It is me, or are there more commercials on television?

Furthermore, do these folks think we are stupid?

DH says I observe too much. For example, some of the processed foods show these fancy kitchens with beautiful cabinets, granite countertops, and perfect appliances and nothing out of place -- the gourmet kitchen to heat up a junk food snack in the microwave. Even the dog and cat food commercials show pretty elaborate kitchens! Really? Do they think most of America has the fancy kitchen of these commercials or is it a subliminal message that if you buy this stuff, you'll be like these folks?

I'm not sure the draw is for these car commercials where they drive in some of these settings like big cities and storm out and go rapidly down these streets. In most big cities, it is usually bumper to bumper during the day. I guess the car companies think we will think we can avoid the traffic and have a blast driving their car. I'll just putter along in mine and hopefully save some gas!

I wonder how many homes look as fancy as the ones in the commercial? I guess they feel it is everyone's dream to have these elaborate, fancy homes with up to date everything. Do we all buy into this? Is it a way to make folks unsatisfied with what they have and buy bigger and better?

Right now on Facebook it seems most of my friends keep putting these photos asking if we remember this and that such as a potato masher or speakers from a drive in theatre. I do have a potato masher and often use it, so I guess I not only remember it...I'm not up to date with whatever the kitchen market industry thinks I should be using. It was my grandmother's and it works just fine.

I remember Charlie Brown and Linus talking about commercialism as well as it being a sticking point in "Miracle on 34th Street." Maybe I'm becoming sick of it as well. Have we become too infected with commercialism?

We've been out and about the past couple of weeks. A couple of weeks ago there was a garage sale in our subdivision. We look forward to this couple's sales because they usually have good stuff marked reasonably.

This time was no exception. They had a metal kerosene lamp that had been electrified for $8. I asked if it worked and it did. I knew it was missing both the chimney and the shade, but figured for $8, I could come up with something. I also bought a couple of tablecloths and some like new jars for pasta.

As my summer quickly seeps away, we decided to go antiquing down I55. We try to do this a couple of times a year. We usually take a friend with us, but she was unavailable. My mission was to find a shade for this lamp at a reasonable price. We took the lamp with us so we could make sure we bought the right size.

The first two antique malls didn't produce the shade, but the third one had a possibility. I asked them if we could bring the lamp in and try it on...I thought it might fit, but didn't want to buy the shade and find it didn't. They said that would be fine and so we did and it did! The shade was $8. They not only sold me the shade, but wrapped it up and my lamp as well to make sure both made it home safely.

The chimney I had at home on another kerosene lamp. I figure I'll replace it when we find a cheap one sometime. But, I like the looks of lamp and it is sitting on the tablecloth that I bought at the garage sale for $2. We did see lamps very similar to this one at two different places starting at $75 so I figure we didn't get hurt.



In other searches, I have been looking for a mug rack. I found this oak one at one of the stores. It said handcrafted by someone on the bottom. I bought it because it was handcrafted, matched my kitchen cabinets, and was cheap. I know these mug racks aren't technically in, but a friend of mine gave me these Blue Willow mugs a couple of Christmas ago and I wanted to be able to display and enjoy them.

Gas prices in our town went up twice last week...to $3.55 by Saturday. We felt it was weird since the price of oil had gone down by the end of the week.

Saturday night we drove to a smaller town north of us -- less than 30 minutes away -- to eat out with another couple. Amazing, the gas prices were lower -- $3.29.

One would think the gas station owners are in a conspiracy in our city...especially since the two larger cities, one east and one west, either around 45 minutes away, are both cheaper. I realize we aren't in Chicago or on the coasts, but trying to figure out the rationale for higher prices is beyond me.

What are gas prices in your neck of the woods?

I live in Central Illinois. If you do not live in the Midwest and haven't watched the news, we are in drought conditions. Last night they said 56% of the country is in drought.

The corn fields around here are pitiful. It has tassled and we have had no rain. The leaves have curled and many plants are stunted in growth.

No, I'm not a farmer...I'm telling you this to tell you the next part.

I'm stocking up. We went to Aldi yesterday and I bought some bottles of oil, and some extra crackers, flour, and sugar. I predict grocery prices are going to skyrocket because of the corn crop. Today I'm buying corn meal to put in the freezer. The sugar and flour went into the freezer as well. I might even buy a little more beef to put in the freezer, but it doesn't keep THAT long.

The reason I bought some of these items...well here is my reasoning. Sugar -- I believe the price of sugar will go up because many things are made from high fructose corn syrup. When there isn't as much corn to make this corn syrup, sugar will be used and the demand will increase.

Flour -- people will start using flour in place of corn products.

Oil -- a lot of vegetable oils are made from corn and the lack of corn...well you get the picture.

