Furry Friends Collage

I so love the furry friends that have blessed my life. Tonight I decided to frame photos of the four of them. I came across this frame and thought it would work fine. I really like the collage. It’s on my desk and when I look at it I’ll be reminded what a special gift each one has been to me .  Maybe you would like to display the photos of your special friends the same way.

 

(Clockwise top left – Beni, Mojo, Jackson, Aussie (with my mom))

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Giving and Selling Stuff 2014 #2

As you may have noticed, I like to give stuff away and keep things out of the landfill. In March, we were having our floors refinished and new wood added to the remaining part of the house. I had a fair bit of carpet that was being removed. As each room was emptied, I posted that piece of carpet on Free cycle and Kijiji. Surprisingly, all the carpet was picked up right away.  Here’s an article by ‘This Old House’  called ’10 Uses For Old Carpet‘. I just thought it was interesting.  I hope you consider giving stuff away and before sending to the landfill.

(This is a not my carpet…image from the internet)

 

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Giving and Selling Stuff 2014

 

You know, I sure like to give away or sell the things that  I’m not using any longer.  Last week I was having work done in the house and needed to move furniture around. I looked at my sideboard and wondered if there was anything in there that  I wasn’t using any longer. I noticed a few dishes that I don’t use any more. I had picked them up here and there to accent my table, so they didn’t have too much value to me. I wondered if someone else might like to enjoy them. I took a snap shot and posted them on Kijiji.   I didn’t really want to give them away  (that’s another post about give away on Kijiji). I decided I would like 30.00 so I asked 40.00.   Within a short time I sold them. The person wanting to purchase them had her great aunts incomplete set and my few pieces would compliments hers nicely. She mentioned she was giving the collection to her daughter for her upcoming wedding. I was glad I posted these pieces- they have more meaning to the buyer than they did to me. Also, I have 40.00 that I didn’t have before. If your not using things,  why not consider giving them away or selling them. You never know who might be looking for exactly what you have.

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Outdoor Quiet Area

When we replaced our 12′ by 32 ‘ deck last year I was so happy to set up this hidden  sitting spot.  In the morning, we love to sit out here to: have breakfast; read; and enjoy the sounds and scents of nature. Sometimes I practise meditation here.  An outdoor area is so easy to set up. I previously had the bistro table, bought the umbrella at a garage sale (5.00) and picked up the mat on sale (20.00).   The plants are on stands with rollers so I can wheel them around. Bamboo blinds are good for creating privacy also. I use them in another sitting area on our property. Because this area is not permanent, we take it down before the snow arrives.  I hope you give this a try if you aren’t enjoying your outdoor space.

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Coffee or Tea Ring

Today, I noticed a tea ring stain on my natural wood coffee table -reddish in color.  I gather  it’s been there for about a week. After doing a bit of research online, I mixed 1/2 cup hydrogen peroxide and 1/2 tsp. ammonia in a cup.  I poured a little of the mix on the stain and blotted it. I did this on and off for about an hour. The stain is still faintly visible, but the table is distressed, so I am okay with it as it is.  If I worked a little longer,  it would have most likely faded completely.  Give this a try for coffee or tea stains. I think you will be pleased.

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Time Saving Ideas

I really like these time saving ideas that I came across this morning on Real Simple. Maybe you will too.

1. Send gift certificates for presents. Order online—no shopping, no wrapping, no exchanges.

2. Buy bagged salad greens and rotisserie chickens, two cornerstones of quick, healthy dinners. Add shredded chicken to casseroles, salads, soups, and pastas.

3. Ask for the earliest appointment. The later in the day you book a doctor’s visit, a haircut, or a meeting, the greater the chance it will be delayed.

4. Keep a stash of all-purpose birthday cards on hand, at home, and in the office.

5. Put a list of movies you want to rent and books you want to read in your wallet or smartphone.

6. Keep doubles and triples of things you use all the time (scissors, tape, reading glasses, cleaning supplies) in every corner of the house. This will prevent extra trips up and down the stairs for minor projects.

7. Get an electronic tag for your car if it is accepted at toll plazas in your area.

8. Invest in a wireless handheld e-mail device (such as a BlackBerry). Keep in touch with friends during unexpected downtime.

9. Sign up for automatic bill paying at your bank’s website.

10. Buy a case of your favorite olive oil or wine so you don’t have to make last-minute trips for hostess or birthday gifts.

11. Buy movie tickets in advance using Moviefone or Fandango to avoid wasting time on lines.

12. Whenever possible, double a recipe. Eat half right away, and freeze the rest for a future meal.

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Fall Clean Up

It is getting a little nippy here where I live, so one of the things I am thinking of is fall clean up.

