tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26421743378775167162024-03-13T21:48:29.371-07:00Frugal Luxuries® by Tracey McBride Est. 1993Simple Pleasures and Homespun Alchemy™
to Enhance Your Life and Comfort Your Soul. Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.comBlogger232125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-69141423845743911122019-04-20T13:42:00.001-07:002019-12-19T12:38:52.876-08:00Making All Things New<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i><span style="font-size: x-large;">"Behold, I make all things new."</span></i></div>
~Revelations, 21:5<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sending good thoughts of blessings, joy and Love to all good and kindred souls.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">x0x</span></div>
Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-38297672605871450482018-06-14T15:15:00.000-07:002018-06-14T15:15:05.642-07:00Loss and Change<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">"The real things haven't changed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">It is still best to be honest and truthful;</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To make the most of what we have;</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To be happy with simple pleasures;</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">And have courage when things go wrong."</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">--Laura Ingalls Wilder</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Well my kind friends...a sad event has happened. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">My beloved father passed away a few weeks ago after a brief unexpected illness.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The world has lost a good man who led a good life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Yet his legacy of love lives on in his children and grandchildren. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Prayers and good thoughts are always welcome </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Especially now.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sending love and appreciation to all good souls.</span></div>
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-1081421216507750872018-05-08T13:12:00.000-07:002018-05-08T13:17:00.056-07:00Spring: Art of Frugality (one)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Spring: Art of Frugality</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I mended two small holes in an expensive pair of black cotton leggings that Zoey (our kitty) had accidentally torn when trying to climb onto my lap. I did this by using a long, fine embroidery needle and one strand of black cotton embroidery thread. The trick to making these look somewhat smooth was to put them on inside-out and then carefully mend the holes while wearing them. As a result, the repairs are hardly visible, barring very close scrutiny, and now they are perfect to wear around the house and running errands. I was so pleased with the results that I took two other favorite leggings of mine, with much larger tears, and did the same thing! The mends are more noticeable on these but perfect for working in the garden, or messy projects around the house, or even as pajama bottoms!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">While in the mend and rescue mode, I transformed an old and much worn at the knees pair of yoga pants into bike shorts by simply cutting off the legs. I now have a cute pair of shorts to wear under a tunic or dress. Because of the type of fabric, no hemming was necessary. These will be comfy to wear in the warmer weather. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Mike and I stopped by a yard sale and the ladies there gave us, free, a wireless printer that currently sells for $700 on Amazon! Mike noticed it and asked about it, as it wasn't marked for sale? We suggested that they might get some good money for it but they were not interested...they had already bought and set up a new one. As well, they didn't trust this one as it made a lot of noise when printing. In fact, they didn't even want to sell it, they were just going to discard it because they didn't want to sell a defective product. I told them that our daughter has a similar model printer and it makes all kinds of noise (and even sometimes shakes, haha) when printing so that may be normal. They still insisted that we take it for free if we wanted it. We gratefully accepted and took it home. It was a gamble, still, as we needed to buy $65 worth of ink to even test it. Our logic was that if we couldn't get it working we could give the ink to Rosie as her printer uses the same cartridges. Well...two hours later it was working like a champ and easily synced with all our computers and devices!!! This was such a blessing as Rosie is getting married in two months and will be taking her printer with her! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Our favorite rose bush was looking sparse and hadn't yet bloomed so I used my kitchen scissors to cut up two banana peels very finely...then buried them in a shallow hole (3-4 inches) about 12-18 inches away from the bottom of the rose bush. Because Id cut the pieces so finely they started breaking down right away and within less than a week we saw the bush revive with new green and then our first rose buds of spring (late for where we live). The potassium and other minerals are evidently beloved by rose bushes!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I have long saved the hard rinds from Parmesan cheese in the freezer to add extra flavor. When making a minestrone soup (based on left over Swiss steak gravy) I popped one of the Parmesan rinds into it and it actually added that much needed pop it was missing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">How are you practicing the art of frugality this week?</span></div>
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-18741156435989780522018-04-19T07:44:00.000-07:002018-04-19T07:44:02.783-07:00The Art of Frugality This Week<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">~ This week wasn't as frugal as it could have been. Mike went out of town for work for several days. I drove up and stayed with him for a couple of nights. We enjoyed a frugal sort-of mini vacation...going out for dinner with a nice group of friends in the evenings and visiting afterward was very relaxing and interesting. I brought food from home for me to eat for my own breakfast and lunches while he was at work and then we ate dinners out as a treat. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~ Once we arrived home from our out of town trip we went into frugal mode again, eating from the freezer and pantry and making homemade juices by using up the slightly wilting greens and not so crisp cucumbers that had been left in the refrigerator. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~ Went through my vitamins cupboard to inventory and organize what was on hand. The goal is to use up the oldest vitamins first before they expire. I found several surprises in the back of the cupboard (purchased during BOGO sales, tucked away and, embarrassingly, forgotten). These will save us having to restock this month on some items that were getting low.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~ Along the same lines as above...I'm also in the process of going through all our skin and hair care products with a similar goal in mind. I found two new bottles of shampoo under the sink (more forgotten BOGOs). I am taking a hard look at my poor system of keeping inventory of our pantries and thus brainstorming new ways to do this better!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~ Created a new frittata recipe by crumbling a small bit of feta into two beaten eggs, added a shake or two of finely ground Parmesan, cut fresh parsley (that was beginning wilt) a bit of black pepper, garlic and onion powder, and baked it in a very small cast iron skillet. It came out lovely and, along with a salad, actually provided two nice meals for me when Mike was gone! It was born of my trying to eat up the last bits and bobs that were in the fridge. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">How did you practice the art of frugality this week?</span><br />
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-49713753158314991962018-04-01T18:03:00.000-07:002018-04-04T10:46:28.747-07:00The Art of Frugality <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">"Thrift is the really romantic thing; economy is more romantic than extravagance...thrift is poetic because it is creative; waste is unpoetic because it is waste...if a man could undertake to make use of all the things in his dustbin, he would be a broader genius than Shakespeare."</span><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;">~ G. K. Chesterton</span></div>
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Being a long-time reader and admirer of blogs such as <a href="https://bluehousejournal.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><b>Blue House Journal</b> </a>, <b><a href="https://coffeeteabooksandme.blogspot.com.tr/" target="_blank">Coffee Tea Books and Me</a> </b>and <a href="http://theprudenthomemaker.com/blog?view=entry&id=18780" target="_blank"><b>The Prudent Homemaker</b></a> ... I am inspired to contribute my own frugal-accountability-list to their ongoing, knowledge-rich and generous offerings. Many, many times I've been inspired and encouraged by the posts and comments found in their (and others) consistent offerings. After partaking in silence for far too long, it's now time for me to give back a bit and contribute my small voice to this idea choir.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">This is how I practiced the art of frugality this week.</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~ We stopped by our favorite farm stand down at my dad's house and bought a flat of strawberries for $6:00. Marked half-price, they were considered seconds due to being a bit misshapen ... what I refer to as "charmingly imperfect" ... haha! I froze about one third of the flat and then we mostly enjoyed them plain ... we also added them to smoothies ... and made our own version of strawberry shortcake (using cubed pound cake from the freezer in lieu of shortcake). We also found huge bunches of kale and parsley for $2 and .50 respectively for juicing and some misshapen (but yummy) Roma tomatoes at 4 for $1 each to dice up in our daily salads.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~ Transformed a few orphaned hot dog buns into garlic breadsticks by trimming off the rounded tops and edges using a serrated knife...buttering...and adding garlic salt and a sprinkle of dried basil. After popping them into the toaster oven they were a perfect, crunchy aside for Mike's favorite pasta meal.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~ Canceled our Netflix account as we never really watch much from it. I thought we might as we cut the satellite cord about a year ago...saving at least one hundred dollars per month. We use Apple TV, Roku or our computers to watch any shows we miss or for Mike's sports. I thought we would have an adjustment period but I can sincerely tell you I have not regretted it once. I tend to listen to podcasts as I putter around the house...or watch old mysteries and the like should I be in the mood to sit and watch something specific.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~ Sliced and dehydrated oranges from my dad's trees. They had been in the produce bin of the refrigerator for a while and needed to be processed. I use these in several ways...ground up in the food processor they add vitamin C to a smoothie...they are also pretty when used to decorate cupcakes and cakes...and of course they offer a rustic look to garlands and other homespun decorations for various holidays.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">~ After stumbling upon a <a href="http://simplyojuicebar.com/" target="_blank">charming juice bar </a>(tucked inside a pretty little flower shop) down the road, I became inspired to pull out our neglected juicer. I've been making our own juices of parsley, kale, cucumber, lemon, ginger and apples. We stocked up on organic lemons, apples, cucumbers and ginger for very reasonable prices when doing a much needed Costco run. I haven't done the math yet but...at nearly $7 for a similar (16 ounce) juice at the juice bar...I know we are definitely coming out ahead! My hopes are that ... by reviving my juicing habit ... I will still be fitting into the dress I fell in love with (and bought) for Rosie's wedding this summer, haha!</span><br />
