The best thing to come out of my 30 days was that I started back to church.  I realized that missing church and not being as involved as before was where I was going wrong.  It was what was missing and why I was feeling so negatively all the time.  So, that in and of itself was worth it.

I also started reading "The-Purpose-Driven-Life" -- and it has me thinking and hopeful. 

Here are a few of the questions that it poses:

"In spite of all the advertising around me, how can I remind myself that life is really about living for God, and not myself?"

Wow.  VERY 30-days, simple living, huh?!? 

"What would my family and friends say is the driving force in my life?  What would I want it to be?"

"What area of my life and I holding back from God?"

That is all I am going to share, because without the rest of the chapter, the questions don't pose the same meaning. 

If you haven't read this book, I urge you to do so!  It's a life-changing book if you allow it to be. 

Another thing that happened due to my inflection during the 30 days is that I decided where I want the focus of my life to be.  NOT running around all the time from store to store and this class to that class and being unfocused and hiding in front of the computer screen so much every day.  AND, I also used to use t.v. as an excuse.  Sorry, can't go to church that night, "Lost" is on.  Nope, can't go to the homeschool meeting, I might miss part of "Grey's Anatomy".  Yep.  I love these shows.  I hate to miss them.  But what is more important?  Praising our Lord with a group of friends or finding out what "the others" are doing?  You can record your tv show, or even watch it on the computer later -- you can't ever get back that hour and a half of worshiping God at THAT MOMENT. 

So -- my focus?  Church.  Family.  Homeschool.  That is my simplistic list.  Of course there will be others -- like friends, Christmas shopping, etc.  but my FOCUS needs to be on those three.  Those are the three things that keep my family on the path where I want them to go. 

Last night I went to my first member meeting at my church.  I've been going for a year almost, but I am still not a "member".  Last night the pastor said there are people who show up to church when they feel like it, and there are people who are COMMITTED to the church.  I am the former; I want to be the latter. 

Same with our homeschooling group -- I LOVE those people!  Yet I miss meetings and don't sign up for outtings -- and if I do, I cancel because I have too much else going on.  Now I am making them a priority! Because they are important -- and being around them helps me do something I deem important -- homeschooling. 

Ok, speaking of not sitting in front of the computer screen.....LOL....

Have a very blessed week in the Lord -- keep a prayer on your lips at all times, and hug those homeschoolers!

Sherry

  I'm feeling sort of blue today -- hence the color. 

I do have some good things to report, some positive changes that have taken place due to focusing on simplicity.

Remember me posting that I actually turned in the letter that I typed up for the Planning Commission?  (Building Dept.)  Well, my nice neighbor told me  -- and I quote:

"That was some impressive letter you wrote!" 

He went on to tell me that it swayed the vote of one of the council members and that was enough to push the decision up to the city council!!  He said that my letter was very persuasive, it brought up several good points, and that it nearly had another member convinced! I can't tell you how great that made me feel.  I rarely receive compliments in that manner.

Secondly, my mother told me yesterday (and I would quote, but I can't quite remember the exact wording she used) that she was really proud of the type of mother that I have become!   She also said that she has been telling her friends how impressed she is with Emme.  She used to be quite a "difficult" child (mostly in her toddler  years) but that now she was polite, obeyed well, and was really a pleasure to be around.  My Mother is the one who least supports me with homeschooling, so I am really happy that she sees what a difference it can make.

Thirdly, I received our electric/gas bill this morning.  After six weeks of diligently turning off lights, turning my computer off at night, changing to compact flourescents, and hanging a load of laundry to dry now and then -- I received my SMALLEST BILL IN TWO YEARS!  I am so psyched and proud of that you guys.  I truly am. 

And finally -- yesterday was THE BOY'S 8th birthday.  He was happy and excited and overly spoiled by his father and grandparents!  (Not me!  I stuck to my budget!!!)

Well, it's off to the grocery store with my coupons, list, and sales papers!

Have a great weekend everyone,

Sherry

I went to my favorite church night of the month.  The devotional and children's church night.  We adults sing, pray, praise God, and when someone feels like saying something -- they are free, no, encouraged to do so.  I never say much of anything because I'm just like that.  I try to blend in, I don't like to bring attention to myself.  I've always been that way.

I have to say -- I AM starting to feel better about myself.  Even though my posts don't really reflect the changes I am going through, striving for, they are happening.  I am almost back to the place that I wanted to find again.  So, I'm glad I decided to draw attention to myself for once.  By committing to change in front of fellow blog readers.

I wrote a letter to the building commission about not wanting a road built a few inches from my house.  And believe it or not, I actually DELIVERED said letter right to the desk secretary!  Go me!  You see, writing the letter doesn't surprise myself, but actually following through with it does!

