We painted today. I am tired. I have a headache (from the fumes). I am cranky. (We'll have to go over it at least once more, if not twice.) I have paint in my nose that won't come out.
Hope your Saturday is/was better!!!

I am looking forward to pizza and Angel (rerun from 1st season that we never saw) and Monk. I thoroughly enjoy Monk and DH has never seen it, so tonight will be his first time.

I'm off to ease the pain.
A much more upbeat entry tomorrow.

Until then....

We have a showing today at 1pm (the one with our realtor doing the showing) and the cabinets are supposed to be picked up at 3:30pm.
That only leaves the grill (which will probably end up at the dump) and the carts that we still have to put up.

A very nice couple came Wednesday night to pick up the dresser. They seemed like very free spirited people. There was a matress in the back of their van, and she told me they sleep in there when they go camping/traveling. Then they use the truck stop showers to clean up. (Only $5, so much, much cheaper then a hotel room).
If DH and I ever do traveling around the States, I could see us doing something like this....

Worked with some of my stamps yesterday. I found that I will be trimming the rubber closer to the picture area, because of the excess ink that is on the corners and shows up on the paper. It was enjoyable, now I just wish I had a crafting area (with shelves, etc...) set-up so it would be easier. I have all the stamps in a tote right now, and it's a pain to look through them....

I need to wipe down the bathrooms and give the kitchen floor a sweep, but I really, really don't feel like it. I just want the house to sell, and I'm getting slightly depressed that it hasn't gone yet....
I really don't ever want to try to sell a house again, too much draining emotion goes into it.

Frugal Thought for the Day: We keep our heat at 65 during the day and 60 at night. Sure it is chilly at times (when you're just sitting at the computer or watching TV) but it's a lot cheaper to grab a sweater or a blanket then to turn up the heat. But of course, if you have children, elder, or other's who can't take the cold, you'll have to determine what temperature is right for you...

We didn't get an offer from the second showing on Sunday, but maybe (hopefully) they'll change their mind... We do have another showing on Friday - our realtor will be the one bringing them through - so maybe he'll be able to win them over with all the potential in the house....

I made Jiffy shortcakes last night because we had bought some strawberries, and I wanted some comfort food. My mom use to make the shortcakes from scratch when I was younger. I preferred the store bought kind back then, but now I like the from scratch kind better.
I sent some shortcakes along with DH for lunch, and thought I had grabbed the container with the strawberries (but it was actually broccoli...) I asked him this morning if he had ate all the strawberries because I wanted some for on top of my Cheerios, only to find out about the mix-up.... I had a chuckle out of that one. Subconciously I must have wanted to make sure I had some strawberries for my cereal!

I inventoried most of the stamps yesterday (still have some to do, hopefully today). I am a Virgo so organization is in my blood. I figure it will be easier to see what I have, and to sell them, if I ever decide to do so.

This morning saw me vacuuming the downstairs, doing dishes, dusting, putting away laundry, and tidying up the bathrooms. I also typed up some more descriptions (of ours) for eBay. Now all I have to do is take some pictures of the items and print out my eBay confirmation sheets.
I want to see if DH knows how to put up the instant calculator for shipping. (You type in your zip code and it'll tell you how much shipping will be.) If anyone out there knows how to do this, I would love to know....

I also want to add some links to various websites I visit often. If there is anything else that anyone wants to see, or thinks would enhance my blog, please let me know....

Frugal/Simple Thought for the Day: With the winter months making some people sluggish, try adding some stretches, sit-ups, etc... to your TV routine. Commercials will often find me on the floor doing some two minutes stretches, or going for another glass of water.

Another evening entry, so this will be short, and hopefully understandable!

We were able to make this Tuesday another errand day... Bought our first package of tofu for stir-fry, so hopefully it turns out well. Today was the day for people to take up the whole isle and have carts full of groceries. I was constantly saying excuse (often to deaf ears, so I had to repeat myself more often then not....), but there was nothing I could do about the full carts. They only had two lines open, besides the express, so I waited for about 15 minutes before it was finally my turn. Oh, well what ya gonna do???

Went to the library to drop off the movies and some magazines for the free exchange. We got a few magazines from the exchange, a movie for this weekend, and two books on stamping. I'm excited to look through them to get ideas.

I watched American Idol tonight (American Idol and Fear Factor are the only two reality shows I'll watch. The rest really annoy me...), and I can't believe some of the people! I know I'm not a great singer so there is no way I would ever even think about trying out. I would be really upset if I wasn't good, but friends and family encouraged me.... Please tell the truth, instead of keeping them in the dark!!!

I typed up some more items for eBay. This time they were our stuff, so hopefully some money will come in to support my stamp addiction. I don't want to put too much up right away because it can easily become a hassle trying to keep everything straight. I do have a system, but I found if I put more then 15-20 things up, I get stressed out.

