HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY ~ DECEMBER 12, 2016

I’m keeping it short this morning as my mom is here and we’re celebrating Christmas early. If the weather holds we are going to spend the day at Brazos Bend State Park, one of our favorite alligator parks.  I hope to post some great pictures later in the week.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE
It’s going to be a beautiful day!

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE
A banana, a tangerine and coffee.

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE
I just don’t care.  I’ll tidy up after mom leaves Wednesday.

WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS
MONDAY

  • ??

TUESDAY

  • ??

WEDNESDAY

  • Finish Christmas Shopping
  • Finish wrapping out of town gifts and prepare shipping boxes.

THURSDAY

  • Do shipping and errands.

FRIDAY

  • Laundry and Cleaning.

SATURDAY

  • Paint 2nd coat on wood work – hopefully it will be the last coat.
  • Dinner at an uncle’s house.

SUNDAY

  •  FREE DAY!

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

  • BIG BANG THEORY
  • christmas movies
  • GILMORE GIRLS
  • WHEN CALLS THE HEART
  • PURE GENIUS
  • NCIS
  • BLUE BLOODS
  • THIS IS US
  • BULL
  • SCORPION
  • SUPERGIRL
  • CHICAGO MED, PD, FIRE
  • HEARTLAND
  • HEART OF DIXIE
  • STRANGER THINGS
  • Z-NATION
  • DESIGNATED SURVIVOR
  • MADAM SECRETARY
  • ONCE UPON A TIME
  • CHESAPEAKE SHORES
  • ICE PILOTS
  • ETC……. I’m sure I forgot a few…

READING

CRAFTS & PROJECTS
I’m going to start some jams later this week.

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
BREAKFAST
YOGURT & FRUIT
SCRAMBLED EGGS & CHEESE
FRUIT SMOOTHIE
YOGURT & FRUIT
MAPLE OATMEAL & RAISINS
PANCAKES & BACON
S.O.S.
LUNCH
FRUIT & CHEESE
SOUP & CRACKERS
SANDWICH
OUT
MEAT & CHEESE
LEFTOVERS
SANDWICHES
DINNER
1ST CHRISTMAS DINNER LEFTOVERS
OUT or C.O.R.N.
MEATLOAF & SALAD
GLAZED STUFFED PORK CHOPS
SLOPPY JOES
OUT
GREEN CHILI CHICKEN SOUP a recipe from facebook
DESSERT

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA
This year I’m doing “long distance” elves on a shelf for my munchkins again.  I have so much fun trying to come up with new ideas.  This one was sentimental though as they are playing a game I played many a time with my grams and this was her board!

INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY 12-5-2016

I HOPE EVERYONE HAD A GREAT WEEK. I can’t believe it’s December! the 5th already no less.  Christmas is only 20 days away so time to kick it up into high gear!

Our weekend was rainy since last Thursday, but that worked in my favor as I had to put the house back together after the carpet installation, was starting to wrap gifts and do Christmas cards and we got the tree up too. We also had a great Christmas program at church last night. Our neighbor is in the choir and hand bells so it makes it even more personal.

On to our regularly scheduled Happy Homemaker Monday.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE
It is still dark, gray and rainy, but tomorrow is supposed to be sunny and then we get an arctic cold mass by Thursday which hubby and I will seriously enjoy.  We TRULY miss the cold weather and hope to be back in it by this time next year!

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE
An english muffin with peanut butter and coffee.

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE
I’m  a bit frantic trying to get it done before Thursday!  There are still things everywhere and then there are also Christmas presents and wrappings everywhere as well as shipping boxes.

WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS
I have approximately 72 hours to finish my projects before we have to pick mom up at the airport.  It’s going to be a BUSY week.

Monday

  • Start at the tire store as we had a sensor go off on the way home from church last night.
  • Errands.
  • Paint entry trim.
  • Paint hallway trim.
  • Paint kitchen trim.

Tuesday

  • Wrap gifts and finish packing shipping boxes.
  • Deal with garage flood areas.
  • LAUNDRY

Wednesday

  •  Central MARKET for groceries.  Our first Christmas dinner is Saturday.

Thursday 

  • CLEAN
  • VACUUM
  • pick mom up at airport

Friday

  • APPLE store appt. for mom’s computer
  • ??

Saturday

  • Christmas dinner

Sunday

  • ??

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

  • BIG BANG THEORY
  • GILMORE GIRLS
  • WHEN CALLS THE HEART
  • PURE GENIUS
  • NCIS
  • BLUE BLOODS
  • THIS IS US
  • BULL
  • SCORPION
  • SUPERGIRL
  • CHICAGO MED, PD, FIRE
  • HEARTLAND
  • HEART OF DIXIE
  • STRANGER THINGS
  • LONGMIRE
  • Z-NATION
  • DESIGNATED SURVIVOR
  • MADAM SECRETARY
  • ONCE UPON A TIME
  • CHESAPEAKE SHORES
  • ICE PILOTS
  • ETC……. I’m sure I forgot a few…

READING

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

 
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
BREAKFAST
YOGURT & FRUIT
SCRAMBLED EGGS & CHEESE
FRUIT SMOOTHIE
YOGURT & FRUIT
MAPLE OATMEAL & RAISINS
??
??
LUNCH
FRUIT & CHEESE
SOUP & CRACKERS
SANDWICH
OUT
MEAT & CHEESE
LEFTOVERS
SANDWICHES
DINNER
CRUSTED ROMANO CHICKEN with BUFFALO POTATO PANCAKES
C.O.R.N.
OUT
CHRISTMAS DINNER with MOM – PRIME RIB, BAKED POTATOES, GLAZED CARROTS
C.O.R.N.
DESSERT
 
 
 
 
 
??
 

