Save Some money, NOW!

      Wednesday I started my posts for this year's wrap up, and getting ready for next year. Wednesday was about hitting up boxing day clearances for stuff for next year. Don't expect to get a TON, because stuff is being picked over, but there are always things left. I got a new Christmas tote, and 3 sets of lights...the tote was regular price, but I needed it, and the lights were more than 50% off

     Let's get to today's post shall we? Guess what's coming in another 360 days! CHRISTMAS! You may or may not have just rolled your eyes at me, but there was a point to me saying this. We know it's coming, we know it can be stressful (if you let it) and it can be expensive, so now is a great time to start saving. Hubs said something to me the other day and he was joking, but he made a valid point, only 26 more paydays to Christmas. When you look at it like that, that's not a whole lot of pay days (and today is our payday so we're down to 25). So I thought to myself, what if we saved $20 a pay? that would make a huge difference. I'm not telling you you HAVE to save $20 a pay, but I am saying, start saving now, because it'll save money in the long run. 

Ok, Love ya, bye! 

-Nancy 

Boxing Day Sales

   

Here we are on the other side of Christmas, so now is when we stop and relax right? Wrong! This is when I get ahead of the game. Guess what is coming in another 362 days? Christmas. This is the  point when I don't understand the last min people. You know it's coming again, so why not get a little prepared, and save some cash. Right now you want to hit up the boxing day sales. So I worked a very long day at them yesterday, but a lot of places still have them going, and anything Christmas is on clearance, they want it GONE!

      Right now is an amazing time to get clearance decorations, wrapping paper, cards, storage (I need a new big Christmas tote), and maybe even get started on next years gifts. I had one year I went out on Boxing day, got ALL my Aunts and Uncles done and one set of Grandparents. Do not underestimate starting early, it truly is my super power.  Take a look at your shopping list from this year, odds are most of those people, you're buying for again next year, let those wheels turn.

Sanity basket

      A day late, but here it is. This post will be your friend in just a couple days. Today's post is about the Christmas morning sanity basket. What is a sanity basket? It's a basket with the Christmas morning essentials. Scissors, batteries, can opener (clam shell packaging), tape, ribbons, etc. Get it all together now so you're set on Christmas! If you're looking for a little MORE guidance, check out this link! I've got to go fold laundry and mop now!

Okay, Love ya, Bye!

-Nancy

The last min List!

     Did you think I left you in the final hour? truth was I was thinking of doing a post, but not 100% sure how or when to do it. One week from today is boxing day, which means the Christmas Chaos will be pretty well done for another year. REALLY crept up on me this year. 

     Last night was my work Christmas party, and it basically gave me my second wind, and a little dehydration. 

     This is the point in the planning where things get personal, and case to case. You visualized early what you wanted this Christmas to be like. You got more realistic and simplified, so perhaps your view was changed a little at that point. One of my first posts for this series was make a list, check it twice, then again, then remake it. Hello Remake it! You need to assess what needs to be done still. 

     For me, it's wrapping, just some last min cleaning, and figuring out the timing for all the cooking. Which brings me to this:

WELCOME TO TURKEY THAW 2016!

     If you're not there yet, you should be close. I do like to give the turkey a little extra time, so I am probably about a day earlier than most would do. If you got a fresh turkey, you don't have to worry about this part, but remember to add that in your to do list for the week. I would typically be starting the thawing process tomorrow, but I've had still frozen turkeys to deal with in the past, and I no longer have room in my freezer to be completely honest.

     Next Christmas post is Wednesday!

Ok, Love ya, Bye!

Nancy

What to expect Next Year and a Quick note

     Let me start this post off by saying, if you have things that need to be sent, your deadline is here! do it like yesterday, because it's going to be cutting it close now. 

     So here is what this post is all about, me being open and honest, and as we sit here 11 days from Christmas (yes that's it), I think I have figured out how I want to do this blog next year. When I started in September, I mentioned this year was a trial run, and I would find my own style and decide if I want to do it again next year. I also made reference to 101 Days to Christmas Which honestly has been my guiding light through the process. So very quickly, yes I do plan to do this blog again next year. What I don't plan on doing is worrying so much about what others think when I'm posting. 

     It may not have seemed like I was terribly worried, but the reality is, I was. I like to do stuff early, like REALLY early. But this year I was concerned some people might think I was doing stuff TOO early, and so I procrastinated on a lot of stuff, so I was on par with my blog. As a result, I'm actually behind where I typically am, and this blog series is supposed to help reduce stress...it has actually caused some for me.  Don't get me wrong, I've enjoyed it, but I will be doing it differently for next year. How?

1. I will be having at least one Christmas post a month, starting in January. Here is the score, I shop all year for gifts for people, and it typically serves me VERY well. With us buying a house this year, and moving and all the trips in the summer, I was way behind, so there will be monthly progress reports. 

2. There will be posts RIGHT after Christmas to get things started. I hit up clearance Sales, I'll be reassessing, this will be coming up, consider it like a 12 days of Christmas thing (if you know the story of the 12 days of Christmas this reference makes more sense)

3. Next year will be more strict, and much earlier. So here's the score, my holiday baking this year was my biggest casualty. I have bakes chocolate chip, and they came from a tube. Things will be done early so that at this point next year, we will be mostly just cleaning, and doing little fun touches. I will be setting early deadlines

4. It's going to be less about me advising you, and more a guide of what I'm getting done. So clearly as I've been doing this, I haven't necessarily been taking my own advice along the way. Next year instead of me saying, get this done it's going to be more, here is what I did. 

5. I seriously want more pictures. The last step is going to make that way easier, because I can snap it when I've done it. 

Ok, Love ya, Bye!

-Nancy

Down time!

     Does your head feel like it's spinning yet? Well mine does, this is the time we need to make sure we get in some down time. We've been on the ball up to this point, so one of these posts (or two) are allowed to be about taking care of yourself, so here it is. Take an evening and have a spa night, get your nails done, get some relaxing time in.



   Remember back in September when we decided to start planning then to avoid stress this season? It does come on easily, because a lot of people around us are getting stressed. So your assignment right now is to make sure you take some time to de-stress!


Ok, Love Ya Bye!

-Nancy

My Skin is FREAKING OUT!

     It's here, a little something I call my Winter Skin Freak Out! What it basically is is my skin telling me, "I need moisture overload"! My skin goes dry, but also breaks out, and is kind of sore, and gets patchy and it's not fun. I haven't let it get TOO bad yet this year, as a matter of fact, my face looks like an Oil slick right now...on purpose. So as I begin into my journey, I thought I would share my right off the bat go to items I use to battle this, and share what I'm using right now. And if your skin does a winter freak out maybe you'll be better equipped to handle it too.

Step one: Oils

     I discovered that I really like Avacado oil years ago, and it's still my go to facial oil, it's the oil I'm wearing right now. When I'm done in the shower, I don't towel off for a bit, I first slather my face with Avacado oil, and a body oil as well. I've been using Barefoot Venus for several years now...their pretty packaging gimmick worked on me, but I do really like the product. THEN I towel off. I also use my oil as a makeup remover, and then wash my face, it helps too.