Frugal/Simple Thought of the Day: Make sure to use up those left-overs before they go bad. Make a casserole, soup, or add the items to a salad. If I have a bunch of veggies, I'll make some noodles, add spaghetti sauce and the veggies, then we're good to go.
Fruit can be added to muffin, pancake, or waffle mix. Left-overs also make great lunches, and it's much cheaper then eating out.

We had someone come this evening to pick up the office chair, and on Friday someone is supposed to be picking up the cabinets. Yeah, more stuff gone...

Haven't heard back about the second showing on Sunday yet, we may call the realtor tomorrow afternoon to see if he's heard anything.

It was like Christmas for me today because I received two of the rubber stamp lots that I won. (I got the other 2 last week.) I finally got some ink pads in one of the lots so I can start experimenting. I'm very excited about this!

I also typed up some descriptions for eBay auctions that I'll be putting up this weekend. This week (as of now) is all for our friends that moved to Las Vegas. They're thinking about moving back, so I figured I should try to sell their stuff so I can send the money to them.
I may put a few of our things up this week too, but I don't know yet.

I still have to do my parent's Hummels, but I know I've been procrastinating because I have never sold anything for that much money before, and well.... I'm a tad nervous. But I will be getting to them soon....

Unfortunately my brain doesn't work as well in the evening, so no thought of the day. Hope everyone has a wonderful nights sleep and you wake up tomorrow ready to conquer the world, or at least that pile of laundry!

From Freecycle the drill and adirondeck chair are gone. We still have the cabinets, dresser and grill. I have to complain for a moment.... You try to be nice, give things away, but people don't call/show up when they say they will, what a pain.
Whenever DH and I say we will be somewhere or pick something up we are always on time.

That is one of my pet peeves. It is so disrespectful to say you will be somewhere at a certain time and then not show up or be late. (Granted if you're in the hospital or someone died, that's a good reason, but come on.... how often does that really happen to the same person???)

I had a friend in highschool who was constantly late. We solved this problem by telling her to arrive 1/2 hour to an hour earlier then she was supposed to be there. But if you're coming to pick up something for the first and probably only time, please be considerate and arrive on time....

Okay, I'm done now.

We had a nice hike yesterday at Aztalan Park. DH took some gorgeous pictures. He has a site that he posts his pictures and writings on, check it out if you desire.... Spyros's Site

When we got home we invited MIL over for dinner and a movie (Blood Work) We had the Mushroom Rice Soup that I made. DH really liked it, but MIL and I thought it was too spicey. If I took a bite of the soup and then ate some salad I was fine, but just eating the soup alone was too much....

DH fell asleep about 15 minutes into the movie, and he had wanted to get together with friends. I told him that was a bad idea if he hadn't had a nap, plus with all the fresh air. (That's why we invited MIL over instead.) I don't like it that I sometimes act like a mother to him, but when I stop to think that's what most men (people) want, it doesn't bother me too much.... ususally....

The couple coming to look at the house again, will be here in an hour, so I better get going so we can shower and be off. Off to where, we're not sure yet....
At this point in our lives I'm glad we don't have kids, because I can just imagine how hard it would be to have to leave for showings (sometimes on very short notice), and have to continually prepare your children. Plus the whole packing and moving part with them.... I really do give kudos to those who can do it and not completely loose their mind!

Frugal/Simple Thought of the Day: Although it's not always simple until you have system, cooking from scratch can save money, and is usually better for your health. And if your creations don't always turn out, there's always next time!

We've had lots of emails regarding the stuff we put up on Freecycle, but unfortunately no pick-up times yet.... Oh well, hopefully today people will email to let us know when they can come get the stuff.
It's beginning to snow quite heavily, it looks beautiful, but I hope it doesn't deter anyone who thought about stopping by today.

I had a very good day yesterday while paying bills. (Yes you did read that right...) I was able to pay off one of the two hospital bills, so we will now take the money that was going to the first one and apply it to the second one, along with the regular payment.

I called the credit card company to see about getting rid of our Monthly Membership fee which is $6/month. They lowered it to $3/month, like they did last year (which was a start.)
Then she told me if I make 4 purchases within the next 25 days they will raise our credit limit by $500. I told her I did not want to do that, she paused for a bit, but at least she didn't ask why not.

We've been in trouble with our credit in the past, and after taking steps to fix the situation, we don't want to go through it again. Because of this we pay for most things in cash (bills are paid by check). We use our credit card for a few things every month (usually around $100). We pay off the entire amount every month and have only been late once due to me writing down the wrong date. But I called and they took it off our record....
Because of the trouble in the past, we want to keep our credit at an amount we can afford, if it's every to the max, so no raising of our credit, please!

She said since we didn't want to do that she would credit the account $29. I think this is because the credit raising may be a promotion and if people don't take it they get the $29 credit. (Strange, but.....) So with the $29 credit and getting the monthly fee cut in half, we'll be paying the credit card company $7 this year instead of $36.