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-83554687415369130832018-03-22T12:04:00.000-07:002018-04-04T11:17:33.752-07:00Intangible Vision<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Appreciation mode has set in on this rare rainy day.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">For?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Gifts and blessings hidden in plain sight.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Prayers made ... prayers answered.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Optimism.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Above all...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Both given and received.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pray.</span></div>
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-72285212435551362082018-03-15T07:14:00.000-07:002018-04-04T11:16:43.093-07:00The Awakening <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; color: #444444; font-family: 'Josefin Slab';"><span style="font-size: large;">Even as an intermittent blogger I haven't published much these past few years. I could write my long list of reasons but it's sufficient to say that I had been left quite inner focused and with a lack of worthy things to contribute. </span></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; color: #444444; font-family: 'Josefin Slab';"><span style="font-size: large;">During that time I have continued to be very uplifted and inspired by all of your lovely blogs and sites and wish to extend my gratitude for their continued existence. </span></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; color: #444444; font-family: 'Josefin Slab';"><span style="font-size: large;">While I'm not sure in which direction this new awakening will lead, or how often I will publish, I must confide that, in an unexplainable way, I feel that I'm being led to once again add my humble voice to the chorus of helpful and enlightening wisdoms. </span></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; color: #444444; font-family: 'Josefin Slab';"><span style="font-size: large;"> "Tiny drops of water make a mighty ocean, tiny grains of sand a beach."</span></span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; color: #444444; font-family: 'Josefin Slab';"><span style="font-size: large;">I hope you'll be pleasantly surprised that Frugal Luxuries has returned from Hibernation.</span></span><br />
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-81327646313297290772017-02-05T19:50:00.002-08:002017-02-06T11:17:35.942-08:00 Re~Create Your World: The Power of Focus<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large; font-style: italic;">“You can actually recreate your world with </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large; font-style: italic;">The Word of the Creator in your mouth.”</span><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"> --Mark Twain</span><span style="font-size: small;">,</span><span style="font-size: small; font-style: italic;"> </span><span class=" to_transl_class" id="15" style="font-size: large; font-style: italic;" title="Click to correct"><span style="font-size: small;">The Prince and the Pauper</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The classic saying "energy goes to focus" is never
truer than when creating a master list of tasks that will direct your thoughts and
(consequently) energy in such a way that you bring about the changes you
are trying to create. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This year I aspire to create a better balanced life and accomplish more of my long term goals. Here are a few ways I plan to do this:</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Hand write a daily List.</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i>List: A focusing device that translates thoughts, ideas and inspirations ideas into action.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Use my morning quiet time in a more focused way: </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Use the Word to quietly, positively contribute to the healing and strengthening of the weak areas of my life...our country...our world.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Write. Share. Learn</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Set up the craft/guest room desk as a specific area for writing and posting online. Organize my vast library for easier reference...thus minimizing my screen time.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Polish my green(ish) thumb.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Plant a new herb garden in our new planters...buy a potted dwarf lemon tree...start seeds I saved from last years' heirloom tomatoes.</i></span></div>
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-85545546869794098482016-05-27T18:52:00.000-07:002016-05-27T19:30:18.854-07:00Zen Memories...Fresh Future<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">When I was a young child we lived in Japan for several years. My three brothers and I were often supervised by a Japanese woman we called Mica San. On one occasion when we visited her home I wondered at a vacant shelf in her kitchen. She kindly explained to me that empty space is important in a home so that our spirits may find comfort and have room to grow and breathe.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large; text-align: left;">I was mystified by this philosophy. Later, my mother explained that empty space makes people feel as if they are in control of their lives, as well as providing a symbol that one is not owned by possessions. As an adult I've come to better understand these concepts...restraint can add tremendous comfort and simplicity to our daily lives and homes.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.thriftbooks.com/w/frugal-luxuries-simple-pleasures-to-enhance-your-life-and-comfort-your-soul_tracey-mcbride/367884" target="_blank">Source</a></span></div>
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Decluttering to simplify<br />
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Sending you all continued good thoughts and love.</div>
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-65252903559360438972015-11-27T10:07:00.000-08:002015-11-27T10:07:01.132-08:00Frugal Feasts : Classic Turkey Soup<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<em>"He that is faithful in that which is least </em></div>
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<em>is faithful also in much."</em></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">~The Book of Luke</span></div>
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How to make classic Turkey~Noodle Soup from what's left of </div>
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the Thanksgiving Feast.</div>
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-8893615074993979872015-09-22T16:55:00.001-07:002015-09-22T18:11:59.529-07:00Culling Sustenence For Less<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 45px;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">This post has been reprinted from the</span></i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 22px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Frugal Luxuries Food<i> blog circa 2009.</i></span></span></div>
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George Bernard Shaw pointed out</div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;">“There is no love sincerer than the love of fo</span>od” </div>
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and I heartily agree! As a confirmed Foodie, </div>
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I find a type of romance in raw ingredients.</div>
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Like Michaelangelo saw his masterpiece David</div>
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inside a block of marble,</div>
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I see berries and envision jams, juices, cobblers and pies. </div>
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Nutty whole wheat flour, water, yeast and </div>
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a bit of sugar meld to become crusty loaves of homemade bread, </div>
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the mints, verbena and lemon geraniums </div>
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from my tiny garden are ice-chilled glasses of tea </div>
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to refresh us on a hot summer’s day.</div>
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Here are a few classic strategies for keeping faithful</div>
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to your food budget!</div>
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<br /></div>
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1. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Eat by design:</span> Establish a food budget </div>
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and then design a weekly, bi weekly or monthly menu. </div>
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Don’t assume you have to buy everything you need.<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Shop your pantry, refrigerator and freezer </span></div>
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as you <span style="font-weight: bold;">compose your menu </span>and </div>
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<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">plan</span> your meals around what </div>
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you already have in the kitchen. </div>
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Remember to include leftovers </div>
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when planning your menu. </div>
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In fact, <span style="font-weight: bold;">PLAN</span> some of your <span style="font-weight: bold;">leftovers</span></div>
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for use in future meals.</div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">For example: </span></div>
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Homemade chicken tacos and </div>
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chicken soup are made from </div>
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Sunday’s roasted chicken; </div>
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while homemade tostadas and </div>
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white bean hummus are created from </div>
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the leftovers of a large pot of </div>
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Navy Bean soup you prepared </div>
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for your card party on Friday.</div>
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<br /></div>
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2. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Create a shopping strategy</span>: </div>
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Start by keeping </div>
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your debit card, </div>
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credit card, and/or </div>
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check book at home. </div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Bring</span> along only </div>
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the <span style="font-weight: bold;">cash</span> amount </div>
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you have allotted </div>
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for food provisions, </div>
