on a pattern or routine. I have way to much in my diaper bag but I will figure that out as well.
Keep praying for the Christopher's. Michael is still not feeling well and out of work for a few days and we need to figure some things. Pray for peace.
Thanks friends, God has blessed us with so many good and wonderful gifts, including some amazing friends!!!!!
Sorry for the rambling
BTW, anyone reading anything good? My goal is to read Matt-Acts to get caught up with Bible Study but need something after that...
Struggling- My voice is gone along with a clean house. I have never been a very organized person but now its pretty bad. I laugh when I think of how things have changed and how other things have become bigger priorities.
Random things, we are watching Idol, Hells Kitchen, LOST, Greys, Private Practice and working on getting things caught up..We missed a lot. That's okay. I now watch Little Einsteins and some of the free baby shows on Comcast now!!!! Love it!!
Life with a baby is crazy cool. Working on a pattern or routine. I have way to much in my diaper bag but I will figure that out as well.
Keep praying for the Christopher's. Michael is still not feeling well and out of work for a few days and we need to figure some things. Pray for peace.
Thanks friends, God has blessed us with so many good and wonderful gifts, including some amazing friends!!!!!
Sorry for the rambling
BTW, anyone reading anything good? My goal is to read Matt-Acts to get caught up with Bible Study but need something after that...
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Easter
No, I did not forget about this blog. its just been crazy busy around here. Laura asked me if mommyhood was what I expected? Yes it has been everything I dreamed about and more than I could have imagined.
I love everything about it except the shots. That part really stinks.
I am amazed at every smile that she gives me and let me tell you, there's a lot of smiles. We dreamed of our family since we got married. But I have to tell you, I am so thankful for the years of waiting. LynnMarie is our baby. God orchestrated events and brought us together at the perfect time. She amazes me daily. She has helped me change the way I view things. I remember the China trip and the nights in the hotel. Awesome!
But today was a highlight. Not only was it her first Easter, it was her first time experiencing worship and I teared up almost the whole time. Thanks Matt S and the praise band,LM loved the music. She kicked and danced and every time I wanted to cry I looked at her and she had her silly grin on.
I still can't believe our wait is over, that we saw her face last November and just one month ago, I held her in my arms, the coolest moment of my life so far. It was surreal.
I have spent the day thinking about Easter and the fact that God allowed his son to suffer the most painful death so that I can have eternal life and a life of freedom. Because of His sacrifice, I experience so much joy in my life. Its not perfect, but its a feeling I can not describe. I don't deserve any if the gifts God has given me. I think about this daily. I am very grateful for these gifts.
As I remind myself of LM's first Easter, for some families, this is their first Easter without their children. Don't forget to pray for the Chapman family as they approach their first year without Maria Sue. Check out Marybeth's blog for her thoughts on today.
Can you imagine what it was like for the ladies to see the empty tomb?
I love everything about it except the shots. That part really stinks.
I am amazed at every smile that she gives me and let me tell you, there's a lot of smiles. We dreamed of our family since we got married. But I have to tell you, I am so thankful for the years of waiting. LynnMarie is our baby. God orchestrated events and brought us together at the perfect time. She amazes me daily. She has helped me change the way I view things. I remember the China trip and the nights in the hotel. Awesome!
But today was a highlight. Not only was it her first Easter, it was her first time experiencing worship and I teared up almost the whole time. Thanks Matt S and the praise band,LM loved the music. She kicked and danced and every time I wanted to cry I looked at her and she had her silly grin on.
I still can't believe our wait is over, that we saw her face last November and just one month ago, I held her in my arms, the coolest moment of my life so far. It was surreal.
I have spent the day thinking about Easter and the fact that God allowed his son to suffer the most painful death so that I can have eternal life and a life of freedom. Because of His sacrifice, I experience so much joy in my life. Its not perfect, but its a feeling I can not describe. I don't deserve any if the gifts God has given me. I think about this daily. I am very grateful for these gifts.
As I remind myself of LM's first Easter, for some families, this is their first Easter without their children. Don't forget to pray for the Chapman family as they approach their first year without Maria Sue. Check out Marybeth's blog for her thoughts on today.
Can you imagine what it was like for the ladies to see the empty tomb?
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Prayers needed please
My lovely husband was admitted into the hospital last night for dehydration and anemia. Right now he is waiting some transfusions and has tests scheduled for tomorrow. WOuld you please pray for him and add him to your prayer lists? He's scared. I am scared. I just want my family of 3 home safe and well!
Yall rock!
Yall rock!
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
food
So no we are home and one of my goals is to quit eating out so much. Really try. We do play trivia one night a week but we don't have to eat there. But that's besides the point.
A lot of people sent me emails on healthy food and baby foods. So I ask of you, what do you always have on hand in your fridge,freezer and pantry? What are your simply, easy, healthy meals that you routinely make?
Any input is greatly appreciated
Thanks for praying for us!!
A lot of people sent me emails on healthy food and baby foods. So I ask of you, what do you always have on hand in your fridge,freezer and pantry? What are your simply, easy, healthy meals that you routinely make?
Any input is greatly appreciated
Thanks for praying for us!!
Monday, March 30, 2009
Ni Hao
My first post as a mom. Sweet. I sit here aat 7:15am on Monday morning watching Curious George with LynnMarie. What do your kids watch in the morning? What do you feed your 1 year old besides formula (had to change to American formula last night) These are just a few of the questions I have.
Many more are coming but I slept almost 7 hours last night and plan on taking my nap with her today. YIPPEEEE!!!!!!
In case you have not checked out the adoption blog to see all of sweet girls pics, I have added a few for you..
IS SHE NOT AMAZING?
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Saturday, March 14, 2009
we are in china. all updates will be posted over at the adoption blog, www.thechristopherfamily.blogspot.com
loving it111
loving it111
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