Why don't we look for a different card, you may ask? Well we have, but have not been approved. And with every credit card application you send in, it goes on your credit report, and it doesn't look as good. So we're sticking with this one for awhile, so our credit report gets better.

Then after I wrote the check out for US Cellular, something went off in my mind that the price wasn't correct. We had signed a new plan and part of that plan was to get $10 off our first three months. I called and a very nice man told me that they hadn't put it on the account, so he manually over-wrote it. He told me to make sure to check the next two bills, just in case...So after tax and other applicable fees I saved us $8.34 on the bill.

Today we have to go to the library to drop off a video, and we're going to do our weekly shopping (I know Tuesday's supposed to be the day...) I went though a few of my cookbooks and found some recipes for Brown Rice and Mushroom Soup, Baked Onions and Apples, Barbequed Pinto Beans, and one more item.

Frugal/Simple Thought for the Day: (If you are a constant reader, you will see that I repeat certain things. This is because I really believe they are helpful, and if you are anything like me I may not try something unless I see it again and again...)
Make sure to check over all of your bills. If there is a fee you don't understand or you didn't buy the item, make sure to call and get it corrected.
There are mistakes on bills all the time. (Personally I think some companies do this to make some extra money.... I wonder just how many US Cellular customers didn't have the $10 discount put on their account??? And just how many actually caught it since you get so used to paying the same amount every month...)

Wonderful news... we have a second showing this Sunday. It's amusing because the realtor for this couple is our neighbor right across the street. Dave (the neighbor) has probably brought at least 5 couples through between this time and the last time we put our house up for sale.
Either he's being a great guy and trying to help us, or he wants us to move... ; - )

Right now I'm listening to the Chicago Soundtrack (courtesy of our library). I'm going to have to put a request in for the movie, because I really want to see it again. If you haven't seen it, I highly recommend it. Even though it's a musical, there's a great story line, vulgar language, and flesh (if you don't mind that....)

DH put most of the items up on Freecycle (the pictures for one item didn't take, for some reason, so we still need to list that). So far we've had interest in four of the items and one set pick-up time for tomorrow.

I don't normally talk about the cold weather, because, well, there's nothing you can do about it.... But dang it's cold out. I went from the one garage to the other one to get a pizza out of the freezer, and ugh..... It made me think of all the people and animals out in this weather.
If there's any programs in your area such as: coat or blanket donations, and you have some to get rid of, please take them to these places as soon as possible. There are many needy people, and no one should have to suffer in this cold.

Frugal/Simple Thought of the Day: There are so many people in need in your own town/city that instead of always sending money off to distant countries, try to find programs in your area that you can donate your time and/or money.

We have another showing today, so far no takers though. It's between 4:30-5:30pm, so DH had to lay down after he got home and ate lunch, then I'll get him up at 4pm. We'll go to the library and come home around 6pm, then DH will lay down again until he gets up at 9:30pm.
I hope the house sells very soon, for DH's sleep pattern to be back to normal, as well as everything else....

I had I surprise when I started the computer today. It had a beatiful blue snowflake background (from a picture DH took overlayed in blue) with a fairy and some very lovely words he had written. What a wonderful way to start the day.

After some computer time, I was a busy little bee...
Vacuumed the entire downstairs (takes about an hour), mopped kitchen and one bathroom, put away laundry, dusted and Windexed the living room, cleaned/wiped down the fridge, did dishes and made lunch (only to do more dishes....)

We plan on painting the upstairs bedroom on Saturday, and I still want to vacuum the stairs and tidy up a few loose ends down in the basement.

Simple/Frugal Thoughts for the Day: Try your hardest to find a house that you love and will live in for the rest of your life, the first time you buy!!!
All the stress, money and time put into selling is, well, stressful....
After we sell, we'll be living in an apartment until we have time to figure out where we want to move and then take as much time as needed to find the perfect house.

Lunch yesterday was very enjoyable. Paige (11 year old daughter) was very entertaining and helped with the ackward silences that can happen when first meeting someone. Paige is homeschooled (or un-schooled, which if we ever have kids, this is what I would like to do...) and it was interesting asking Jodi (her mom) about it.
Next time we get together with them I would like to ask more questions, since I am very interested in this subject.

We have another showing today at 3pm, so after DH's chiropractic appointment at 2pm, we'll head over to the library. Like usual we have some things to return, and may borrow some more items....

I made a crock-pot full of bean stew yesterday (white beans, potatoes, carrots, onions, and spices). I froze half of it since last time some of it went bad before we finished eating it. I also made some blueberry muffins (Krusteaze? brand), and DH says we can get that kind from now on, so he must have really liked them!

I will be dehydrating some Granny Smith apples today so they don't go bad. I am not an apple eater (unless they're peeled and cut into pieces) but I really like the dehydrated kind.

Today is also laundry day, and I need to do some general cleaning; dusting, vacuuming, tidying up a bit...

