Saturday, March 26, 2011

SATURDAY RAMBLINGS

It's a very cold and blustery Saturday here, temps in the high 20's {Why do I always give a weather report in my posts?}. Today has been busy, but I took some time to hunt for my box of spring things and although I didn't find it, I found a few spunky things to hang. The Husband came down with a bad chest cold so we canceled going to the lake again. Next weekend brings us into April already...Wow. And unless I come down with the cold, we are going. Too many things to accomplish there, painting, working on the loft and starting on the guest rooms. We are putting hardwood floors in them and giving them a new coat of paint. Then the fun will start when I can pick out new bedding and curtains and all the fun stuff. I will tell you all about it as we work on it. I am just mentally making lists.
I hope you don't mind a random post today. This is the first time I have really sat down today after cleaning the house and going grocery shopping. Of course I spent more than I should have. The Husband is conducting a little experiment with me to see if I can save more money by having cash as opposed to a credit card. It has been difficult for many reasons, mostly of course because I can't go shopping online, but in my heart I know I don't have room for another object in this house. It's also hard because every time I open my wallet, I see exactly what I have or don't have. I'm not liking this too much, but I can say I was pretty frugal at the store today. I almost wished I was a coupon person. No, I am that person that asks for $20.00 over so I can buy lotto tickets on the way out. Are you a cash or credit person? Do you have any tips for saving money on groceries?

To change the subject completely, you all know that I have been thinking about gardening nonstop. I suppose you guys have too, and many of you have posted gardens that are well on their way to looking spectacular. We have a bit more of the cold stuff here in the Midwest before we can dig in the dirt. But I am looking for a new rototiller, one of the smaller types, of course. I just found out that The Husband broke mine trying to use it on the beach. I don't know weather to laugh or cry. So if you have one you like, pass on the name as I have to start looking.

Okay, the weather, grocery shopping and rototillers. What else can I babble on about? Oh, we had the whole family here for dinner the other night. Eight of us. I actually set a really nice table combining my white everyday dishes with some floral springtime dishes and 2 separate sets of napkins. Because I was in the middle of cooking and making drinks, I never took pictures. That would have been interesting for this post. We had a good time though, I made breaded steaks with red sauce and Parmesan cheese, Alfredo noodles, mashed potatoes, corn, a salad and bread. And for dessert, a strawberry cheesecake. I really should have taken a picture of the buffet, it was spilling over with food.
Well, we are settling in for a cold night at home. I am going to make another fire and we will probably watch a movie. I am in between books right now. I will be honest and say I did not finish Pride And Prejudice. I read half of it and saw half of the movie. Somehow that seems to make it work. I should have watched the 2nd half of the movie. I do like the classics, but P&P was a lot like Jane Eyre, where you struggle through 4 pages of dialogue before a point is made. And the book of short stories I was reading...I would call it modern, and yet I found myself scratching my head at the end of each story trying to figure out what it was really about. I don't mind not finishing a book of short stories...just as long as it is not in the middle of a story. I have a shelf full of books to choose from tonight, so I think I am just going to stick with a little fluff. Are you reading anything good? Let me know.

I hope I haven't bored you out of your mind. Maybe it is a cold Saturday night or Sunday in your neck of the woods and you don't mind reading a little fluff! lol! We are in for a cold, cold week so hopefully I will find something to paint or decorate to post about. Oh, and a reminder, Mildred Pierce is on HBO tomorrow night. If you haven't seen the original {or if you have} tune in because I loved the first version and this should be good. Did you know I am an old movie type? Read: insomniac. But that's for another post! :-)

81 comments:

Laurel@ChippingwithCharm said...

You've been busy :)
I've turned into a "cash girl" myself...my hubby and I did a little experiment a couple of years ago and charted everything we spent and what it was food, clothes, cleaning supplies etc. (a spreadsheet, with catagories...he's an engineer) So I feel like we developed a "fair" budget and now I'm used to it. Works for me...good luck :) Have a cozy weekend, Laurel

sharon santoni at my french country home said...

Sounds like a busy weekend. We change the clocks here tonight and I'm up super early in the morning to go to the first big brocante of the season! Luckily they don't take credit cards!!
Sharon
x

Pondside said...