Step two: Serum

     Before I ever touched an oil to my face, I used serum, and basically grabbed whatever was on sale. I do tend to not shell out a LOT for skin care, but this one has ruined me. I legit only want to use this Serum from now on, Ole Henriksen Truth Serum. It does everything I want my serum to do, hydrate, brighten and fight fine lines.

Step 3: Moisturize and Protect

     This is the Daily basics of what I have to do to keep my skin from tormenting me all winter, there are other things I do to treat it, but this is what I do daily. So I wrap things up with body lotion (I don't have a go to, I'm using vaseline with coco butter right now), and Eye cream and a day time moisturizer or night time and lip balm. To be honest my moisturizers are really not products I adore, they're good, but I like to try new products, and they're not solid enough for me to never stray. However my lip blam and eye cream actually are. My eye cream (not pictured) is Weleda's Wild rose Soothing Eye cream. My Lip Balm (pictured Below) is Rosebud's Rose Salve. I also use it on dry spots on my hands, and my cuticles. 

     You may or may not have noticed I didn't mention how I cleanse my face this time of year. Mainly because this is the part that requires the MOST tweaking every year. I've been eyeing a product that I will likely pick up today if I get the chance. I'll share my thoughts on that product eventually I'm sure. The big thing I do is reduce my facial cleansing to once a day as opposed to twice, so I'm not stripping natural oils, and drying it out worse. So that's it, what I've started to do to save my skin...ha expression was literal.

Ok, Love Ya, Bye!

-Nancy

Today's Workout Kicked My Ass

   

The title may sound like a positive thing, and I suppose to an extent it is. I'm pushing my limit, and I guess that's good, but unfortunately I think I bit off more than I could chew. I'm 100% aware, I'm in terrible shape, so my starter videos have all had the beginner in the title or somewhere within the first 30 seconds. I have always enjoyed workouts that have me punching and kicking, and so when I found one, I was AMPED. Unfortunately I was SERIOUSLY struggling to keep up, and not like I do with my beginner cardio, I catch up eventually, but this one was leaving me in the dust. I guess I COULD look at this as a set back and get discouraged and kind of ruin the progress I HAVE made...OR I could choose to make this a goal and use it to motivate myself.

     While the thought of variety is super appealing, I need to walk before I can run, and before I can walk, I should probably start with crawling. I plan to stick with the cardio video I've been doing to start, and eventually I'll get to some punching and kicking, but for now, I'll let cardio kick my ass...I can at least fight back with that one.


Okay, love ya, bye

-Nancy

Getting the House all Clean for Christmas!

   

 I hate doing these posts, but they need to be done. We're into the DEEP cleaning of everything now. I'm not going to say that hubs and I are slobs, but we do have points where this house looks...well lived in. So basically now until Christmas, we have a minimum of 3 daily chores. Be them Maintenance cleaning, ie  Dishes, sweeping, dusting, or the larger or overlooked jobs, ie, Cleaning Walls, Disinfecting Door handles...Dusting. The rule is 3 jobs a day, unless it's you're day off, then you're up to 5. The eventual plan is for the whole list to be maintenance cleaning. Unfortunately we're not there yet, there is a bathtub that needs scrubbing :/

How Goes the Battle?

      So last week was of course the week of Black Friday, and I'll be honest, as some one who works in retail, it all went by in a blur. I mean, I kind of realized an hour ago Walking Dead is on tonight... To put this into perspective, if you told me I could only watch one tv show for the rest of my life, it would be a crazy easy decision, Walking Dead, every time... I have a ritual, I have my must haves for EVERY episode...but I digress. My point is, I didn't realize how much time had passed since I was talking about how I lost 5lbs. 

     So I have made some drastic progress, and I'm not talking about on the scale. I did lose another 2lbs, but more than that happened. I find it funny, for so long I've been looking on Pinterest for inspiration to get myself moving. Honestly, I've gotten used to meal prep and it's great, it's made things so much easier, when it comes to making healthier choices, and just convenience in general. However I can be uber lazy, so me getting off my ass to actually move, that's the hard part. I kind of love when you find inspiration when you're NOT looking for it. 

     I stumbled upon a page on Facebook actually, Wellness with Nicole Beers. What makes this different? Nicole is from Moncton, and the local aspect definitely plays a role for me, it also makes her more of a real person to me. I also reached out to her and asked her if it would be cool if I mentioned and linked her page on my blog. She was quick to respond and enthusiastic about me sharing and being motivated by her page.  I wish I could find her post on her page that really got me moving. What I'm going for here is making myself move more, and I want it to become a habit. She pointed out building a habit takes time, and that you should start out small, like instead of a 30 minutes work out, make it 10. Sounds SO simple, but not something I had ever thought about. In my mind, devoting 10 minutes a day to getting moving is not much to ask. Plus the shape I'm actually in, I need to start small. 

     As a result, I've been moving, daily. I have just found short videos on Youtube, and get it done. It makes it a lot easier to commit to. So this is my progress thus far, I'll keep you up to speed!

Okay, Love ya, bye!

-Nancy 

What I'm up to, And Christmas Mailing

     Just a quick rundown of what we have going on in our house right now. Back in the beginning of planning, we talked about ways to save money and one was points. Today was probably our biggest order thus far, and we redeemed our points. I had already condensed my list from 3 parts to 2. We had  Non- Perishables, and started buying them back in September. We also had Frozen, which was just combined with non-perishables about a week or two ago. And the third part was Fresh and we don't touch that until the week leasing up to Christmas. I have 6-8 things left on my non-perishables/frozen list...this is my Freezer right now.

    I also came in under budget thanks to a fantastic App I added to my phone called Flipp. Flipp brings together all my local flyers so I have them all in one place. What's more when I put my shopping list into it (which I can dictate and it organizes my entire list), options of sale prices pop up, so I can easily find the best price, or have the best price to price match (I got half off my gravy today).

    So enough of what I've been up to, what should you be doing over the weekend? Well we're officially in the first couple days of December, you should be taking the time to get your Christmas cards sent. We SHOULD have all the addresses together now, so it's just a case of getting them together and sending them off. Cale and I split the list into his side of the family and my side of the family...and once I'm done mine I go and help him with his. You should also be wrapping up (pun was not intended but fun), the gifts that need to be sent away too, and get on that this week. You'll have plenty of time then to make sure it gets where it needs to go.

     See Ya Later

     -Nancy

Another Wardrobe Experiment

 

 Well I'm at it again. My Wardrobe Experiment is back. So last time I did this I was doing the fall edition. I was batting around the idea for the winter one, trying to figure out if I wanted to do this before or AFTER Christmas for the Winter edition. When I woke up yesterday do I light sprinkling of snow on the ground, I got my answer.

    Before, definitely before. Before Christmas, I don't hate snow. I think how pretty and Christmasy it is, and after Christmas, I'm ready for it to go away. So while I'm still happy to see the white stuff, and not wanting to live in PJ's and hide under a blanket every day, it's a good time to do the next part of my Wardrobe experiment; Winter Edition.