I reworked our school schedule too -- it may not be as "impressive" as the old one was, but this one gets the job done while still focusing on the Charlotte Mason philosophy in many aspects.  I would LOVE to completely follow the Ambleside curriculum in its entirety -- but I am too worried that I MAY have to put Emme in school due to financial reasons at some point -- and they are not going to care how well versed she is in Plutarch, Greek myths, and the history of England.  So I had to give up some of the curliques and squigglys for straight lines.  That doesn't change my great respect of the CM methods and I hope to find a way to involve more of her teachings into our curriculum at some point. 

Reworking our schedule is going to help me both inwardly and outwardly. 

Now I need to find a daily/weekly cleaning schedule that I can somewhat stick to.  That is my next assignment!  (yes, I already made one, but it just doesn't work!  lol)

Sherry

So it's Tuesday and it was a pretty nice day.  Overall, I'm beginning to feel more at peace with myself -- I'm not sure if that makes sense -- but I believe that I'm making some progress.

On the INSIDE:  While clearing out the basement, I came across two books that are going to help me during the homestretch of living more simply and putting the three R's at the top of my list.

To go along with Sarah Ban Breathnach's "Simple Abundance", I found the journal that goes with it!  And wouldn't you know, both times I have used it before has been in February?  Once in 2000 and once in 2003.  October-December is completely empty -- so I will start posting 5 things I am grateful for, every day!

Secondly, a book that I have wanted to re-read, yet I thought I had loaned it out and would never see it again:  "The Purpose Driven Life" by Rick Warren.  When I read this the first time, I wasn't a true Christian.  I wasn't really practicing religion at that point.  The book will be read with a different set of eyes this time!

And they were found while we were cleaning the basement apartment, where our good friend lived before he passed last month.  His nickname was "Tree" because he was a really big guy.  Both of the books that I found just happy to have a Tree on the cover!   Just a coincidence, but still, meaningful to me.

On the OUTSIDE:  We didn't stay within budget this week.  *sigh*  I am so disappointed.  It's my son's birthday -- and I DID stay within the budget I allotted for him!  (YAY ME!)  It was actually dh.  He wanted a few books and some cologne off of Amazon and that was 45 bucks.  Then he needed a bunch more contractor bags, lightbulbs (I got compact flourescent!) and brooms.... So we are over by nearly 100 dollars this week, which makes me sad because I tried so very hard to start our saving's account last month.  I only hope I can rectify this by the end of October and come out ahead somehow. 

I have a huge mess to clean up in the kitchen from dinner

And then I have to go and wash some clothes.

Until tomorrow!

Sherry

  I have a confession to make.  I sometimes cannot make myself leave the house.  If it is for my family, I do it.  If it is for myself, I generally say I will go somewhere, and then cannot make myself leave.  I don't think it's an actual phobia, and God, I pray it is not pure laziness!, but no matter how much I want to go somewhere, I will talk myself out of it. 

So, my confession is, I missed 7 weeks of church in a row.  *sigh*  But the good news is?  I went back today!  Yay me!  Thank the Lord.  I've been praying for weeks to give me the will to get up out of bed and drive to church every week now.  I've felt unworthy.  I've felt lost.  I've felt ashamed.  Now, I don't believe that everyone who does not join in with a church is a bad Christian.  I don't believe all who DO come to church are GOOD Christians.  But for ME -- I need that time in God's House.  I need that foundation to work on my inner self.  And isn't that why I am purposely charting these 30 days? 

Now I feel back on the right path!  I feel a great burden lifted off my shoulders.  I feel more like myself again.  I feel more empowered as a Christian and just "better". 

My purpose in life is to live it for Jesus.  My purpose in this world is to do as instructed by the Bible.  To raise and train up the children that the Lord BLESSED me with.  To be the type of wife that would make God proud of me! 

If going to church makes me feel THIS GOOD -- why in the world wouldn't I go every Sunday?  And Wednesday?  And to Bible studies?  I want to get there --- oh, how I want to get there!  But I still have the problem of leaving the house. 

Tomorrow night is our homeschool meeting.  It is actually IN my church and WITH several of my church friends and my FLY lady friends.  I plan on going.  I told two dear friends that I will try my very best to go.  Yet, as much as I REALLY want to go -- I'm afraid I won't.  WHAT IS THAT?  I don't understand it really. Please pray for me that I will go.  Once I start going places, it seems like it's easier to go to more places.  Once I get into these ruts, they just get bigger and bigger.

AND I have something wonderful to share about my good friend Cindy.