As I have mentioned before, I keep a list of things to get done. It helps me stay organized. If things are in order, I don’t  feel so overwhelmed when life happens.  Decluttering is not overlooked and I give things away that we’re no longer using – like clothes that are still in style.  I put the list on the front of my fridge and work on it over a few weeks. I hope I’ve  inspired you to clean up a few things this fall.

Here’s my current list.

Inside

Put winter bedding on beds

Wash summer bedding and store

Sort all clothes (summer and winter) into ‘keep’ and ‘give away’

Sort all footwear (summer and winter) into ‘keep’ and ‘give away’

Sort linens into ‘keep’ and ‘give away’

Check vacuum filters and replace if necessary

Replace furnace filter

Declutter family room

Clean the windows

Outside

Wash out rain barrel

Wash outside of house

Put away lawn furniture

Clean eaves

Clean up yard – move spring flowering plants

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Spring Exchange

A few years ago, as I was spring cleaning and moving around a few décor pieces, I came upon the idea of a Spring Exchange.  I sent out an email and invited a few friends to the participate in the exchange. I asked them to bring things that they were not using anymore but had trouble donating to a thrift store. I set a limit of the number of items to bring, stipulated they needed to be in good condition, and I indicated ‘no books’. I suggested things like: pictures/artwork, cushions, linens, small appliances, and accent pieces. We then got together and had an exchange. For every item donated the person could take one item. The items that remained at the end of the evening went to the thrift store or were taken back home.  This is a really good way to pass on those things that you are not using anymore and a good way to pick up a few things that you could use. Go ahead and organize this fun time with your friends. Good Luck. Linda

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Furniture – Consignment & Second Hand Shopping

I really like to pay attention to how I spend money and I encourage you to do the same.  I could spend a lot on decorating the home, if I were not careful. Over the years, I’ve begun to acquire a few furniture pieces through  consignment or second hand. For me, furniture consignment/ second hand shopping keeps the cost of upgrading down and therefore savings up. Read on to learn about a few successful purchases I have made.

While browsing around a furniture consignment store a few years ago  my husband and I found a brand new  ‘Snuggler’.  It was the perfect replacement for our existing well used love seat.  We located the same piece in the manufacturers store for much more. We saved about 1600.00.

With fewer of us around the table,  I began looking for a something smaller.  I found the perfect glass top bistro type table online for $20.00.  Were I to purchase this new, I would have paid over 100.00.

 If you are not furniture consignment/second hand shopping, I urge you to consider this. You will be amazed at the quality you can find at a good price. If you’re successful you’ll be able to keep your hard earned money for something else like: retirement savings; child’s education; or a vacation. A word of caution – you need to plan and have patience.

P.S. Consignment stores are a good place to find art and accessories for the home.

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Homemade Laundry Soap

I’ve been making and using my own laundry soap for two years now.  I thought it was a good time to give an update.  I am still very happy with the soap, it cleans very well; is quick to make; and my cost is under 15.00 per year.  Many of my friends have tried it and liked it.

If you are not making your own soap, I hope you give it a try.

Here is a link to my original post. https://flourishnow.wordpress.com/2010/02/12/homemade-laundry-soap/.

Ingredients

– 1 cup grated Sunlight bar soap – about 1/2 a bar (cost 2.00 for 2 bars)

– 2 cups boiling water

– 1 cup Arm & Hammer washing soda (cost for one box about 5.00)

– 1 cup Borax (cost for one box about 5.00)

– 1 gallon of warm water (16 cups or 4.55 litres)

Method

-grate 1 cup bar soap and melt in 2 cups boiling water, stir until melted

-once melted pour into big pot (I used a canning pot)

-add 1 cup washing soda and 1 cup Borax

-stir together – until dissolved

-add 1 gallon warm water (16 cups or 4.55 litres)

-stir until mixed well

-pour into empty laundry containers or a big pail

-use 1/4 cup per load – cold/warm/hot water

-shake or stir each time you use

One batch makes about 6 litres (roughly 1 1/2 US gallons) and costs about 2.00 per batch – maybe less.  You will have enough ingredients to make many batches. I filled a little more than 3 – 1.89 litre laundry jugs for less than a dollar per jug.  As you can see it is pennies per load. The batch may go gel like and clumpy, this is normal. Shake well with each use. Pre treat stains before washing.

–  sud less

– can be used in HE washer

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Line Drying Clothing and Linens

Ladies, are you line drying your laundry outdoors? It’s one of my favorite chores to do when the weather permits.  My clothes smell so nice and because I’m using home made soap , the scent is natural. You’ll also save money by not using the electric/gas dryer. Follow this link for a few tips about line drying.  For some of you it’s just ‘one more chore’.  I certainly can appreciate this because for a few years there just wasn’t extra time for me hang the laundry.  If you’re not living those busy days now, why not give line drying a chance. You’ll be pleased.