     Fortunately I learned from the last one I did, 3 weeks is basically the perfect amount of time to cover this, and I already have some stuff saved so I can just add on to the already existing list.

     If you didn't see my Fall Wardrobe Experiment let me break this down for you. For the next 3 weeks I will get up in the morning, and using pinterest piece together what I would like to wear that day. I choose pieces from websites I like for shopping, and piece these outfits together. I can't repeat pieces so if an item is already on my list, this is just showing me more value in that one piece. Each week I share what I have discovered, and see how my experiment is going. I do this to better understand my personal style, and actually to help me minimize my current wardrobe so I can filter out stuff I don't actually wear.

     I'll pop in again Next week to update!

Christmas Prep, a Reality check!

     I had a friend of mine, who was following my blog posts about getting ready for Christmas, informed me my posts were making her feel guilty. I asked her why and she told me, because I was so on top of everything as far as getting ready for Christmas goes. And I laughed at her. I realize I've been attempting to guide you through everything to make everything less stressful for you in your Christmas preparations, but if you think I've done EVERYTHING I've listed thus far, you are dead wrong.


     So Okay, I've stayed on top of things like shopping, decorating, and wrapping, stuff I would call, The fun stuff. HOWEVER there are SEVERAL things that have fallen through the cracks for me, that I have to get back on top of. IE, cleaning the damn appliances. Remember when I told you it's my least favorite thing to do? I put it off. This is my personal assignment for tomorrow when I'm off. Baking.

    The confession has been made to my mother in-law, and I said I may make 1-2 batches of cookies, and my chex mix this year. I usually do like 5-6, but I simply can't be bothered.

    The closets aren't cleaned, and the cards aren't ready. By no means do I have it all together! So anyone beating themselves up, stop, I'm lagging a bit too.

     What is interesting about this point in the planning is we start to prioritize. Remember in the beginning of all of this we had that magical list of the perfect Christmas? If you've been able to keep it all together, and are getting exactly what you wanted on that list, good for you. If not and you're seeing things more clearly now, welcome to Christmas reality.

     Do you know some of my fondest memories of Christmas is when something went wrong? Like the year the roasting pan didn't fit in the oven and we had to cut up the turkey to cook it. Or the year I overflowed the sink. Christmas is about being together with people you love, Christmas is not perfect.

     So, as we sit here, the day before December, it's a time to stop beating yourself up, prioritize your list, and get ready for the highest gear we've been in, but enjoy every second of it!

Freezer meals

     Today we're talking about meal prep. Not meal prep for Christmas, that's still a little ways off. No today we're talking about keeping things as simple for you as possible. If you're at work all day, then headed to the Christmas concert, you don't have time to make a real meal, and will likely be super stressed and rushing and....you get it. Now is the time to think of meal prep. This is something I do regularly anyway, but this time of year, it's about keeping it simple and cutting corners.

     You can do this a couple of ways. What I do is take one afternoon and make stuff for a week. I end up freezing half of it and then I'm good to go.

     Soup is a good go to right now because it freezes well, is generally easy to make and made in big batch to cover several meals.

     Double or triple recipes when you make them, freeze em and you've got a few more go to meals.

     Super simple, buy a heat and eat meal in BULK, and package it up.

     These will come in handy on those days where you just can't bring yourself to cook

Frozen Foods

     Happy Black Friday! So I will warn, I did write this one WELL in Advance. Why?? It's Black Friday, and I work in Retail. When this gets posted, I'll already be working. None the less I wanted to make sure I put a post on here, however brief it might be. So back in September, we made our Grocery list, and we broke it down into 3 parts. Non-perishable, Frozen, and Fresh. I also instructed you, to get started on those non-perishables. Hopefully your collection looks something like this.

      We should be getting close to the end for those, keep your eyes peeled for your handful of non-perishables, but now is the time to start watching for those Frozen deals. Yup, we've made it, time to start our freezer foods. 

My Go-to Potluck Recipe

     I work in retail, and have Black Friday coming up. One really cool thing my workplace does for Black Friday is we have a Potluck. Last year, I was the one who brought the coffee travelers BUT this year my typical go-to potluck contribution has been requested. Not the first time I have had this requested of me, so I thought I'd share the recipe. It's super easy. The pic above is for 2 batches, because this is for the potluck on Friday. So below I have posted the recipe, enjoy!

     Ingredients:

     

     1 Cup Sour Cream

     1 Cup Mayo

     1 Pouch Cream of Leek Soup

     1 Pack Frozen Spinach (or half of the pack you see above)

     1 Loaf of Sour Dough Bread (optional)

     Thaw Spinach

     Mix together all the ingredients except the Sour Dough and let sit in Fridge for several hours

     Cut Sour Dough into a bowl, and tear up bread for dipping. Empty Dip into "bowl" and serve

Gifts and Wrapping

   

Black Friday is this week. This marks the official kick off to the Holiday shopping season. If  you haven't started shopping yet, now is the time. A LOT of stores start  their sales on the American Thanksgiving here in Canada.

     If you started your shopping back in September when we were first talking about starting your gift lists, and your shopping, you should be close to done. I personally have fur babies left to do an hubs, and I'm done. Time to start REALLY ticking people off that list. If you missed my last post, check it out, it has some tips to keep you sane as you venture out into the potential insanity of the stores. So part of the prep here is, wrap up as much of your gift shopping as you can. If it's something you have to get done little by little, make sure you get on the gifts that need to be mailed NOW.

     And speaking of wrapping, it's also time to consider how you want to handle this part. Are you going to do one big evening of wrapping? OR are you going to wrap as you pick up gifts? Hubs and I have done kind of all of the above. We're almost done shopping, but we went out and got most of our gifts this week, and did our wrapping the same day. If it's a fun thing for you, you turn on the tunes, grab a glass (or bottle) of wine and make a night of it, plan when you want to do that. If it's more of a chore, do it as soon as you get your gifts home to get it out of the way.

Cover The Stuff you Forgot, and How to Handle the Christmas Crowds

   

I sit here and sip my coffee, I'm completely thrown off because I usually work Monday's and I'm actually off today so this is super weird to me. But it has the wheels in my head spinning on what to accomplish today, while I have my husband with me because he is off today too. So What I am assigning to myself is exactly what I will assign to you as well.


     We've been doing a lot of list making in our planning process, and some stuff may have fallen through the cracks, or you may have put them off. For example, I haven't done my linen inventory and I know I need to because a lot of our towels became Alice's towels this fall. I also have a few things that I've let go longer than I would have liked, like I need specific boxes for some of the gifts this year, and I still haven't picked up our light timer. When I went grocery shopping the other day I did get all my slow cooker hot chocolate stuff. So remember that really early on list I said to make and check, and then remake? Now would be the time to remake that list, see what needs to be covered and see what you can cover now.

     For me, after this week, I need to psyche myself out to go shopping. This Friday is Black Friday, so Christmas Shopping is getting kicked into high gear for EVERYONE after that. I love the crowds when I'm working because I love always being at a steady pace, but when I'm shopping I enjoy quiet. If you're like me and you need to mentally prepare after this week, here is what I do.