Frugal/Simple Thought for the Day: I haven't posted the link for this website for some time. If you haven't gone there yet, check it out... And if you have, but haven't gone back in awhile, what are you waiting for!!!
Simple Living Network
Make sure to check out the forums, there is a lot of good/interesting information there...

We went to Park Ponderosa Ballroom yesterday to watch some Bluegrass bands. It was very fun and the music (for the most part, except one band) was very good. The band Jefferson County was excellent. They had six bands play, but we only saw 3 1/2 since we didn't get there right when they started, and we left before they were done...

We still haven't posted on Freecycle, but hopefully tomorrow.

We were supposed to be going for a walk with some new people that Spyros met on his blog site, but with dangerous below zero weather, that won't be happening. Instead we're meeting for lunch.... we just can't seem to get away from it. I really wish our society was more home friendly and less restuarant going. I have no problem making a meal at my home, or going to someone else's to enjoy a meal.

Frugal Thought for the Day: Don't eat out!!!!
Soon I'll write some ideas to help with not eating out as much....

We just finished taking pictures for Freecycle and will be most likely posting the free items tomorrow. We also mopped up the garage (gotta love melting snow), and put down a material barrier for our oil leaking van...

Today we sanded the upstairs room. It went faster then I thought it would. I also wanted to paint today, but DH didn't so we'll probably do it Wednesday or so.

I didn't want to post this, but DH said I should.... more stamps were bought today.... Then Spyros said I should illustrate the point of it always pays to shop around.

I won this auction of 123 stamps (many of them large, so they would easily go for $10-$15 in the store) for $152.50. With insurance, shipping and certified mail it came to $171. That comes out to $1.39 a stamp. As long as I use them, it's a heck of a deal...
There is an auction for a bit over 250 stamps on eBay right now with about 3 hours left. Right now the price is $1525. That makes it $5.50 per stamp. (that's appox. and we used 275 stamps)
It's definately not a bad price per stamp, but as shown by the auction I won with roughly half the stamps for 1/10 the price, you can do better.
I am not trying to brag, I just want to illustrate with patience and research a better price can be found.

eBay can be very addictive, so it's very important for me to have a set price that I will bid and not to go any higher. (The last 2 minutes of the auction I made DH feel my pulse because it was racing....) I also do my research thoroughly. There were many auctions with great stamps at good prices, put I kept focused and bid only when I felt it was an extraordinary price.

And there will be no more bidding on eBay until all the stamps come in and I have time to work with them. That way I will see which ones I like and if there is for example, 3 Happy Birthday stamps and I only like one of the styles I can resell the other two on eBay.

Once I get all the stamps I will total how many there are, the price paid (with and without insurance, etc...) and then do a comparison with actual retail prices. This may be of interest to any crafters out there (beginning or otherwise) to see how they can go about enjoying their hobby frugally.
When I post that information I will also post various storage ideas I have read about for craft items. Using wall mounted cassette/CD holders to keep your ink pads, is one of the many ideas.
So keep your eyes open in the next couple of weeks for this entry....

Frugal/Simple Thought of the Day: As illustrated and I have said numerous times - It pays to be patient and shop around!!!

We're still anxiously waiting to see if there was any feedback from the showing last night. If the realtor hasn't called by Monday, we'll be calling him....

DH was really tired this week (he'd been staying up to 4pm most days, instead of his usual 2pm bedtime), so he laid down at 1pm and I woke him up at 5.

We want to have a goal of eating out only 6 times this year. Already used one time when we took MIL and BIL out. But I think we're going to use another time tonight. Chinese really sounds good.

Perhaps we'll change the goal to 12 times.... Oh well, every time we fall, there's nothing to do but try again, and harder....

Today was a pretty lazy day for me since we have to keep the house clean for the showings, there wasn't too much for me to clean.

I looked through some of the craft magazines I borrowed from the library. I like to look through them first, and then go through them a second time to find the items that I want to copy. My idea book for stamping is growing quickly.

I need to start working on my Price Book. I will, I will, I will.... Since we've changed our eating habits, I need to re-do parts of it with new food items. And I need to make a list of items that we get at Aldi's to compare prices there.

When you read these posts I never want anyone to think that I believe I am better then anyone out there. I have many faults too. Why am I typing this?? After re-reading some of my posts, things could be taken that way. I love computers and their many uses, but when it comes to conveying emotion, it is very difficult. I will always prefer having a conversation face to face, but since everyone will not be coming to my house every day, this will have to do!!!

That paragraph was to prepare you for my next statement: I bid on another lot of stamps....26 stamps, nine ink pads and 6 dauber duos (like a crayon for stamps). With shipping came to $57.46, still a good price (I think), but just goes to show I can splurge as easily as the next.

Anyway...hope you have had better self-control then me lately : )

Frugal/Simple Thought of the Day: Don't keep your budget so strict that you can't have fun, or you may grow to hate your finances. Balance is good.

DH asks where my blog is... I know we aren't like couples who learn about each other's day by what is written on the computer, we try to keep the communication open. But it's hard. Just when you think it's going great, something comes up. So the only thing to do is try again, and again, and sometimes again.....