Thanks for the HBO reminder, Jane!
Your very 'spring' post is just the push I need to get some fresh touches into the house - and away I go.

Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions said...

Ha! You're so funny, Jane; do you give the weather report in each post? I hadn't noticed, but I enjoy reading your posts. I was cold here today, but at least the sun was out, so I'll take it.

I use my credit card {mainly because I find it easier just to pay one bill once a month, but it's also an Amazon card so I get rewards that I put toward books and more recently children's DVD's}, but I'd like to get more involved with coupons. I've read blogs where people go to CVS or Target and walk out with a cartload and it cost them $14.97. Of course, with the day job, I just don't have the time to drive to different stores for deals, plus with gas going up, I think you have to pick your battles!

Sue @ Not the Good Scissors! said...

You have had some full busy days. I am so far behind on my reading I just don't want to buy another book until I get the others read but there is a new book called ROSES and they are comparing it to Gone With Wind. I almost bought it today but held off.

As far as the grocery thing the best thing that works for me is to make a list of menus for the week and shop for only those items. What I like about having the menus besides saving money I know what I will be making for dinnger. I work full time and that alone makes my life so much easier.

Have a blessed and cozy weekend.
Hugs, Sue

Stacey said...

Hi Jane! I love random posts. :) Don't mind the weather reports either. Let's me know what my son is dealing with.

I do hope you get to go to the lake next weekend. Sounds wonderful!

Vicki said...

Hi, Jane! Sorry it is so cold. I make my meal plan for the week based on what is on sale. I love the buy one, get ones too. Hope you will be gardening soon!

Mary Ann Pickett said...

You crack me up about the delicious dinner...but no photos. That happens to me all the time that I forget to take photos...but you still have my mouth watering with the menu.
All cash sounds painful. That would backfire on my husband as I would always be asking for his...why do I hate getting cash and gas so much? Sounds like you have a wonderful evening planned. We are doing the same.
Mary Ann

Kori said...

I can't wait for summer! I hope you are having a great weekend love.

Did you hear about my good news this week? Kori xoxo

http://www.blondeepisodes.com/2011/03/wordless-wednesday-and-great-news.html

Theresa said...

First of all let me wish your Honey a quick recovery! Perhaps it is that TO DO list at the lake house that is making him ill:) Just kidding!

I love hearing what the weather is like and I think most of us are the same way! We had a misty morning and rain this evening!

Your dinner party sounds yummy and fun but YES you should have taken pictures!

Hope your weekend is wonderful! HUGS!

Robin@DecoratingTennisGirl said...

Janie,
Yes, cold here, too and snowing some. St. Louis is suppose to get 3-5 and that total usually travels right up I-70 to us! I am sooooo ready for that gardening, too!
Stay warm!!!

Queen Bee's Musings said...

Yes it's cold here also and staying in... You need to read Distant Hours by Kate Morton.. Someone mentioned Roses by Lillian Mecham. Good about Texas past and present farmers. All time favorite is The Forgotten Garden also by Kate Morton. Good luck with the cash hate that. We've tried that. ;(.

Julie Marie said...

Hi Jane, I love your random posts... seems like we are just sitting here chatting together... your Spring decor looks cute!... as for cash or credit, I always pay cash or use my debit card (same as cash)... I learned long ago the woes of charging things!... so nowadays, if we can't pay cash for something, we don't get it till we can... as far as saving money on groceries, I don't have a clue!... every time I grocery shop, everyday items like even milk and coffee have gone up in price... I freeze tons of fresh vegetables and alot of fruits and berries during the summer and we eat those in the winter... that helps some... now for the tillers... we had a Mantis and hated it and sent it back... it was not self propelled, plus you had to pull it backwards to till... pain in the butt! We bought a bigger Honda and loved that, plus we had our tractor at our little farm I posted about... LOVED driving that little John Deere!... I too am so anxious for Spring, and your weather sounds like how ours has been... we were teased with a few sunny warm days and now we are back to snow, yuck!... well, I have almost done a post here, tee hee hee... too bad there is no place for photos!...have a nice evening sitting by your fire and enjoying a good book... I am re~reading Naomi Judd's book "Aging Gratefully" for about the fifth time, but I get something new out of it each time... xoxo Julie Marie

NanaDiana said...