     1. I never go when I have no time, it's a day off thing so I'm not rushed, and I remind myself I can take my time
     2. Take a deep breath, figure out where you want to go in what order and just tackle that plan
     3. Make sure you're comfortable. I'm in sneakers for this, and very likely yoga pants. I'm also avoiding wearing my jacket because there is a lot more body heat.
     4. Make it fun. I'll grab like a gingerbread latte while I'm in one of these crowds because while I wait, I can calmly enjoy my holiday drink
     5. This one is personal to me, but I feel like I'm not alone in this. I hear people say they hate Christmas, and I'm not sure that's true. They have let Christmas stress them out, and they hate stress. I've somehow held onto my childlike excitement for Christmas, and never want to be stressed about it ever because that would just contribute to the problem I always see. So I remind myself to not be like that.

If You are Reading this....

Super old pic, but has the triumphant look I wanted...HI KATE! 

     If you are reading this post, I did it! I wrote this post on Tuesday, kind of to motivate myself. In my post I did on Tuesday, I shared that I had some personal stuff going on. I'm still not ready to share those (because as I type this it's ACTUALLY like and hour later), but one of the things I can share with you about it is, I have to lose weight. Doctors orders.


     I would love to tell you, that when I got said orders, I came right home, got on a strict diet and a really tough workout plan, I would like to tell you that, but I would be lying. No, when I got the news I ended up eating an entire bag of poutine chips. AH progress. No, unfortunately, my motivations have been much more shallow. I looked at a group picture that they took at work on Halloween and didn't like what I saw. Then I saw another picture from work, and a picture from last year's Christmas party, and then they announced this year's Christmas party, and I want to look GOOD, It's incredibly shallow I know, but this is unfortunately what has motivated me.

     Since I'm confessing here, I don't know about you, but I have pinned the CRAP out of a ton of stuff that was supposed to help me "lose weight fast"...but let me be frank, the would have made me "lose weight fast" if I lost it simply by clicking a mouse. Good intentions, but no follow through.

     BUT if you are reading this, I did what I wanted to do! Last Friday night, I weighed myself and said I wanted to be down 5 lbs by next week. If you are reading this, I did it! I may set the same goal once again for next Friday, and shed a little more light on what I'm up to, but for now, simply know I'm amped, and I reached my goal!:D

What I've been up to with planning, and what is next for you

     If you were to walk into my house right now, you would see Christmas is in full swing. If you drove by it you would too (oh yes the lights are on at night). What's more I've been helping a friend of mine with getting her stuff together too. Tonight the two of us will be going to one of the Christmas sales we mentioned a long time ago in a post, Hope to get some pics and stuff from that. We got a ton done yesterday too.

    Most of the people who read these posts live in the Greater Saint John area or the HRM. I know Saint Jon has it tomorrow, but I think the HRM has their big Christmas parade in the evening. From my years working in radio in Saint John, let me stress to avoid parking on the parade route after 4:30 or so, because that's when they will start towing cars.

     SO you're assignment this weekend is take in anything that's going on that you said you wanted to take in on your master list (remember that thing you wrote up in September?) And meal planning/ prep. I know some people go to the grocery store when they need to, or just buy a bunch of stuff they like and make it when they feel like it. If I do either one of these, I spend WAY more money (like double or triple), I buy less healthy things (or the healthy stuff goes bad), and I never know what to make. I have to plan my weekly menu, and what's more I take time on the weekend to do meal prep. Now I'm not pressing this notion on you completely, but over Christmas, early meal prep you can heat and eat later may just be your best friend. The other option is to pick up heat and eat options and just, well...heat and eat them.

     I've been doing meal prep for a bit now, and actually another benefit from it is coming in another blog post later today (already wrote it, you'll see the score later),

     Keep it as simple as possible. Soups freeze well, and can be the perfect thing after a long day of shopping. Also when you're cooking now, if you make a stir fry or casserole, double the recipe, and freeze the other half. This doesn't have to be hard, remember it's meant to help you.

This is all part of getting ready, but I hate this part SO much!

     

     You may not like reading this post, and believe me, I hate sharing this with you. Your next assignment involves some cleaning. it's my least favorite thing to do too, but here it is. What is more, it involves  my LEAST favorite cleaning on the planet.

    I chose to do this post today, instead of Friday because typically speaking, I go grocery shopping on Friday. Today's assignment is cleaning the large appliances in the kitchen. I've been after you for clearing out the freezer, now is the tossing of freezer burnt, and scrubbing. Take a step down (in my fridge, if it's my mother in-law's you'd go up) to the Fridge, toss the expired, scrub the spills. Time for that Fridge to shine...But we haven't gotten to my LEAST favorite yet...oh no, here it is...the oven. I would rather scrub the entire rest of the kitchen top to bottom, than handle the oven...but it has to be done. We're about to jump head first into baking, and anything else special coming, so let's just get it over with shall we?

What Is Coming Up In My Blog

   

     Let me stress, this is NOT my first blog. It's like my 3rd. I even look back to see my earliest posts, and they're kind of lame. Not saying my writing these days should be hanging on a wall somewhere for all to see, but I am more passionate about my posts these days, and I'm regularly getting a sizable audience reading. 

     The biggest thing I've been posting about lately is Christmas, but I suppose that is only going to last so much longer, and I do want to keep posting after the holidays come and go. I do tend to be rather enthusiastic, maybe more than I should be in a lot of cases, but for that reason, my posts might be interesting, question mark. So my plan is to continue to post, and try and grab random inspiration where I can potentially find it. 

    Another thing my brother has asked me is why haven't I done a vlog? I've done Youtube videos in the past, and have given this some serious consideration. In the new year I very well may start posting one of my posts as a vlog each week. I do however VERY much enjoy writing and typing. 

     I also have some rather personal stuff going on, I may or may not share. Part of me REALLY wants to, but at the same time I kind of like my privacy. So this is by no means a promise, but it's something I'm tossing in there as a possibility. However, I think it would likely be something I share when I get to the other side of this, no matter the outcome. 

     So I guess that's what's up with me, and my plans for my blog coming up soon  

Baking

     I had customers come into the store yesterday and tell me it's far too early for us to be playing Christmas Music. I giggled to myself thinking, If they only knew what I had been writing since September. I'm pleased to tell you, I am pretty well done decorating. There might be a couple more things I may do but the brunt is done, and I sit here under my Christmas blanket, by my tree typing this. As I said before, I'm not about to tell you when to decorate, but I'll tell you, in my neighborhood, it has all begun, I counted 3 other houses with lights on...mine aren't...yet.

     Getting way off topic there, because today's post isn't about decorating, it's about baking. I legitimately do not bake any other time of year, but Christmas. I'm a great cook, but not baker. However, my Santa Cookie Jar is watching me every time I walk by.