Don't worry, nothing's come up. I was just thinking that when he asked about the blog.

Anyway....

Our house is on the market again. We have a showing between 4:30-5pm, which is great, but DH sleeps between 2-9:30pm. We'll have to let the realtor (Jeff) know to put in the info. sheets that we need 24 hour notice for showings after 2pm. What to do, what to do....

I will be listing on eBay again next week. So I'll put a link up incase anyone is interested in what goodies we are selling.

I've started writing again (my creative juices have been turned back on). And I also bid on a lot of 48 rubber stamps on eBay ($38.56 with shipping - which is a great deal on stamps), so I can start making cards, bookmarks, stationary, etc... for myself, as gifts, and possibly even to sell.

I think with my writing I would like to start submitting articles on frugality/simple living. So if anyone has done this (and not necessarily with those topics) let me know. I would like to hear about your process, and if you have any tips.

When we do errands in DeForest again, we'll be stopping at Pick n Save to return a box of cereal. General Mills cereals were on sale and we picked out a box that had a tag right underneath it with the sale price. I checked our receipt and saw that it came up for $4.44. No way would I ever pay that much for a box of cereal.
It's fine if that kind was not on sale (there were plenty of other kinds to choice from) I just hate when they mis-label items, which unfortunately happens quite often....

Frugal/Simple Thought of the Day: I use to be afraid of returning items. I didn't want to bother anyone, etc... But now I don't even think twice. With prices being constantly changed, price problems happen a lot. Make sure to check our receipts and be polite when you return the item.

Errand day today. Yeah... two weeks in a row.

We had a realtor stop by today, and he'll be coming back tomorrow for us to go over his selling plan. After he left we went to the library (just to drop items off), the bank, then the grocery store. We spent more then normal for our weekly staples, fruits, and veggies, but we stocked up on some canned goods and bought some varieties of Bocca Burgers (meatless) that were on sale.

After that we were off to Sun Prairie to drop off our hand cart at DH's co-worker's aparment (his roommate bought a safe that they needed to take upstairs.) Then we were off to the chiropractor and Half Price Books to sell some software. Half Price no longer accepts used Microsoft software, so we were only able to sell one of the four items. The other three, we'll just see if someone we know wants them, or else donate them.

I want to straighten the living room and kitchen, since if we sign with this realtor he will be taking pictures of these areas, so I'm off.....

Frugal/Simple Thought of the Day: When at first you don't succeed try again, and if necessary try it in a different way. We were disappointed with the house not selling, but we have a new battle plan and are ready to go again.

Hello everyone!

Today should see me doing some deep cleaning around the house, since we'll be calling realtors this week to come out and give us an evaluation.

We went through all the boxes in the hallway, so now I just need to organize the eBay and craft stuff. Then I can dust and vacuum back there.

We didn't do too much yesterday. I read while DH played on the computer. We watched Domestic Disturbance while we were eating lunch. Then we read some more. We went over to his Mom's for dinner. (chili and yummy 7 layered salad, I think next time I'll just have the salad...) Came back home and DH layed down to sleep before 3rd shift. I watch Charmed and Alias (I was very excited since they are finally new again.) Read some more and then went to bed.

Baby Kitty is driving me crazy today.... he keeps meowing so I stop and give him attention, water, food... but nothing is appeasing him. At least the other cat is quietly sleeping... for now!

Simple/Frugal Thought of the Day: With so many ways to keep track of appointments, there really is no excuse for forgetting one. The paper calendar is a great stand-by, but there are also palm pilots (not too frugal, unless you use it a lot for work), and free websites that will e-mail you reminders. Even cell phones can be programmed to remind you.
DH signed me up to a free site on the computer, but I really don't use it. My paper calendar still works the best for me.

So far the exercising is going good. Richard Simmons was my friend again yesterday, and today we're going for a hike at Parfay's Glen (?) We also went into town yesterday for DH's chiro visit and some more shopping of the after Christmas sales.

If you look at my blog over the past few weeks, you would thing to yourself: Who is this woman trying to kid? She's not frugal!!! But this is how our spending is every year and we save/adjust our budget in anticipation of the extra shopping at the beginning of the year. This is when we do the majority of our clothes, household, and gift shopping.

We went back to Gander Mountain to pick up two more pairs of the waterproof, wool socks for DH. (Not on sale, but with his job delivering mail and with taking hikes, something that is definately needed.)

Then we stopped at Kohl's to see if our friend was working (she was...) and I have been wanting to get a good knife and better cutting board for sometime now, especially since we are eating many more fruits and veggies, and I like to cut them by hand. Both items were on sale, the knife was half off and the cutting board was 30% off.

After that we stopped at Old Navy to get DH a zipper fleece (once again for his job and hikes.) Was $24.99 down to $6.99. They are having good sales on fleece and other winter items, so now would be a good time to stock up if you have the need.