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP
Before you know it it will be time for spring cleaning.  I thought I’d share quick one of the things I’ve Been doing this the past couple years and it has really helped me make decisions to get rid of those things just taking up space!  I don’t use June per se’ as my deadline, but I use October instead as I begin to ready the house for the holidays.

THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY
WE HAVE CARPETING!!!  WE HAVE A LIVING SPACE WE CAN  START TO ENJOY!!! We had stacked EVERYTHING in the dining room, and I do mean stacked.  I broke my back trying to get it all back together so we could move forward.

Everyone seems to be settling in well.  The table you see on the floor is in its normal place, but we took the legs off and stored them underneath and are using the table as a sturdy base for the Christmas tree.

One of the things I’ve been doing is using my old crates for storage (emergency water, misc. items, etc…) under the church pew and it really has helped.  Now that we have the carpeting I didn’t want the crates to snag or tear the carpeting so I installed some furniture sliders permanently on the bottom and then used some of the moisture proof leftover carpet padding for the cushion on the inside.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

MY Best Girl after her morning sponge bath.  She’s on medication and requires a shower with a special shampoo every other day.  On the days she doesn’t get a shower she gets a sponge bath with a different medication.  Poor thing ended up with a horrible infection from laying on the stupid slab floor.  We tried to keep her on throw rugs, but it was near impossible to watch her every move.  Fortunately we now have the carpeting so she will be more comfortable.  We have a wonderful vet and she is always so impressed at how old our animals are.  Both dogs are almost 15 – 3 years past their life expectancy and doing well considering.  The cat will be 19!
INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY 11-28-2016

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. We had a VERY small Thanksgiving, but it was good.

Now it’s time to go into full on Christmas prep! I did get Frosty and Rudolph out by the front door yesterday. We’re celebrating Christmas early with my mom on the 10th, on actual Christmas with just us and then again on the 27th with other family – I LOVE celebrating ALL month long!

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE
Absolutely beautiful. NOT! It was supposed to be a great week, but we woke up to wind and a severe thunderstorm.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE
Leftover Quiche Lorraine and coffee

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE
I still see a mess as we ready for the carpet installation next week, but at least it’s an organized chaos.

WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

  • Monday – finish caulking new molding, painting new molding and doing another coat of paint on all baseboards that will be near carpeting.
  • Tuesday – laundry, vacuuming, clean oven and pantry
  • Wednesday – marblelize kitchen counters
  • Thursday – Errands, grocery shopping, nails
  • Friday – Plumber appointment, pest control appointment
  • Saturday – Install tub enclosure
  • Sunday – Empty living room and Atrium for carpet installation on Monday
  • Monday – Carpet installation and put rooms back together
  • Tuesday – Go cut Christmas tree and decorate
  • Wednesday – Central market grocery shopping for the prime rib for the first Christmas
  • Thursday – final cleaning before Mom gets here late that night

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

  • BIG BANG THEORY
  • PURE GENIUS
  • NCIS
  • BLUE BLOODS
  • THIS IS US
  • BULL
  • SCORPION
  • SUPERGIRL
  • CHICAGO MED, PD, FIRE
  • THE GOOD PLACE
  • HEARTLAND
  • HEART OF DIXIE
  • STRANGER THINGS
  • LONGMIRE
  • Z-NATION
  • DESIGNATED SURVIVOR
  • MADAM SECRETARY
  • ONCE UPON A TIME
  • CHESAPEAKE SHORES
  • ICE PILOTS
  • ETC……. I’m sure I forgot a few…

READING

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
BREAKFAST
YOGURT & FRUIT
SCRAMBLED EGGS & CHEESE
FRUIT SMOOTHIE
YOGURT & FRUIT
MAPLE OATMEAL & RAISINS
LUNCH
FRUIT & CHEESE
SOUP & CRACKERS
SANDWICH
OUT
MEAT & CHEESE
LEFTOVERS
SANDWICHES
DINNER
CARROT & BEET SOUP with PARMESAN CRISPS
C.O.R.N.
C.O.R.N.
BBQ RIBS & SALAD
DESSERT

SUCCESSFUL RECIPES and their links FROM LAST WEEK

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

ON MY MIND

  • Praying for peace for my mom as she lost her brother and my aunt Johanna as she is grieving my uncle’s passing last Friday. Mom was able to make it there in time to see him which I know was a blessing to her. Grateful that my uncle did not suffer for very long and his gentle passing.

THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

  • The holidays being upon us with all the baking and goodies
  • Chore list getting smaller (at least on the inside) of the house

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

It’s that time of year again.  I’m doing twin elves this year for my “nieces and nephew”.  Ralph and Walter here will arrive in their Christmas box for mom to do what she will on Christmas morning.
I’m so glad we did just a turkey breast for Thanksgiving.  It turned out gorgeous with my new apple cider brine and was the perfect amount of leftovers.

INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY 11~14~2016

WOW where did last week go?  I did get some rest after the dry wall guy from hell left Thursday afternoon on the 2nd day of a one day job and I got the initial clean up done.  UNFORTUNATELY, we had to call his boss out to see the problems that DID NOT get dealt with and he will be back AGAIN today! GRRRRRRRRRRR & UGHHHHHHHHH! I hate delays, especially those caused by carelessness.  On top of it the dry wall guy actually asked for more money because he felt he’d been asked to do more than the original (and VERY expensive) quote called for!!!

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE
The weather has been GORGEOUS this past week and this upcoming week is supposed to be more of the same – cool evenings (I even needed a light jacket last night when I walked the dogs) which lead to cool mornings and extremely pleasant days.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE
Peach Yogurt and coffee.

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE
I see the covered furniture and am already looking forward to the dry wall guy being gone so I can clean again.

WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

  • Paint Living Room after dry wall is done.
  • Finish caulking and painting kitchen trim.
  • Paint kitchen ceiling now that repairs are dry.
  • Sort studio boxes.

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

  • BIG BANG THEORY
  • NCIS
  • BLUE BLOODS
  • THIS IS US
  • BULL??
  • SCORPION
  • SUPERGIRL
  • CHICAGO MED, PD, FIRE
  • THE GOOD PLACE
  • HEARTLAND
  • HEART OF DIXIE
  • STRANGER THINGS
  • LONGMIRE
  • Z-NATION
  • DESIGNATED SURVIVOR
  • MADAME SECRETARY
  • ONCE UPON A TIME 
  • CHESAPEAKE SHORES
  • ETC……. I’m sure I forgot a few…

READING

CRAFTS & PROJECTS
I was supposed to have started things by now, but that’s life!

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
BREAKFAST
YOGURT & FRUIT
SCRAMBLED EGGS & CHEESE
FRUIT SMOOTHIE
YOGURT & FRUIT
MAPLE OATMEAL & RAISINS
BACON & EGGS
LUNCH
FRUIT & CHEESE
SOUP & CRACKERS
SANDWICH
OUT
MEAT & CHEESE
LEFTOVERS
SANDWICHES
DINNER
RUSTIC CHICKEN and PASTA
C.O.R.N.
CHICKEN CHILE and CORNBREAD
DESSERT

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

  • We FINALLY get to order the carpeting tomorrow!!!! Enough said.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA – recipes soon

INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY 11~7~2016

MONDAY! HERE WE ARE AGAIN! 

A week ago was our 1 year “anniversary” of arriving here to the house from hell.  I’m still working on a post FULL of before and after pictures which I hope to have up yet this week.

Unfortunately we decided last Wednesday night to go to one of our formerly favorite TEXMEX restaurants to celebrate – BAD DECISION.  I say unfortunately because 10 hours later I was in the hospital with a severe case of food poisoning and a concussion from where I fell in the bathroom after I became violently ill. The ER doctor said it was the 2nd case that week from the same restaurant. So this will be a quiet and SLOW week for me and I hope to get back on track next week.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE
We had some SERIOUS thunderstorms last night and it is a little rainy this morning with a chance of more serious thunderstorms throughout the day. The temperatures have dropped into the 70’s (FINALLY!!) and so it is quite pleasant.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE
Honey nut cheerios with banana and milk and of course COFFEE!

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE
I’m happy with the condition for a Monday after a week of issues.  I have tons to do, but as I’m on a modified bed rest will do it SLOWLY! AND I won’t be entirely upset if i doesn’t ALL get done.

WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

  • Keep sorting craft parts in the studio.
  • Finish the marbelizing on the bar area and utility counter and hoping the delay of sitting several extra days before the top coat hasn’t changed the process.
  • Dust and vacuum.
  • Shade cloth for backyard behind our bedroom.
  • Prune roses and trim lantana.
  • Grocery store and errands.

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR
We did find a new NETFLIX show, ICE Pilots, this weekend while I was forced to lay around and are really enjoying it.  Amazing show about keeping WWII planes in service in some of the harshest conditions imaginable.

  • BIG BANG THEORY
  • NCIS
  • BLUE BLOODS
  • THIS IS US
  • BULL
  • SCORPION
  • SUPERGIRL
  • CHICAGO MED, PD, FIRE
  • THE GOOD PLACE
  • HEARTLAND
  • HEART OF DIXIE
  • STRANGER THINGS
  • LONGMIRE
  • Z-NATION
  • DESIGNATED SURVIVOR
  • MADAME SECRETARY
  • ONCE UPON A TIME 
  • CHESAPEAKE SHORES
  • ETC……. I’m sure I forgot a few…

READING

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK
Unfortunately last week’s issues changed everything so I’m going to try this menu again this week.

MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
BREAKFAST
YOGURT & FRUIT
SCRAMBLED EGGS & CHEESE
FRUIT SMOOTHIE
YOGURT & FRUIT
MAPLE OATMEAL & RAISINS
PANCAKES or FRENCH TOAST
BACON & EGGS
LUNCH
FRUIT & CHEESE
SOUP & CRACKERS
SANDWICH
OUT
MEAT & CHEESE
LEFTOVERS
SANDWICHES
DINNER
C.O.R.N.
C.O.R.N.
GRILLED STEAK and SALAD
CHICKEN & NOODLES
C.O.R.N.
DESSERT

SUCCESSFUL RECIPES and their links FROM LAST WEEK

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY

MONDAY! HERE WE ARE AGAIN! 