   At the very least right now should be when you're making the game plan. I know for a fact, I'm making the chex mix recipe my Aunt gave me. I've told her in the past she could make me a big bag of that for Christmas and that would be a perfect gift, I love the stuff. I also know I want to make my God mother's secret recipe that came with my big mixing bowl as a wedding gift. AND I either want to get the recipe or SUBTLY HINT ON MY BLOG TO MY MOTHER IN-LAW ABOUT EITHER HER GINGER COOKIES RECIPE OR HER MAKING THEM BECAUSE THEY ARE MY FAVORITE COOKIES EVER! I think that was subtle right?

    Anyway, gather together the recipes you want to make, and start scheduling when you can make them. Most cookies, also freeze well, so generally speaking, I have some go into Santa up there when I'm done, and I have a tin I like to put a chunk of the batch into (generally half) and keep for Christmas. The whole amount never makes it, but I have a nice variety to share after we look at lights Christmas Eve. While I'm saying plan now, you are totally able to start baking and freezing now. Also, keep an eye out for baking stuff because the big sales are coming up on baking supplies.

    Also remember to keep plugging away at that non perishable list we talked about in September.

Remembrance Day

   

     Today I'm not giving you any added assignments, instead I leave this day for both, it's purpose, and how you choose to use it. I feel due to some electoral choices recently made south of the boarder, I'm holding tighter to the ideals and freedom that we as Canadians far too often take for granted. Today is a day to very much our chance to take just one moment to remember this. This is why I stressed get your poppy.

    So take, and treasure that moment of silence, because yes, we are free, but this was achieved by many who sacrificed, some came back different people because of horrors they've seen. Some have come back wounded, and their lives have still changed forever. And remember, some didn't come back. Remember them, and be thankful for what they have given us.

I Just Put Up My Outside Lights

     Today, my husband and I put up our outside Christmas lights. I expect plenty of judgement to this point now, from those who think I’m disrespecting Remembrance Day. I fail to see how my decorations at my house prevent me from respecting, and appreciating what people have done and sacrificed so I can live in an amazing and free country, you better believe I will be holding that moment of silence in the highest regards tomorrow.

     Then there are those who tell me, “Wait until December 1^st”. To that I say…no. There are multiple reasons why I start early. One is flat out convenience. By doing my lights now, I’m avoiding colder weather, and if I have the house done, I don’t have to worry about doing it all when I’m pulling long shifts and I’m exhausted. Another reason, I want to.

     If you haven’t figured out yet, by the last 2 months of posts, I kind of love Christmas. It’s in my blood, my mother was a Christmas nut, and at Christmas, I feel most connected to her, so I’m not about to apologize for extending that. I see so many people when they got older, became jaded by the negative side effects of the season. I get it the kids want a ton of toys, and the malls are packed. There is so much to do, and you’ve got it all jammed into a short period of time (unless you follow my blog). And let’s not forget, if you have ever worked in retail, you probably have a horror story or two. I’m lucky enough, I’ve held onto that childish love for the season and everything it holds. I seriously hope no one who reads my posts gets their joy out of raining on some one else’s parade, because if that’s the case, I feel sorry for you.

     I guess why I’m posting this is because I have actually seen a lot of traffic on my Christmas themed posts, so I know I’m reaching some people. When I’m reaching you with my posts of happiness and joy (because that’s what these are, getting prepared for what should be the happiest and most wonderful time of the year), I hope you’re walking away with a little more appreciation for the season than you came with. 

Christmas Cards

     

Ah the Christmas Card, a lost art these days. I've noticed my collection gets smaller each year, which is unfortunate, because I love sending and receiving them. But if Christmas cards are something you do, it's time to start thinking of them now. If you're like me and actually lose your addresses every year (sorry Bev, it's always you I come to for that), you really need to get on that. I like to send them at the very beginning of December, perhaps selfishly because like I said, I like getting cards too, and often, people send them back when you send a card to them. But it is also to get them out nice and early. Doing up the cards is usually a team effort in my house. We split up the list, I take my side of the family, Cale takes his and when I'm done I help Cale with his list (Cale's family is bigger). 

So now is the time to get the list together, and get your cards picked out, or printed. And remember if you're doing a letter, get that done now too. 

What do you do with cards once you receive them? I incorporate them into my decor! It's not up yet, or I would share a pic. I take ribbon, and use painters tape ( to protect the finish) to attach it lengthwise down my kitchen cupboard doors. Then I use painted clothes pins to attach the cards to the ribbon. I got the idea from two places. One, I've seen people decorate their cupboards with ribbon before. And the other place was actually my mother in-law, who usually puts her cards all over her cupboard doors. How do you display your cards?

Your Wishlist

   

      If you haven't been asked yet, you will soon, "What do you want for Christmas"? You've already started your gift list, and have even probably asked some one yourself. Now is the time to get everyone in the household to make that list. This is actually a part that doesn't make things easier for you, but for others, you can give them a real answer.

     You can kick it old school and actually write an actual list. We're in the age of technology, you could have a bunch of photos you take while you're out and about. You could use pinterest...actually if you're a pinterest addict like I am, then you may have one on the go, it's time to clean it up and polish it off. This is your assignment because then when your parents ask, you can tell them, or send them the link.

A Whole LOT of Broth

     I make Broth, A lot, and I make a lot of it. It's the time of year, soup, is a fantastic choice to make on the regular. It takes a while, but it's so much better and far more cost effective. My biggest issue is usually storage ( I do plan on getting a deep freeze or another small freezer eventually). For a long time though I tried making this, and never actually made a pot that had any real flavor. I tweaked and played with the recipe, and I really don't have that issue anymore so I thought I'd share my recipe and what I do. 

You will need:

     A large pot, the biggest one you own (mine is one for canning)

     Bones, beef, chicken, turkey whatever you have on hand

     1 Red pepper, seeds and stem removed

     1 Onion

     1-2 Carrots

     A clove or two of garlic (unless I've got my father in-law eating it)

     2 Stalks of Celery

     2-3 Bay Leaves

     Salt to taste 

     Enough water to fill the pot

     A ladle

     Containers for Storage ( I use jars)

     A Colander

     2 Big bowls

     A Funnel 

     Large Measuring cup (optional)

Put all the edible stuff in a pot. With the Salt, less is more, you can always add more when you use it later, but you can't take it away once you boil it in. Bring it to a boil, and then reduce it way down, you want a basic simmer, and let it go for 12 hours. When it's done, you will want to give it time to cool down. I give it a couple hours, and if I want it to go faster, I do take the lid off obviously. 

My packaging method requires 2 large bowls, a colander, a funnel ( I use jars so my funnel is a canning funnel), and a ladle. It's a long process, not as long at the actual cooking, but it can be tedious (Cale and I trade off to break it up). I use the large measuring cup, or ladle, and I put the broth through the colander, into one of the bowls, until I fill it up. I move the colander to the other bowl to avoid to make a huge mess. Then ladle the broth into the jars, and continue to cool. You're going to want to make sure you give some room in the jar for expansion, I've learned the hard and rather messy way. You'll want to freeze most of it because it doesn't have the preservatives that store bought has. 

Turkey talk

Christmas 2009

     If you've been following my posts from the beginning, you know we started talking about food VERY early on. And if you've been following my instructions, you've probably made a really good dent in the non-perishable part of the list. This would be a really good time, to do a refresher list, see what you've covered already, and what is still waiting to be picked up. We're not at perishables or frozen food just yet, but we are getting close. 