Our last stop was Bath and Body Works. DH has been needing some really good hand cream since the cold, wind, and handling of paper has left his hands in horrible shape. We ended up getting 6 jars of Skin Repair Healing Body Butter, usually $5 but on sale for $2. We also got 2 tubes of Look Ma, New Hands which has parrafin in it, to help seal in moisture and block out the wind. These were buy one get one free.
We also purchased items to make up three gift baskets next Christmas for my Step-Mom and two Step-Sisters. And the one splurge was a candle for us at 75% off. We love candles, so this won't be wasted by just sitting on a shelf and looking pretty.

We may go back to pick up some more Body Butters and find out: If they go on sale regularly and when. If they are being discontinued and that's why they are on sale. If they are being discontinued, what will be taking their place.
We also got a coupon for a free anti-bacterial soap with purchase, if we do go back.

So yes, it's been all about shopping as of late.... but soon we will get back to our regular spending pattern.

I finished all the boxes I could go through, now DH just has to go through the boxes with his stuff. There's three of them, so it shouldn't take that long. We also brought in a shelving unit from the garage so I can start arranging my craft items today.

I also need to vacuum, but with the size of our house, this is one thing I really don't like doing. Just one more reason why I can't wait to move into an apartment and/or a much smaller house!

We're going to be contacting realtors next week to have them come over and give their assessment of our house and to see who can give us the most bang for our buck (with also the best chances of selling our home, quickly.)

We just want to get out of this place....

Frugal/Simple Thought of the Day: If you find an item you love at a wonderful price, and can afford to, pick up more then one. I remember my step-aunt talking about this when I was younger. She would find a shirt that fit her great and she would pick up various colors.

Once again I can be found in a Bob Seger mood. I would love to see him in concert, just something about his voice.... Anyway...

I did end up walking to the dentist yesterday. Since getting an electric toothbrush, they no longer comment on how I should floss more, so the toothbrush must be doing it's job. I have an old cavitiy that is cracked so I have another appointment next week to go back in and have it re-filled.

I didn't get to any boxes, but it is my mission to do so today. I want to be able to vacuum back there and set up the eBay/craft area. I'm just itching to work on some crafts.

I made a decision today to start exercising. I know, I know... This is something I said a few months ago, but my body has not been feeling well lately and I know it's because of my extra weight. I will start with some exercise videos and hopefully in the Spring, start jogging again. I used to get such an adrenaline rush when I use to run. The thrill of my body on the verge of collapse, only to push it for that extra distance. I realize running is not for everyone (like DH) but I enjoy it...

Simple/Frugal Thought of the Day: If you're going to start an exercise program (after checking with your doctor) you don't need to rush out and get a gym membership. Borrow some exercise videos from the library or friends, start walking, or brush off that exercise equipment you already own.
If you don't have any exercise equipment, and are not sure what you would like, most gyms give you a free trial membership. Use this to find out which of the machines you enjoy using, then check the ads in the paper to purchase it for a lot less then you would pay new.
Or check out Freecycle There are various towns all over the U.S. who are using this system. People list free items that they have to get rid of, and you can also make requests for free items.
Or you could see if any of your friends/family have this piece of equipment, and if they are willing to let you come over and use it. Or they may even give it to you if they no longer use it.

We didn't go to Pick N Save yesterday since there were no good loss leaders. From the library we picked up three movies to watch this week ( Spy Kids 2, Sorority Boys, and Domestic Disturbance), 4 Stampin' Mags and from the free magazine exchange about a dozen mags. (Craft, Graphic Design and Home/Garden)

I guess this was not the week to try and make a spend-free goal (I should have looked at the calendar first!) Today I have a dentist appointment and DH has another chiro appt. on Friday. At least the only money we'll be spending is on medical appts.

We got another calendar as a present for Christmas so I'm using that one to track the total of how much we spend each day. We had (and are still) kept track of every penny in and every dollar out, but seeing how much gets spent is a single day is an eye opener (and makes me a bit nauseous.)

Each day that I can put $0, will make me very happy....

The dentist is only a block away, and I normally walk, but it's so cold that I'm thinking about driving. Although the sun is shining, so I probably won't drive.

I was able to re-pack some boxes yesterday, but then ran out of empty boxes. DH brought some more home so I should be done with this little project very soon. Then it's on to organizing the space to sell again on eBay. I have some items to try and sell for our friends, and my Mom/Step-Dad asked us to try and sell 3 of their Hummels.
If you're interested or know anyone who is interested in Hummels, please contact me since they have more then the 3 to sell.

I'm also excited to set up the area to start working on craft items. I had a few ideas about making some note cards and Thank You notes, that I need to write down so I don't forget.

Today should be a pretty laid back day. I'm thinking about cleaning the bathroom, but other then that and the boxes.....