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as well as a pen and </div>
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paper or calculator </div>
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To keep a running tab. </div>
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Round off to the highest </div>
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amount to simplify.</div>
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I find this simple </div>
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strategy invaluable </div>
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in curbing impulse spending.</div>
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<br /></div>
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3. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Eat by the seasons</span>: </div>
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Take advantage of </div>
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the opportunities </div>
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to <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">transform</span> the local <span style="font-weight: bold;">harvest</span> </div>
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of each season into delicious foods. </div>
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Taking <span style="font-weight: bold;">a cue from the past</span>, </div>
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I prepare <span style="font-weight: bold;">seasonal</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">foods</span> </div>
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while they are<span style="font-weight: bold;">in abundance</span>—</div>
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in order to <span style="font-weight: bold;">conserve</span> </div>
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time and money, as well as to </div>
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store away delicious treats </div>
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for <span style="font-weight: bold;">future enjoymen</span>t.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">For a list of what foods are </span></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic;">in seasons when check this link:</span></div>
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<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seasonal_food" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Seasonal_food</span></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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4. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Buy foods grown locally</span>: Not only is it often <span style="font-weight: bold;">less expensive</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">environmentally</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">friendly</span>(i.e., very little shipping and/or storing required) it is often more nutritious due to the fact you are getting it from the farm to your table in less time. As well, it’s <span style="font-weight: bold;">a pleasure</span> to rediscover the bounty available to us from <span style="font-weight: bold;">local farmer’s markets</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">farms</span>.</div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Knowing</span> what foods are in season in your area, and <span style="font-weight: bold;">the people who grow</span> and or craft it personally,<span style="font-weight: bold;">transforms</span> the <span style="font-weight: bold;">food </span>from mere sustenance into a community building/bonding even that <span style="font-weight: bold;">offers</span>intangible as well as tangible <span style="font-weight: bold;">rewards</span> for all concerned.</div>
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On top of that, you are keeping your money within your own community.</div>
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You can find individually owned local bakeries, coffee shops, breweries, ethnic food stores and vegetable markets by consulting the phone book, community center, or local message boards—actual message boards or online sources such as Craig’s list. To find farmer’s markets and farms near you check out </div>
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<a href="http://www.localharvest.org/" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Local Harvest http://www.localharvest.org/ </span></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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5. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Consider</span> joining a CSA: <span style="font-weight: bold;">What is a CSA</span>? According to Local Harvest (http://www.localharvest.org/csa/) </div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Community Supported Agriculture</span> (CSA) </div>
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has become a popular way for consumers </div>
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to buy local, seasonal food </div>
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directly from a farmer.</div>
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<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Here are the basics:</span></div>
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A farmer offers a certain </div>
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number of "shares" to the public. </div>
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Typically the share consists of </div>
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a box of vegetables, but other </div>
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farm products may be included. </div>
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Interested consumers purchase a share </div>
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(aka a "membership" or a "subscription") </div>
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and in return receive a box </div>
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(bag, basket) of seasonal produce </div>
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each week throughout </div>
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the farming season.</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px;">This arrangement creates </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px;">several rewards for both </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 22px;">the farmer and the consumer. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Advantages for farmers:</span></div>
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* Get to spend time marketing </div>
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their food early in the year, </div>
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before their 16 hour days in the field begins</div>
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* Receive payment early in the season, </div>
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which helps with the farm's cash flow</div>
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* Have an opportunity to get to know </div>
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the people who eat the food they grow</div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Advantages for consumers:</span></div>
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* Eat ultra-fresh food, </div>
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with all the flavor </div>
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and vitamin benefits</div>
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* Get exposed to new vegetables </div>
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and new ways of cooking</div>
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* Usually get to visit the farm </div>
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at least once a season</div>
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* Develop a relationship with </div>
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the farmer who grows </div>
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their food and learn more, </div>
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about how food is grown.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Developing that personal relationship </div>
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with local farmers can go </div>
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one step further with a harvest box </div>
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from a Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) farm. In this case, </div>
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farmers will sell you a share </div>
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in their produce for </div>
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the growing season </div>
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at a flat rate, and you’ll get </div>
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a box each week with </div>
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whatever is freshest </div>
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on their farm. </div>
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CSA’s have grown </div>
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in popularity in recent years, </div>
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and many farms </div>
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have long waiting lists.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Some people go in on </div>
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harvest boxes together </div>
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to save money, </div>
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and for those who can afford </div>
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the investment up front, </div>
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it ensures that you’ll be able to </div>
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eat your veggies all year long. </div>
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Some farms even have an </div>
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installment payment plan or </div>
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plans for low-income folks </div>
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who are interested.</div>
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<br /></div>
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It may be too late </div>
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to join up this year, </div>
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but it’s never too late to </div>
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get to know your local farmers, </div>
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and when sign up time rolls </div>
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around in the spring, </div>
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you’ll be on a first-name basis </div>
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with them.</div>
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<br /></div>
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6. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Carnivores </span>can buy beef by </div>
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the side or quarter: </div>
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Growing up in a frugal family of six </div>
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(four children two adults) </div>
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my parents made a habit of </div>
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buying beef by the side, </div>
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not only to save money </div>
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but to ensure a high quality </div>
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meat source. According to </div>
