With the onset of high 70’s and low 80’s for temperatures here the next few days, I do believe that spring has finally sprung!
My daffodils and jonquils bloomed early and then got hit by the cold temperatures. They were so pretty for the short time they lasted this year and I was sorry to see their little heads drooping with the second cold snap that hit them.
Today I have the windows open wide, curtains are blowing gently in the breeze. Little bit is snoozing on the bed and Misty is up on the window ledge watching the robins pecking away in the yard looking for something to eat.
Our recent heavy rains have made the grass and weeds really grow and everyone in the neighborhood is taking advantage of our beautiful day to mow their yards. The humming of the lawnmowers is a welcoming sign that spring is indeed here. It’s a beautiful day to get outside and visit with your neighbors.
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Sunday, February 19, 2012
What Have You Been Doing?
I don’t know about everyone else, but I’ve actually been working on accomplishing my New Year’s Resolutions.
Getting Organized
The big one for me, since I’m also in the process of downsizing my house. Trying to decide what I really am willing to part with has been difficult to say the least! The one thing I have to remember is that I just won’t have the room for it all in an apartment.
This next week, I am going to schedule a day when I can go look at some local apartments and get a feel for how much room is actually there to work with. Even though I’ve drawn out several layouts on paper and arranged furniture, actually seeing the space should help more in my decisions of what to keep and what to get rid of. I’m also thinking that psychologically it is going to be a good thing, bringing me closer to the realization that this has to be done. We all fear the unknown, it is a known fact, so the more I can prepare myself the better off I’m going to be.
I’ve already boxed up many of my books, "knack-knacks" and craft supplies but I’m afraid I am going to need to go through everything and let go of even more than I already have. At least I know that they will be going to new homes as I’m either giving things to the Salvation Army or listing them on free cycle.
So how are you doing? Are you getting that “Spring Fever” cleaning feeling yet? I’d like to know what all you are doing around your house.
Getting Organized
The big one for me, since I’m also in the process of downsizing my house. Trying to decide what I really am willing to part with has been difficult to say the least! The one thing I have to remember is that I just won’t have the room for it all in an apartment.
This next week, I am going to schedule a day when I can go look at some local apartments and get a feel for how much room is actually there to work with. Even though I’ve drawn out several layouts on paper and arranged furniture, actually seeing the space should help more in my decisions of what to keep and what to get rid of. I’m also thinking that psychologically it is going to be a good thing, bringing me closer to the realization that this has to be done. We all fear the unknown, it is a known fact, so the more I can prepare myself the better off I’m going to be.
I’ve already boxed up many of my books, "knack-knacks" and craft supplies but I’m afraid I am going to need to go through everything and let go of even more than I already have. At least I know that they will be going to new homes as I’m either giving things to the Salvation Army or listing them on free cycle.
So how are you doing? Are you getting that “Spring Fever” cleaning feeling yet? I’d like to know what all you are doing around your house.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
KISS
What an odd title for an article you might think until you realize that KISS stands for Keep It Simple Silly (I don't like the other word "stupid" because of it's negative connotations)
We are all making our New Year's Resolutions and many will have a list as long as your arm! Do you really think with that many you will even be able to accomplish all of them? Why not just make just a couple instead so that you know you can actually fulfill those goals.
Think of the most pressing issues that you need to accomplish. Is it to lose some weight this year? How about saying you need to lose just 10 lbs or 20 lbs rather than that 30-50 that you THINK you really need to get off. Once you are able to shed the smaller amount, then the rest will be easy to shed. Think about signing up at a local YMCA or gym where you can use either exercise equipment or a pool to get some additional exercise and also increase your energy and desire to lose that weight. Better yet, go buy an outfit, one size smaller than you currently wear, hang it on a hook on the outside of your closet door as a visual reminder that you WILL get into that by next New Year's eve!
Getting organized...... oh how I love this one, I do it every year! So this year, because I've already done a lot of pitching and tossing of items in preparation for moving, I won't have such a chore with this one this year. I used to get overwhelmed at the prospect, looking at all of the "things" I had accumulated from living in my home for over 14 years. So when I decided I needed to sell my house and that I would be looking at an apartment, with probably under 650 sq ft to accommodate all my belongings, I went on a cleaning spree. I've already packed away many items that will go with me and have the boxes labeled and stacked in closets. But you know what? I am thinking I will be going through some of them again and doing some additional "weeding out."