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Repair & Reuse Old Things – Cabinet

I really like to re-use where I can.  In order to make my small kitchen a little more functional, I really needed an additional storage cabinet. A fitted cabinet wouldn’t do, I needed to find something old or have one custom built. I came across this cabinet (see below) in an online ad. My husband and I drove 1 hour to a small town to purchase it. It took us about a week to repair it and paint it.  Here are the before and after shots.

Ladies, once again, I want to encourage you to reuse and recycle where you’re able.

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Two Things

You know, it’s good for the soul when we intentionally look for things we have to look forward to. No matter what’s happening in our lives, there’s always something pleasant on the horizon – if we just look for it. During a family meal recently, I asked my husband and two daughters ‘what are two things you’re looking forward to in the upcoming year?’  The four of us were so happy to share our hopes and dreams.  We listened with great interest as each one spoke. I shared that I’m looking forward to having minor medical issues resolved. I also shared that I’m looking forward to being more available to participate with them as they engage in life. Now it’s your turn, what are two things you’re looking forward to?

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Homemade Household Disinfectant

With lots of bugs in the air, I’ve been using disinfectant a little more lately. I really like the mixture below and I’ve been using it for sometime now. I make a larger batch and keep the extra on hand until I have the time to make more. I use it in the bathroom; kitchen; on door knobs and any other place that needs a good cleaning. It is so easy to make; cost effective; and leaves fixtures very shiny. Give it a try; I’m sure you will be happy with it.

1 TBSP liquid dish soap

½ cup vinegar

½ cup rubbing alcohol

½ c water

Mix and put in spray bottles

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Vintage Metal Table

This past summer I came across an article in Real Simple featuring artful outdoor furniture pieces. Being a gardener, I was very interested in acquiring a piece or two. I thought ‘I’ve seen stuff like that at the thrift store’. I decided to keep a look out for older metal pieces that I could spray paint.  In October, I came across a brilliantly blue (painted) vintage metal table.  It was $2.00. I really liked the snowflake pattern and thought the bright blue would look great in my new garden. I brought it home and stored it in the shed.  Meanwhile, in the back of my mind was the desire to add to our living room a visually lightweight, gold colored table.  So just the other day, I decided to spray paint the blue metal table, that was in the shed, gold. Well,  I’m really happy with the outcome. I used Tremclad Hammered paint ($8.99 per can). Just 2 coats and the job was done. I want to stress how home decorating can be done on the smallest of budgets. If you have patience, shop used, and use spray paint! As for the garden piece, I’m confident I’ll find other items at the thrift store or at a garage sale in the future. I hope I’ve encouraged you to reuse where you can and be adventurous with your decorating.

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Budgeting & Savings – Envelop System

One component of budgeting that has worked really well for us  is the envelop system.  As our lives change  – our envelops change.  At present, the envelops include: groceries, gas, recreation, gifts, and vacation home. These are areas where we could easily overspend if we were not paying with cash. We’ve had other envelops but with life changes; online banking; and pre approved bank withdrawals we’ve cut back on the quantity of envelops. Here is how we use envelops: At the beginning of the month, after we review our budget, we put the allocated cash amounts into envelops. We spend only what is in the envelop. This keeps us from overindulging and we make better decisions about using our money.   No matter how much money is available (or not) we stick to our budget and this system.  It has allowed us to build savings and better use money – for over 20 years now.

Other envelop categories we have used over the years have included: dog expenses; school fees; recreation; hair cuts; etc.

When our girls each turned 12 years old, we put them on this system to teach them how to use money.  We gave them a monthly allowance and set them up with envelops. The categories were recreation, saving, charity, & clothing.  They put 10 % each into savings and charity. The other amounts depended on the circumstances. We allowed them to ‘rob’ from any envelop but not savings or charity. For example, if they needed extra clothing they were permitted to take from recreation. Once our girls started to earn their own money, they each wandered from this system. They’re now returning to it as they mature and have more financial responsibilities.

This system is so easy to use, I hope you give it a try. Linda

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Go Gaudy this Christmas

Did you know that Christmas is the one time of the year that gaudiness is accepted by most people? I just learned that too.  Here are few ideas of what you can do:

– add a little razzle dazzle to every room in your house.

– once the lights are on the tree, add one more set.

– wear a Christmas apron.

– hang an ornament from the rear view mirror in your vehicle (or add a wreath to your bumper).