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<span style="color: black; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;"><a href="http://www.bonappetite.com/" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;">BonAppetite.com </a></span></div>
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An increasing number of </div>
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foodie carnivores are ordering </div>
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grass-fed beef straight </div>
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from the ranchers. </div>
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Here's why: </div>
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The practice directly </div>
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supports local farmers </div>
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with a vested interest in </div>
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taking care of the environment. </div>
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Unlike grain and corn feed, </div>
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grass requires no fossil fuel </div>
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for transport. The regrowth </div>
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of grazed grass removes </div>
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carbon monoxide from the air. </div>
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* Uniformity of product — </div>
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Commercial ground beef </div>
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is often produced using meat </div>
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from dozens of animals. </div>
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When you buy a side, </div>
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the ground beef is produced </div>
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from a single animal, </div>
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which minimizes the risk </div>
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of contamination.</div>
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<br /></div>
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* Support of local business — I like the fact that buying beef from a local rancher allows me to support him, and to support the meat packer that processes the animal.</div>
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<br /></div>
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* Constant costing — Because you’re buying your meat all at once, it’s easy to budget your costs for an extended period.</div>
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<br /></div>
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* Fewer trips to the grocery store — Plus you no longer have to plan your meals around what’s on sale.</div>
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<br /></div>
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* Meat is packed for freezing — If you buy large quantities at the grocery store, you need to repack the meat to freeze it. When purchase a side of beef, this is done for you.</div>
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<br /></div>
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* Excellent pricing — Buying a side of beef can save you money over regular grocery store prices. However, it is possible to save more at the grocery store by watching for sales.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">The advantages of buying beef at the supermarket are:</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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* Less storage space required — </div>
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When you buy your meat </div>
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in small quantities, </div>
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as you need it, you </div>
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don’t need a spare freezer.</div>
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* You can obtain the </div>
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best possible pricing — </div>
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If you stock up on </div>
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your favorite cuts during sales, </div>
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you can obtain the </div>
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best possible pricing.</div>
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* Smaller investment — </div>
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Purchasing even a quarter of beef </div>
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costs about $400-$700 </div>
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depending upon the </div>
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quality of beef you buy. </div>
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We've looked into </div>
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grass fed beef, bought in </div>
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quarters as opposed to halves, </div>
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cost approximately $450-$500. </div>
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* Less work — </div>
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To buy meat at your grocery store, </div>
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you simply select it </div>
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from the refrigerator case. </div>
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To buy a side of beef, </div>
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you need to find a source, </div>
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perhaps find other beef-lovers </div>
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to split the cost, </div>
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transport the meat, </div>
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and find storage space.</div>
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<br /></div>
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7. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Reinstate</span> Home Cooked Meals: </div>
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If you don't already know how, </div>
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teach yourself to cook. </div>
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Experiment with one </div>
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new recipe a week, or a month. </div>
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In a world that touts </div>
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as desirable that which is </div>
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quick, easy, or new, </div>
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there is pleasure in </div>
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discovering the forgotten art of simple cookery. By sharing </div>
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simple meals prepared at home, </div>
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we transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.</div>
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8.<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Make</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> your own groceries</span>: </div>
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Home Food Canning: </div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Home Food Canning</span> </div>
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holds an appeal similar to </div>
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that of baking. It's relatively </div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">easy</span> and often very <span style="font-weight: bold;">inexpensive</span>. </div>
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As well, it can become </div>
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an <span style="font-weight: bold;">enjoyable</span>, productive </div>
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and <span style="font-weight: bold;">money saving</span> experience </div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">shared</span> by <span style="font-weight: bold;">family and friends</span>. </div>
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If you have yet to<span style="font-weight: bold;"> fill a jar </span></div>
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with something fresh </div>
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from the earth and </div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">enjoyed</span> it at a <span style="font-weight: bold;">later</span> date. </div>
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Click on the link below </div>
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to see a video on </div>
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just how simple </div>
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home canning can be. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JeSQmYK8uE4&eurl=http%3A2F%2F" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JeSQmYK8uE4&eurl=http%3A%2F%2F</a> It will de-mystify this mundane miracle and put you on the path to your own canned goodness.</div>
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LITTLE TIPS AND TRICKS</div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Swap</span> Neighborhood <span style="font-weight: bold;">Fruit</span>! </div>
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Another often overlooked </div>
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but clever way to </div>
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<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">whittle down a food budget </span></div>
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<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">and eat locally</span> is to </div>
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swap Neighborhood Fruit! </div>
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There is a website devoted to </div>
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putting neighbors with </div>
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overabundant fruits together </div>
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with those who could use it. </div>
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Neighborhood Fruit (<a href="http://www.neighborhoodfruit.com/home" style="color: black; text-decoration: none;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">http://www.neighborhoodfruit.com/home</span></a>) is an organization <span style="font-weight: bold;">designed </span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">to help</span> you find <span style="font-weight: bold;">backyard </span></div>
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fruit and share your <span style="font-weight: bold;">bounty</span> </div>
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with your neighbors. </div>
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They believe that cities </div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">resplendent with edibles </span></div>
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are better places to live, </div>
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and <span style="font-weight: bold;">sharing with neighbors</span> </div>
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is a great way to get there. </div>
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Through their mediated online platform, </div>
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you can find fruit in </div>
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any quantity you want. </div>