Simple/Frugal Thought of the Day: It's most likely too late now, but if your place of work offers a flex-plan package seriously consider signing up for it. To help estimate how much you should put into it, look over the past years medical expendisures and write down any major things you will be needing/doing the upcoming year. (New glasses, root canal, pregnancy, etc...)
Being able to pay (or actually get reimbursed) tax-free for medical procedures is a great bonus.

Well, my goal for this week will already be thwarted today. DH has a chiro appointment and I decided to mail out our neice and nephew's Christmas gifts. (We were supposed to see them over Christmas, but they couldn't make it because half the familiy was sick.)

On the bright side, we have a flex-spend plan so we'll be reimbursed tax-free for the chiropractor and we're shipping the package by Media Mail, so it won't be as much. (We got them a book and coloring/activity book each.)

Finally today will be errand day. The proper way that fits into my plan!!! We're running to the library to return items, re-new a book, pick up something for DH and Stamping Magazines for me to browse through to get some ideas. We may also go to Pick N Save if there are any good loss-leaders, which may mean more money spent.

(For anyone who doesn't know, a Loss Leader is an item that is priced at or below cost to try and intice you into the store to hopefully buy more then just that item. But be strong and don't fall for their tricks!)

One thing that I want to do in the New Year is to buy only staples (bread, milk, cheese), fruits, veggies and loss leaders. I will not be buying any paper products (other then tp, kleenex and the occassional roll of paper towel for pet messes.) We will be using dishes and cloth napkins, instead of paper plates and napkins.
And one nice thing about the free item you get when you spend $20 is that it's usually tp, kleenex or paper towel.

A few of our other Resolutions are:
Save $5000 for a cash cushion
Pay off some/all of our debt (if we sell the house paying off all our debt could be a real possibility)
Eat healthier and be more active
Make all gifts or if we do buy them, have them be something useful of that can be used up (bath products, etc...), so we don't add clutter to other people's houses
Work more on our creative expressions (writing, taking pictures, drawing, painting, making crafts....)
Watch less TV (this one is mainly for me. Since DH sleeps from 2pm until 9:30pm, it's very easy for me to settle myself on the couch at 6:30 (Friends reruns, which mainly I haven't seen) and stay there until DH gets up.)

When we went to Goodwill the other da, we saw that the Madison area stores have put out a monthly calendar (that you can take) that has the day's special. (50% off all skis and ski boots, 20% off all T-shirts, etc....) If you're a regular shopper there and you've never seen the calendar before, ask and they may have just started, like our stores.

Frugal/Simple Thought of the Day: Don't be afraid to ask for a discount, the worst they can say is "No." Some of the times you may want to ask:
If the item is damaged: button missing, small tear, dented. But if there is a problem with clothing that is noticeable, make sure you will be able to fix it or be comfortable wearing it how it looks. There is no savings in buying an item for less if you don't use it.
At yard sales: Most people want to just get rid of the stuff. Make sure to do so in a respectful way. Unless it's the last day of the sale, you may not want to really low-ball the price. And ask them quietly instead of shouting it from the other side of the garage.
At a store you shop at often: Get to know the manager and see what they say....
At a Mom and Pop store you may get a discount if you are paying with cash instead of credit. There are fees involved with credit card transactions, so they may be willing to cut you a deal if you save them some costs.

My goal for this week is to have no spend days Tuesday through Friday. I know we spent a lot over the past days, but this is something that is planned with all the after Christmas sales. But now is the time to get back on the frugal wagon.

I didn't do much today. Men if you're reading this, you may want to jump down a paragraph..... I had monster cramps and spent most of the day laying with a heating pad. These were the worst ones I've ever had, so I finally gave in and let DH get me some Midol (I've never tried it before.) It worked, but after reading the ingredients I found that I could take some aspirin and drink some coffee, and probably get the same results. So when the Midol is gone, that's what I'll try.
But I did finish a book that is due at the library, shortly....

I want to finish un-packing the boxes, but DH wasn't able to bring home any more boxes because there wasn't any for him to bring home. So hopefully tomorrow....

I'm going to wrap this up to lay back on the couch (Midol's wearing off....)

Frugal/Simple Thought of the Day: Take a look at the ingredients to what you are eating or taking as medicine. You may be pleasantly surprised that you can make it for a lot cheaper, with similar ingredients, and get the same result. (This is especially true when it comes to convenience foods.) But use common sense when it comes to all foods and medicines, don't take any chances that will harm you.

We went to Madison today for three reasons:
1. DH wanted to use his GC to Gander Mountain
2. We had two boxes (so far) to go to Goodwill and I've been wanting to go to yard sales (but it's the middle of winter, so there's none to be found), and I thought Goodwill would cure my desire.
3. I wanted to stop at JoAnn's and Michael's to check out the after Christmas craft sales.

We stopped at Gander Mountain first and found a pair of wool socks that are also water repellent and a pair of silk long underwear bottoms. The long underwear were $5 off, plus with the gift card, we saved $35.