Hi Jane- I love your random posts because I am a random kinda gal! I can remember the anxiety of getting back to our cottage in the Spring..and all the winter clean up work that needed to be done. It was so much fun and so much work.

I read the other response about the Mantis...I have one and I love it. You work it by pulling it back towards you and I find (for me) it is easier than trying to use one that runs forward...but that is just my personal preference. I also don't have huge areas to till...mainly flower beds.

I use a debit card for my personal stuff (my own money) and a credit card that we pay off every month for groceries, etc. I also have "quit buying" because I don't need any more stuff! I used to order online all the time and now I blog instead of spending! lol Works for me.

Hope your hubby is feeling better soon and that you (or the kids) don't get it...Colds this time of the year are just miserable.

We are traveling this week and so far it is all RAIN. I am disappointed, to say the least. Have a wonderful Sunday! xxoo Diana

Marigene said...

Sounds like you have had a very busy day, Jane. We have had nasty weather today, too...rain, sleet and hail, plus the usual Kansas wind...I am more than ready for spring.

Tracy said...

Hi Jane,
I just started couponing and drugstore shopping in the last few months. I spend a little time prepping for my shopping trip each week, and I've been stockpiling non-perishables and buying in bulk when things are on sale. It's been working well for me, as I've cut back spending, have a surplus of nearly everything I normally use, and it's kind of fun to do. I like to shop and it's a thrill to see how much I can get for very little money! I'm spending about $50 a week, and that amount is dropping as I'm finding I need to buy fewer things because I have a surplus. If you decide to try couponing, I recommend reading http://www.iamthatlady.com. She's full of good info. I hope you have a great weekend!

La said...

I like your spring decor, especially the sign with the nest.

I use my debit card for everything.

It is very cold here too and I have zero ambition. The house needs cleaned, the Easter decorations need pulled down from the attic, grocery shopping, and laundry all need done. Did I do any of it today? NO. I took a nap instead.

I enjoyed P&P, the movie. I have the book, but it is used for decor. I never tried to read it for the very reason you didn't finish it.

Enjoy your warm fire and movie. I hope your hubby feels better tomorrow.

Suzann said...

Wonderful random post. I know they keep saying it's spring, but seriously I'm over the super cold.

As for groceries...I plan out each and every meal and only buy what we need. I've been saving crazy mad money since I started doing this. Of course, use coupons whenever possible.

Tricia said...

Hi Jane. I understand your posting about the weather, I talk about it all the time, really I should say complain, I so tired of being cold. I can't wait to follow along with you as you make some changes at your lake house. And as for the cash or credit thing, I always pay by credit card for me it's just easier. I've been really good about not buying things for my house though. I used to own a store and ever since then it seems like I don't buy as much for my house...I never see things I love.

Olive said...

Jane, the Steig Larrson trilogy is wonderful and full of action. The first one is "The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo" and I could not cope with cash. However Joe and I have seperate checking accounts so I know how much money I have each month...not much.

Anonymous said...

Love this post. It sounds like the thoughts that go rushing through my head sometimes. I'm an insomniac too - hard core! We budget in a way, in that we have x amount to cover bills transferred regularly to a dedicated account. Some more goes into a dream saver. I have to say, we transfer money between accounts a lot. I try to use home made cleaning items, and some home made personal products. This helps cut down costs significantly. Have a lovely weekend

x

Picket said...

Hey girl...hope you see some sunshine soon and that hubby gets well quick...I do cash...we paid off all credit cards a few years ago and got rid of them...the best thing we ever did! The price of groceries have went up so much lately I need to use coupons! Take care sweetie and stay warm...have a great weekend....Picket

Rustic and White said...

I was a debit card gal but found I had too much week left after the money was gone so my husband and I switched me to cash. It is making it easier for me to keep track but it is also easier for my sons to borrow cash from me...and if I remember they pay me back:o) I read every night before I go to bed. Often I read design mags but books are a passion of mine too. Right now I am in the middle of The Perfect Summer by Luanne Rice. It is just fluff but I am enjoying it. My job is so stressful, Vice Principal in a school, that sometimes fluff is all I can handle.
It is cold here too and my hubby and I went to see Rango...not a movie I would recommend.
Cheers for now!
Carrie

Anonymous said...