I was hoping to be redirecting you today to my new and improved website, but my webmaster has been called to do some photography field work and we are encountering another small delay while he is out of town.  That said, it has left me with time to continue my passionate “donation project” in an effort to clean out TONS of things.  I especially wanted to get jackets and blankets taken care of before any old weather sets in here.  I’ll keep those separate to take to the local homeless shelter along with towels and bedding.

This past weekend was our 1 year “anniversary” of arriving here to the house from hell.  I’m working on a post FULL of before and after pictures which I hope to have up yet this week.

We have been really working on this project with everything from tools to craft supplies and are EXTREMELY happy with the results over the past year, but especially the past 193 days with our total now over 8000 items.

One of the sad items I had to finally give up was my Girl Scout sweatshirt.  I was an advisor/leader for 3 sister troops – brownies through cadettes for several years and we had such a great time, but alas I have officially worn out this sweatshirt.  I will post this picture to facebook as I know it will make my niece/daughter smile.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE
It is a little foggy, but is supposed to clear into a beautiful day.  We do have a chance for some showers later in the week.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE
Honey nut cheerios with banana and milk and of course COFFEE!

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE
I’m happy with the condition for a Monday.  I spent ALL day Saturday doing a DEEP DEEP CLEAN on our bedroom after I sorted the cold weather clothes and fabric stash so I’m happy with that room especially.  While I was doing that I also did 3 loads of laundry so have none to start the week with.

WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

  • Keep sorting craft parts in the studio.
  • Last coat of paint on Carlie’s closet.
  • Dust and vacuum.
  • Shade cloth for backyard behind our bedroom.
  • Prune roses and trim lantana.
  • Grocery store and errands.

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

  • BIG BANG THEORY
  • NCIS
  • BLUE BLOODS
  • THIS IS US
  • BULL
  • SCORPION
  • SUPERGIRL
  • CHICAGO MED, PD, FIRE
  • THE GOOD PLACE
  • HEARTLAND
  • HEART OF DIXIE
  • STRANGER THINGS
  • LONGMIRE
  • Z-NATION
  • DESIGNATED SURVIVOR
  • MADAME SECRETARY
  • ONCE UPON A TIME 
  • CHESAPEAKE SHORES
  • ETC……. I’m sure I forgot a few…

READING

CRAFTS & PROJECTS
I spent a good deal of the week sorting through craft “PARTS” for the donation piles, but hope to get busy in this category within the next couple weeks.

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
BREAKFAST
YOGURT & FRUIT
SCRAMBLED EGGS & CHEESE
FRUIT SMOOTHIE
YOGURT & FRUIT
MAPLE OATMEAL & RAISINS
PANCAKES or FRENCH TOAST
BACON & EGGS
LUNCH
FRUIT & CHEESE
SOUP & CRACKERS
SANDWICH
OUT
MEAT & CHEESE
LEFTOVERS
SANDWICHES
DINNER
C.O.R.N.
C.O.R.N.
GRILLED STEAK and SALAD
CHICKEN & NOODLES
C.O.R.N.
DESSERT

SUCCESSFUL RECIPES and their links FROM LAST WEEK

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

I FINALLY was able to empty 2 steamers trunks of cold weather gear and re-load them with my quilting fabric stash – so even the fabric was sorted and some donated.
INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

HAPPY HOMMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY

I hope everyone had a WONDERFUL fall weekend. I LOVE this time of year.  My neighbor and I went to a local craft fair and then hubby and I went to the Farmer’s Market on Saturday.  After the Farmer’s Market we had a late lunch at Bernie’s Burger Bus which had been featured on Guy Fieri’s Diners Drive-Ins and Dives. Dang if those weren’t the best burgers ever!

I spent Sunday then sorting through scrap booking, jewelry beading and craft items filling donation bins and boxes for friends.  I’ve made a decision to scale back on my activities  to only those that give me pure joy.  LOL yu will notice I didn’t mention quilting, card making or canning.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE
Last weekend WAS gorgeous and this week is supposed to be even better!  FINALLY!!

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE
Honey Nut Cheerios with a banana and Coffee

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE
I’m amazed it’s as tidy as it is after I tore through all the crafts yesterday.

WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

  • Renew tags on the car.
  • Deep clean the living room and prep the wall area for the drywaller.
  • Couple loads of laundry.
  • Drop of next load of donations.
  • Seal garage inside and out so we can begin backyard work.
  • Do some eBay listings.
  • Do some organization in my studio.

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

  • BIG BANG THEORY
  • NCIS
  • BLUE BLOODS
  • THIS IS US
  • BULL
  • SCORPION
  • SUPERGIRL
  • CHICAGO MED, PD, FIRE
  • THE GOOD PLACE
  • HEARTLAND
  • HEART OF DIXIE
  • STRANGER THINGS
  • LONGMIRE
  • Z-NATION
  • DESIGNATED SURVIVOR
  • MADAME SECRETARY
  • ONCE UPON A TIME 
  • CHESAPEAKE SHORES
  • ETC……. I’m sure I forgot a few…

READING

CRAFTS & PROJECTS
Nothing this week, BUT next week… I’m going to start some canning projects.