I have heard a few friends say that they haven't taken a vacation in years. Many did the "stay-cation" this last year or two because of the economy and the price of gasoline to go on any long trips. Since most people plan to do their traveling between June and September when their children are out of school or the weather is nice in all parts of the country, this will give you six plus months to start saving for that trip. This month, think of a few places you would like to go visit, start searching on line for information such as cost of accommodations such as hotels or camping grounds (if you are going to go by RV), sign up for some grocery store flyers and restaurants so you can see what the cost of food will be in that area. Of course you will want to check out the Chamber of Commerce websites to find out what special activities might be available during the time you plan on being there. By planning now, you will likely be able to meet your goal of having a true vacation this year. Send for some of those pretty brochures and put them out where you can see them and then place a big jar next to them where you can pitch in all your change. Granted, that isn't going to cover the cost, but it is a great visual aid when you see that jar filling up.
One of my goals this year, which I didn't give you the other day, is to have a more positive outlook on everything! I really got in a funk this past year. I personally had many struggles as did so many of my friends, family and just acquaintances. We all felt like there was no light at the end of the tunnel, someone turned the light out. So this year, I truly am looking for better things for everyone, from improved personal relationships, to new or better conditions in their work environment, and personal introspection and growth. For our country, this is an election year and one that I truly hope will bring about our public officials at all levels of government from local to national, realizing you can't borrow your way out of debt and some changes really do need to be made. With elections coming up, we the people can have a strong voice in helping to bring about those changes by exercising our right to vote.
So get out your pen or pencil, a piece of paper and write down your resolutions. Then post them where you can see them every day and then be accountable, you know you want to reach them !
We are all making our New Year's Resolutions and many will have a list as long as your arm! Do you really think with that many you will even be able to accomplish all of them? Why not just make just a couple instead so that you know you can actually fulfill those goals.
Think of the most pressing issues that you need to accomplish. Is it to lose some weight this year? How about saying you need to lose just 10 lbs or 20 lbs rather than that 30-50 that you THINK you really need to get off. Once you are able to shed the smaller amount, then the rest will be easy to shed. Think about signing up at a local YMCA or gym where you can use either exercise equipment or a pool to get some additional exercise and also increase your energy and desire to lose that weight. Better yet, go buy an outfit, one size smaller than you currently wear, hang it on a hook on the outside of your closet door as a visual reminder that you WILL get into that by next New Year's eve!
Getting organized...... oh how I love this one, I do it every year! So this year, because I've already done a lot of pitching and tossing of items in preparation for moving, I won't have such a chore with this one this year. I used to get overwhelmed at the prospect, looking at all of the "things" I had accumulated from living in my home for over 14 years. So when I decided I needed to sell my house and that I would be looking at an apartment, with probably under 650 sq ft to accommodate all my belongings, I went on a cleaning spree. I've already packed away many items that will go with me and have the boxes labeled and stacked in closets. But you know what? I am thinking I will be going through some of them again and doing some additional "weeding out."
I have heard a few friends say that they haven't taken a vacation in years. Many did the "stay-cation" this last year or two because of the economy and the price of gasoline to go on any long trips. Since most people plan to do their traveling between June and September when their children are out of school or the weather is nice in all parts of the country, this will give you six plus months to start saving for that trip. This month, think of a few places you would like to go visit, start searching on line for information such as cost of accommodations such as hotels or camping grounds (if you are going to go by RV), sign up for some grocery store flyers and restaurants so you can see what the cost of food will be in that area. Of course you will want to check out the Chamber of Commerce websites to find out what special activities might be available during the time you plan on being there. By planning now, you will likely be able to meet your goal of having a true vacation this year. Send for some of those pretty brochures and put them out where you can see them and then place a big jar next to them where you can pitch in all your change. Granted, that isn't going to cover the cost, but it is a great visual aid when you see that jar filling up.
One of my goals this year, which I didn't give you the other day, is to have a more positive outlook on everything! I really got in a funk this past year. I personally had many struggles as did so many of my friends, family and just acquaintances. We all felt like there was no light at the end of the tunnel, someone turned the light out. So this year, I truly am looking for better things for everyone, from improved personal relationships, to new or better conditions in their work environment, and personal introspection and growth. For our country, this is an election year and one that I truly hope will bring about our public officials at all levels of government from local to national, realizing you can't borrow your way out of debt and some changes really do need to be made. With elections coming up, we the people can have a strong voice in helping to bring about those changes by exercising our right to vote.