Hope your hubby feels better soon. You stay healthy, too. Your posts are so genuine and funny! I like the weather reports:)
Sounds like you have enough to keep you busy next weekend! I bet it's exciting to give the lake house a new look.
I used to do an envelope system where you put x amount in each envelope for groceries, household, entertainment, etc. It worked pretty well. I just use a debit card for everything now. We aren't good at remembering to pay off credit cards. You'll have to share how it works out.
Your dinner party sounds wonderful, too. Not taking pictures... just means you were having too much fun :) I did that with our Christmas party this past year. I think we had a couple from friends that took pictures with their phones...LOL!
Your night sounds so cozy by the fire and a good book! We are watching the Cooking Network. It is Saturday, right? We are old, haha!
Enjoy your weekend!
Hugs,
Michelle

Donna said...

Love your spring things AND their sentiments....it's 27* here!!

xinex said...

My goodness, I cannot believe how cold it is still there, it's almost April. We almost turned on the central air today, it was 86 degrees. Love your spring signs!...Christine

High Street Cottage said...

The dinner sounds divine, Jane, and your I'll bet your table setting was gorgeous. I have found when I put something together like that, sort of last minute being creative with what I have, it turns out the best, xxx tami

Wsprsweetly Of Cottages said...

Jane, I loved this post. Just to sit and ramble with you made it so personal I guess. Hearing about your day. I loved it. It was too cold to get out and do anything today here...So...perhaps next week. I still have flowers sitting intheir containers waiting to be planted. Ah well...it will get done.
Thankfully, I never have to do the grocery shopping and husband goes to Costco and buys in amounts that are usually way too much! :)
What is nice about getting old is that you get out of a lot of things!~ :) Ok...sorta!
Hugs!

Divine Theatre said...

Don't forget to check Craigslist for your rototiller!
One way to be able to spend online is to buy a refillable Visa Card. It comes directly out of your cash fund so you actually pay for the purchase in advance, if you know what I mean? I do that with ebay so I absolutely cannot overspend!

oldgreymare said...

That lunch i made today was very inexpensive.

My new trick is to only buy food for a few days. When I have a specific list instead of general stock up I do much better..of course Costco is another matter entirely..most of what I bring home from there isn't even edible...well except for the margarita mix. : D

xx
z

Sarah said...

Jane, I've been working on getting a bit of fresh spring things out in the house too. Also working in the garden because our days are definitely not cold anymore. With temps in the high 80s and creeping into the 90s some days, I fear we could have a hot summer.
Hope the hubby feels better soon and that you don't get the cold.
Cash or credit, I'm a CC person, but do think that cash is a better way to keep an eye on what one is spending. I've done it that way before, and it does make a difference. Good luck!
Hope it warms up for you. ~ Sarah

Kathy@ Gone North said...

Rambling is good with friends... in fact sometimes very good...
I try to use cash, I just spent too much when using my CC.
& my money saving tip for the night... do not go to a casino like we did tonight... : )

BonjourRomance said...

I like your random posts, it keeps things interesting, and random is how my mind usually works...Hope your Honey is feeling better soon. I have always preferred using cash, it is much easier to keep track of what you are spending.
The hardwood floors will be a lovely in time for Srping and all those gardens we are planning!
WIshing you a good Sunday!
Mimi

Cindy (Applestone Cottage) said...

Hi Jane,
I am wide awake and it feels like were just sharing a cup of coffee!
I am so sick of the cold too as you well know. I try to pretend that's it's not really so crappy outside or I might just lose it!
Love your springy decor and that meal sounded awesome!
Hugs friend,
Tell Al to get well soon.
Cindy

Susan Freeman said...

I'm like an old dinosaur ~ I write checks for everything. I stopped using credit cards a few years ago and only have two now. It's been so much easier because I just pay as I go and there are no big shockers in the mail at the end of the month. I love old movies and watched the original Mildred Pierce on Turner Classic Movies last night. By the way ~ you NEVER bore me!! Love reading your posts!!

Love,
Susan and Bentley
xxoo

Karen thisoldhouse2.com said...

Love your spring touches! I'm a sucker for those in the store, this year I have been trying not to buy anything new. If I saw that egg wreath, though... well...

Lynn said...