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<span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">We hope you let others know about it.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.4;">Purchase food in its </span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.4;">simplest form</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 1.4;">. Steer away from </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 1.4;">prepackaged convenience foods. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 1.4;">Keep in mind that </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 1.4;">any time you buy a </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 1.4;">food that has been diced, </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 1.4;">mixed, cut peeled, washed, </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 1.4;">chopped, spiced, spliced, or </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 1.4;">pureed by someone else, </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 1.4;">and you will be paying an </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 1.4;">average of </span><span style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.4;">100</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 1.4;"> </span><span style="font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.4;">percent</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 1.4;"> more for it.</span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Compare</span> different forms </div>
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of food—fresh, frozen, </div>
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canned and dried. </div>
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The serving cost of a </div>
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canned of condensed soup, </div>
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for example, will be about </div>
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one-third the cost of the </div>
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water added variety. </div>
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Fresh apples in season </div>
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are almost always </div>
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less expensive than canned apples.</div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">Grow</span> Something Edible: </div>
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The rewards of </div>
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growing your own food </div>
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are almost endless, but include: </div>
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less time spent driving to the store,<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">fresh ingredients </span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: bold;">on hand at all times,</span> </div>
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an understanding of the seasons, </div>
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which can help you eat </div>
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better tasting food (see #2 below), </div>
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and carbon sequestration </div>
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in its most delicious form, food.</div>
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No matter what your living situation, </div>
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it is possible for you </div>
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to grow some food at a very low cost. </div>
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Even if you have a </div>
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tiny room or an apartment </div>
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you can grow sprouts and or simple herbs.</div>
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Feeling more ambitious? </div>
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Consider Community </div>
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Gardening for yourself, </div>
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or split a plot with </div>
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neighbors and friends. </div>
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It’s a great way to </div>
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raise some edibles while socializing.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;">Comments have been closed.</span></i></div>
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-52376591901242670602015-01-22T23:33:00.001-08:002015-01-23T10:58:44.256-08:00Cozy Comforts and Frugal Luxuries<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i>"There is nothing like staying home for real comfort" </i></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">~Jane Austen</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Many people confuse luxury with opulence. To understand luxury we must look at the true sense of the word. The <i>American Heritage Dictionary</i> defines luxury as "something conducive to pleasure and comfort" so...to indulge in <i>true</i> luxury you need only to focus on what brings you pleasure and comfort. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></div>
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Does luxury have to mean diamonds and servants...or can it be a plump <b><a href="http://www.parachutehome.com/products/down-duvet" target="_blank">down comforter</a> </b>on a cold night...or a bowl of wild blueberries picked at the peak of that fruits' brief season?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Thoreau wisely stated, "<i>I know of no more encouraging fact than the unquestionable ability of man to elevate his life by a conscious endeavor</i>." At this time of year col</span><span style="font-size: large;">d winds are blowing. The prospect of venturing away from home and hearth is less than appealing, yet, it <i>is</i> the ideal season to cultivate cozy comforts and frugal luxuries. </span></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Yogi-Cold-Season-Sampler-Bags/dp/B000CMH0N6/ref=sr_1_16?ie=UTF8&qid=1421978103&sr=8-16&keywords=yogi+tea" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6wldKyrlqW0/VMGyeITjOVI/AAAAAAAARhc/Ct3VujHYvi8/s1600/a%2Bpretty%2BVintage-Teacup-Image-GraphicsFairy.jpg" height="163" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">During cool weather I like to create strategic comfort by arranging furniture (comfy chairs, specifically) away from drafty windows to create cozy corners. These spaces are ideal for nestling into with a good book...a cup of <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Yogi-Cold-Season-Sampler-Bags/dp/B000CMH0N6/ref=sr_1_16?ie=UTF8&qid=1421978103&sr=8-16&keywords=yogi+tea" target="_blank">tea</a>...</b>and a luxurious (definitely <i>not</i> frugal) cashmere throw like <a href="http://www.parachutehome.com/products/striped-cashmere-throw?variant=970654781" target="_blank"><b>this</b></a> ...it's very similar to one I inherited from my great aunt Evelyn several years ago. I don't need to tell you that this is definitely an investment piece. That being said, perhaps I should point out again, it will last a lifetime...or two. </span></div>
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<i>Note: If the budget doesn't allow for a new cashmere blanket/throw you might put "cashmere throw" on your tag sale, thrift shopping list. </i><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.parachutehome.com/products/scented-candle" target="_blank">source</a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Another cozy comfort we appreciate even more in winter is the soft glow of basic <a href="http://www.hm.com/us/product/31788?article=31788-A&cm_mmc=pla-_-us-_-home_livingroom_decorations-_-31788&gclid=CK2nyIyfqcMCFYhafgod6TAAMQ" target="_blank"><b>candlelight</b></a> to warm a dark day or brighten an ordinary evening. For weekends and more special occasions we enjoy a well crafted candle with soothing scents such as the delicious smelling <a href="http://www.parachutehome.com/products/scented-candle?variant=1006489345" target="_blank"><b>Fireside candle</b></a> from <a href="http://www.parachutehome.com/" target="_blank"><b>Parachute Home</b></a> (these make a perfect addition to the gift pantry).</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">If you've never experienced the wonder of wearing woolly <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/smartwool-cable-socks/3033245?origin=keywordsearch-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=MEDIUM+GREY+HEATHER&resultback=170" target="_blank">socks</a> during the winter then you are in for a treat. In fact, every time the weather turns cool I invoke their magical properties. Wool is an excellent insulator and keeps your feet warm and toasty and retains its insulating properties even while wet. Wool can absorb sufficient amounts of moisture (a third of its weight) before it feels wet and it dries much faster than cotton or synthetics. Finally, wool fibers are naturally anti~bacterial and thus odor resistant. So yes... truly kind of magical and... such a cozy comfort during the cold season. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">While there are many individual definitions of comfort and luxury I'll never be convinced that these simple pleasures do not truly define the words.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Sending love and good thoughts as always.</span><br />
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-48858312609644365652015-01-02T09:17:00.002-08:002015-01-02T09:55:16.951-08:00Successful Living...Simplified<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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My Life Goals...</div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">"To laugh often and much; </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">To win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">To earn the appreciation of honest critics and endure the betrayal of false friends; </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">To appreciate beauty, to find the best in others; </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">This is to have succeeded."</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">-Ralph Waldo Emerson</span></div>
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-60540461882569057412014-11-26T20:53:00.000-08:002014-12-31T12:06:35.331-08:00Stocking the Gift Pantry with Uncommon Goods<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3gTRcfxD9LU/UHmdQus2M2I/AAAAAAAAEgY/KiK-k1kHcu0/s1600/wreath-fruit-Graphics-Fairy5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3gTRcfxD9LU/UHmdQus2M2I/AAAAAAAAEgY/KiK-k1kHcu0/s1600/wreath-fruit-Graphics-Fairy5.jpg" height="196" width="200" /></a></div>
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Recently we were invited by <span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); color: black; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: left;" target="_blank">Uncommon Goods</a> to stock our holiday Gift Pantry with three items from their inspiring, eclectic catalog. In the interest of full disclosure, this is my very first sponsored post (although we've been approached numerous times since the 2008 creation of this blog) . Why now? Why <a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/" target="_blank">Uncommon Goods</a>? Because as a longtime customer, I am an admirer-er of the fact that they</span> make it their mission to provide a platform for artists and designers. It also is impressive to me that most (not all) of their items are made right here in the USA.<br />
At the core of the company is a great respect for the integrity of the creative individual, this is evident in the uniqueness of their retail offerings! It's always a delight to browse through their catalogs and I must confess that confining my choices to just three Gift Pantry items proved surprisingly difficult ... the offerings are varied and inspiring! However, after perusing their online catalog for far too long, I finally allowed the three choices to be dictated by my own Christmas gift list and thus have every intention of sharing our <a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/" target="_blank">Uncommon Goods</a> with family and friends. <br />
