Category: HOMEMAKING TIPS

HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 4 of 2017

As many of you know I have been working to get my new website, Chasing MY Life, up and running.  Well, it’s up and it’s running.  It still needs some tweaking, but all in good time. I will mirror post for awhile and eventually just use Savory Kitchen Table as my personal recipe box. Tell me what you think about the new site.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE

We have had a torrential week of rain with major flooding in the area.  Fortunately we have not been flooded here in the house, only the garage, but we did end up with 2 fairly severe leaks that make me think of the old house in It’s A Wonderful Life when they first moved in.  All I can say is thank god for beach towels and buckets!  Hubby is waiting for things to dry out a bit so we can assess the damage and do the repairs.  Once the rain moved through we ended up with severe winds that required emptying the backyard of anything not nailed down, but on the up side it’s helping to dry things off up on the roof.

Today though is GORGEOUS! We are supposed to be sunny all week.  Unfortunately this close to the coast I NEVER bank on anything.  The torrential rain we had last week occurred while we were only under a 20% chance of rain and those days started out gorgeous too.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE

Ensure clear and coffee.

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE

It looks pretty good.  I had a very productive week stuck inside last week’s rain.  I was able to go through the baking cabinet and the linen closet and took another 5 bags to the women’s shelter.

WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

I’ve been down with laryngitis and a cold or something last week also so will take it fairly easy this week.  With NO immunity because of the SLE hubby thinks I picked up a bug from all the digging in the filthy dirt (the local cats as well as my cousin’s cats had been using that area as a BIG cat box) it last week. I wore gloves, but evidently that wasn’t enough.

  • Paperwork
  • EBAY
  • Phone Calls
  • Make appointments
  • Sort China Cabinets
  • ERRANDS

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

  • BIG BANG THEORY
  • WHEN CALLS THE HEART
  • PURE GENIUS
  • NCIS
  • BLUE BLOODS
  • THIS IS US
  • GRIMM
  • THE MAN IN THE HIGH CASTLE
  • GOLIATH
  • 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

Probably nothing this week, but hopefully soon.

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 & EGGS

LUNCH

FRUIT & CHEESE

SOUP & CRACKERS

SANDWICH

OUT

MEAT & CHEESE

LEFTOVERS

SANDWICHES

DINNER

GARLIC WINE CHICKEN

PEPPERONI MAC & CHEESE

C.O.R.N.

CHICKEN with MAGGI CREAM SAUCE

SLOPPY JOES

CHICKEN FRIED CHICKEN

WHITE CHICKEN LASAGNA

DESSERT

SUCCESSFUL RECIPES and their links FROM LAST WEEK

  • 5 CHEESE GOURMET MAC & CHEESE
  • PARMESAN ROASTED CARROTS (recipe to come this week)

  • GARLIC CREAM CHICKEN (recipe to come this week)

  • SHEET PAN SWEDISH MEATBALLS (recipe to come this week)

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPSHOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

Between storms hubby kept plugging away on the fencing.  He was able to get the new downspout area done which I for some reason did not yet get a picture of as well as this section near the utilities.  Eventually there will be a short privacy fence keeping all these utility pieces out of sight.

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.

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HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 3 of 2017

Guess what? It’s Monday – AGAIN!  This past week just flew by for me and I didn’t get anything I planned on doing anywhere close to done! I know it’s actually a holiday, but NOT around here. I ended up spending most of last week helping hubby on the backyard and fencing.  I’m also trying to do more frequent posts to help me get through all this.  Here are the links from last week’s updates if you are interestd.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE
Seems like every week starts out on the gray side lately.  This week is the same.  It is also unseasonably warm STILL!  I hate it!  I REALLY MISS having four seasons!

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE
An English muffin with homemade BlackRaspberry Curd and COFFEE.  I tried to give up the coffee one day last week. And that is exactly how long it lasted – 1 DAY!

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE
It is a bit of a wreck this week as I put aside everything to help hubby outside and so my projects from last week will carry over to this week.

WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS
MONDAY

  • GROCERIES
  • ERRANDS
  • ORDER SAND FOR BACKYARD

TUESDAY

  • WORK ON STUDIO ORGANIZATION
  • LAUNDRY
  • CALL CONTRACTOR FOR A COUPLE BIDS

WEDNESDAY

  • SHOWER DOG
  • WORK ON STUDIO ORGANIZATION

THURSDAY

  • EBAY
  • WORK ON STUDIO ORGANIZATION

FRIDAY

  • BACKYARD

SATURDAY

  • EBAY
  • PLAY OFF GAMES

SUNDAY

  • PLAY OFF GAMES
  • READING

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR
We’re watching our normal shows, but are starting to try more and more shows on Netflix and Amazon. I’ve been too tired to read at night so have yet to start anything new.

CRAFTS & PROJECTS
Still nothing yet, but I have hopes for next month after the backyard is done.

I’m starting to get the cooking bug again and have lined up a week for trying a few new recipes. I’ll post the recipes as I go if we think they are worth making again.
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
SALMON QUICHE
CARAMEL APPLE CINNAMON FRENCH TOAST
LUNCH
FRUIT & CHEESE
SOUP & CRACKERS
SANDWICH
OUT
MEAT & CHEESE
LEFTOVERS
SANDWICHES
DINNER
GOURMET MAC & CHEESE with SHEET PAN SWEDISH MEATBALLS
PORK CHOPS AND CARROTS 
C.O.R.N.
CHICKEN with MAGGI CREAM SAUCE and PARMESAN ROASTED CARROTS
PEPPERONI MACARONI & CHEESE with SALAD
GARLIC WINE CHICKEN and SALAD
C.O.R.N.
DESSERT
 
LIME ANGEL FOOD CAKE
 
 
 
MOLTEN CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER CAKE
 

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.

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HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY week 2 of 2017

Good morning and Happy Monday. I hope you had a wonderful weekend and if you are a football fan that your teams won.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE
It is gray, but no threat of rain, at least I think.  Last week was COLD (for here) and this week is supposed to warm up into the 60’s and 70’s.  I will never get used to the heat in the winter or the quickness that the temperatures flux here.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE
I made an omelette in a cup with my coffee.

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE
I’m happy with all we have gotten done and there is very little actual mess.  Just the standard after the weekend clutter. Hubby and I have agreed to continue paring down the house. There are just so many things we don’t use anymore.  Technology has changed things a lot so we rounded up 50+ DVD’s to donate also. I’ve started a new spiral binder for 2017.

WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS
MONDAY 

  • Home Depot run – order 100 bags of leveling sand for backyard.  We brought home 900 pounds (12 bags) the other day to see how far it would go and I have to say it will be worth the delivery fee for a forklift to bring the pallet right to where we need it.  
  • Grocery Store
  • Errands
  • Paperwork

TUESDAY

  • STUDIO!!!!!!!!!!!! I get started and even make headway, but then get discouraged as there is not enough space.  Deciding what to keep is such a daunting process especially while this space is being used as a catch all for Christmas decorations that I refuse to store in the attic or garage because of the ungodly weather here, the cat, our office, etc… Downsizing seemed like a great idea, but going from 3000 square feet to 1750 square feet is HARD!!! My studio here would fit in my last studio twice over and the Christmas decorations were in the barn there so that alone gave more space.
  • EBAY!

WEDNESDAY

  • Work on leveling backyard.
  • Install new back gate and start on fence planks.

THURSDAY

  • Backyard again

FRIDAY

  • Cleaning 
  • Laundry

SATURDAY

  • Studio
  • EBAY
  • Football Playoffs

SUNDAY 

  • Studio
  • Football Playoffs

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR

  • BIG BANG THEORY
  • WHEN CALLS THE HEART
  • PURE GENIUS
  • NCIS
  • BLUE BLOODS
  • THIS IS US
  • GRIMM
  • THE MAN IN THE HIGH CASTLE
  • GOLIATH
  • 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
??

KITCHEN WISHES
This category is always in flux!  Especially in this house as I continue to go through and downsize unnecessary dishes and Tupperware.  I am trying to get to my “CORE” pieces.  You know the ones you gravitate to on a regular basis.  If I haven’t used it in the past year, I probably never will and will be leaving it behind.