Your dinner sounds great Jane, I'll bet everyone loved it! It's cold here in Philly too, I'm using up the last of the fire wood. The only tip I can offer about saving grocery money is to create a menu and shopping list and stick to it! Happy Sunday:@)

Sonny G said...

Jane. I enjoyed reading your post..
I am a credit card person but ya know its the one ya have to PAY in FULL every month , so that kinda makes me a cash person using plastic only in the moment lol.. I havent had any REAL credit cards in 11 years and once I got used to that, it works well for me.
I too am an old movie person as I prefer them to most of the new ones.
I hope you and yours are having a great weekend. We're having liquid sunshine here and the air is a bit cool but thats fine too..
I figure Mother Nature knows what's needed far batter than I do.
xoxoxoxoxo
Sonny

koralee said...

You are a busy bee...I love all your sweet Spring decor...don't even have mine up yet...silly me but the weather has been so wet and yucky I haven't felt much like Springing up my home!!

Happy day to you my friend. xoxoxo

Sherri said...

Sounds like you have been busy! Thanks for stopping by my blog. I will let you in a my white gravy 'secret'. It's Pioneer Brand, country gravy mix from a pack! LOL A friend told me last year it is as good as homemade (and she won't TOUCH 'instant' potatoes...so I knew I had to try the pack for gravy). It is delicious and EASY! The meatballs are a quick whip up too. Can be frozen and used with different meals. Gotta love that!

Lori said...

It is colder here too Jane ~ almost think that winter is back as we had a dusting of snow the end of the week. I do not mind your rambling as I sit here still in my pj's on a Sunday afternoon. Guess I just outed myself and did not go to church! ha! I am a big reader but nothing as deep as P&P I am afraid. I like murder mysteries ~ sometimes with a hint of romance.
I have no hints about saving at the grocery store other than I tend to pick things up while they are on sale and don't wait until we are right out of something. I use cash whenever possible ~ I only use the credit card when absolutely necessary ~ like on line shopping! Happy Sunday ~ hope hubby is feeling better soon. xo

Joey said...

Oh the dilemma of cash/debt card or credit card. I am totally unable to handle charging everything. I've really dug a hole doing that!

As far as reading, I am a rabid reader but had readers block starting last September. It was awful. I would take tons of books out of the library and start them and hate them and finally just stopped trying. Two weeks ago I brought home about 10 books and started reading one that I ended up loving. The Stuff That Never Happened. THEN - I was convinced to try The Hunger Games. I LOVED the Twilight series but am soooo not a sci-fi girl. I want real people real lives depicted. To me Twilight was a fluke. Till The Hunger Games. Completely devoured this Young Adult book and can't wait to read the 2 sequels.

Love your blog!

Susan EvelynAndRose said...

Hi Jane,
I think we have your cold temperatures here, too. Brrr...where's spring? I love your Easter egg wreath and other Easter touches. Good luck with gardening & decorating!
- Susan

Sue said...

I think reading "fluff" is fun sometimes. We get to know you better! We had snow yesterday and Friday, but today at least the sun was shining and it wasn't quite as cold. Our weekend was nursing home visit yesterday (extremely sad...my mil has become very confused in the past week) and painting all day today (him, not me). The countertop arrives in the morning. What a mess we are living in right now!!

bj said...

Mildred Pierce is one of my all time favorite movies. :)

Sounds as if you have had a busy weekend. Me, too. I also had Deeds spending the night last night and we had fun watching NEVER BEEN KISSED, with Drew Barrymore.

I use mostly cash, some credit cards and debit card. With us being on a fixed income, we do have to watch the pennies.'
xoxo

Paula ~ castleandcottagesigns said...

Hi Jane~ I love your posts:) Always so fun to read, and funny too!
I too am shopping for a rototiller~ I think I'm going to borrow one again this year and wait till the end of summer when Lowe's marks them down and buy a new one. That's what a friend did and got a great deal, like 45% off.
Hope you get better/warmer weather this week~ sometimes they can be wrong on the forcast! lol:)
hugs,

paula:)

Sue said...

Dear Babbling Blondie.... I like hearing all your ramblings! Let's me know what's up in your neck of the woods. I don't like to carry cash- it spends too easily and then I think I've lost it or was given the wrong change! tee hee I use my debit card and balance at the first of each month. Or not.... Depends on the mood.... The bank is never wrong, is it?!! LOL hugs, Sue

April said...