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK


MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
BREAKFAST
YOGURT & FRUIT
SCRAMBLED EGGS & CHEESE
FRUIT SMOOTHIE
YOGURT & FRUIT
MAPLE OATMEAL & RAISINS
EGGS in the CLOUDS
BACON & EGGS
LUNCH
FRUIT & CHEESE
SOUP & CRACKERS
SANDWICH
OUT
MEAT & CHEESE
LEFTOVERS
SANDWICHES
DINNER
C.O.R.N.


CREAM OF CELERY SOUP (new recipe)
DESSERT







SUCCESSFUL RECIPES and their links FROM LAST WEEK

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY

Good Morning everyone. I hope you had a wonderful weekend and are bright eyed and bushy tailed ready for a new week.

My new webpage is still in the making as my brother/webmaster/server has had a FULL plate, but LOL I’ll keep you posted on the unveiling.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE
It’s a beautiful morning with fluffy clouds.  LOL then I opened the door and it’s going to be another scorcher of a day.  This Indian Summer is killing me, but most my projects will be inside this week so I’ll just pretend we’re having a crisp fall day.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE
Banana walnut oatmeal and coffee.

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE
I’m fairly happy.  I had a super productive weekend and just need to finish sorting a few totes and boxes and then tomorrow will do a super deep clean.

One of the things I did was sort through ALL of our Christmas decorations.  I pulled out several totes worth of things that I will “probably” donate.  I decided to use these things this year for the season and see if there was anything I couldn’t live without.  If not, it will all be boxed up and donated on January 7th. Seemed like a plausible way to make a decision to minimalize.

WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS
I sat down yesterday and made a chart for what needs to be finished before my mom’s visit in early December and am going to do my best to stick to it!

  • A couple of molding pieces that need to be added.
  • Paint Carlie’s closet.
  • Floor molding in Carlie’s closet.
  • Finish sorting Christmas ornaments.
  • Do some ebay listings.
  • Do some organization in my studio.
  • DEEP cleaning.
  • A craft fair with my neighbor.

We are so close to finishing, but it still feels like it is a lifetime away.  I do have to share this amazing transformation though.  The atrium as we call it was an actual atrium when grams and gramps bought the house.  They had it enclosed with a rook and turned it into a part of the house.  In doing so one of the bedrooms “lost” it’s window as it now looked into an extension of the living room.  Gramps paneled it in a dark brown as was popular in 1980 and put in a makeshift bookshelf closing off the bedroom from any natural light source and it NEVER changed!  Below is the picture of when we arrived and below that is the pictures of the transformation and the re-installation of a “window” for that room allowing natural light again.

BEFORE AS MY COUSIN LEFT IT. It still astonishes me what a difference we’ve made.

Cleaned and primed – ready for window.  I love the white color as compared to the heavy dark paneling look!

NOW “WINDOW” READY FOR CARLIE TO MOVE IN. We used a multi paned door turned sideways and trimmed to fit as a permanent window.  Add a little trim moulding and voile’ it looks like it was always there. It doesn’t need to open.  I’m putting together curtains and beaded tiebacks for the bedroom side so there is still privacy.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA
I borrowed these from my “daughter of my heart’s” facebook page, but they fill my heart with such joy I just needed to share. Since this picture Am has cut off about 10 inches and I LOVE the new style!

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR
We are trying all the new shows and will narrow them down soon – thank goodness for DVRs!
TELEVISION

  • BIG BANG THEORY
  • NCIS
  • BLUE BLOODS
  • THIS IS US
  • BULL
  • SCORPION
  • SUPERGIRL
  • CHICAGO MED, PD, FIRE
  • THE GOOD PLACE
  • HEARTLAND
  • HEART OF DIXIE
  • STRANGER THINGS
  • LONGMIRE
  • Z-NATION
  • DESIGNATED SURVIVOR
  • MADAME SECRETARY
  • ONCE UPON A TIME 
  • CHESAPEAKE SHORES
  • ETC……. I’m sure I forgot a few…

READING

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
BREAKFAST
YOGURT & FRUIT
SCRAMBLED EGGS & CHEESE
FRUIT SMOOTHIE
YOGURT & FRUIT
MAPLE OATMEAL & RAISINS
SHIRRED EGGS
BACON & EGGS
LUNCH
FRUIT & CHEESE
SOUP & CRACKERS
SANDWICH
OUT
MEAT & CHEESE
LEFTOVERS
SANDWICHES
DINNER
C.O.R.N
SWEDISH MEATBALLS
SLOW ROASTED ITALIAN CHICKEN
POACHED WHITE FISH WITH KIWI REDUCTION
PORK AND PINEAPPLE
CHICKEN & NOODLES
C.O.R.N.
DESSERT

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

ON MY MIND

LET ME BEGIN BY SAYING THAT THE FOLLOWING IS NOT 
AN ABSOLUTE ABOUT ALL PEOPLE.
THANK YOU TO ALL THE WONDERFUL SAHM AND PARENTS 
WHO ALREADY FEEL AND ACT THIS WAY!