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
EGG NOG PANCAKES
LUNCH
FRUIT & CHEESE
SOUP & CRACKERS
SANDWICH
OUT
MEAT & CHEESE
LEFTOVERS
SANDWICHES
DINNER
C.O.R.N.
MEATLOAF AND SALAD
CHICKEN & NOODLES
C.O.R.N.
DESSERT

SUCCESSFUL RECIPES and their links FROM LAST WEEK

RECIPE FINDS TO TRY LATER

  • EGGNOG PANCAKES with MAPLE BUTTER RUM DRIZZLE

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

ON MY MIND
I’ve been trying to decide what to do next after this house.  We know we’ll end up with another project house, but one of OUR choosing so are trying to pick an area that suits us best so that hubby has some outside interests, places to go, organizations to get involved with to help others… preferably a LARGE military base so we can go back to commissary/PX shopping…

THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

  • RESEARCH for getting the hell out of here.
  • Minimizing the studio stash.
  • Completed projects.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA
Not a great photo, but it does show progress on the dog run area! Especially compared to what it looked like a year ago when the air conditioner was slanted and the area was so overgrown and filled with dead plants and trash that you couldn’t even tell.

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.

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HAPPY HOMEMAKER & MENU PLAN MONDAY ~ WEEK 1 of 2017

I hope everyone had a WONDERFUL Christmas and a safe and HAPPY NEW YEAR! 
We had a quiet New Year, at least as far as the 2 of us were concerned. We went to a neighbor’s house early for a little get together, but were home for the actual event which was good as the neighborhood was alive with fireworks and gun fire.  When will people realize the dangers of both?  I wasn’t too worried about the fireworks as it was raining, but the gun shots made me cringe.  What goes up will come down.
Did you know about the NEVER ON SUNDAY rule for the Tournament of Roses Parade and bowl game? This will be the 15th time this rule has come into play since its inception.  Originally the rule was made to prevent horses “parked” outside of churches from being spooked along the parade route as people attended church.
I also brought the BEFORE & AFTER of this house up to date in a post this past weekend. I should have done it room by room instead of all at once.  I can’t wait to be able to do an AFTER & DONE post!
Now it’s on to the business of 2017.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE
The weather is gray, cloudy, windy and super thunderstormy, but at least it is a bit cooler than it has been.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE
An English muffin and peanut butter with COFFEE of course.

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE
I am VERY pleased.  Everyone is gone now and Carlie has settled in well.  The tree is down which is unusual for us since we usually wait until King’s Day or so, but this year it was practical. All the Christmas decorations have been packed away and those that are being donated are in the car ready to drop off.

WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS

  • GET NEW PHONE!! Mine is OLD, won’t hold a charge, changes the settings on its own…, but I wasn’t going near a phone store until the holidays were over!
  • Start on studio organization. You may see this EVERY week for a while.  That room has become the catch all of the house and will takes WEEKS if not MONTHS to get handled.
  • Work on new Website.
  • Start leveling backyard.

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR
I’m between books again and the old standards will begin again this week as well as the final season of GRIMM.

We finally dealt with the wire mess around the TV and hooked up the WiiU as well as Amazon Prime.  So far have found Goliath with Billy Bob Thorton and The Man in the High Castle (I LOVE anything WWII) that are catching our interest.

CRAFTS & PROJECTS
Soon, really soon.

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
BREAKFAST CASSEROLE old family recipe – link to follow soon
BACON & EGGS
LUNCH
FRUIT & CHEESE
SOUP & CRACKERS
SANDWICH
OUT
MEAT & CHEESE
LEFTOVERS
SANDWICHES
DINNER

 
CHICKEN FRIED CHICKEN, MASHED POTAOES, PEPPERED GRAVY & GREEN BEANS
C.O.R.N.
BLACK EYED PEA CHILI & GRILLED CHEESE
WHITE CHICKEN LASAGNA new recipe link to follow soon & SALAD
C.O.R.N.
DESSERT
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

ON MY MIND
I’m praying for a good start to the new year and getting this house finished before the hot weather sets in.  I’m also concerned for my uncle who appears to be exhibiting all the classic tell tell signs of dementia and Alzheimers, but is also stubborn as a mule and won’t recognize the need for medical help.

THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY

  • Every morning when I get up and feel the wonderfully plush carpet under my toes I realize the house is almost done.
  • I’m loving the research into a new place to call home and a new house.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA
Hubby took this beautiful dramatic shot of the clouds out back.

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.

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HAPPY HOMEMAKER and MENU PLAN MONDAY

I HOPE EVERYONE HAD A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS. It always seems so much better to me when Christmas falls on the weekend. We had a quiet weekend with just the 2 of us, football, church and a Christmas party on Saturday.  Christmas day was just us so I made a small Tropical pork roast with Potatoes AuGratin and maple glazed Brussels sprouts with cherry pie galette for dessert. We also watched my obligatory seasonal favorites It’s A Wonderful Life (1946), White Christmas (1954) and the original Home Alone (1990). Our family will be here to celebrate tomorrow.

Hallmark Movies and Mysteries channel played a YULE LOG with puppies, kittens, and Christmas music for 24 hours which made good background.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE
Unfortunately it’s gray and warm with thunderstorms. I spent the entire Christmas season missing snow and cold.  I am really looking forward to next year being back in the Pacific Northwest or the North woods or somewhere cooler than here. I hope.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE
Some spam and scrambled eggs.

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE
I’m pretty happy.  Just a couple loads of laundry, vacuuming and general cleaning before family gets here for “Christmas”.

WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS
Nothing but enjoy family and help Carlie get settled in.

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR
I will finish up the Christmas movies on the DVR and hope to start a new book now that the holidays are quieter.

CRAFTS & PROJECTS
I’m going to start working on the studio in earnest after the first and hope to be “CRAFT READY” by the time we get back from our spring trip in April. This will be our first trip seeking out our final project house so we can leave this HOUSE FROM HELL behind us and settle for a long while.

KITCHEN WISHES
My Kitchen Aid Mixer is starting to give up the ghost.  As sad as that is, I have used it A LOT and for 23 years next month.  I purchased a professional model after the 1994 Northridge Earthquake demolished my kitchen and EVERYTHING in it as well as the rest of the house.  So, I guess I got my money’s worth, I’ve even painted it twice, but I will be sorry to see it go. I’m thinking about this pretty silver one. It’s not the professional model, but I do love the glass bowl! Glass bowls are so much easier to see that things are mixed well on the bottom.

MENU PLANS FOR THE WEEK
MONDAY
TUESDAY
WEDNESDAY
THURSDAY
FRIDAY
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
BREAKFAST
YOGURT & FRUIT
SCRAMBLED EGGS & CHEESE
BREAKFAST CASSEROLE
PUMPKIN BREAD FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE
C.O.R.N.
C.O.R.N.
PANCAKES, BACON & EGGS
LUNCH
FRUIT & CHEESE
SOUP & CRACKERS
??
??
MEAT & CHEESE
LEFTOVERS
SANDWICHES
DINNER
C.O.R.N.
ALOHA BBQ RIBS, WAGON WHEEL BEANS and CROCK POT LOADED POTATOES BACON & EGGS 
??
OUT
FREEZER SURPRISE
GRILLED STEAKS, BAKED POTATOES and CORN ON THE COB (hubby’s request for New Year’s Eve  at home)
BLACK EYED-PEA CHILI
DESSERT

SUCCESSFUL RECIPES and their links FROM LAST WEEK

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

THINGS THAT ARE MAKING ME HAPPY
January will be “GET A BACKYARD MONTH” and that is making me very happy!  There are only a few months of the year you can use a patio here, at least in my opinion, and February through April are it.  The backyard was just like the house and garage – completely overrun with a hoarders dream – STUFF.  It also had some structural issues that will need to be addressed first which will require a pallet of sand bags to be delivered to begin leveling it out.  We found this past week that the fence is riddled with termites so hubby has already started changing out the fence board by board.  All in ALL this will be a simpler project in concept, but harder in back breaking effort.  I also found a shade cloth that fits perfectly so we will be installing that too.  I will be thrilled if we can get the shade cloth, sand and fence done in January so we can lay pavers and sod in February.  That leaves March for sealing the garage floor.