Jane...you never bore me! I always enjoy reading about what's been going on in your corner of the world. You know, it's been COLD here, too...and I don't like it one bit, either! Where's that warm weather we had last week? I want it BACK! I like the "cash only" idea...just don't know if I could stick to it.

Unknown said...

Hope the hubby is better. I am glad you are busy...lovely post and not boring :)
Hugs

Melissa: Write it in Lipstick said...

I have thought about doing cash as well I had a friend who was so good at it but I am a card person I burn through cash in my pocket and I feel more accountable for my money when i can see it online.

Hope the hubs feels better

Write it in Lipstick

i'm your newest follower

Evi said...

My, my, and I thought I we were busy doing our bathroom remodel.
I think you have more planned than that!
Our carpenter just quit on us today...we hear it is a bad back?!
Just packed up his tools and left.
I thought he went for lunch.
Well, that changes things...this family will be in action mode..trying to get it done ourselfs.
At least the plumber did his work.
I am feeling better, thank you for asking.
Now to how to handle money...
For me...cash is king. If I charge something, it needs to be paid off that month.
It is not easy...but knowing there is no debt, is rewarding.
Keep up the good work!
Hugs from an also cold southern NY state,
Evi

Pamela said...

Love your spring Easter signs Jane...especially the bunny!!

Pamela ox

Rhonda said...

I personally love your random post - something for everyone here!!!

No tips on grocery savings except for couponing and going on double coupon day

Absolutely no idea about rototillers!

Book? I am about to start "Water For Elephants". Alex finished it and said it was incredible. The movie is coming out the end of April.

Hope it warms up soon for you guys and that you make it to the lake this weekend!
Rhonda

Unknown said...

Hi Jane,
We have a budget, and use cash. I just got back from food shopping. I use Price Chopper here now, and besides the money you save using their card, I save money on my gas too. I started buying the store brands for some items. My husband and the kids would prefer their favs, but I save lots of money that way.

I was joking with the lady next to me at the deli counter. As I looked at the prices per pound, I said that 50 years ago my Grandmother used to have deli on Friday's because it was cheap back then.

Oh and gardening, I have been finding myself going to our local Botanical Garden each weekend just so I can see some gardens in bloom. Can't wait for Spring.

Karen

Bargain Decorating with Laurie said...

Jane, I love that Spring time bunny. I need to cut up my credit card. I try being a cash only girl, but when I run out, the credit card flies out of my purse. Of course, internet purchases have put a big dent in my credit card! How fun to be decorating rooms. Can't wait to see what you do. laurie

Jacqueline~Cabin and Cottage said...

Jane! You are so good about stopping by and sayin' hey! What would we all do without you? I hate thinking about money either way. When the economy tanked I quit buying for the shop the way I used to. I had to get another hobby! Ha! But I got used to it.

Karena said...

Jane I am loving your spring touches, and yes it is still freezing here!

I have a new giveaway I think you will love…from The Zhush!

xoxo
Karena
Art by Karena

Rubyred said...

Hello Jane,
I shop with a debit card but I roughly plan my meals ahead. I also buy thr buy 1 get ones, but only if it's something I use regularly!
Hope your hubby feels better soon and you get to the lake!
Rachel x

Lynne said...

Blondie! How great it is to meet you! Thank you for following! Your blog is lovely and your family is precious...I am honored to be your newest follower! *Lynne* {w/l}

The Charm of Home said...

Hi Jane,
I am a cash grocery person too. I estimate everything I put in the cart and usually it works. If I don't have enough I start to eliminate. I just read Gifts From the Sea by Anne morrow Lindburgh. I am sorta sad this spring and I never get sad and the book made me feel kind of sad too. I don't like my kids getting older. If they could only stay little till their Carter's wore out.:)
Sherry

Teresa@1800 Farmhouse Rd said...

Hi there Blondie, I personally like the weather report. I like knowing what the weather is doing in other places. I love the first little sign that you posted with the bunny. I need to look for one. Our weather is nasty here also. The pretty weather sure was nice while it lasted.

FRENCH LAUNDRY said...

I love your fun random posts Blondie! Anyway, I'm definitely a credit card person although I do agree that cash is a better way to go. If you open the wallet and it's empty, you're done buying. Still, I don't know if I will ever be that girl. Let us know how it works out-I'll be interested to see.