As for beef, well, the price will probably go up because the price of corn will go up to feed those cattle.

Also on the national news was with the extreme heat, cows aren't giving as much milk...I wonder if we will see an increase in dairy products as well.

My pantry isn't bulging by any means, but I thought I'd pick up a few extra things to ofset major jumps in the coming weeks.

I'm going to 'fess up here...I feel guilty spending money on luxuries. I like a bargain, but I like nice things as well.

DH is retired. We are blessed he has a nice pension and Social Security. I work full time and have a good job and benefits.

We just returned from an 8 day trip to Philadelphia, New York, Boston, and Niagara Falls. It was with a church group on a bus. Our hotels and tours were paid for, as well as some of the meals. We had saved the money and paid cash for everything except for one expenditure of $20. We had cash left over from the trip and put it back in the bank. DH bought a tie in Boston -- hence the $20 charge because they were closing down the register and didn't want cash. He bought 3 ties for $10 in NYC. I bought 4 packages of tea in Boston as a souvenir for friends (read less than $10) and postcards in each major city. We had a nice time and I'm glad we don't owe any money other than the $20.

Once a month we have massages. I rationalize them that they seem to help my arthritis. I don't see a chiropractor, but I do know I feel a lot better after. DH says the same thing. It is paid in cash each month.

I spend money on fruits and vegetables when I grocery shop. Very little ever goes to waste because we eat at home quite a bit. I try to hit bargains on other things.

I collect Blue Willow dishes. I did buy a couple of items and put them on the credit card, but I pay the credit card off every month.

Sometimes I look at the money we spend and feel guilty. I don't need Blue Willow dishes. I'm sure I could make it without the massages. As for the trip, life would go on without it. I validate the buying of fresh fruits and vegetables because I think it keeps me healthy. I only missed work this year because I had food poisoning, not from my food.

We have friends who constantly spend on things. They tell us they deserve these things. He draws a larger pension than DH. His home is not paid for. For years, when he worked, he made far more money than DH and I did put together. He bought a bigger house, a fancier car, and more things. His home is filled with them. He bought fancy jewelry for his wife. And the quest continues for buying more, more, more.

A few years ago we paid off our home. It was a goal that we had -- we intended to pay off the house before DH retired. His mom died and with the selling of her property (shared with his brother) we paid off the remainder of our home. We then used the money we didn't need for the house payment to pay off a vehicle. So, we didn't owe much money and started saving money. Then we could take a big trip like we did this year.

I cut corners whenever I can. I use coupons on the things we would normally buy; I make a lot of things from scratch. We buy used whenever we can. We pay cash for everyday items so we aren't tempted to overspend. If I do use the credit card, it is paid off as soon as the bill comes.

I still feel guilty when we do spend money, but I guess it could be called a guilty pleasure. Perhaps saving up for things is one of the reasons we save...but sometimes it is difficult to spend that hard earned money!

An aquaintance of ours has grandchildren. He appears to care for them, but every conversation he has about them, usually contains what major purchase he made for them or with them.

I don't mean to sound cheap, and I enjoy being generous with those I love as well. But I don't purchase stuff for folks for each time I see them, even if I see them a couple or three times in a week.

This person loves to shop and I think part of this scenario is the pleasure of shopping. But, I also think there is a competition there between the other grandparents...this person wants to be thought of as the generous one. Believe me, these grandchildren are not poor and are not doing without -- the parents have good jobs and take good care of their offspring.

I reflected the other day about my grandmother. She was kind to me and she often bought me gifts for Christmas and birthday. But, she didn't have the money to constantly purchase gifts. I didn't feel like I was unloved by any means. She gave me something else -- her time and attention.

In a way, I sort of feel sorry for this person because he must feel he has to buy his grandchildren's affection. The sad part, he can't afford all this spending.

When I was a kid, there wasn't a lot of money for new things. I kind of resented it because I didn't understand that there just wasn't the extra. But, my folks were smart...they bought second hand to save money and usually "traded up" when given a chance. Besides my dad working for a soda pop plant, they ran a used furniture store. I remember going to auctions, sales, etc.

Fast forward a couple of decades and here I am scouting flea markets, second hand places, and garage sales. I've found some good bargains too. I feel that not only am I saving money, I'm also "recycling" things by giving them a new home.

One friend of mine loves the same things and since we both collect a certain type of dishes, we are always on the look out for the other's pattern. Neither of us minds that is has been used.

Recently I've found some like new things and I'm tempted to purchase them for gifts. I guess I don't get the idea of someone thinking they are too good for used things. I'm not talking about abused or chipped stuff. I'd rather have a really nice dish that had been enjoyed before than a piece of junk purchased new.