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First Choice:<br />
The <a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/product/60-hour-candle" target="_blank">60 Hour Candle</a> $30<br />
(NOTE: <a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/product/60-hour-candle" target="_blank">refills</a> are available ... of the coiled candle only... for $18)<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_B-7ulZZdLk/VHIUVBN6GvI/AAAAAAAARXI/rdXzQA5amro/s1600/IMAGE_20722.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_B-7ulZZdLk/VHIUVBN6GvI/AAAAAAAARXI/rdXzQA5amro/s1600/IMAGE_20722.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">This sturdy and unique candle is about the circumference of a salad plate. It's a generously sized candle with an ingenious design. It pairs a sturdy copper holder with a 100% beeswax candle coil that's fed in small increments through the candle clip--simply advance more candle as it burns. A three-inch section burns for approximately an hour, while the smart design</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">ensures a better use of wax than traditional shapes. The copper-finish plate and clip bring a warm touch to your home. Refills are also available for $18...so you might want to let your gift recipient know these are available! This charming candle has been sitting on our kitchen island for a week and everyone who comes in comments positively on its unique look! </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">It's been very, very, very hard to resist the temptation to light it up! Luckily for him, but not so much for myself, it's been earmarked as a holiday gift for a family friend. </span>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Here is a picture of what it looked like after we took of it out of the box </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">and threaded the candle through the clip-like holder on top.</span></div>
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Here's a closer look at the clip-like holder.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I_NQMWtba00/VHIUZJ99MII/AAAAAAAARXY/Njw8MZYJG7Y/s1600/IMAGE_20724.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I_NQMWtba00/VHIUZJ99MII/AAAAAAAARXY/Njw8MZYJG7Y/s1600/IMAGE_20724.jpg" height="221" width="320" /></a></div>
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Second Choice: DIY Lip Balm Kit ($40)</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-63sTmLdW_k0/VHJ9aFh4JtI/AAAAAAAARbs/Cut6tev2U9w/s1600/IMAGE_20773.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-63sTmLdW_k0/VHJ9aFh4JtI/AAAAAAAARbs/Cut6tev2U9w/s1600/IMAGE_20773.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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DIY kits can actually be a good, and often economical, way to dabble in a new skill to see if it's something you like before investing a lot of time and money in the necessary supplies.</div>
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I realize that, at first glance, DIY kits don't appear to be the most frugal of investments. Especially to frugalites such as myself. I've always been the sort of person who says "I can make that...or put that together...myself" and usually I can (and often do) for less money. That is ... if I have the time and inclination to gather all the diverse components to complete the kit ... and the packaging as well. While this philosophy can work in saving a little cash...especially for genres that contain easy to obtain (and reasonably priced when buying in small quantities) such as the "Office (supply) Kits", "Cupcake Kits" and "Craft Baskets" the time invested is sometimes extensive. That being said, I've also wasted money ambitiously buying individual ingredients and packaging materials to create my kit. Truth be told, they often add up to much more than anticipated. </div>
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According to the <a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/" target="_blank">Uncommon Goods</a> website, Karen Lee and Mary Kearns' DIY
kits allow you to become familiar with a new skill while pampering yourself with all-natural emollients...the best part is that supporting this kit
provides valuable job-skills services for women in the Washington DC
area. Assembling these lovely kits provides ladies living in
transitional housing with the opportunity to build their resumes,
develop basic job skills, and participate in a structured social skills
program. This is how I like to spend my money. <br />
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Each kit includes everything you'll need to make your very own
moisturizing lip balm from Fair Trade cocoa butter and organic spearmint
essential oil, for a delectable and refreshing fusion of chocolate and
mint. Inside the recycled box, crafters will find a vibrant,
soy-ink-dyed recipe card and valuable information about the contents of
their lip balm to be, including cocoa butter, sunflower oil, beeswax,
and organic essential oils. Every kit makes five tins of mint-cocoa
balm, making it an ideal endeavor for a rainy day or a fun task to take
on with a group of good friends. Made and assembled by hand in
Washington D.C. Each is composed of biodegradable materials and makes five, one ounce tins of lip balm.</div>
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Check out the gift lab of the <a href="http://blog.uncommongoods.com/2012/gift-lab-diy-lip-balm-kit/" target="_blank"> DIY Lip Balm Kit </a> on the Uncommon Goods' blog! </div>
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When we opened it up...here is what we were delighted to find!</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CvBQly4OxrI/VHIUmMb_zOI/AAAAAAAARYI/MMV8BZ0Z-iI/s1600/IMAGE_20730.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CvBQly4OxrI/VHIUmMb_zOI/AAAAAAAARYI/MMV8BZ0Z-iI/s1600/IMAGE_20730.jpg" height="233" width="320" /></a></div>
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As I am not set up for this particular type of kit or craft, </div>
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it would take me quite a bit of time and not a small amount of money </div>
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to source and gather all the materials for a kit like this.</div>
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(As well, packaging everything always takes me longer than I anticipated.)</div>
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Especially considering they include five types of essential oils to flavor your balm!</div>
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Lovely how-to/recipe cards for future use ... printed on heavy card stock and very wipe-able!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lzQ-x4VEPVQ/VHIUuz7HsgI/AAAAAAAARYo/LTORA9TL8Y0/s1600/IMAGE_20734.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lzQ-x4VEPVQ/VHIUuz7HsgI/AAAAAAAARYo/LTORA9TL8Y0/s1600/IMAGE_20734.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Third Choice: <a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/product/recycle-a-bottle-plant-nanny-stake-set-of-4" target="_blank">Recycle a Bottle Plant Nanny Se</a>t: <br />
$19.95 (for a set of four made from terracotta).<br />
These are NOT just for when you go off on vacation and need someone to water your plants; they're also IDEAL for Forgetful~Frugalite Gardeners like myself with an environmental conscience. <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kOAXoCVio2k/VHJ9dkp749I/AAAAAAAARb8/57pGfN1a5Y8/s1600/IMAGE_20775.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kOAXoCVio2k/VHJ9dkp749I/AAAAAAAARb8/57pGfN1a5Y8/s1600/IMAGE_20775.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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The <a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/" target="_blank">Uncommon Goods</a> catalog tells us that each
ceramic stake is specially designed to release just the right amount of
water into the soil via recycled wine or plastic bottles, making your
gardening endeavors a little bit easier as greener. Create a reservoir with the
inverted bottle of your choice, attach it using the drip-free adapter,
and the terracotta stakes will quench your plants' thirst on your
behalf. As your plants absorb moisture from the soil, the stakes will
automatically release water directly into the soil, rather than on the
surface, ensuring that root systems receive an adequate drink. <br />
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<i>NOTE: Sets sold separately... you will need to order one set of four plastic or one set of four terracotta Plant Nannies... no mixing and matching.</i><br />
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See the Plant Nanny in action by checking out the<a href="http://blog.uncommongoods.com/2013/gift-lab-plant-nanny/" target="_blank"> gift lab</a> video on the Uncommon Goods blog.<br />
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Here's what it looks like in a planter. </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_a64TKsbDgc/VHJ9cH0b8VI/AAAAAAAARb0/aVBRXfVTO2Q/s1600/IMAGE_20774.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_a64TKsbDgc/VHJ9cH0b8VI/AAAAAAAARb0/aVBRXfVTO2Q/s1600/IMAGE_20774.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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Okay, I LOVE these. Last summer I tried to order a plastic version of <a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/product/recycle-a-bottle-plant-nanny-stake-set-of-4" target="_blank">these</a> self-water-rs from Amazon but they were sold out and I've been unable to find them reasonably priced ever since ... that is until now!<br />
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I can't tell you how excited I was to find them offered at <a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/product/recycle-a-bottle-plant-nanny-stake-set-of-4" target="_blank">Uncommon Goods</a> in plastic as well as terra cotta! Obviously, the plastic versions cost a few dollars less than the natural terracotta <a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/product/recycle-a-bottle-plant-nanny-stake-set-of-4" target="_blank">Plant Nanny</a> but I will eventually get both...the natural (terracotta) will be used for edible plants such as container gardened herbs, fruit trees and the like. The plastic will, obviously, be used more for the non edible planters such as my favorite ivy, ferns and potted roses. In the meantime ... I have full intentions of including this set in a small gift basket, along with a freshly potted miniature rosemary tree and a nice bottle of organic Merlot! <br />
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Here's a picture I snapped with the ceramic <a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/product/recycle-a-bottle-plant-nanny-stake-set-of-4" target="_blank">Plant Nanny</a> next to an average-size wine bottle. </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nl8WGuwffi8/VHIVJQa7hkI/AAAAAAAARaQ/RPkWjvINL-c/s1600/IMAGE_20747.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Nl8WGuwffi8/VHIVJQa7hkI/AAAAAAAARaQ/RPkWjvINL-c/s1600/IMAGE_20747.jpg" height="320" width="271" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rvq0FwGiqHw/VHIU_Isv0YI/AAAAAAAARZo/SxtXUD6xwOE/s1600/IMAGE_20742.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rvq0FwGiqHw/VHIU_Isv0YI/AAAAAAAARZo/SxtXUD6xwOE/s1600/IMAGE_20742.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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The <a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/product/recycle-a-bottle-plant-nanny-stake-set-of-4" target="_blank">website</a> tells us that a water filled wine bottle will water plant for approximately 7-10 days depending on the plant and environmental conditions. <br />
Typical
12oz plastic bottles, when filled, will water plant for 5-10 days
depending on the plant and environmental conditions. Larger plastic soda
bottles (2 Liter), when filled, will water plants for between 14-21
days depending on the plant and environmental conditions.