     This post is however about (potentially) the main part of your biggest meal, the Turkey. IF you're getting a turkey this year, you have an assignment. If you're ordering a fresh Turkey, now would be a good time to do that. Getting it done early basically covers you later, and let's be honest, the butcher is gonna like you way more than some one who pops in December 18th. 

     If you're going with a frozen turkey, don't get it yet, but do consider where you're going to keep it. If you have a place all set to go, you're all set. If you're like me, and you just have your freezer, start emptying the freezer now. Avoid buying stuff that will be stored in there for more than a week, and start using up the stuff you have in there. Again if you're like me, you're getting to a point where your freezer is going to be mostly for Christmas. 

PLAN your decorating

   

My Christmas Decorations, Hibernating 

Well I'm officially kicking into High gear at my house with Christmas planning and prep. Today's post is about decorating. By no means am I saying you should be doing your decorating RIGHT NOW. People have mixed feelings about before Remembrance Day, and before December. Around December 1st, I may light a fire under you and say get started, but beyond that, no, I'll never tell you WHEN to start decorating.

      There is actually a few things to take into consideration, for starters, are you doing EVERYTHING in one day? In my house growing up, and still today, we do the outside lights first, then the house and finish with the tree, generally each is done on a different day. So now I know I need to set aside 3 days for decorating. ALSO,is it kind of something you do as a solo act? do you want to do it as a family? Because now you need to take into account more schedules. Haul out the Calendar and plan each of these events. Also, did you want to have anything special for the decorating? I know when I was a kid we liked hot chocolate after setting up the lights, and I like to watch a christmas movie after the tree is up. Think of all of this and plan accordingly.

     Also, do you need to pick anything up? Well I'm in my first house this year, so we need to get a ladder, and outside lights. I've got an eventual plan for my house in my head, but this year we're keeping it basic and really only getting new lights. If I worked in retail or not, we'd likely be all decorated before December 1st in my house...if you haven't figured it out yet, I like Christmas...But basically after November 25th (ironically this year) Hubs and I have majorly conflicting schedules, so it's become a necessity. I will say this though, if you do no other part early, I do recommend doing the lights early if you have to go outside, because it's only getting colder.

     So in a nutshell time to figure out what you need for decor, and when you plan to do it, with all the bells and whistles.

A Wardrobe Experiment Week 2

     When I started out on this experiment, I said I wanted to do this for 2 weeks, which is where we are now. Last week I said I wanted to do 4 weeks. Where do I stand now? We'll come back to that. For now we'll do what I did for my last post, what have I learned. If you haven't read my last 2 posts, check them out here and here. 

1. My Colour Pallet is not what I thought. I knew Green was a big colour for me, I love neautrals. I expected more blue, and didn't expect as much deep red. 

2. I like Tights more than I thought. Up until recently, I didn't own any. Now I do, and I pinned 2 pairs, one basic and one super cute pair. They're comfy and versitile, and I need another pair

3. When it comes to Accessories, I take a very practical approach. My accessories weren't plentiful, but versitile, and there was plenty to keep me warm

4. I could probably go all of fall with only 5 pairs of shoes. I have like 5 pairs of boots for fall, and really only use 2. beyond that it's flats and a pair of sneakers

5. I'm drowning in basics and I really don't need to be. Thus far, I've pinned 6 basic, or layering tops, and basically I would rotate them. I have a drawer devoted to these, I again, don't need that!

     So what's next? Well, I don't really need another week, by looking at what I have, I can see a couple odd pieces I'm missing I can add to my board. Another basic top, another sweater, more pj's and a pair of slippers. Otherwise, mission accomplished 

Happy Halloween, and get your Poppy!

     Happy Halloween! Today is all about enjoying today however you Celebrate, and just one more tiny thing. 

     Go get your poppy. So here is the deal, while we've been doing some major Christmas planning, quite often Christmas, or getting ready for Christmas too early is kind of viewed as the enemy of Remembrance Day. While I start early when it comes to decorating for Christmas, I really enjoy my house decorated, and decorating, so I do start early. Here is the thing, I make sure I respect the day, the moment of silence and realize, that moment isn't much to ask considering what people have done and sacrificed for us to live the life we get to live. So, that little poppy, not a lot to ask, make sure you get yours and wear it with pride

    

Movies and Music

   

     Here is another fun one for you, time to get your Christmas movies and music ready! I don't know about you but I actually have a ton of Christmas movies, and I give myself permission to watch them starting November 1st, because honestly I probably wouldn't get through them all if I didn't. 

     Before I keep going on this post, I do want to touch on what for some can be a heated topic, Christmas stuff starting before Remembrance Day. Let me start by stating there will be 2 posts in this series devoted to Remembrance day,  and I do very much recognize it. I 100% believe people should recognize it and respect what people have done so we can live in the free and wonderful country we live in. I will enjoy my music and movies before that holiday, wear my poppy with pride, and start decorating after we have taken that moment of silence. 

     Onto Holiday music. I have 2 cd's (yes cd's) one is Boney M and it's the only cd I will listen to while I wrap gifts. My other one is all oldies, like Sinatra. This year my plan is to also make a playlist for my phone...maybe on cd if I have some kickin around so I don't kill my battery. So that's actually the project I'm working on now. Your mission, should you choose to take it :) 

My Vent about Sunday's Walking Dead Episode

   

     I'm actually shocked it's taking me this long to talk about the Walking Dead Season Premier. Part of it being I was still in recovery, another being I hate to be the one spoiling the episode if you hadn't gotten to it yet (guess what time's up), and also I typically need to mentally analyze the episode too.

     On that note here we go. Let me stress too, that I find watching Talking Dead very therapeutic, and this one especially. So we know that there was not one, but two deaths Sgt. Abraham Ford, and the lovable pizza boy Glenn Rhee. Rumors had been swirling for months that it was going to be more than one character. Being that most of my friends are reminded of me at the mere mention of zombies, this was a discussion I had more than once, and it really was only my duel fandom friends who understood, and thought my opinion was rather valid. My initial thought was the two we lost. Why? When I say duel fandom, I mean not just friends who watch the show, but those who read the comic too. In issue 100 of the comic, Glenn meets his end at the end of Negan's bat just like in the show... actually the makeup artistry was crazy close to the final frame of Mr. Rhee(kudos Nicotero). It was one of those iconic moments a comic fan waits for, like back when Bob screamed out "Tainted Meat" at the Terminus crew. Walking Dead 100% delivered on that. PS, though I adore Daryl, I'm a little sour at the moment, because I DO blame him for Glenn's death. Once the rumors of two deaths started swirling, I immediately thought Abraham. Why? In last season's episode titled Twice as Far, we lost Dr.Denise Cloyd. Relevance? The fashion in which the good Doctor dies was the end that Abraham meets in the comic. So comic fans realized that Sgt. Ford was, as Michael Cudlitz put it, "Living on borrowed time".