First a short background.  We've been friends for about 6 years.  She has 2 boys, one who has some emotional problems (mainly anger issues) and the other who is just sweet as pie.  She and her husband have had some major issues and she has had to pray and be very faithful in the Lord to stay with him at some points.  She has been faithful, and I believe she is truly starting to see His rewards.  Her HUSBAND took the boys to the church breakfast yesterday, and he CAME to church today!!!!!  Praise God!  We spoke together about how it was important for both of us to keep coming to church.  He said he needed God's help to be patient with his older son.  I also saw Cindy and her husband connecting during the sermon.  And best of all?  Cindy is just BLOSSOMING!  I told her husband how she looked at peace and just HAPPY.  She was in her element.  I thank God for what he has brought to their family.  And I hope this is just the beginning.

It's difficult to have a nonbeliever as a spouse.  My husband is very scientific and HE isn't even sure what he believes.  He's complicated to explain.  He does like what church brings to me and he certainly doesn't talk down about me being Christian.  And I am happy about that.

SO!  Today my goal is to be a good Christian.  To continue with RAOK's (I have been trying my best just to be kind to people, doing small favors, unexpected things ... it's amazing what a small bit of kindness does for others...and for YOU!) to be a good mother by making my kids smile today, and a good wife by doing something special for my husband and making him feel special. 

On an INWARD note -- this journal is awesome for that.  I will also read my Bible, especially some Psalms, as I love those.  I will also listen to some wonderful music, and do something kind for myself.

Many blessings on all of you!  And I PROMISE to post the chicken penne pasta recipe later! 

Sherry

Sick with the stomach flu.  Maybe God is telling me to slow down?

Sherry

Will it ever stop?  It's just too good to be true.  If you have a CVS, don't hesitate to use their extra bucks.  You get free stuff EVERY month!  Today I got more free toothpaste.  Actually, they are paying ME a dollar for each tube when it is all said and done.  I got free Mylanta (you just never know when you'll need it!) and a ton of 75-90% off clearance stuff.  It's like shopping back when I was a teenager and had money to throw away.  When I had time to pamper myself with all of the best drugstore brands......

Oh right.  But we are focusing on the INSIDE>  gee.  I forgot.   Ok, no, I didn't forget.  I'm feeling better.  A little anyway.  More positive.  Laying out all my faults before God in prayer helps.  Admitting to the way I feel and my insecurities -- well, it makes me feel better.

Homeschooling is going well too.  I have been really concentrating on the basics the past couple of weeks.  Especially math.  I realize that since I have always hated math, I was passing my "dread" on to Emme -- and we don't want that.  So, I've been using a few different books with her, but all enforcing the same math rules.  That way we are staying on one area a little longer than if we only used the one book.  (Or I could supplement with hand written or printed worksheets of course, be we already have the books)

(Did I mention that I got two 1st grade workbooks at CVS for a quarter?)

I also FINALLY made a pot of beans that not only passed the taste test with dh -- be he actually REALLY liked them!  Me too!  It's always a good feeling when you finally get something right after several tries!

Well, time to read my way into day 17.

Sherry

PS  Chicken Penne Pasta recipe coming tomorrow as requested!

 My good friend and I had a talk today, well, over the past few days, about my being down in the dumps.  I should probably tell you (for clarity's sake) that I AM taking an anti-depressent and I have taken them on and off for about 10 years or so.  Unfortunately without them I fall into a state of disrepair.  There have been several times when things were going just "perfect" -- and I thought I could stop taking them.  I'd be ok for a month or two, but then it would creep back up on me. 

So, with that knowledge, you can understand why it is even more concerning to me that I feel like this.  I don't feel like I used to -- perhaps a tea-stained version of that.  If that makes sense. 

The funny thing is, before I used to take the anti-depressants I was wildly creative.  All that angst and rage made for some wonderful poetry.  I finished several novels and had idea upon idea to keep myself up to my neck in papers and pencils.  (I always wrote in freehand, it felt more authentic to me at that time) 

I don't really write anymore.  I never get past the planning stages.  Of course there is still some poetry here and there .... but that creative SPARK!!!!!!!  I had for all those years is completely void. 

So, now I mother.  And I cook.  And I clean.  And I try to be a good Christiam.  And I shop too -- which is fun.  And I read.  A lot. 

But looking inward, these are some of the conclusions that I came to.  I guess I don't feel like my "true self" when I am not writing.  There is always something.  In the back of my head I have this feeling that once the kids are grown that it will come back.  My spark.  Creative flair.  And I hope that's true, because I will really miss them.  My kids.  And I will need some huge joy to occupy my time. 

I also got a card today.  A sympathy card from a friend at church.  She said she's been thinking of me and praying for me.  It's really nice to hear that and to think there is someone watching over you in a spiritual manner like that.

