Yard Sale Day!

Went yard sale-ing today. You just never know what kind of deals you are going to find. Today's purchases included an old worn table and an old cruiser bike. I have been wanting one of these old fashioned bikes for ages. My daughter and I picked up a few extra things and didn't spend more than $30. I paid $20 for the table and a set of brand new paper lanterns to hang outside for a party I am having soon. The table was a double bonus because it was purchased at a fundraiser for our local Quaker Youth Group (I work at a Quaker college) so I felt really good about buying it. The table (see photo) now sits between the two wing back chairs purchased at an auction for one dollar for both. The ottoman, basket and most of the pottery were purchased at thrift stores. I am not saying this would be everyone's style, but it works for me!

My mother was the real winner of the day. She bought 160 square feet of oak flooring for $40 and a box of never used outdoor garden lights for $5. She has been wanting both of these items, but did not want to pay full price for them. Well she sure didn't! What a deal.

Get out and check out your local yard sales. You never know what you are going to find.

Pizza Night!

Tonight was pizza night! This used to mean frozen pizzas or pizza picked up at a drive-thru, but times have changed. Pizza night now means homemade. I made the dough last night. It was made from a mixture half white/half wheat flour. The toppings varied and one of them was even shaped like a heart.

My daughter had a friend over. I was worried that they would not like my homemade creation. I pretended to be a waitress and served them at the small kitchen table. They had a great time. They kept giving me the thumbs up sign and said it was the best pizza they have ever had.

What's even better is that I know everything that went into these pizzas (well, except what went into the pepperoni and I don't want to know). It's amazing how much better everything tastes when it's made from scratch and made with love.

Camping - Plan Meals Ahead!

One of the best parts about camping is the ability to pack your own foods. You don’t have to pay outrageous prices and you can eat healthier meals. When I used to think of camping, healthy eating never really entered my mind. I thought you were supposed to eat hot dogs, hamburgers, s’mores, chips, cookies, s’mores, sandwiches, soda and did I mention s’mores?

If you are trying to watch every penny, then the trick is to plan your meals ahead and pack accordingly. Example: chicken shish kabobs – cut up your chicken and vegetables. Pack in separate containers. Use skewers and throw on the grill. It will save you time and a lot of hassle at the campsite.

I always have all of my meats, veggies and fruit cut up and ready to go for the week. It’s so easy!! Happy Camping!

Postively Thrifty

I wore one of my new thrift store finds today. I was absolutely thrilled with the look. I am not always on top of every style, but I pride myself in looking nice (most of the time).

I have many great friends who like to wear the latest styles and spend a fortune to keep up. I have to admit, they do look fabulous. However, I do not feel any less attractive or stylish with my thrift store finds. In fact, I feel very savy and creative and I don't feel guilty for having spent too much.

In fact, I can't help but brag about my new finds each time I wear them. It's so much fun to tell people how little I spent on an entire ensemble. When I ran into one of my co-workers today she looked amazing in an Ann Taylor wraparound sleeveless dress in the citrus colors that are in style right now. We both marveled over the other's outfit. As it turns out, we were both looking positively thrifty!