     While I shed my tears, as I have for everyone of our beloved characters (even Merle) since we lost Dale in season 2, I can't say I was surprised. What did surprise me, was when watching two characters get their skulls caved in was actually the easier part of the episode to watch. What happened to the living seemed to be much worse, it ended quickly for those who died. The survivors were at it all night, which we watched the mental and emotional breakdown of our fearless leader.

     Let me tell you, I don't flinch from the gore of this show. One of my favorite walker kills to this day remains when Daryl crushed the head of one in a hatchback trunk. However one part of the episode did turn my stomach, when Rick was given the choice of the lives of his group, or chopping off his own child's arm. The Carl haters better recognize the heroism in this kid when he gave his father permission. Fortunately it didn't come to that, this was when Negan was sure, he had broken Rick.

     The brutality of the episode was some times hard to watch, but that's what we as fans signed up for when we pledged our loyalty to the fandom. Fortunately for our hearts, Scott Gimple has promised us a more lighthearted episode this Sunday. It goes back to the the Walking Dead slogan, "Fight the dead, Fear the Living

All the little gifts you may have forgotten

     If you haven't started this part for gift shopping yet, now is the time. Start watching out for sales on gifts that would be good for Teachers, Secret Santas, your Mailman, maybe a family exchange, things like that. Have them now, so you're avoiding the holiday rush, and if you have more than you need, cool, you have them on hand should you need them another time. Here are a couple ideas for you.

     1. Gift cards, let's be honest, most people have things like Tim's cards ready to go, or here is one most people would also find useful a gas card. I've gone to costco and grabbed movie passes in the past as well.

     2. Chocolates. Unless you know some one who actually can't have chocolates, this is typically a safe bet. I usually have more boxes than I need every year...oh darn...

     3. Blankets, we are getting into the chilly seasons, and some times throws go on for a great price

Just a couple of ideas to get you moving on the ones that pop up and surprise you!

A Wardrobe Experiment after one week

 
  If you didn't check out my Original post explaining my wardrobe experiment, check it out here.


    I'm just over a week of doing this experiment, and I think it's going well. I'm basically checking in today to kind of show you what I've learned so far, and my plans with this going forward.

    1. I like layers. There hasn't been an outfit I haven't thought out layers. There was one with a pull over sweater and I added a jacket and a blanket scarf. This is kind of making me understand why I NEVER feel put together in the summer, I wouldn't be able to reach for layers, or I would roast

    2. I like basics. There hasn't been anything overly trendy here. All of it is stuff I could carry over from one season to another. I currently have a drawer that is basically only white t-shirts and tank tops (and heavy socks), doing his post, it actually makes a lot of sense now.

    3. I've pinned FAR fewer items than I expected. As I write this, I'm on Day 8, and have 34 pins. While that may sound like a lot remember, I'm including, tops, and like layers. I'm including bottoms, jewelry, scarves, handbag, jackets and shoes. One outfit could potentially have like 8 items. Doing the math, I could potentially have 64 items here, 34 is low!

    4.There are quite a few things I own that I thought I'd grab all the time, but I haven't really gone for them in this post. I have 2 leather jackets. I have just today used one on the board, and I didn't even pick a colour I own. I have SEVERAL handbags, I've picked one this entire time. I also have dozens of earrings I'm at 3, a lot of boots...you get the picture.

    5.There are a several key pieces I already own I keep going for. Of the 34 pieces I have pinned so far, I own 16 of them, or a variation of it (and when I pinned the item, I had mine in my head). That's just less than half, so I was already on the right track.

    Doing this for one week as me wondering if perhaps I should do it for four weeks instead of just the two. Two seems like it might limit me, four gives me a lot more wiggle room. Either way, I'll keep you posted.

Planning The fun stuff!

     Hopefully you haven't found too much of the stuff we're ticking off the list, to be a chore. If it has, know that this one, is a fun one! We're talking about different events you want to check out.

     This is things like parades, Christmas sales, tree lighting, Christmas concerts, checking out lighting displays. 

     So these are things that may have made their way onto your master list of things you want to do this season, I know they're on mine, and yes, these are popping up now. Our parade and our biggest Christmas Bazaar are coming up, other odd ones may pop up too. Time to figure out which ones you want to make it to.

     The other thing to keep in mind are which of these might be events for you. I know when we go to the parade, I like to come home and watch a Christmas movie and hot chocolate too. Plan for these things too. 

Prepare for Guests, PS you forgot some food!

     As I've mentioned in the past, my posts about preparing for Christmas this year, is a trail run. While I've received a bunch of positive feedback, and likely will do it again next year, this year I'm trying to organize my blog. So while I sit here helping you organize your holiday, I'm also doing the blog thing. I stress this today especially because I'm covering like 2-3 things, and their kind of all over the map...let's get started shall we?

     We've already covered, figuring out who is coming for Christmas this year. I know in my house, we'll have at the very least, my Mother and Father in-law and their dog Riley. So I need to make sure I'm set to accommodate them. What you need to do first off is, clean out the linen closet! figure out what needs to go, what needs to be replaced, and if you just need more to make sure everyone is covered. I have no worries for little Riley, Alice has used enough of our old towels, we can surely spare one or two for the little guy. So you're going to want to make sure you have bedding, towels, and maybe some extra toiletries in case some one forgets something (because lets be honest, some one always forgets something). Also now is a good time to clean out the coat closet, so their is room for everyone in there.

     Here we go switching gears. Remember looking back when I told you to think of all the food you might need and add it to the list. If you 100% thought of everything, good job, I know I didn't. I forgot small things like when we put up the Christmas lights, I'd like to have hot chocolate and some treat after...better get myself together for that. Putting up the tree, or decorating the rest of the house, well there are things I'd like to do for food there too... Going to a parade? A concert? anything like that, if food plays a role in it, prepare now. I also know I haven't even begun to take into consideration baking, and making my Aunt's Chex mix (which I've told her more than once she could legit give me just that in a big bag for Christmas and I would be thrilled). It's time to start looking at the overlooked and prepare accordingly.

   

A Wardrobe Experiment

     This is actually not a Christmas post! WHAAAAAT?! No that will be tomorrow. Instead, this post is about another thing I'm super into, pinterest...ish. Okay so most people who use it on the regular get it's draw, and have probably spent some hours on it. I actually check Pinterest in the morning BEFORE Facebook, e-mail...most days before coffee. Pinterest has been a very useful tool to me, from questions about my dog, to my unhealthy Walking Dead addiction. For women one of the most used boards are outfits, and wishlists...along with health, beauty, home decor,and recipes (nailed it right).

     One concept I've learned from Pinterest is going as minimal as possible when it comes to your wardrobe. I think most are guilty of having things in their closet you don't wear, either because it doesn't fit, and you want it to, or it looked pretty in the store, but just isn't your style. I'm far more guilty of the later.