So, what's the opinion of the SA folks? Is it OK to buy a like new item to gift?

Ever since I've been out of school for summer break, I've been trying to get some projects taken care of. Last week I cleaned the garage. I decided it was time to replace the miniblinds that came with the house when we bought it 14 years ago. For the past 14 years, I've washed and scrubbed them when I cleaned the garage, but they are so soiled, they looked bad. So, I thought I'd splurge and replace them.

I haven't purchased blinds for awhile and I can say I had sticker shock, even for the cheaper ones. I didn't want fancy ones, just basic blinds.

After visiting two home improvement places, I bought two blinds (one store didn't have the size I needed), a quart of exterior white paint, a pint of interior white paint, a brush, a furnace filter, a can of Pledge, and 4 caps for wheels for a wagon. We spent nearly $60 on this and I can say I was shocked. These are just little projects and $60 in less than 30 minutes! Ouch!

I painted the trim on the garage door and the regular door to the garage, and hung up the blinds. So, two more projects are completed. Last summer when I painted the trim, I used the paint I had bought about 12 years ago, but alas, the paint came to an end last year. I figure doing a little trim paint here and there not only freshens up the trim, it also protects the wood from the elements.

The caps are for the wagon I painted. Years ago my mom gave my husband a wagon to haul stuff around the yard. It has sat in the weather for these years and it was pretty ratty looking. I took a steel brush and tried to get the peeling paint and rust off of it and then I painted it with some paint I had purchased previously. It looks better, but it will never look showroom new...it is starting to rust out in spots, but I figure anything is better than having it look so bad.

I think I know why folks put off projects...not only because of the work, but also because of the expense. I realize this isn't a huge amount of money, but it seemed like we got so little for what we spent. But, I'm trying to look at it as an investment in our house by maintaining things.

OK, maybe ghastly is a bit strong. But, they were sad.

Each spring our subdivision does sales on a Friday and Saturday in April. DH got up early, showered, and hit them early with a list of things we were looking for as well as a list of things a friend was looking for.

He came home empty handed. He said the pickin's were slim.

I wonder if the economy is showing it's hoary head.

I suggested this to DH -- perhaps folks don't have the money to buy new stuff, so they aren't letting go of anything we are interested in, just trying to sell those things that aren't necessary.

I know the local thrift shops are booming around here. I certainly hope things start looking up for the families in my community as well as the rest of the country. Not because I feel the desire for better garage sales, but it's difficult for so many families to keep their heads above water.

Friday night we watched the program on the new HGVT Green House. We enjoy seeing the new products out there and how people are trying to help the planet.

I had to chuckle when they kept acting so very self-righteous about reusing furniture and materials and shopping and flea markets and antique shops. They acted almost like it was their very own original idea!

Most folks who have to watch their pennies and even those who don't, but want to, reuse and repurpose things. When I look at my kitchen, so much of the stuff in it was bought used. Or, I inherited it from my grandmother.

We often go to antique shops. I not only like the idea of saving a little money, but the idea of buying something that was probably made in America so many years ago. I'm a little tired of all the cheaply made stuff from overseas.

It was just interesting how the commentators were singing the praises of repurposing things and how glorious it was like it was their very original idea. I think most of us reuse and repurpose if at all possible.

There's a little email making the rounds about an older lady going to the store and the cashier says something about your generation not understanding about going green because she hadn't brought her own bags. It was then pointed out how people used to buy soda in glass bottles and return them to be reused. I was thinking about all the canning that used to go on and people used and reused those canning jars for years!

I know HGTV has to sensationalize to keep the viewer interested, but some of us have been "green" in a lot of areas far longer than the network has been around.

I need to go and heat up the sloppy joes in my second hand pot and serve on my second hand plates. Just thought I'd give a few of my thoughts when it came to being green.

It's been an interesting month or so. Each weekend after the grocery shopping and menu planning, I spend a few hours cooking things that I can reheat or bake or whatever so there is something waiting in the fridge when I get home. Therefore, I have no excuse to not cook and eat out.

I try to hit sales and either stock up on stuff or buy what is on special many times so our meals are reasonable.

Some of the folks I work with ask me what I've fixed or what I'm planning. A few times previously this year I've shared some of the stuff I've made with my coworker. She and her hubby seemed to appreciate it.

Well, she started looking at the grocery ads, planning her list, and cooking on the weekend. She told me today that she thinks they have really saved money by planning their menu as well as cooking things ahead of time.

A personal benefit is we have been exchanging casseroles the past few weeks. So, we not only are getting to try different recipes, we have a bigger assortment of foods available.

I think that is saving money for both of us besides letting us try new things.

There's an antique mall around us we happened upon about a year ago. A local guy decided to start it and has his own things besides some consignment items.