We have a cultural decay problem in this country. Life as we once knew it will NEVER be again. We have a lack of parenting problem in this country. As parents, our jobs are to raise children into functioning adults first and to be their friend second. Teaching children to be independent, hard working, respectful, happy and gracious is the best thing you can do for them, you and for ALL the people they will encounter in the future. Teaching them about the ups AND the downs of life is realistic and responsible.

There is an apathy, a lack of respect, a lack of accountability, a lack of responsibility, a lack of courtesy… A silver spoon entitlement complex is taking over. Political correctness has become an insane concept trying to make life fair. WAKE UP PEOPLE! Life ISN’T fair and NO ONE every said it would be. Doing the best you can each and everyday is all you can really control.

Watching the news is not always just hearing the factual events as it once was. Commentary and social media have taken over – everyone wants to be the first to break the “NEWS” whether it is complete or correct. Fact checking seems to be a thing of the past in many cases. Spin doctors manipulate news every day.

THANK YOU FOR LETTING ME VENT.  I’m stepping down from my soap box now. 

THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

  • COUNT DOWN TO HOUSE COMPLETION
  • COUNT DOWN TO CARLIE MOVING IN
  • COUNT DOWN TO ELF ON A SHELF PICTURES FOR MY MUNCHKINS

INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER and MENU PLAN MONDAY

My plan last week was to get tons of things done and post about them too.  Well, as I always say, Man plans and God Laughs. That is the type of week I had last week.

I did have 2 days of routine follow-up testing for my cancer scheduled and they went well – NED (no evidence of disease) YAY!, but left me quite dehydrated and fatigued.  I thought I got a handle on re-hydrating, but evidently not when I had to be medic escorted away from the Skeeter’s game Friday night.  The humidity, heat, dehydration and fatigue just caught up with me and then I was forced into 2 additional days of down time to recover. So, I have HIGH hopes for this week to play catch up.

THE WEATHER OUTSIDE
It’s already quite warm and we have a threat of rain ALL week so the humidity levels are also already quite high!

AS I LOOK OUTSIDE MY WINDOW
The clouds are gray and  a bit threatening and there is NO breeze so I’m planning to get out and do my errands early and get back before the heaven’s open up.  Lately it seems to rain EVERY day and rain HARD, but not for long – just long enough to make it miserable outside and then it repeats itself 2 or 3 more times throughout the day.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE
A banana and green tea.

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE
It’s STILL a mess from ALL the sorting I’ve been doing, but I did make a HUGE dent in the pile that had been in the spare bedroom so I’m feeling pretty good despite the mess. 

TO DO FOR THE WEEK/HOUSE PROJECTS
I am still amazed that SEARS did this install less than 2 years ago.  They actually installed a brand new hot water heater onto a collapsing 40 years old base and came NO WHERE close to bringing it to code.  Fortunately our plumbers are coming on Friday to do it correctly, but it really burns my butt that we are having to spend the money! I can’t wait to show you finished pictures next week. Hubby and I came up with a GREAT design for this area and I’m really anxious to see it completed not to mention that I can get several totes of things off my dining room floor once the cabinets are hung.

  • Monday – drop off donations, run errands and grocery shopping
  • Tuesday  – caulk molding in both bathrooms, kitchen and living room
  • Wednesday – paint living room baseboard, more sorting to complete the donation project
  • Thursday – paint bathrooms, rake backyard
  • Friday – Plumbers will be here to bring water heater to code and install new plumbing so we can finish the laundry are next week.
  • Saturday – Cleaning and laundry
  • Sunday – Not a darn thing! except what we want and watch the race.

CURRENTLY READING

TELEVISION / DVR
We’ve been trying that new series, BRAIN DEAD, but just aren’t sure about it yet. We’re also trying the new AMERICAN GOTHIC.

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK
I’m trying another entire week of experiments.  I also have a couple success recipes from the last time I did that to still post.

MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
BREAKFAST
YOGURT & FRUIT
SCRAMBLED EGGS & CHEESE
FRUIT SMOOTHIE
YOGURT & FRUIT
MAPLE OATMEAL & RAISINS
OUT
FRENCH TOAST
LUNCH
FRUIT & CHEESE
SOUP & CRACKERS
SANDWICH
OUT
MEAT & CHEESE
LEFTOVERS
SANDWICHES
DINNER
FRENCH ONION SALISBURY STEAK & SALAD
SLOW COOKER PORK & TOMATILLO STEW
OUT CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN
MEATBALLS &MARINARA & ASPARAGUS with PEARL ONIONS
PAN SEARED CHICKEN with WINE & HERBS
CHILI SAUCE CHICKEN & SALAD
APRICOT GLAZED PORK KEBABS and SAVORY BREAD PUDDING
DESSERT


THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

  • Getting more and more decisions made on what to keep and what to donate. At the very least this experience has allowed us to regroup, get EVERYTHING under one roof and sort it out. I have to tell you we are LOVING the minimization that’s going on here!
  • We’re planning a few trips for the fall that we’re looking forward to. We picked up some maps and tour books to read up on where we are going.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

INSPIRATION

 

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY

I hope everyone had a great week and weekend.  I have not been around much, let alone on the internet. The past several weeks, er months have been chaotic to say the least.  The move here, the unexpected shambles of a house we committed too unknowingly, the massive clean out of my cousin’s things coupled with grams, gramps and even my great grandmother’s things along with my aunt’s declining health with the Alzheimers ALL before she even fell shattering her knee and ALL the ensuing surgeries, hospitalization and ICU time from the infections and stroke before her unexpected death have left me feeling a bit overwhelmed.