    Finally getting to the point of this post, why am I telling you all of this? Because I'm doing a little experiment to better get to know my own sense of style, and perhaps add some things to my wishlist. Basically what I'm doing is getting up in the morning, and figuring out what I want to wear without the limits of my closet. Instead, I'm getting a visual in my mind, maybe I look at pinterest for a little inspiration, and I figure out what I would LOVE to wear right now, today! That's step one, step two is going to different store websites, that I frequently shop and finding each piece to make up the outfit and pin it. I'm playing with the inspiration a little to fit what I would be comfortable in. If you'd like to check out the board this it the link here. I'll be sharing this post on all my Social media outlets, probably a few times over. If it's something you'd like to try yourself, I encourage you to do it, it may be helpful, it might not be, either way I'm having fun with it.

Not Decking the Halls, Just getting them ready

      As far as what I've been up to with planning and prepping, I've been getting my home made gifts done. I've also been working away at home repairs and things of that nature. And we officially know we are going to have some guests, and that's actually part of an upcoming post.

     Today's post is actually about Holiday decor. Now, anyone who hates early decorators just stopped in their tracks. As far as I'm concerned, decorate when makes you happy. I am and early decorator, some parts for practical reasons, some for my own enjoyment. But by no means am I asking you to start decorating today...no that's early for even me.

     What I am asking is you go into the area where you have your holiday decor, and inventory it. What is great about doing this is, you have an idea of what all you have, I know I forget if there was something new from last year. On the flip side, if you're like me, and have way too much Christmas stuff, you might be able to look at this list and purge some of it.  I was able to purge about a third of what I had last year, and it helped out a friend.

      The main reason we're making this list though is to get ideas of where we want to put things when we DO decorate, and what things we might need. I moved into my first house this year, you can bet as a self proclaimed Christmas FREAK, my wheels have been turning since the first time I laid eyes on my house. That's your latest assignment should you choose to accept.

     One more thing, I'm attempting to get this blog series far more organized,and on an ACTUAL schedule. Remember this year is kind of a trail run for me. On that note though, expect the next post on Friday!
   

A couple things and a Thanksgiving

 After a much longer hiatus than I would have liked, I’m back to sharing my preparation process for Christmas. Since my last post, I’ve been up to a lot in my planning process, and hope to cover a few different things in this post.

                I’ve covered home made gifts in past posts, and that’s something I was working on. Another thing that’s important to get now is anything you need to order online, or from a catalogue. Waiting too long will cost you more, because you’ll have to rush the delivery, or worse, you won’t get it in time at all.    

                You need to take into consideration what home projects you need to complete before Christmas, time for another list. Do you need to paint? Repair a toilet? Have the carpets cleaned? Make a list, and haul out the calendar, because this is where time budgeting is key. Give yourself a cut off date, when you’d like to have it all done. Now budget your time accordingly, and make appointments as needed. Putting it off means you’re rushing later.

                The last thing I’ll add to the list for today is Enjoy your Thanksgiving, if you’re celebrating today or tomorrow, remember to give thanks for all that you’re fortunate to have. 

Fall, Thanksgiving, and Stockings!

     There are a few things on the go in my house at the moment. We got the Fall yard work done yesterday, and the hose, bbq and lawn chairs gone into hiding for the next several months. We actually went to a few home improvement stores yesterday, and Christmas stuff was sprouting up. Also my seasonal favorite store Christmas Discounters is open for another season. I’m keeping my eye on that place, they had a Duvet cover I loved, and when I went back of course it was gone.

     At this point, I’m hoping we’re on top of the overwhelming food planning, and gift planning. There is however one part you likely overlooked. I’m so bad for this one and honestly, 101 Days to Christmas reminded me, Stocking stuffers. They are always the thing I forget, and force me into the Christmas shopping insanity, that I start early to avoid. So start now. And the beauty of starting now means, when you spot stuff, you can do it on sale and save a little too! Start the stocking stuffers now, it’s just going to be so much easier.

     Another thing to start taking into consideration now, is Travel plans. Are you traveling? Booking accommodations, and travel tickets early is a good call. Not only does it mean you’re all set (because yes, things like Hotels book quickly for that time of year) things like flights, you might save a little money on too. If you’re not traveling, do you have anyone coming to you? We’ve put out the invite (because we moved into our first house, I basically put it out on moving day), now we’re starting the follow ups to solidify these plans.

     And finally the other thing we’re focusing on is Thanksgiving. Yes this blog is about Christmas planning, but it starts with other Holidays still in sight, so now is the time to start all of that planning as well. The good news is Thanksgiving revolves greatly around the food, and you’re already equipped for that. I really should have mentioned this point in my last blog, I over buy when it comes to things like gravy and stuffing and things of that nature, because I’ll likely need to hit up my stash for Thanksgiving too. I do know the Turkey sales have started… while I encourage the whole buy early thing, you can buy now for Thanksgiving, not for Christmas… we don’t need a freezer burnt bird. 

Start Grocery shopping... NOW!

     I have left a much bigger gap between posts than I'm comfortable with, but this is exactly why I wanted you to check out 101 days to Christmas . An everyday post is something I knew I couldn't commit to. Depending on how this year goes, maybe next year I might, but for now I'm showing you exactly how I do my planning, and yes, it does get some gaps in it.


     As it's been over a week, we're going to cover more than one thing to tick of your preparations. The first is not Christmas related, but some "Honey do" stuff. Getting the house ready for Fall. It's here and in a big way. I was pleased to get out my fall table cloth yesterday.

     There are several things you need to do to get ready for fall, and I'm in my first house for the first time this year, so I actually have yard work too. And that is exactly where to start. I was at a bon fire the other night, and I've seen so many things pop up on pinterest about bon fires being a big part of fall. I'm thinkin not so much around here, it was cold, and there was no denying it's here. Time to make...another list.

     I would highlight anything that requires you going outside, because let's face it, you're going to want to do that first and get that over with. Over the next week or two chip away at that list.


     Now my last post, I promised a grocery master list for that menu you put together. Before you start though, you're going to want to make 3 parts to your list, Non- Perishables, Frozen and Fresh. Next, you're going to want to go back to that menu, and go through it with a fine tooth comb. Don't forget spices and condiments, make a complete list of every thing you might need for each meal and put them into their categories.

     Now, if you have a look at mine, you see some stuff is already checked off. That is one of my big money saving, time saving secrets, I start early, very early. Here's the thing, non-perishables, you can start on now. If you spot a smokin deal on gravy next time you go shopping, grab it. While I don't touch the frozen part until mid-late November, you can wipe out those lists in advance, and it will save a lot of time, money and headache. Also, keep the Christmas groceries away from the regular ones. I have a cupboard above my fridge, it's kind of a pain to use it, because it's high up and I have to move stuff around to get to it. So basically it's the perfect spot for me to keep all my Christmas non-perishables. And though it's a LONG way away from shopping on the Fresh list, here is another money saving tip, if you're saving points, use em. Hubs and I save points all year at the grocery store and redeem them for our biggest Christmas shopping trip. I'll be honest, last year I didn't take my own advice, and waited until later to do our grocery shopping, and the price for that trip was about double what we normally spend, and that wasn't our only stop, needless to say, I was pretty happy about the points taking half of the hit.

     So that's my latest post. I hope to have a shorter gap for the next one...once I figure out what the next one is.