A few years ago I decided to get rid of the plastic in my kitchen and started replacing it with Pyrex, Corningware, Fire King, etc.

I bought a few items here and there, but I really hit the jackpot with this place.

DH loves going in and poking around too. I found a Paula Deen cast iron Dutch oven for $10 a couple months back. I bought 4 Christmas glasses (Anchor Hocking) for $3. I love enameled cast iron so the Dutch oven was a find. I have a huge one and a small one so this one was a jewel. It isn't my favorite color, but I'm cooking with it, not decorating with it. The glasses were cute and we've used them a lot.

Well today we went and I found some cloth napkins. I have been using cloth napkins for about 4 or 5 years. I read this was a way to cut back on costs and trash. We had a good time looking at stuff. The guy who runs this place must not only have the Pyrex and Corningware market cornered, but also costume jewelry. I had a good time trying on some of the big honking diamond rings and when I say "big", I'm talking golf ball size.

We spent $5 on the 8 napkins. I think we got more than $5 worth of pleasure just poking around. But, I pointed out to DH, this place is lethal because if I weren't so cheap, I could overspend very easily there.

Now that I'm back to work, I won't be watching as much television which is both good and bad, but that's not what this blog is about.

What I've noticed is that in many of the food commercials, the folks have pretty fancy kitchens. For example, the new KFC commercial has a stainless stove that looks like a professional type. Hmmm...a chef who regularly gets KFC?

Some of the heat and eat snacks show pretty luxurious kitchens too...pretty darn fancy for heating stuff up in the microwave.

I wonder if the folks who make these commercials think we all have fancy kitchens or if they think we all want fancy kitchens. Very few have laminate countertops. Most have granite.

I don't have granite...part of it the cost, but part of it is also if we did spring for it, it would overimprove the kitchen for the neighborhood we live in.

Am I the only one who is noticing these commercials? Are these subliminal messages to the consumer?

We celebrated New Year's by having an early dinner. Our favorite restaurant has a loyalty program and we had some money coming, so we splurged and had steaks. Yum!

As we were leaving, an older couple had already gotten into their car. It was an older Crown Victoria. That baby was shined up and looked pristine. Not a speck of rust or dirt. I bet the inside was as clean.

DH said you can tell that an older person owns it because they know how to take care of things.

How sad. But true. How much money can one save by taking care of things? I have some pots that belonged to my grandmother. I am sure they are over 50 years old. She took care of them and I've taken care of them and we have both gotten good use of them.

That being said, how many things are made nowdays that can last? A friend of mine said when she and her hubby went television shopping, they mentioned that their "old" television of over 7 years was going out and the sales clerk said they were lucky to have gotten that much time out of it -- things aren't made to last, but to be replaced.

Our bodies are also examples. If one eats right, exercises, and tries to stay content, usually the body lasts far longer than if one parties, smokes, and is angry all the time. Not always, but usually.

I would say taking care of things can help save money. I know many of the items in my kitchen are old -- Pyrex and Corningware especially because my family or someone else took care of them. They are serving me well.

So, even if the businesses expect me to replace things, I'm going to continue taking care of things to try and get the best use out of it. Hopefully it will pay off for me by saving some money as well as less to throw out.

As I'm catching up on some blogs, I was reading CB in the City and how one felt when the other gifts were grander and more expensive.

In this morning's paper, reporters talked to those who were out and about yesterday and so many said how they were out buying things they didn't get for Christmas and wanted.

I'm not going to get real preachy here or anything, but somehow Christmas has become a one uppance on gifts and if you don't get what you want, then by golly, go get it!

It's kind of sad when we measure the pleasure of Christmas by the gifts we receive.

When I was growing up, my mom would buy things on sale and wrap them up. She liked seeing lots of gifts under the tree. I understand her reasoning, but as a 16 year old, receiving Pepto-Bismol and an Oil of Olay knock off wasn't exactly very thrilling. Especially when a friend would call and go over her list of things her parents gave her...I figure it must have been hundreds and hundreds of dollars. And, as a teenager, it was difficult to listen to her go on and on and be excited for her.

I admit my husband is very generous. He always has been and remains today. But, I don't sit there and look at the stuff and say, "gee, why didn't you get me this?" I am pleased he thought enough to buy me what he bought me.

When I was little my grandmother didn't have a lot of money. I knew she bought me something like a toy or outfit, but then she would give me some fudge and peanut brittle -- they were always good. So good, that's how she made money -- by making it and selling it during the holidays. I know I didn't get to eat a lot of it, but I remember receiving them. Interesting enough, I don't remember the other Christmas gifts she gave me.

Don't think I'm criticizing the bargain hunting of the day or days after Christmas. I was out in the frenzy for a bit buying cards and wrapping paper for next year.