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P.S. If you sign up for <a href="http://www.uncommongoods.com/" target="_blank">their</a> email list they'll send you info on "secret sales"!</div>
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-85447479153934109212014-08-27T15:15:00.000-07:002014-08-28T06:55:08.663-07:00BOOKS: "How Frugal is the Chariot that Carries the Human Soul"<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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"It is an ancient art. Its practice has been recorded as far back as the time of the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates (about 399 B.C.). Its nurture or neglect has influenced the rise and fall of nations and civilizations. Abandoning it has been the ruin of fortunes. Embracing it amplifies wealth and can dispel the state of poverty."</div>
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"What is this mysterious seemingly elusive art of which I speak? <i>Frugality</i>. A humble word, it is derived from two ancient Latin words, <i>frugalis</i> and <i>frux, </i>both meaning<i>... </i>"success".</div>
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You may also call it by other names such as<i> prudence, spariness </i>and<i> thrift. </i></div>
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Whatever your choice may be, it always means the unwillingness to squander goods or spend money unnecessarily. It is the careful use of materials or resources."</div>
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"The quality of being frugal is one so powerful as to change lives and affect history. Each of us possesses the ability to exercise it. Frugality allows you to govern your destiny and produce in your life a lovely, fertile garden of material and intangible wealth. Without it, you may be tossed upon the waves of circumstance, at the mercy of your unorganized whims."</div>
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<a href="http://www.thriftbooks.com/" target="_blank">THRIFT BOOKS</a></div>
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A Frugal Reader's Dream Realized!</div>
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(An UNsponsored Post.)</div>
My favorite online bookstore is <a href="http://www.thriftbooks.com/" target="_blank">Thrift Books</a>. If you're not yet familiar, Thrift Books is a used bookstore ! To quote their site...<br />
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"<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: justify;">Innovation in processing and selling used books has allowed for Thrift Books to provide the internet’s cheapest prices without sacrificing our commitment to providing quality used books. Its entire process of selling used books was developed internally using the latest technology and supply methods.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: justify;">Thrift Books has been featured in many publications including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Seattle Times, Puget Sound Business Journal and The Software Development Times for their pioneering methods in online used book selling. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: justify;">Thrift Books’ commitment to using technology in used book selling is based on the desire to fulfill their motto to customers: Spend Less. Read More. Just seven years after its founding, the dividends are already apparent. Today, you can purchase Charlotte’s Web from Thrift Books for even less than the day we started our company: $3.95 with free shipping anywhere in the USA.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: justify;">"Thrift Books has emerged from its modest beginnings to become the nation’s largest online seller of used books with a growing international presence. The Thrift Books’ marketplace has grown to include third party vendors such as Green Earth Books, Motor City Books, the Atlanta Book Company, Books Squared, Yankee Clipper Books, Blue Cloud Books, Silver Arch Books and Free State Books. A national presence and anticipated future growth will ensure a continually growing selection of used books and even faster shipping to Thrift Books’ customers."</span></div>
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-14710541904947694652013-10-02T10:13:00.001-07:002013-10-02T17:20:53.709-07:00SIP GARDENING<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A garden is a grand teacher. </span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It teaches patience and careful watchfulness; </span></i></div>
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<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2642174337877516716" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2642174337877516716" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2642174337877516716" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2642174337877516716" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2642174337877516716" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2642174337877516716" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2642174337877516716" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2642174337877516716" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2642174337877516716" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2642174337877516716" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="webkit-fake-url://FB51BE75-E9F7-45A4-A4C4-4DCDCF68D803/viewer.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">it teaches industry and thrift; </span></i></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">above all it teaches entire trust.</span></i></div>
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~Gertrude Jekyll</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OGZaij7_nM0/UKq8M-QsaQI/AAAAAAAAFVI/GEy0TdmuEfo/s1600/++traceymcbridefrugalluxuries.blogspot.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="18" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OGZaij7_nM0/UKq8M-QsaQI/AAAAAAAAFVI/GEy0TdmuEfo/s320/++traceymcbridefrugalluxuries.blogspot.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Chris Long...an associate for the Home Depot stores...is writing our guest-post today. Chris very generously created the planter pictured below. He wrote this post in response to my interest in learning more about Sub Irrigated Planters a.k.a. SIP's. Mike and I currently are in the process of building our own raised bed planters...thanks to Chris's influence...and will post photos when they're planted and producing! Thanks again to Chris and to Home Depot...one of my favorite places!</span></div>
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<span class="s3" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Garden Liquidator: Simple Sub-Irrigated Planters</span></div>
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<span class="s6" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;">When it comes to gardening, the phrase "less is more" just doesn't apply (unless, of course, you're talking about bad things like weeds, bugs and plant diseases...). For the most part, more is going to be more. After all, who doesn't want more produce, more natural goodness and more days enjoying the fruits (and vegetables!) of your labor?</span></div>
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<span class="s6" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;">And the plants agree: they want more water. Fortunately, establishing a sub-irrigated planter (SIP) is a quick and easy way to make the most out of your crop.</span></div>
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<span class="s6" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;">By injecting the water under the surface (as opposed to the traditional method of watering above ground), more of it gets directly to the roots and you use much less water than you normally would. Since it is a closed system, there is no runoff and little overflow.</span></div>
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<span class="s6" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;">And the best part is that building one isn't as difficult as you might think. All you need are a few supplies, a good pair of gardening gloves, and a couple of hours and you've got an operational, sub-irrigated raised bed garden.</span><br />
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<span class="s3" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Bed Basics</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;"><span class="s6">The key to this super-efficient underground method of gardening is the use of</span><span class="s6"> </span><span class="s7" style="font-style: italic;">perforated corrugated drain pipes</span><span class="s6">. The little perforated slits that cover the pipes provide the entry and exit points for the water; there is no need for a wicking material because the soil surrounding the pipes serves as the capillary go-between that transmits the water to the roots.</span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="s7" style="font-style: italic;">*Tip</span><span class="s6">: While you can also use an inverted nursery flat or a plastic food container with holes (basically anything similar with holes that won't corrode), the larger, rounded shape of the drain pipes fills up the bottom of the planter better and takes up more space in the box, resulting in the ability to use less filler or soil than average.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s6" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;">Plus, the little notches in the corrugated drain pipe provide just the right amount of air/water needed to aerate and properly water the roots.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;"><span class="s6">The other major material component is a</span><span class="s6"> </span><span class="s7" style="font-style: italic;">fill pipe</span><span class="s6"> </span><span class="s6">which, as its name implies, is the means through which you fill the pipes with water. Your fill pipe can be as simple as a plastic water bottle, inverted and with the bottom cut off, inserted directly into a hole you have cut into the top of one of the pipes. You can also use an extra piece of drain pipe in a corner, (as shown), that just extends to the bottom of the planter.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;"><span class="s6">Finally, don't forget about an</span><span class="s6"> </span><span class="s7" style="font-style: italic;">overflow drain hole</span><span class="s6"> </span><span class="s6">- the bed's protection against overwatering - that you can cut directly into the</span><span class="s6"> </span><span class="s7" style="font-style: italic;">planter</span><span class="s6">.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;"><span class="s7" style="font-style: italic;">*Tip</span><span class="s6">: Although you can build your SIP directly into a wooden planter, you will greatly extend the longevity of the lumber by lining the entire inside of the box with plastic before inserting any other materials. This moisture barrier will keep the lumber's porous surface protected and will result in a much more successful, watertight raised bed garden.</span></span></div>
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<span class="s6" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;">And if you do go the lumber planter route, don't forget to cut an overflow drain hole into the lumber. Drill a ½" circular hole into one of the boards the planter 4" up from the bottom and insert a piece of ½" OD round vinyl tubing into it, extending it to the bottom of a pipe to ensure proper drainage. When it's time to water, just keep adding water until a little bit starts to weep out of the overflow. Refill it again the next day and you will be good to go for quite some time.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;"><span class="s7" style="font-style: italic;">*Tip</span><span class="s6">: Just remember that if you decide to go the direct-to-lumber planter method, do not use pre-treated lumber as it contains harmful toxins that can kill your plants before they have a chance to grow.</span></span><br />