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

I always have a lot of fun doing a long distance version of elf on the shelf for my favorite munchkins.  This year was twin elves, Ralph and Walter (names were borrowed from the show Scorpion). They made their way to Oregon in time for a Christmas surprise visit with their cousin Sam who spent last year with us before making his way to Oregon in time for Christmas 2015.

We had fun opening our gifts and stockings.  I especially love Sammy the owl and my new picture book from my favorite munchkins.

I LOVE my new glass art ornament from my brother and SIL – so cute.
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

GOOD MORNING! I hope you are doing well and are ready for this week.  The week before Christmas is one of my most favorites as the house always smells so good with the tree and all the baking for the neighbor plates.

OUTSIDE MY WINDOW & THE WEATHER OUTSIDE
FRIGHTFULLY COLD FOR HERE! It is supposed to be sunny today, but not yet so right now is quite gray and cold.  Add in the wind chill and it’s downright frigid.  I have noticed that many people here seem to consider 60 COLD so not sure what they are feeling with this weeks weather in the 30’s and 40’s BEFORE the wind chill. Fortunately, we own cold weather gear from out time in the U.P.

I do laugh though as we are quite close to the gulf coast and when I check weather I also get the “small craft” and “low water” advisories for the fishermen. Always takes a minute to realize those are not for us directly.

ON THE BREAKFAST PLATE
Some nice warm oatmeal and coffee.

AS I LOOK AROUND THE HOUSE
I’m feeling so much better each week at how finished things are getting.  This week my biggest concern is 2 dozen totes in my dining room that I took out of the studio (where I stashed them when mom was visiting).  Hubby has been working the past several days on a protected place to put them in the garage for me.  The corner we’re using had a funky trash receptacle and door to the outside that we are in the process of sealing up and enclosing before I put down a protective brick layer to stack the totes on.

WEEKLY TO DO LIST & HOUSE PROJECTS
Monday

  • Mail last of Christmas cards – I am so late this year.
  • Finish spot in garage for totes. Need a quick Home Depot run for supplies. 
  • Paint remaining trim work in Carlie’s room.  YAY!!!! She’ll be here a week from tomorrow!

Tuesday

  • Last minute Christmas shopping and grocery shopping.
  • Organize studio. I know I won’t even try and get to the deep organizing and sorting until January, but with the totes out I can get the furniture organized so I’ll be ready.

Wednesday

  • BAKE, BAKE and BAKE for the neighbor goodie plates that I’ll distribute tomorrow in time to start enjoying for the Christmas weekend!
  • My new kitchen and foyer rugs should arrive today. 

Thursday

  • Laundry, Clean and vacuum.

Friday

  • Lunch with Diana!
  • Not sure yet about the rest of the day, we’ll see how the first of the week goes and this will be my catch all day.

Saturday 

  • Nothing special – sit and enjoy hubby’s company, the tree and some football.

Sunday 

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

 

A prototype for next year’s Christmas cards.

 

CURRENTLY READING & TELEVISION / DVR
With most of my favorite shows on Winter Hiatus I’m playing DVR catch up and getting my fill of Christmas movies. I’m also reading a fun author Jana Deleon. I LOVE her series books, they are so outrageous and LOL funny.

  • MISS FORTUNE MYSTERY SERIES book 9 LATER GATOR by Jana DeLeon

CRAFTS & PROJECTS
Unfortunately many a project fell by the wayside this year while working on the HOUSE FROM HELL, but I will begin next month to sort and organize my studio which doubles as my office so it will take awhile to sort all the paperwork and get it properly filed so I can begin to complete the gifts for next year.  I can’t wait to really get my hands on my studio!

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
WAGON WHEEL WINTER SOUP  & CORNBREAD because BABY IT”S COLD OUTSIDE!
C.O.R.N.
DESSERT

HEALTH & BEAUTY TIPS

HOMEMAKING/COOKING TIP

FAVORITE PHOTO FROM THE CAMERA

Recipe says the alcohol is optional.  It should say MANDATORY!

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 ~ 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.