But, I'm just commenting that society has made Christmas a time for taking overall. Perhaps Ebenezer (the unchanged one) and I can have coffee and discuss it.

So, are you finished with your Christmas shopping?

I finished yesterday...hubby loves Dr. Pepper, but we don't usually buy soda at home. So, I thought I'd buy him a six pack of the small cans as a surprise. I found a small box to wrap them in.

I had a field vision test yesterday so I stopped on my way home from that. Hubby was at the mall -- he walks there when the weather is bad or the air temp is cold. He said it was funny. During the week, the mall had been pretty uncrowded. But he said on Wednesday it was a lot busier. Yesterday he reported it was pretty wild. I bet today is a mad house. And I'm glad I am not in the crazy place! Of course dh complains about all the people getting in his way while he walks -- I told him he should appreciate the obstacle course because he says it is boring to walk around in circles.

I heard on the news last night that people tend to spend more if they wait to shop at the last minute. That makes sense...people probably overbuy or figure since they are there, they can make up for not buying stuff. Plus, I would assume that inventory is down and choice is limited.

If you are out shopping in the frenzy, you have my sympathy. I am sitting here relaxing with the computer in my lap and a coffee mug steaming by my side. Hope you can enjoy the same type of relaxation soon!

Every work day I brew coffee and fill a small, older Thermos bottle. I enjoy coffee and I refuse to spend the money and purchase coffee "out."

Today, as I was getting my things out of the car, I dropped my Thermos. I heard that sickening crunch and then the tinkle of broken glass liner.

I not only missed out on my coffee, I lost the Thermos! Phooey! I looked on-line and most sites said that even if you could find the replacement, the shipping costs would probably be prohibitive since it is fragile.

I bought the Thermos used and got a good deal. It more than paid for itself. But alas, I need to find another Thermos or go through coffee withdrawal.

I was reading the Sunday paper this morning and there were stories about the folks who hurt one another in an attempt to get the Black Friday deals. The woman who pepper sprayed the group turned herself in. That is good that she had a conscience. It's sad that the pursue of "stuff" led to such a poor decision.

I will admit I have plenty of stuff. I went through our holiday decorations. Some are being donated to our church's bazaar for the gently used Christmas decorations. Others are being donated elsewhere. We have more decorations than we have room on the tree. I remember the mad frenzy of hitting after Christmas sales wanting to pick these items up. It was so darn important. Now, they are a pain in the patootie to store and get out and go through. I have kept a few things that have some sentimental meaning, but after going three big boxes of my ornaments, I think I have half a box left.

Last year after Christmas we did the same thing with my husband's ornaments. He bought tons of them on after Christmas sales and had quite a bunch of them after 20 years of collecting. Some he didn't really like anymore. They were donated and hopefully adorn someone else's tree.

Last year I remember reading about a worker who was trampled as a mad rush went in to get the bargains. What have we as a society come to when things are more important than people?

The article I read today about the goings on on Black Friday had one interesting statement by the reporter -- the article said that the majority of those doing these wicked things to be first to get the sale items were not people who were poor.

So, "stuff" has taken the place of common sense. Sad.

Just looked at Facebook and noticed a lot of the folks I know were either up early this morning and stayed up late last night to go shopping. Yesterday's paper as well as the television was full of ads. Full of deals, apparently.

I didn't succumb. I did some shopping, but it was going to Aldi and a local grocery. It was a wonderful time to shop for food because we went this afternoon so stuff was stocked, but it wasn't busy. The cashiers weren't tired and cranky. And we came home and put things away and didn't feel rushed.

I know retailers claim that they have to make up for the year on Black Friday. I guess economically they do, but I would hate to depend on one day to make or break a business. Especially if the weather got bad, it could really put a dent in the shopping.

That being written, I also have no desire to get up early or stay up late just so I can snag a bargain. I'm sure in the heat of the moment, I might feel like I was getting a good deal, so I ought to buy more with those "savings." I did look at the ads in the paper yesterday and there were some great loss leaders. But nothing enough to coax me out of my cozy home to shop. I don't need another Crock Pot and dh has already picked out his clothes he wants for Christmas which we bought a few weeks ago on sale -- I think it was billed the biggest sale of the season then -- and it was on sale and we had coupons.

So, for Black Friday, I hope the retailers did well. But me, I would rather stay home.

Let me preface this with, I didn't write it. Wish I had, but I liked the ideas of supporting the local economy.

Democracy is two wolves and a lamb voting on what to have for lunch.
Liberty is a well-armed lamb contesting the vote."
Benjamin Franklin

Christmas 2011 -- Birth of a New Tradition

As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into
high gear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply
produced goods -- merchandise that has been produced at the expense of
American labor.