This looking inward stuff is HARD work!  Certain things just don't want to be unearthed, you know?

And for the record .......  My menu plan is already a bust.  I AM making the Navy beans and they smell heavenly, but they weren't done in time for dinner, so I made the chicken tacos.  I made homeade tortillas too.  It was very filling and good -- even if my tortillas need a lot of work!  (My first time making them)

Tomorrow Emme has Brownies and I will wander into CVS with some of my extra bucks and buy more things which will earn me MORE extra bucks.  You just have to love CVS!

I had to re-route a shelve of books in my linen closet (can you say "I have a lot of books and no space!"?) and stuffed them into the top shelf of my bedroom closet so I could fit all of the toilet paper, paper towels, shampoo, conditioner, deoderant, cleaning products, etc into my linen closet.  How fun is this?!

What will I do tomorrow to look inward?  I will do lesson two at www.avirtuouswoman.org for starters.  The rest is up in the air.

Sherry

I am looking back at the past two weeks and asking myself:  What changes have you  made?  Whose life have you touched?  Are you doing what you set out to do?

None.  No one.  No. 

30 days to a more simple life.  Ok.  Simple.

I'm saving money.  I started a house savings account.  I have a change jar that has 23+ dollars worth of change in it.  I've started baking more.  Stockpiling.  Cooking and freezing.   I'm getting a lot of great free samples.  I am couponing and rebating to the point where I have lots of free or close-to-free cleaning, bath, and paper products.

This is all good stuff, really.  I mean, isn't it?

So these next two weeks, as I may have mentioned in an earlier post, are being dedicated to the inward journey of simplicity.  There, I've said it.  I'm committed to it.  You are my witnesses!

I believe in my last post I wrote that I am going to start gift baskets for the needy, or to be used in my church.  I am also going to be joining in with my church's Operation_Christmas_Child.  Check it out -- it's wonderful.  I will also be on the lookout for other ways to be more charitable.

I read the first day of the 2nd_week_of_from_chaos_to_calm.  This week is about being a Godly wife.  The first day's article was tough to read, but I am going to try! 

I need to get more involved in church.  With the people in church.  Be more a part of that community.  I will be working more on that in the next two weeks as well.

So those are my plans.  Looking inward.  Trying my best to be more positive. 

Wish me luck!

Sherry

I feel like I'm failing this challenge.  In a big way.  I'm still so depressed.  Instead of turning inward and growing, I'm trying to avoid thinking.  I try to do things to keep my mind busy to keep from evolving.

Today is simple.  I will take my hubby to work.  I will take ds to buy some jeans.  Do a little laundry and run the dishwasher.  That's all that I have to get done today.  But I feel overwhelmed.  Just the thought of having to take a shower is just beyond my scope of comfort. 

What is wrong with me?

Yes, as a couple of you mentioned, it could most definitely be the change in season.  Even though I have been looking forward to this chilly weather.  I like curling up with a good book and my cat when it's gloomy.  I don't outwardly dislike this weather.  But maybe that is it.

I also have a huge financial stressor on my shoulders.  HUGE.  I'm in charge of handling the money, so it's all on me.  DH freaks out whenever things like this happen, and I haven't told him yet.  So, yes, that is weighing on me like a ton of bricks.  I know I have to tell him, and SOON.  He has big plans for our tax money -- he has become obsessed looking at ways to build this thing he wants -- but what he doesn't know is that the tax money will have to go entirely towards the house.  No leeway.  He's going to really get upset when I tell him, and the longer I wait, the worse it will be.  But I procrastinate like a professional and just can't do it yet.

On a good note -- I am getting my extra cash bucks from CVS today and I will get to purchase a bunch of shampoo, etc for free.  On top of free, I will get extra cash bucks back from THOSE as well.  Double free.  I am making up Christmas gift baskets for the less fortunate with some of the stuff that I get.  I might horde shampoo in the linen closet, but it only holds so much!  I know how good Pantene looks to someone who has been using nothing but generic for a year.  So I will be sharing my "wealth" -- so to speak.  I have also been signing up for freebies that I personally don't need so I can donate them to the church or put in Christmas baskets for the needy.  I got a HUGE bag of dog food for free.  I am positive someone can use it, right?

My mother "poo-pooed" my couponing and freebies, etc.  She said "I used to do that.  Run to 7 different stores to get whatever was B1G1F.  It's ok for people who have TIME for that sort of thing" -- the thing is -- for the past 25 years, she hasnt' HAD a money problem.  She's never HAD to budget.  And she REALLY liked the free pen I sent to her house made especially for those with arthritis!!  But she won't stop me.  And I DO have the extra couple of hours a week to spend to save our household a few hundred dollars a month!