So get out your pen or pencil, a piece of paper and write down your resolutions. Then post them where you can see them every day and then be accountable, you know you want to reach them !
Sunday, January 1, 2012
New Year and Resolutions
Most people will agree that that past year has been a “humdinger” of a year and are very thankful it is over! Some things have happened too many of us, which have been out of our control, such as the downturn in the economy, the loss of a job or a loved one.
As we approach the New Year, each of us will be making resolutions, either actually writing them down or verbalizing them. It is a proven fact that those of us who write them down and do not make too many of them, have a much better chance of seeing those resolutions fulfilled. If you write it down, keep your list out where you can see it often and not tucked away in a drawer!
If necessary, make a goals board with pictures on it showing the things you want to obtain this next year. Whether it is getting better organized, losing weight, a better job, going on a vacation or finding inner peace.
It is time to set the wheels in motion to take control of the things that we can have control over.
Decide what your goal is and then make a written plan on how you are going to reach that goal.
Once again, I am going to attempt gardening! As you all know, if you have followed my blog for any time now, I have been a dismal failure in this attempt two years running. This coming year, we are going to plant in pots rather than in the ground!
My other goal is to make sure that I post on all three of my blogs on a regular basis so that I am able to increase my readership. I am going to set aside a certain amount of time on given days to do my writing. Approach it as if it is a job rather than just a hobby. There are all kinds of things to write about, I just keep pushing it all to the back of the line and I am not going to do that any more.
Now that you know what my resolutions are for the coming year, I hope you will make some of your own.
May you be blessed this coming year with good health, a good job and unlimited happiness in both your personal and professional lives.
As we approach the New Year, each of us will be making resolutions, either actually writing them down or verbalizing them. It is a proven fact that those of us who write them down and do not make too many of them, have a much better chance of seeing those resolutions fulfilled. If you write it down, keep your list out where you can see it often and not tucked away in a drawer!
If necessary, make a goals board with pictures on it showing the things you want to obtain this next year. Whether it is getting better organized, losing weight, a better job, going on a vacation or finding inner peace.
It is time to set the wheels in motion to take control of the things that we can have control over.
Decide what your goal is and then make a written plan on how you are going to reach that goal.
Once again, I am going to attempt gardening! As you all know, if you have followed my blog for any time now, I have been a dismal failure in this attempt two years running. This coming year, we are going to plant in pots rather than in the ground!
My other goal is to make sure that I post on all three of my blogs on a regular basis so that I am able to increase my readership. I am going to set aside a certain amount of time on given days to do my writing. Approach it as if it is a job rather than just a hobby. There are all kinds of things to write about, I just keep pushing it all to the back of the line and I am not going to do that any more.
Now that you know what my resolutions are for the coming year, I hope you will make some of your own.
May you be blessed this coming year with good health, a good job and unlimited happiness in both your personal and professional lives.
Friday, November 11, 2011
An American Made Christmas
As the holidays approach, as Americans we can give gifts that really are produced by American hands. There really are American made products that you can locate at various stores in your city and I am speaking of frequenting some of the smaller local boutiques and shops rather than the big stores such as WalMart and Target. Support your little local business owner and the products that they carry that are American made.
At this time of year, many churches and cities will have craft fairs where local artisans will have their wares for sale. You can probably do all of your Christmas shopping right there and not have to run all over town shopping. You can find almost any type of gift available for the men, women and children on your list.
Let's use our ingenuity and think of things that are truly different and unique. How about thinking of services that we can give to some one else? How about gift certificates that lets someone you love be pampered for the day? Perhaps to a local spa, where they can also get a manicure and a pedicure? Or getting a haircut from a local hair salon or barber? With everyone concerned about their health, consider a gym membership, which is good for any age group.
For someone who doesn't have time to wash their car, how about several gift certificates to a locally owned detail shop and car wash. Or how about an oil change for their vehicle, or getting their tires rotated for them?
As a person who doesn't have the time or energy to care for their yard the way they would like to, perhaps they would really appreciate having their lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed during the winter.
For the golfer in the family, how about some certificates for some rounds of golf at the local golf course. For the younger set, a chance to race go-carts, go horseback riding, or perhaps swimming lessons offered through the local YMCA.
There are a many owner-run restaurants, all offering gift certificates. Remember, folks this isn't about big National chains, we are talking about the small locally owned restaurants here. This is about supporting your home town Americans helping to keep their doors open.
Could Mom use some help cleaning the house? How about the services of a local cleaning lady for a day or more throughout the coming year.