This year will be different. This year Americans will give the gift of
genuine concern for other Americans. There is no longer an excuse
that, at gift giving time, nothing can be found that is produced by
American hands. Oh.... Yes there is! It is time to think outside the
box, people. Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box, wrapped in
Chinese produced wrapping paper?

Everyone -- yes EVERYONE gets their hair cut. How about gift
certificates from your local American hair salon or barber?

Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about
some health improvement.

Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, American
owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift
certificate or a book of gift certificates.

Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plunking
down the Benjamins on a Chinese-made flat-screen TV? Perhaps that
grateful gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed
for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local
golf course.

There are a gazillion owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift
certificates. And, if your intended isn't the fancy eatery sort, what
about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint.

Remember, folks this isn't about big National chains -- this is about
supporting your home town Americans with their financial lives on the
line to keep their doors open.

How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or
motorcycle, done at a shop run by the American working guy?

Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services
of a local cleaning lady for a day.

My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy
who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.

OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local crafts people
spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, and
pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.

Plan your holiday outings at local, owner operated restaurants and
leave your server a nice tip.

And, how about going out to see a play or ballet at your hometown
theatre. Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local
bands.

Honestly people, do you REALLY need to buy another ten thousand
Chinese lights for the house? When you buy a five dollar string of
light, about fifty cents stays in the community.

If you have those kinds of bucks to burn, leave the mailman, trash guy
or babysitter a nice BIG tip.

You see, Christmas is no longer about draining American pockets so
that China can build another glittering city. Christmas is now about
caring about US (We the People), encouraging American small businesses
to keep plugging away to follow their dreams. And, when we care about
other Americans, we care about our communities, and the benefits come
back to us in ways we could not imagine.

THIS is the new American Christmas tradition!!


Please pass this around we can make a difference, can't we ?

A gal I work with recently was demoted. Not only has her job drastically changed, her salary went down almost half. This was not a sign of the economic times, but apparently, from the rumors, a result of some poor decisions made professionally.

She is now working on a regular teacher's salary and complains nonstop about paying union dues, and how hard it is to make it on this salary.

The other day she was asking me how come I don't complain about the salary. I told her because I feel like I'm getting paid a fair amount and that I feel blessed to have a job.

She said it must because I don't have kids. I told her I don't think that was it at all, but that I have a different set of priorities than she does.

This gal has always had to purchase name brand everything. She has to have the expensive purses like Coach. And one is not enough. She has to have a different one for each outfit.

She has jewelry and we aren't talking about the reasonable stuff.

And her clothes have all been top of the line, name brand items. Each week it was a pursuit to buy the latest and greatest.

I know she has looked down her nose at my shoes (which are not only reasonable, but comfortable), to my clothes, and especially my purses. OK, I'll admit it, I buy cheap purses. I have two criteria -- they have to have a comfortable shoulder strap and I need to have room for my iPad.

I told her my priorities are far different than hers and I discovered that being satisified with the things I own has made me far happier than always trying to buy the latest and greatest.

She told me she has changed and that her priorities have changed and she didn't buy a purse last weekend, even though she wanted to.

As she said that, she finished paperclipping some papers and the pile she had left, she gathered into her hand and threw them into the garbage.

They may only be paperclips, but I think it shows her character...and I am not buying the priority change. Would you?

Have I reached the point of no return?

I was thinking the other day how my wardrobe could use a little updating...I am wearing some pantsuits that are pretty old. They are still nice and I don't intend to get rid of them.

I've also been trying to eat healthier and eat less and I have lost a few pounds. So, I was thinking maybe I could buy something for my wardrobe to "reward" myself.

On the surface it seemed like a good idea. I started checking out a few online sites to see how expensive the item is that I wanted.

A couple of sites in, I decided I wasn't THAT good, and I won't be purchasing that little reward item.

Have I gotten so cheap I'm ashamed to spend?

What a week! But, it is Saturday. The sun is shining and fortunately for most of us in Central Illinois, we don't have to turn on the heat...yet. We are supposed to be in the 70s during the day and 50s at night.

I worked up the grocery lists. I do the Aldi one Thursday night and my husband goes on Friday during the day. I have a menu planned for the following week and whatever we can't get at Aldi, we then go to the other grocery store and buy. I always hope to find more coupons for things, but then I realize there are few coupons for the items we buy. It is frustrating, but it is true. I'm not going to buy things just because I have a coupon; a lot of the things with coupons aren't items we normally use.

A week or so ago there was a segment on the news about the health benefits of watercress. None of our stores had it, but we did go to a local Kroger store that is pretty large and they said they would order some. They did, we bought it, and I have been looking for recipes on how to use it. It supposedly has many health benefits. I put some in the Italian wedding soup I made instead of spinach. I've been putting it in salads as well.