Time for that shower.  *sigh*  I can't believe it.  It's like someone said "Time to go to the dentist".  I actually get the same feeling about a shower.  Now that just isn't normal.

Sherry

I actually haven't been in a very good place emotionally and spiritually during this entire challenge so far.  The money is doing better -- the stockpile is growing -- but "I" am not changing -- at least not for the better.

Emme and I went to two different grocery stores today.  I did all my research and cut my coupons and clipped them to the store's sale paper and made lists.  I need to get a store layout like Sarah did.  Check out HER shopping trip!  What an awesome job she did   I wish that my store would give me a 20% off my shopping purchase!  What a find!

So here we go with what I saved (I haven't tallied it up yet, so I will be surprised right along with you, LOL)

Total amount before sales and coupons:  165.16

Total savings between both stores: 76.63

Total out of pocket:  88.53!!!

I will also be receiving a coupon for .10 cents off per gallon on gas for October 4th through November 3rd at the Meijer gas station!  That should save me another 5 or 6 bucks.  (As long as they don't hike their gas prices to compensate!)

There is a Del Monte deal going on if you buy 18 items from 3 different groups you get 10 dollars in free groceries (or something to that effect)  I ALSO got a free 5-pack of Ziplock containers for free for buying 12 Del Monte items and a free bag of Uncle Ben's rice with a coupon(had to buy one bag).  I   LOVE Uncle Ben's long grain rice, but don't usually buy it because it costs too much -- but this made it worth it.  Oh, and I had coupons for all the Del Monte canned stuff and it was all on sale too!  I ended up coming out about even (zero out of pocket) with this deal.

Meijer was having a deal too -- if you bought a 2-pack of Digiornio Pizza (7.99)  you got a head of lettuce, a bottle of Good Seasons dressing,  a bag of Kraft Crumbles and a 2-liter of Meijer soda for free!  (I also had 1 dollar off the Good Seasons so total out of pocket was only 6.99 for all that stuff)

And if you bought Jimmy Dean scrambles (4.49) you got a dozen eggs and frozen orange juice for free. 

It's smart of the companies to do this, because I wouldn't have bought the pizza or the scrambles otherwise.  If only I would have had coupons for them!  Imagine! 

Depressed.  Not feeling bloggish. 

I do want to share my shopping success from today:

Yesterday we went to a memorial for our dear friend, Tree.  Memorials and deaths in particular can really put things into perspective.  He died suddenly and unexpectantly, our friend, and it's really changed the entire feeling in the household.  See, Tree rented the basement apartment of our house for the past few years.  He was like a big brother to me, and a best friend to Mike, an uncle to the children. 

His death is what prompted my 30-day challenge of looking inward and trying to simplify.  I didn't realize that DIRECTLY until I just typed it.  It's also what started my frantic budgeting, couponing, and starting an emergency stockpile.  (The plans for a budget WERE in place before he passed, but that really kicked it into full gear) He died in his sleep on September 6th.  May he rest in peace. 

So, I've been really thinking.  About everything.  And becoming a more responsible person all around is my goal.  Not to the point of having no fun or enjoying life, but enough so I don't have to live scared all the time.

Today I am starting the 2nd week of the 15-week challenge at A_Virtuous_Woman.  This week is all about becoming a better helpmeet.

Here is the direct link to the week I'm working on.   I have to tell you, I think I struggle more in this area than any other.  I love my husband, I honestly do, but our relationship is not nearly as strong as it could be.  I think we are both at fault.  I do know that he is willing to make it stronger.  So I will be working on that this week, and continuing to strengthen my Bible study and relationship with God.

On a cooking note .....  I'm using frozen peppers, steak, rice, and then adding some carrots, onion, celery, etc. to make a beef stir fry for dinner.  It should only take about 15 minutes in total, including the dicing of said vegetables. 

I also made my menu for October's OAMC.  I'm ahead of the game this month because I have extra pork in the freezer, and some chili, tomatoes, turkey bacon, and a little bit of ham.  (This is what will be left after we finish this month's food). 

Did I mention that dh has lost 11 pounds since we started the OAMC??  The switches that I made to 2 meatless nights and healthier lunches (and diet pop) has really helped!  He says his back feels better already :-)  AND he quit smoking a couple months ago, so all in all, I'm VERY proud of my DH! 

(BTW  I still do bake cookies and muffins, etc, but I give him a portion and then hide the rest so he will not eat them all!) 