Next came JoAnn's. We got 2 Peppermint Candles to put in gift baskets next year. (Orginally $3.99 w/ 75% for $1.19) Another present of doggie cut-outs for Scrapbooking ($2.99 now $1.50). And two things for me (well... actually seven...) A pack of 3 rubber stamps. ($9.99 now $2.80) and a package of 4 different colors of ink for the stamps ($5.99 now $1.20)

I was very excited about these deals. I want to start making cards, stationary, wrapping paper, etc... So I've been picking up stamping items when they have a good sale price.

After this came Goodwill. We dropped off the boxes (and got a receipt for our taxes) and then browsed the store. We didn't find anything, but it satiated my yard sale desire, for now.....

Our last stop was Michael's, but I dragged DH into Bed, Bath and Beyond which is right next store. I have been wanting to find some red cloth napkins (since we switched over to using cloth instead of paper) to use when we eat something with a red sauce. I found a four pack that were $9.99 on sale for $2.50. They are a gorgeous deep red with a poinsettia, leaf and pine cone outline on the napkin.

We finally got to Michael's and picked up a large Peach Candle (half off), some Candle Wicks (because I want to melt down the remainder of the wax in the various candles that are too low to use, and make new ones), and a Photo Cutting Mat for DH to cut his photos (which we will be giving as gifts, keeping to adorn our own walls, etc...)

We were very tempted to stop somewhere to eat, but we resisted the urge. Once we got home we made tomato soup and grilled cheese. And we used the new red napkins! After the late lunch we're now reading (I'll be reading as soon as I finish this post) and watching the snow that is beginning to fall.

Simple/Frugal Thought of the Day: Take advantage of the colder days and enjoy a nice simple meal of sandwiches and soup. It not only warms the soul, but doesn't hurt the wallet either!

Yesterday was errand day. I know I said it would be on Tuesday, and I do mean to make it so. But life happens and you just got to go with it...

DH dropped me off at the grocery store while he went to the bank and library, thus saving time. When I went to check out, the lady asked if I had a Pick N Save card (I do, but none of the groceries needed the card, plus I didn't have it on me.) I said, "No." and she clucked her tongue at me and gave me a look of disgust.

I thought to myself, just another reason why we don't like this store. (We only shop there because of convenience.) Then I thought if you were a nice check-out lady you would have a card there to swipe, like some of them have done in the past.

I think she realized how asinine she was, because she asked if one bag would be too heavy and then she pointed out that she put the grapes on top. I know I never let my face give away what I was thinking (if I had it would have turned red. I have one of those complexions that shows my emotion easily by changing colors.) I was polite to her the whole time, smiled and ended the transaction with only pleasant words.

I truly hope her day got better....

DH picked me up in front of the store. And then we were on our way to Madison for his chiro appointment, to return socks and get new ones and to get cat food.

Spyros actually found bigger sized socks then usual (his feet are a size 15). If you need bigger socks we found these at Shopko.

After we got home we went to The Roadside Grill with my MIL and BIL, as their Christmas present/get together time. DH and I had a Mexican veggie burger and it was delicious. I still have more then half of mine that I will be having for lunch today. We paid for their lunch and used a $20 GC (that one of the people on DH's mail route gave him for Christmas. I still think this is strange, but we appreciate the gifts and DH always writes a nice Thank You note.)

Then MIL came back to our place and we watched two of the movies we got from the library (The Transporter and Dreamcatcher. Both were pretty good.) We still have Trapped to watch later this week. Then MIL went home, we watched a little TV and went to bed.

I didn't get to the boxes in the back hallway, but I want to try to do some today, so I will cut this short so it may be possible to do so.

Frugal/Simple Thought of the Day: As much as I like structure, sometimes you just have to go with it. If something isn't going the way you want and you're getting frustrated, do whatever you need to do to calm ourself (breathing and walking out of the room without slamming anyting, works for me.) And remember tomorrow is a fresh day.

I hope everyone has a productive and prosperous (being relationships, health issues, or even money!) New Year. I'm feeling very optimistic.

As I mentioned sometime back, I found a great site: Frugal Families They started a challenge that will be different each month, and if you would like a buddy or mentor, you can sign up for one. I signed up for a buddy, and am looking forward to working with her.

I encourage you to go there and check it out. You have a month to go there and see if you like it. I had not realized this at first, but after a month it's a paid site. I think you can still read the articles and some of the forum (but you can't post, if not a member), but I am not completely sure.....

As soon as my Paypal deposit goes through, I will be joining, and I can't wait. The people there are very friendly and helpful. And if you enjoy reading other people's blogs, it is similar to that becasue people post what they will be doing for the day, how they will (or won't ; ) ) be frugal, and even what they are planning to make for dinner!

We're going to be going into Madison today to return some things at Shopko and check out the after Christmas/New Year's Sales. And we're going to be seeing Return of the King.

Simple/Frugal Thought for the Day: Start gathering your tax papers and receipts. It's never too early to start preparing and before you know it April (or the appointment with your accountant) will be here.