It was nice sleeping in a bit this morning. My dh is out watering because our city is on water restrictions and residents can only water Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. We still have a small garden growing so he's hoping to keep things thriving until the first frost.

Hope your Saturday is a good one!

Last night we went to a "cookout" of sorts -- it was catered and we each paid so much for our meal. The purpose was not great culinary experiences, but fellowship with church members.

The host and hostess proudly showed their home. It was beautiful and everything seemed new and perfect. The light carpets weren't stained or anything. Everything was beautifully displayed. The furniture all matched and everything seemed decorator perfect.

Overall, it was a good evening, except for the feeling when I walked in my home. Everything seemed so so so, well, shabby.

I don't know if it was because I was extremely tired or if it was just overwhelming to see a perfect house. Don't get me wrong, I wasn't jealous they had this lovely home and they were generous to share it with us.

Just in comparison, I felt like my house didn't compare. One bathroom in their house was bigger than the bedroom I have my computer and store my office supplies and my teddy bear collection.

They had one large storage area with shelves and everything was tidy and straightened up.

Other than my kitchen appliances, most of the things in my home are old or older. Lots of flaws, nicks, and scratches around here. A lot of my dishes are second hand because I collect Blue Willow and I buy at second hand stores, Ebay, antique shops, and garage sales.

Most of my doilies and tablecloths are either hand me downs from my mom and grandmother or things I have bought second hand.

After a good night's sleep, waking up, I realized that so much of my life isn't for show, but for my pleasure. I like having the tablecloths that I feel I can use so if they get spilled on or soiled, the world doesn't end.

The desk where my computer sits is an old school desk I bought from the school district for $20 and spent less than $20 refinishing it. It's not beautiful and perfect, but boy, is it sturdy. It has dovetail drawers. It's the perfect size for my small room and it stores quite a bit.

My dining room table is oak and there are scratches on it, mostly from my clumsy antics. The first scratched I cried over. The second became a badge of honor of sorts.

As for my friends from church, I am pleased they have a lovely home. I enjoyed visiting there and seeing their gorgeous things and huge home. Last night I was dissatisfied with what I had, which is bad. I think it makes me think I need more. Heaven knows I have plenty of stuff.

But, I like my sweet, shabby home. As I cleaned the bedroom and put out the quilt that has been washed numerous time and is showing a little wear, I think of the comfort that quilt provides on a cold winter night. Would bright colors and perfect machine quilting make it any warmer? Probably not. And, my home isn't a show place, so I don't need a perfect home. I need to remember I have more than enough and be satisfied with what I have. I am not the type of person who has to have everything match and be decorator perfect. And, with that in mind, I need to make sure I’m not anywhere near a store when that feeling of dissatisfaction hits.

My previous blog discussed the fact that I bought the dishwasher from Sears, and the installer dropped the ball. I filled out a survey, then emailed the company. I was given a response of I needed to contact our local store which I did. Two days later, they never called me back (think that might be on purpose?) Anyway, I decided to call the 800 number on the Sears website and I spoke to about 4 different people.

At this point, I'm still not thrilled with Sears. One person thought I was a little unreasonable wanting a gift card for my trouble. I told her if she ever wanted me to shop at Sears, I better get something for the stress and inconvenience. I explained that when the company hires folks who are disrespectful of my time, it makes one think one should go elsewhere. I never once raised my voice or cussed at them or threatened them. The last two ladies apologized for my trouble, and one claimed she would be sending me a $25 gift card in the next 7-10 work days. I'm not holding my breath. Before this she wanted to know why I didn't call my local Sears store back. I explained that I didn't feel I should have to call a second time since I apparently had been "blown off" the first time.

The next night there's a phone call from Sears -- an automated survey on the sale, installation, etc. Let's see, I've filled out a survey on-line, then wrote an email, then called the local store, then called the 800 number and now they want another survey. I hadn't changed my mind. This afternoon there was a phone call wanting to sell me an extended warranty for the dishwasher.

So, I would say Sears needs to work on communication first and foremost since no one else seems to know what anyone is doing at their business.

This is an obituary that should be published in every newspaper:

Customer Service died after a lengthy, drawn out weakning illness. Service was born soon after a first item was purchased, many years ago. For years Service enjoyed a long life, helping people along the way, bringing happiness to those it touched.

Survivors include Apathy, Ignoring, and Nonexistence. Service was preceded in death by Kindness, Fairness, and Enterprise.

No services are scheduled due to survivors' desire to forget.



Yes, I'm bitter. I had saved up for the dishwasher. We looked at ads. We found one on sale that was the one I wanted. On July 24th we bought it. We were told since they didn't have one at the Sears store, it would be August 12 when they would deliver and install. I wasn't thrilled, but what can one do?