The past several weeks with the chaotic weather and family flying in and out have given us a break from the house for the most part, but also left us anxious to truly finish it. We are hoping to get quite a bit done this week and I’m hoping to also get back into a regular posting routine and try some new recipes too.

THE WEATHER OUTSIDE
It is warm with expected thunderstorms all week, but that’s Texas for you.

AS I LOOK OUTSIDE MY WINDOW
It’s a bit dreary and gray, but dry for the moment.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE
Nothing as I have fasting blood work later this morning after we drop my mom at the airport. We are going to try a new Cajun place for lunch though that I’m looking forward to.

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE
I see tons to do, but will get a running start at it this afternoon after we return.

TO DO FOR THE WEEK

  • Drop mom off at airport.
  • Blood work today with a follow-up appointment for the results later in the week.
  • Clean spare bedroom and bathroom.
  • Return a chair to my uncle that my mom was using during her stay.
  • Start the sorting on the studio that is piled to the ceiling to get it all out of the rest of the house during my mom’s visit.
  • Drop off donations from the minimalization project at women’s shelter re-sale shop.
  • Drop off hundreds of magazines to the hospital for their waiting rooms.
  • Clean top to bottom.
  • Several loads of laundry.
  • Paint all the new molding hubby has been putting up. This alone will take me weeks.

CURRENTLY READING

TELEVISION / DVR
Not sure yet, need to see what the new summer shows are going to be.

CRAFTS & PROJECTS
LOL Nothing until the studio is sorted out.

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
BREAKFAST
YOGURT & FRUIT
SCRAMBLED EGGS & CHEESE
FRUIT SMOOTHIE
YOGURT & FRUIT
MAPLE OATMEAL & RAISINS
EGGS in the CLOUDS
BACON & EGGS
LUNCH
FRUIT & CHEESE
SOUP & CRACKERS
SANDWICH
OUT
MEAT & CHEESE
LEFTOVERS
SANDWICHES
DINNER
C.O.R.N.
RECIPE EXPERIMENT NIGHT
PULLED PORK SANDWICHES & BBQ BEANS
DESSERT

ON MY MIND
As I sat at many family events this week watching brothers and sisters interact I realized that two of the most important words in the English language are PERCEPTION and PERSPECTIVE. Each of our perceptions and perspectives are developed through OUR experiences in life and OUR interactions with family, friends and peers as well as teachers and even strangers. While much of life is black and white, many a memory falls into the gray area shrouded with personal perceptions and perspectives based on age, sex, education, playground interactions, job type, public interactions at different cultural times in society, etc…  I have chosen NOT to get involved with many of the family arguments that have ensued over the years and refuse to in the future also.  Long story short, sometimes it just isn’t worth the hassle.

PERCEPTION per·cep·tion pərˈsepSH(ə)n/
noun: perception; plural noun: perceptions

  • the ability to see, hear, or become aware of something through the senses.
  • the state of being or process of becoming aware of something through the senses.
  • a way of regarding, understanding, or interpreting something; a mental impression.

synonyms: recognition, awareness, consciousness, appreciation, realization, knowledge, grasp, understanding, comprehension, apprehension; formal cognizance, impression, idea, conception, notion, thought, belief, judgment, estimation

PERSPECTIVE per·spec·tive pərˈspektiv/
noun: perspective

  • the art of drawing solid objects on a two-dimensional surface so as to give the right impression of their height, width, depth, and position in relation to each other when viewed from a particular point.
  • a view or prospect.
  • a particular attitude toward or way of regarding something; a point of view.

synonyms:  outlook, view, viewpoint, point of view, POV, standpoint, position, stand, stance, angle, slant, attitude, frame of mind, frame of reference, approach, way of looking, interpretation
       

THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY
We finished our 30 day minimalization project this past week and am proud to say we ended at almost 3 times the expected outcome with 1182 items! This week we will begin yet again as I begin the clean out of the studio and finish unpacking all the remaining boxes!  I’m really looking forward to this and feeling a bit more settled because of it.  The goal is to reach a point where we can have the carpet installed the first week of June and then acquire the last few pieces of furniture we want and need.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA
I did not even get a chance for any pictures this week.

INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY

It’s Monday whether we want it to be or not! I hope you had a great weekend.

THE WEATHER OUTSIDE
It’s gray and stormy this week and doesn’t look like it will let up much any time soon.

AS I LOOK OUTSIDE MY WINDOW
I see a long gray week with intermittent thunder storms.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE
A banana and coffee.

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE
I actually see the progress we’ve made and am anxious to be done.

TO DO FOR THE WEEK

  • Shopping for a couple family meals.
  • Cleaning.
  • ?? no BIG projects with mom visiting.

CURRENTLY READING

TELEVISION / DVR
Nothing new this week.  We will look into getting cable soon after the last of the electrical work is done.

CRAFTS & PROJECTS
Planning a new pattern for quilts I am making my uncle and cousin from some of my aunt’s clothes.