Hugs,
Judy

Unknown said...

I need to rest after your busy-ness ... whew! You make our heads spin. Love your Easter decorations. Re food expenses ... the best advice I can offer is diet, chuckle.

Have a beautiful day, my friend ~
TTFN ~
Marydon

Yvonne @ StoneGable said...

It's do fun to hear the everyday of your life.
Buying groceries really hit a cord with me! I think that groceries are getting so expensive! I am in shock everytime I am at the check-out counter. Maybe cash and a calculator would be a good option to me too!
xo Yvonne

Rustic and White said...

Hi there, Just wanted to say thanks so much for stopping by my blog and for your kind words. The couch I purchased from Ikea. It was under $500.00. I love it too. It certainly isn't the best made couch around but it is perfect for my livingroom. The couches in my tv room are much more durable for all the boys in my life:o)
Enjoy the rest of your week!
Carrie

petals and vintage said...

I don't mind your weather reports. It either makes me envious or thankful though.

I am a cash person, but still can shop online with my debit card so all is not lost thank goodness.

Love your spring decs! Have a wonderful day today. Pam x

Chrissy...The Apothecary Shop said...

You are always on the go my dear...its frezzing here and we still have a bunch of snow!!! Hope this finds you well! x0

Debra@CommonGround said...

Hi Jane, Love the Happy Spring sign. and oh gosh, I'm a credit card person...eeeeeck, cash? Hope you made it to the lake, sounds like you have a lot going on. Love to have you visit!!
xo,
Debra

The Quintessential Magpie said...

Janie, I can't believe that it's been so cold. I'm sorry. I wish you were here with me. We've had warmish temps, but it's a bit chilly tonight.

I am so far behind on my blogging due to things here that I wonder if I will ever catch up. But I wanted to be sure and come by to visit you.

Stay warm and enjoy your weekend. Hope your DH is feeling better soon.

XOXOXO,

Sheila :-)

Tammy@Beatrice Banks said...

I enjoyed catching up with you. Love how you just sit down and chat with us. And no, it is not boring. It's like enjoying conversation over coffee.
Have a happy day!
Tammy

Linda @ Life and Linda said...

Hi Blondie.
Nothing wrong with a warm cozy week-end. A nice fire and a movie is perfect. We have beautiful spring weather this week in California. I am a credit card user..We always pay them off every month. Love the spring Easter decor. Where's your yummy dinner photos? Enjoy......XO Linda

Sharon Lovejoy said...

NEVER BORING dear.

Thanks for the homey posting.

All joys,

Sharon Lovejoy Writes from Sunflower House and a Little Green Island

Jacqueline said...

Busy, busy, busy! I need to get decorating for Spring and Easter! I love, love, love your Happy Spring sign. How fun. So much to do, so little time!

bj said...

Hi, Blondie...:))

Linda@Coastal Charm said...

Hello Jane,
I save on food by using coupons...we have been eating at home more lately and it is helping cut down on the food bills. Hope you get to the lake this weekend.

Blessings,
Linda

Anonymous said...

Hi Jane! Thanks for popping in and are you going to come to my cupboard party on Tuesday? Oh, I sure hope so as it should be lots of fun.
You always say the kindest things to me and I do appreciate you.
Be a sweetie,
Shelia ;)

Heartfelt living said...

Hi Jane,
I love your post. I always look forward to reading your blog. This time of year there is not to much to talk about but weather! : ) I find myself doing it daily. I'm really looking forward to warmer weather and your sweet pictures realy help remind me it will be here soon.
Have a wonderful weekend.
xx
Karen

Ann-Marie ~ Brambly said...

I just saw the new Jane Eyre film-it was really lovely.Take care.

Ann-Marie

www.MaisonStGermain.com said...

Hello:) Hope by now everyone feels great. Just wanted to tell you how much I love your Spring decorations:) Oh, and the weather here, lol, 8-12 inches predicted for tonight into tomorrow.
~Debra xxx
Capers of the vintage vixens

All That Glitters said...

Your easter decor is so cute!!!

sarah-jane down the lane said...

Thank you for visiting Jane! It is always so lovely to hear from you- especially as you are so busy!

Sarah x