Well, on August 11 I kept expecting a phone call, scheduling the install. No call. We waited around on the 12 and finally by 1:30 on the 12, I called the store. The store rep said he would call the installer and call me back. He did and said the installer would call me back within an hour. An hour and a half later, no phone call. I called the store back, got a different rep who seemed bored and annoyed by the phone call. She did say she would call the rep and she must have because he called back immediately. He said the job slipped by him, but he could deliver and install the next day, on Saturday. I asked him what time and he said 9, no 9:30.

It was after 10:15 when he finally arrived. No apology or anything. Two hours later he left, and did not take the huge box the dishwasher came in.

Of course Sears send a survey before the dishwasher had been delivered. I filled it out and told them my frustration. I then went to the Sears site and filled out an email for "contact us". I did get a response and it was basically a brush off -- contact your local store, they couldn't do anything. I called the local Sears and unfortunately neither the manager or assistant manager could talk to me, so I was to leave a voice mail.

Two days later and I have not heard from them. it has taken something that should have been such a joy -- new dishwasher that I saved and worked extra for -- and made it into a frustration.

So, I believe Customer Service has died. And as for me, I have decided I will no longer shop at Sears.

Our local gas prices dropped a whole penny overnight. Although oil prices have been going down, our "savings" usually trickles down a penny or two at a time. However, let the news report crude oil barrel prices going up, the hike can be anywhere from 15 to 20 cents a gallon in a matter of hours.

Our local news interviewed some guy at nearby university. He claimed that the reason the prices remain high is because we are using gas made with oil at the older, higher prices, so it takes awhile for the prices to come down. He might be a so called "expert", but my observation skills beg to differ. I have found many of these experts go by what it is supposed to be instead of what really is. Bleah!

Gas prices in Central Illinois range around $3.64...our town is higher than the other two larger towns around us. What are you paying?

Yesterday we made our weekly trek to Aldi. I had my list for the items I wanted. We then pick up the items we can't get at another store. Since the heat is so bad, we decided to go to Aldi on one day and the other store today.

I noticed that some items at Aldi have risen since last week. Sugar went up. Portabella mushrooms went up over 40 cents. Butter went up a dime. Eggs had gone up a dime about three weeks ago. Lemons went up 40 cents. This isn't the complete list, but goodness, some of these are large hikes! I realize that some of the fresh produce is often priced on the growing and harvesting season, but eggs and butter?

Anyone else see grocery prices on the rise? Do you think this is a foretaste of the inflation to come?

Last week CNBC had a program on grocery stores and/or supermarkets. Interviewed were CEO's of large ones such as Whole Foods and also a gal who owned a little mom and pop. It was interesting to hear what each thought of their business.

They talked about research done for the big chains. It said that stores that provide extras seem to bring in people for those things -- recipes, samples, even entertainment. What they also said was the average person shops 3-4 times a week and overspends because they buy things they didn't originally plan to buy.

Well, we all know if one buys unplanned for things, it can blow the budget, but I'm curious, how many times do you shop? I try to do it once a week and usually be the end of the week, my fridge looks what I term "lonely" because it is getting empty. I just hate it if I have to stop and get something I forgot.

I've admitted I'm anal. I guess it gets pointed out to me on various occasions, but I am a planner. I like things to work out. Perhaps I'm a control freak, but I just know I like to have a plan.

This has come home to me a few times this summer. We do weekly grocery shopping -- usually a couple of stores. I figure out what's on sale, what I have on hand, and then try to work out a menu for the week's meals. We do eat out, probably more than we should, but I like to have that planned because I want it to be an "social experience" instead of just eating out and not cooking. I also try to eat things that are nutritous...not a lot of fried or junk foods and watch my salt intake.

Well, I think it is causing some problems. We have a couple we go out with every so often. She rarely cooks and they eat out. A lot. A lot of junk food. However, as to planning, they are pretty spontaneous. For example, they contacted us early afternoon and wanted us to go out to eat with them that evening. We already had meat thawing for supper. I guess that makes me an old stick in the mud. I have explained that I usually plan the week's menus by Thursday or Friday night the previous week so I know for what I will purchase.

We ate out last night with a friend. It had been planned last week. We all looked forward to it and it was a lot of fun visiting as well as enjoying the meal. I like to think it was an event.

I think purposeful planning saves us money by shopping for those things I plan to use, hopefully find them on sale, and as well as having a menu so supper isn't a last minute "gotta think of something" ordeal.

So, if I'm anal, I guess it's just a fact of life. I'm sorry I am not spontaneous, but then again, I like to feel I make wise decisions with my money.