It really doesn’t have to be a big gift, just let others know that they are appreciated. Leave the mailman, the trash guy or your babysitter something a little extra like a tip or even a small homemade gift such as a gift basket filled with homemade cookies and candy.
Stop draining American pockets by buying foreign made products. Keep our money here at home and support our local American businesses so they can continue to keep their doors open and afford to hire more employees. When we care about other Americans, we care about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in the form of local community growth, more jobs for those in our community and also the feeling of unity which is priceless.
So this Christmas, as so many of our local businesses are struggling during this economical depression, lets each of us do our best to BUY LOCAL and BUY AMERICAN.
At this time of year, many churches and cities will have craft fairs where local artisans will have their wares for sale. You can probably do all of your Christmas shopping right there and not have to run all over town shopping. You can find almost any type of gift available for the men, women and children on your list.
Let's use our ingenuity and think of things that are truly different and unique. How about thinking of services that we can give to some one else? How about gift certificates that lets someone you love be pampered for the day? Perhaps to a local spa, where they can also get a manicure and a pedicure? Or getting a haircut from a local hair salon or barber? With everyone concerned about their health, consider a gym membership, which is good for any age group.
For someone who doesn't have time to wash their car, how about several gift certificates to a locally owned detail shop and car wash. Or how about an oil change for their vehicle, or getting their tires rotated for them?
As a person who doesn't have the time or energy to care for their yard the way they would like to, perhaps they would really appreciate having their lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed during the winter.
For the golfer in the family, how about some certificates for some rounds of golf at the local golf course. For the younger set, a chance to race go-carts, go horseback riding, or perhaps swimming lessons offered through the local YMCA.
There are a many owner-run restaurants, all offering gift certificates. Remember, folks this isn't about big National chains, we are talking about the small locally owned restaurants here. This is about supporting your home town Americans helping to keep their doors open.
Could Mom use some help cleaning the house? How about the services of a local cleaning lady for a day or more throughout the coming year.
It really doesn’t have to be a big gift, just let others know that they are appreciated. Leave the mailman, the trash guy or your babysitter something a little extra like a tip or even a small homemade gift such as a gift basket filled with homemade cookies and candy.
Stop draining American pockets by buying foreign made products. Keep our money here at home and support our local American businesses so they can continue to keep their doors open and afford to hire more employees. When we care about other Americans, we care about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in the form of local community growth, more jobs for those in our community and also the feeling of unity which is priceless.
So this Christmas, as so many of our local businesses are struggling during this economical depression, lets each of us do our best to BUY LOCAL and BUY AMERICAN.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Big Changes Are Coming!
What a challenge I am facing. Downsizing a 1250 sq ft home with 14 years of accumulated “stuff” to fit into an approximately 600 sq ft apartment. No easy chore but one that has to be done.
Getting rid of things and clearing out things has been good for the soul. I’ve been able to send some things off to people who can really use certain items and others have been donated to my favorite charity, The Salvation Army.
I’ve already been able to pack away many items and have them in boxes, neatly labeled with their contents, stacked in the spare bedroom closet.
As I get closer to moving time I will have even more things to get rid of and may even need to reevaluate the items that I have packed and plan to take with me.
It is a good thing that I have always been a believer in using furniture that can store items or serve multiple purposes. I’ve got many bookcases which are going to come in very handy not only for all my books but for my nick-knacks as well.
I do need to be sure that the apartment complex will not object to hanging my artwork on the walls and putting up curtains and rods in addition to the Venetian blinds that are currently on the windows. I do worry about having enough closet space for storing linens and out of season or seldom used items. Let’s just hope it all fits!
Getting rid of things and clearing out things has been good for the soul. I’ve been able to send some things off to people who can really use certain items and others have been donated to my favorite charity, The Salvation Army.
I’ve already been able to pack away many items and have them in boxes, neatly labeled with their contents, stacked in the spare bedroom closet.
As I get closer to moving time I will have even more things to get rid of and may even need to reevaluate the items that I have packed and plan to take with me.
It is a good thing that I have always been a believer in using furniture that can store items or serve multiple purposes. I’ve got many bookcases which are going to come in very handy not only for all my books but for my nick-knacks as well.
I do need to be sure that the apartment complex will not object to hanging my artwork on the walls and putting up curtains and rods in addition to the Venetian blinds that are currently on the windows. I do worry about having enough closet space for storing linens and out of season or seldom used items. Let’s just hope it all fits!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)