We are still working out a time to go and pick up the lovely family armoire (I am not sure if this is the right term.  It has a large top w/ 2 doors with glass in them and shelves.  The bottom looks like a long dresser but has two doors that open)  My mother also has some large burgandy print throw rugs she is giving us!  I can DEFINITELY thank my mother for the updates in my living room over the past year!  The rocking chair,  quilt, pillows, the queen anne chair, now the armoire and the rugs!  *sigh*   Now I need to figure out if I should keep the sectional or put it in the garage.  (This was my dear friend's, who passed)  I feel guilty, as I was complaining about his stuff not long ago!  Now I feel guilty about not keeping his couch and table in the living room.  

Well, I am going to go and get the laundry.  I dried one load and the other is going to be hung dry.  I'm trying to hang 1 out of every 3 loads.  Generally I do a lot of dark or bright colored shirts all together -- and that is what I hang.  If it makes a big difference, I will start hanging other things too -- we shall see!

Have a blessed Sunday and a happy home, 

Sherry

I'm three weeks in to my OAMC and I have to say, I totally dig it.  It's so great to have so many meal options available, and with minimal effort on my part, we have an entire meal.

Tonight was chicken parmesan.  I already had the chicken breasts breaded and cooked in the freezer.  I'm not sure how pasta will do in there (rice freezes great for me so far btw!) so I made some pasta.  I popped a couple frozen rolls into the oven with the chicken and opened a jar of sauce.  Oh yes!  I do have sauce fixen in the freezer and pantry -- but I got 2 jars of Ragu for 50 cents today!  And I do love Ragu now and then!  I topped the chicken breasts with some mozzarella and sauce the last few minutes of reheating and I had a HUGE yummy meal. 

I have decided to allow myself not to be a stickler to my list.  Some nights I have some beef dish listed and I really, really want chicken.  Other nights it's soup, but we want something more hardy -- so as long as it's all used up, I guess it doesn't really matter in what order we use it.

So -- we grocery shopped today!  I have to say, I DID buy some "luxury" snacking items today.  BUT ------- with good reason.  They were on sale, I had coupons AND we got 50 boxtop points for our homeschool group!  Plus, I didn't blow the budget :-) 

I bought some Animal Planet fruit snacks (Emme just loves Animal Planet) and some cereal bars,  Capri Sun Roarin Waters and Chicken Helper chicken fried rice.  I can't help it, I love that stuff and it was only a dollar!  LOL  I have plain cooked chicken in the freezer anyway -- so can't we kinda count it as a freezer meal?  lol  Oh, I also bought some of my all-time favorite SINFUL pizza rolls!!!!!!!  But, I got them about half price -- so not bad.  And Healthy Choice frozen dinners were on sale for 1 dollar and I had coupons too -- I just bought a couple.

I'm definitely still no coupon pro.  So many women can save so much -- but I'm happy even saving the little that I did today! 

With sales and coupons, I saved 24.09 at one store and 29.20 at the other store.

(Coupons alone were:  14.50)   So coupons alone saved me an extra 20%.  For ME, that's good.  I know for people who have been doing this for years, nothing under 50% is good!  But maybe someday.

Yes, today was all about shopping and cooking.  School too.  That was about it.  I feel lazy -- but these are supposed to be simple days.  Right?

Yesterday was day 4 -- so I am a day behind again.

I got a great freebie in the mail from Amtrack.  I got 4 Pokemon bags and inside is a poster, book, and comic!  DS loves Pokemon.  I will give the other 3 to his friends.  I checked the link to give you, but they are out of stock. 

Other than that, I got a free sample of Benefiber, 2 American Girl catalogs, and some other junk.  I can't wait to start getting my good perfume and lotion, etc. samples! 

We went to ds's soccer game.  I think I mentioned that to save money, I bought the mix for Propel water.  Propel at the gas station is 1.59, on sale at the grocery it is 1.00.  I can mix a 32 ounce bottle of it for 59 cents.  (DS won't drink plain water.  He likes Gatorade but we don't want him to have the calories.  He sweats like the dickens playing soccer, so we want him to have something he'll actually drink, hence the Propel!)

Back to the soccer game, ds did a great job!  My dad was sooooooo proud.  I swear, every time that Jake kicks the ball down the field or steals the ball away from the other team, my dad gets all choked up!  He had three girls -- and Jake is the only grandson, so you can only imagine!  Honestly though, it really makes me happy that I was able to do something in life that brings SUCH PURE JOY to my dad.  My dad never misses a game, a practice, nothing.  It's kinda cool.   (I should mention that last year Jake was the kid who went to kick the ball, missed it and fell a lot -- so his vast improvement is even more enjoyable!)

Other than the soccer, not much else got done.  We had an outstanding dinner at my Mom's -- penne pasta with chicken and vegetables with grated parmesan cheese.... I definitely need that recipe!  DH was at work, so I made him a big pot of chili and cornbread when he got home. 

I filled out some surveys, sent away for some freebies -- and *gulp*  I watched t.v.!