– once you’ve selected one poinsettia to purchase, add two more to your cart.

Be creative and enjoy being gaudy.  Have fun.

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Easy to Make Cushion Covers

An easy; fast; and inexpensive DIY decorating project that I have tried, and that has worked out very well, is sewing cushion covers. Cushions add a new look to any room instantly.  I went through a phase of buying various cushions, but storage became a problem. I decided to sew a few covers to put over existing cushions. Now, when I change the covers for a new look, I store the unused covers in a drawer. Having made a few sets now, I am really pleased with the outcome. Also, I purchase the fabric at the end of a season in order to get a good price. Here are easy instructions to change the look of a room quickly:

Supplies

Sewing machine

Pillow form – or use an existing cushion

Thread to match fabric

Fabric – Front – upholstery fabric.

Fabric – Back – upholstery fabric.

Velcro

Note: when pressing fabric, do not place iron directly on the fabric. Place a t-towel on the fabric and iron the t-towel – to prevent damaging the upholstery fabric.

Measure:

Measure your pillow form or cushion and subtract one inch from the length and width measurement (to allow for a snug fit). For example, if your form/cushion is 16 X 16 then subtract one inch from the length and width for tight fit (15 X 15). Add ½ inch to each side for seam allowance (16 X 16). We are back to the original measurement.  Add 7  inches to the back piece (for the overlap). Using the above example, the dimensions will be 16 X 16 for one front piece and 16 X 23 for one back piece. Cut your fabric to the correct dimensions.

Form the overlap (opening) in the BACK fabric:

Fold the back piece in half.  Iron to form a crease. Using the above example again, the measurement is now 16 X 11 ½ when folded.  Cut fabric in half along the crease. You now have 2 pieces of back fabric -16 X 11 ½ inches each.  Fold the 11 ½ inch right side under ½ inches to wrong side. Sew down.  Fold right side under another 1 inch to wrong side. Sew. Press. Repeat for the other 16 X 11 ½ piece. You now have 2 back pieces measuring 16 X 10. Place one back piece over the other back piece – right sides together. Overlap the 1 “seams at the centre, until the two pieces together now measure 16 X 16 “- not 16 X 20.   Pin. Baste together. (This forms the opening in the back of the back piece).

Complete –

With right sides together, sew front 16 X 16 piece to back 16 X 16 piece – ½ “ seam.  Trim corners. Push out corners with knitting needle or pencil.

Press. Turn to right side. Press.  Determine where you would like to place the Velcro for the closure. Pin in place. Sew. Insert your form/cushion. Close. The cover should be a little snug. You are done.

(Velcro – I used 2 strips on 2” for each cushion)

Variation – if you would like to make a cover without an opening then follow these instructions.

Measure your pillow form with a tape measure. Do not rely on the measurement on the packaging. Subtract ½ inch from each side (to allow for a snug fit). For example, if your form/cushion is 16 X 16 then subtract ½ inch from the length and width for tight fit (15 X 15). With right sides together sew ½ inch seam all around. I like to use a very small zigzag. Leave about an 8 inch opening (a space large enough to stuff your form/cushion inside).  Trim corners. Push out corners with knitting needle or pencil. Press. Turn cover to right side.  Press. Stuff form/cushion into cover. Work cushion down to corners. Hand sew opening closed.  You’re done.

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Homemade All Purpose Cleaner

I’m wondering if you’re making your own general purpose cleaner.  I’ve been using this mixture for sometime now and I really like it. I like to keep bottles in the kitchen, bathroom and shower.  It’s inexpensive; easy to make; smells nice; and cleans wonderfully. I think you’ll like it if you give it a try.

½ tsp baking soda

2 tsp Borax

½ tsp liquid dish soap

2 cups hot water

Mix and put in spray bottles

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Mulch Your Perennials Before Winter

Yesterday I sat out on my swing with a cup of tea to enjoy the beautiful fall afternoon. Before I knew it, I was putting mulch around my recently trimmed perennials. Its best to add mulch after the ground freezes or the first frost.   Sometimes I do it when it’s most convenient for me though. This fall I am using shredded dry leaves and cut grass to keep the soil a consistent temperature over the winter and prevent my plants from dying. I usually use compost, but I’ve used all the compost in a new flower bed. To mulch the plants, I applied about a 2” layer of shredded leaves and grass around the base of each plant. I then used my gardening tool and worked it into the soil a little – mostly to prevent it from blowing away.   By spring, the combination will have decomposed and my plants will look great. If theres any mulch left, I’ll simply rake it off. If you like to flower garden and live in a colder climate, you’ll find winter mulching really beneficial. Have a nice day. Linda

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