HOUSE PROJECTS
Nothing new this week with family in for the funeral.

KITCHEN WISHES
I have so many kitchen gadgets and am finding that LESS really is more! So I no new wishes except to organize and clean out a bit more.

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
BREAKFAST
YOGURT & FRUIT
SCRAMBLED EGGS & CHEESE
FRUIT SMOOTHIE
YOGURT & FRUIT
MAPLE OATMEAL & RAISINS
OUT
BACON & EGGS
LUNCH
FRUIT & CHEESE
SOUP & CRACKERS
SANDWICH
OUT
MEAT & CHEESE
LEFTOVERS
SANDWICHES
DINNER
C.O.R.N.
SALISBURY STEAK & MASHED POTATOES
DESSERT

RECIPE FINDS TO TRY LATER
My uncle sent home tons of magazines from my aunt for me to go through, many of which are cooking and recipe oriented so I’m looking forward to going through those soon.

THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

  • Hubby finished the floor molding in the living room.
  • The new couch is the perfect color.  I can’t wait until the carpeting is complete and the companion pieces are in place.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA
I typed up my aunt’s obituary for my uncle and we included this picture of her with a friend’s dog.

INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY

THE WEATHER OUTSIDE
It has been super pleasant this past week with beautiful spring weather and a gorgeous breeze, but today appears to be breaking that pattern and the rest of the week will be warm and humid.

AS I LOOK OUTSIDE MY WINDOW
I see gray skies and drizzle, but am hoping for a sunny afternoon without humidity. LOL a girl can dream can’t she?

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE
COFFEE, more coffee and a bowl of oatmeal.

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE
I’m becoming a bit more settled as I look around the house each morning.  We’ve been working long hours to try and get things done before my mom’s visit which has now been moved forward 3 weeks with the impending funeral for my aunt.

TO DO FOR THE WEEK
This week will be Monday/ Tuesday heavy and then as needed with my mom visiting.

  • A trip to Lowes for a faucet for the spare bathroom.
  • Call electrician to fix the last problem from the electrician my uncle hired that has really messed up the living room as well as fix the back porch light.
  • Cleaning the bathrooms and kitchen. 
  • Laundry.
  • Paperwork.

CURRENTLY READING

TELEVISION / DVR
We watched a few season and series finales this past week, but I’m just really not into TV much lately with ALL the hours we’ve been spending on this house.

CRAFTS & PROJECTS
Nothing new this week.

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK

MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
BREAKFAST
YOGURT & FRUIT
SCRAMBLED EGGS & CHEESE
FRUIT SMOOTHIE
YOGURT & FRUIT
MAPLE OATMEAL & RAISINS
QUICHE
SAUSAGE & EGGS
LUNCH
FRUIT & CHEESE
SOUP & CRACKERS
SANDWICH
OUT
MEAT & CHEESE
LEFTOVERS
SANDWICHES
DINNER
RECIPE EXPERIMENT NIGHT
OUT
C.O.R.N.
MEATLOAF & SALAD
??
DESSERT

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP
I thought I would show you how well the apple cider vinegar is working at collecting gnats and fruit flies. There are 7 or 8 EVERY day so this bowl has become a permanent fixture on my shelf.

THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY
I received a WONDERFUL text from my psuedo daughter/niece for Mother’s Day that made me smile and cry all at once.  Amber fills my heart with love.  She has turned out to be a beautiful woman and fantastic mother that I am SOOO proud of.  She is the epitome of one of my favorite quotes.

FAVORITE CAMERA PHOTOS & HOUSE PROJECTS

These are totes full of all the bubble wrap from unpacking waiting for their turn up the ladder to the attic. I couldn’t just throw it all out.  What if we move again?

I planted a few drought resistant Lantana in yellow and variegated pink and Mexican Heather with the pretty purple flowers in the front planter to brighten things up.  And look at how big that Christmas tree has gotten.

It took me 4 coats between caulking and paint to turn the brown center beam in the ceiling white and then it took us 3 coats between sealer, primer and paint to cover the walls. 

The living room still needs some work in a few areas, but it will wait until after my mom’s visit to get done.  We ran into a bit of a problem when we took down that gold fan and put up the new one. It is really hard to get a good electrician these days and sad that we are going to have to spend money to fix what my uncle thought he got fixed just a year ago.

I did get another quilt hung, but the rest of the room is a bit sparse until we get carpeting and some furniture.

We decided to let me try my hand at Giana stone countertops. I also decided to add an extra challenge by starting with wood and not Formica. We added a cute molding along the edge and pre-cut the hole for the sink. I got a bit scared when the first step was a black onyx primer and spent a few minutes thinking what have I gotten myself into? Especially since I had to wait a minimum of 8 hours to move onto to step 2.

Step 2 was all the sponge and designing.  I felt A LOT better after this step.  Step 3 was 3 coats of the actual marble sealer and was a 4 hour wait between coats so this project didn’t take long for each step. but took over 3 days to complete.

I still need to finish the mirror and clean it up, but all in all I’m quite pleased with the results of the paint kit.
INSPIRATION

Be sure to link up with Sandra at Diary of a Stay at Home Mom for Happy homemaker Monday and with Laura at I’m an Organizing Junkie for Menu Plan Monday.