There are several shows I watch regularly.  2 of those shows were on last night!  Grey's Anatomy -- which I've been hooked since the 1st show and ER -- which I've been hooked on for YEARS.  Both shows were excellent last night. 

I hate to say I didn't do much else yesterday.  But I didn't spend any money other than gas!  I didn't waste energy or gas.  (i.e. I was lazy and didn't do laundry or run the dishwasher)

So, today I have a lot on my plate -- and I ache all over.  Oh the joy!

I have shopping to do -- I will post my "beginner's couponing method" in my day 5 post.  And also any deals I come across.

Until then my frugal friends,

Sherry

Emme is in a homeschool Brownie troop.  It's a 20-minute drive to get there, and I have weighed the pros and cons of the costs.  It's really done wonders for her.  They are a really active group and it's helping her relate to girls her own age in a group setting.  So we've decided to stay.

They changed the uniform this year.  Instead of the tan pants they wore last year, which I have three pair of, now they want them to wear the Brownie skort.  The 23 dollar Brownie skort.  *sigh*  

This news came right after I found out that Emme needed the "big girl" ballet slippers.  Another 17.00 

I decided I would buy the ballet slippers in this week's budget and the skorts in next week's. 

Then I got an email from the Brownie leader saying she had picked up a pair of skorts 2nd hand for 2.40!  I jumped right up and told her I wanted them!  So you could either say that I am 2.40 over my budget for the week, or that I'm saving 20!  So that was some great news.

Now for a complaint. 

I made a pork roast and potatoes for dinner.  Dh gets off work at 12 midnight and he generally eats about 1 in the morning.  I make his plate and he (sometimes) warms it up. 

He ate a few bites of the pork, directly out of the crockpot -- and then proceeded in eating the salami that is for his lunch for the rest of the week.  So, now I am short of what to send him for lunch for 2 days. 

So I decided to send pork roast and potatoes in his lunch today, instead of his usual three salami sandwiches. 

I know I shouldn't complain about my husband.  I know it.  But the reason I have started budgeting and OAMC cooking, and trying to be a better wife and mother, baking, filling out surveys and for free samples, etc. is to help the money that HE EARNS doing a job he hates, go farther. 

He has had to change the least out of all of us.  He still has his 12+ 2-liters of pop every week.  His milk fetish is satiated.  He has his expensive hard salami and the 2 dollar a loaf of bread for work (see why I'm irritated?)  while we use the 50 cent loaves ourselves with egg salad. 

If you have advice on how NOT to be irritated -- please, I'd love to hear it.  I feel guilt all the time that I can't keep my mind free of negativity when it comes to my husband.  That is part of my 30-day challenge too.  To stop the negative talk going on in my head in regards to dh.  I am not disrespectful TO him.  I treat him like a king.  But in my head -- I treat him more like a jester.

So onwards and upwards -- it's another day -- let's see what we can make of it!

Sherry

It was another pretty quiet, slow day.  I feel like something else should be happening. 

I spent money.  I had to.  Dh goes back to work tomorrow and he only wants a particular bread and salami in his lunch.  So I went to buy it.  I put gas in the car.  Air in my tire.  Dh went to the dr. and then bought himself dinner.  *sigh*  I am trying to build us a nest egg and he keeps eating it. 

It's stressful.  This whole money "thing".  Part of me blames myself, because if I wasn't homechooling, I could find a part time job while the kids were in school.  I HAVE a part time job from home, but barely bring anything in the house with it 

I'm trying SO hard.  But my penchant to spend is strong! 

I DO believe that we will have nearly 200 in the savings account by the end of this month, and that is a start.  My goal was 300 -- but I didn't count on a few things money-wise. 

School went really well.  We did math and phonics at the kitchen table and then went to snuggle on my bed for the rest of the subjects.  We're learning about Native Americans and it just fits in well with the nature and classics we are reading too.  Tomorrow is Brownies.  Emme loves it.  They are a homeschooled group and they are very active.  It's so good for her.  We'll be going to a Native American Pow Wow in a few weeks.  I hope to really get her imagination going for her notebooking.  We read "Hiawatha's Children" today from the "Stories of Early America" book --  (I was going to link you to Amazon, but the only rating and review of the book is mine!).

Anyway -- I'm not satisfied with my progress.  No surprise!

I did change our bedding to our fall/winter set.  It's wonderfully dark in the room now.  Much more private. 

Sorry nothing more to report.

Sherry

I awoke only to find a dismal, gray morning, which soon broke into rain.  It had its desired effect, calming and lulling me.  I didn't succomb, however, and started in on my Bible study and prayer time.  Afterwards I emptied the dishwasher, made my ta do list, had some breakfast, printed out a world map for our "doorschooling", and some phonegram pages from the Jan_Brett website.

Next will be school and some baking.  Emily has ballet tonight, so we will have to leave the house afterall. 

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Later in the evening:

It ended up raining nearly all day.  I got more done on my list than usual, felt a bit more calm -- but I spent more time on the web than I wanted to.   I have to keep telling myself that this is a process.  It will take time. 

I made two new recipes today.  I used some biscuit dough we had sitting in the fridge, not planned for anything, and I squished them into a larger circle using the heel of my hand.  I then put in some cheddar cheese and ham, rolled them up and baked them.  Emme loved them.  There are several left for dh too.

Tonight I made more chocolate chip cookies -- and then I made a batch of peanut butter.  I had a few leftover peanuts that I put in them.  I didn't have a recipe, so I just guestimated everything.  They turned out pretty yummy. 

And due to the stuffed cabbages my mother sent home for us last night -- I got out of cooking one of our pre-frozen meals tonight!  So I will save it towards next month's meals. 

Oh, I made and tried those chicken packets (a few posts back) and they were only OK.  Thumbs down from Emme.  I thought they were pretty good, but not good enough to make again.  Ah well. 

I got some cookbooks in the mail today and a free mini mixer.  I also got "Alice in Wonderland" on c.d., a wedding invitation, a letter from Em's penpal in Texas, and a history homeschooling book.

I'm going to try and get to bed before midnight tonight, if you can imagine that!

Until tomorrow,

Sherry

  I must admit that I am a little nervous about my challenge, which starts tomorrow.  It's almost as if I am going to go to sleep and wake up a different person.  A mother with more patience.  A housekeeper who never tires.   A wife who is submissive.  A teacher who inspires.   A woman who walks in the Word.  A Proverbs 31 woman.  A Titus 2 woman even!  *sigh*  So, I'm nervous.  I fall short in every category.  This is why I need to do this. 

Will my kitchen floor finally sparkle?  Will the laundry pile cease to exist?  Will Emme learn to read finally?  Will every meal turn out like the recipe?  Will I stop expecting so much from myself?  Probably not.

I want to be the best ME that I can.  I know I can do better than I am doing now. 

I'm not sure what the hardest part will be for me.  Not buying anything that isn't necessary will be nearly impossible!  LOL  But that, in and of itself, is a necessity.  Not reading all my favorite blogs every day!  Now THAT is going to be tough!  Limiting my computer time.  I've been spending extra (a LOT extra!) time on the computer this weekend.  Like binging before fasting, I suppose. 

Well, it's nearly midnight, and I will be getting up at a decent hour tomorrow.  Wish me luck!

Sherry

30 Days to a Simpler Life: 

Getting back to basics:  The Three R's

What is the first advice that a fellow homeschooler will tell you when you mention that you are faltering?  Get back to the basic!  The three R's!  Well, I plan on doing the same thing!

1.     Relationships

2.     Responsibilities

3.     Reflection

When deciding what I needed to do in my life in order to simplify and slow down to focus, I made a little diagram.  I put my name in the center.  I wanted to surround myself with the most important thing in my life.  First was God.  Next was my kids, my family, and friends.  These are all relationships.  Next I listed: Finances, Home, School, and My health.  These are all responsibilities.  Finally I listed:  Reading and writing -- both which give me reflection.  Then I used a highlighter for each category.  Pink for relationships, green responsibilitie, orange reflection.  Then I realized that God really should be in EVERY category. 

Getting back to the basics - simplifying -- focusing -- it all start with God.  I need to spend more time in His Word.  More time in prayer.  More time in worship.  I want a closer bond.  This is my first priority.  I will be printing out and utilizing this_challenge from A_Virtuous_Woman.  I've been meaning to start this challenge and just haven't gotten around to it.  (Like a whole lot of other things!) 

With friends and family, I want to do things to make them feel special.  I want to send notecards or letters, make creative gifts and send them, have the kids draw pictures and share them across the miles.  Things I keep MEANING TO DO.  I will also be trying to make more friends in my church and homeschool community.  Reaching out more.  And I will have my first "Sunday with Cindy" tomorrow.  We go to church together and afterwards we will go to her house and hone our housekeeping skills!  (Tomorrow we will be baking and washing clothes)

As for the kids, I need to REALLY PAY ATTENTION to what they say.  Do special (free!) things with them -- walks, reading aloud, cooking together, more one on one time,  library, park, nature hikes, etc.  They love to play board games, have movie nights, help me bake (well, the girls do) and I want more time focusing on them. 

So my primary focus will be on relationships.  Nurturing, sharing, hugging, and spending time. 

Simply yours,

Sherry