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<span class="s3" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Quick Construction</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;"><span class="s9" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Step 1</span><span class="s6">: Gather the necessary materials. In this case, an SIP was constructed out of a large pontoon boat before it was placed into a lumber housing unit.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;"><span class="s9" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Step 2</span><span class="s6">: Insert the pre-cut lengths of ventilated pipes into the container.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;"><span class="s7" style="font-style: italic;">*Tip</span><span class="s6">: When you place your pipes into the planter, be sure to space them apart evenly as these spaces form the soil wicks.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;"><span class="s9" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Step 3</span><span class="s6">: Pour soil into the planter and cover the entire lengths of the pipes.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;"><span class="s7" style="font-style: italic;">*Tip</span><span class="s6">: When you add the soil mix to the planter, be sure to pack it down into the spaces between the pipes to ensure good capillary wicking action.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: left; float: left; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img src="webkit-fake-url://5C88582F-7F16-4A7B-808A-1CD9089277D6/application.pdf" /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="clear: left; float: left; font-size: large; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black; font-size: small;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;"><span class="s9" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">4</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black; font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">: Insert an upright length of pipe into the planter with one end exposed above the surface to serve as your fill pipe</span></span>Once you have completed your planter, you can construct a lumber "housing" unit to dress up your SIP like this one here built out of 2x4 boards stacked in a "Lincoln log" type formation (alternating parallel layers bolted together).</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;"><span class="s7" style="font-style: italic;">*Tip</span><span class="s6">: Whether you build your SIP for use directly on the ground or raise it off the floor, it is important that the bed of your planter is flat and level. Otherwise, you are going to end up with uneven distribution of water.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Now, simply plant, water and watch as your new nursery blooms before your very eyes!</span></div>
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<span class="s6" style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;">What are you planning on planting in your new sub-irrigated raised bed gardens?</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); font-size: large;"><i><span class="s6">Chris Long, a long-time store associate at a Home Depot in Illinois, writes on</span><span class="s6"> </span><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/Lumber-Composites/h_d1/N-5yc1vZbqpg/h_d2/Navigation?langId=-1&storeId=10051&catalogId=10053&searchNav=true"><span class="s11">lumber products for the Home Depot website</span></a><span class="s6">. He also enjoys writing on</span><span class="s6"> </span><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/h_d1/N-5yc1vZbuf5/h_d2/Navigation?catalogId=10053&langId=-1&storeId=10051"><span class="s11">underground irrigation projects</span></a><span class="s6"> </span><span class="s6">for gardens and lawns.</span></i></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>Photos: Chris Long</i></span><br />
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-81102213304696373492013-02-07T19:39:00.000-08:002013-02-08T07:15:44.636-08:00Simple Sowing: Herbs and Greens ~ The Garden in Winter<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"A garden is a lovesome thing...</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The veriest school of Peace."</span></div>
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--Thomas Edward Brown</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I've been busy planning and working on the herb garden this past month... inspired by the image of a simple yet fascinating circular herb garden I saw on <a href="http://pinterest.com/" target="_blank"><b>Pinterest</b></a> (above center left...all the other photos are my own). The viewing thereof prompted cravings for fresh mint and tangy thyme in our daily salads... not to mention that elusive lemon-y/yet not lemon-y flavor of French sorrel in our soups in lieu of spinach. If the truth be told I began in late December after a visit to the 99-Cent store where I literally stumbled upon a group of lonely looking herbs (bottom right picture in collage) while putting away the basket in front of the store... sage, chives, oregano huddled together on a small rolling cart... all in need of a nourishing, nurturing home and, of course, they were adopted by me (bottom right collage photo).</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A few weeks later found me planting more green, herbal goodness that I found for a few dollars each at our local nursery, <b><a href="http://www.britasgardens.com/" target="_blank">Brita's Old Town Garden</a></b>. P</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">arsley, Purple Kale and Cabbage, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">along with a lovely Lavender bush found earlier that week at Trader Joe's (top photo of collage) joined the existing baby rosemary bush by the garden gate and the other plants populating our tiny herb garden. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As gardening was heavily on my mind, I bought an extra Lavender to plant at my Dad's house... it will eventually replace the cherry tomatoes that (while very spindly and sparse) are still producing about half-pint per week (bottom left photo of collage). </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Purple Kale for use in our morning juice (thank you <b><a href="http://acultivatednest.com/" target="_blank">Manuela</a></b> for the good advice!) as well as use in other recipes such as soups, stews, sautéed dishes and salads. Kale and other lettuces will grow as a perennial in our mild climate if we harvest only the outer leaves and leave the center intact.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Cabbage for juicing, sauté's and the like...<br />like the Kale I will try to keep this as a perennial by harvesting only the outer leaves. The herb pot in behind the cabbage was bought for under $4 from Trader Joe's. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">A potted semi~dwarf Kumquat tree we bought last week from Costco of all places for a mere $19.99!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Even our Rose tree was in the mood for spring... communicating this to us by offering its' generous blooms in late January!<br />~~~</span><br />
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</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Robert Collier tells us to "<i>See things as you would have them be instead of what they are."</i> I'm finding that garden planning is a perfect exercise for mastering this. What are you seeing for your garden and world? </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />Sending love and good thoughts to all...as always.<br /><br />Warmly,<br />Tracey and Family x0x<br /><br />~~~</span></td></tr>
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-91973253702350422372013-01-19T23:07:00.001-08:002013-01-21T07:00:28.457-08:00The Art of Frugality... Recent Practices<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>"How simple and frugal a thing is happiness."</i></span></div>
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~Nikos Kazantzakis </div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As with most people, the advent of the new year has us combing the budget to patch the leaks... reassessing our spending habits... and battening down our spending in order to accommodate a tighter budget. Because of this I've been especially inspired by all of the frugal ideas found throughout this wonderland of Bloglandia. Sending gratitude and thanks to all who so generously share their life~enhancing frugal strategies... you are very appreciated.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here are a few simple ways we've been practicing the art of frugality in our realm of reality recently.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">One of my goals for this year is to do more planting of edibles in our little garden. I've already planted the herbs I received for Christmas (see picture in previous post... I'll write a longer post on our garden plans soon). </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I finally tried this great idea that's been rolling around <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/" target="_blank"><b>Pinterest</b></a> for awhile: Instead of throwing out the stub of our organic celery I put it in a bit of water on the window sill and use the leaves in cooking. If all goes well it will eventually go out into the garden with our herbs, cabbages and kale! I did a similar strategy using organic Romaine lettuce cores (cut from store bought lettuce) with great results. They sprouted on the window sill where I harvested a few of them to top Tostadas. I eventually planted them in the garden but our resident raccoons immediately dug them up and ate them! Perhaps the next batch will be put into pots?</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I'm also trying another classic idea to further enhance our tiny edible garden: Organic green onions are stored in a glass of water. After using the green stems (leaving just enough to reach the top of the glass) I'll allow them to sprout and then plant them in the garden. I hope the raccoons don't have a taste for onions... but we'll find out!<br />~~~</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> Several months ago I bought a huge bag of California garlic from Costco and had several bulbs remaining. After doing a little research in my gardening books I found that planting garlic with your other herbs and vegetables may deter critters (i.e., raccoons and munching insects) from digging up and/or nibbling on your garden edibles. With so much garlic not being eaten, I decided to plant several of the cloves. This is my first time planting garlic bulbs but my research tells me that one little clove produces twenty more...that's a very good return! And if it keeps guard over the rest of the garden all the better. Also...if you're wondering why I'm showing the garlic cloves in a jar it's because I soaked them for about an hour in a 20 to 1 solution of water and peroxide. These were all planted about three weeks ago and they are all sprouting beautifully (photos to come). I will keep you posted!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">~~~</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Inspired by need, I dug out some of our thrifted vintage silver plated flatware and soaked it in an aluminum foil lined stainless pot filled with water and sprinkled with baking soda and a bit of salt. It worked fairly well to take the first few layers of the very dark tarnish from them but elbow grease had to take over from there! We use these for our everyday flatware and I never tire of the pretty shapes and designs.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Citrus abounds out here in southern California so I am doing my best to preserve the fruits of this winter season via dehydrator (seen above) and by freezing the juice. Mike bought me a juicer for our anniversary last year (at my request) and we've made a healthy habit of it since. Fresh oranges, lemons and grapefruits are delicious additions to our morning juices. They are especially frugal as we get most of our citrus free from my father's trees or for a song from the local farm stand. I plan on using the frozen lemon/orange/grapefruit juice to add to our juices and smoothies when citrus isn't so abundant and/or well priced. <br />~~~<br /><br />Thank you again for the abundance of ideas and inspiration everyone puts out here... it is so motivating and nudges me to action!<br /><br />Sending love and good thoughts to all.<br />Warmly,<br />Tracey and Family<br />x0x</span></td></tr>
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-72829489978835460012013-01-14T10:28:00.000-08:002013-01-14T10:28:27.137-08:00Sorting and Appreciating Life's Most Precious Gifts<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>".... such golden gifts!"</i></span></div>
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~Shakespeare</div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> Ever since the holiday season officially ended a few weeks ago, I've found myself sorting (dare I say wrestling with?) those tangled threads of earthly phenomenon that were so graciously gifted to me (us) this past season. Please don't misunderstand. I am a life~long lover and appreciator of receiving gifts. I am ever so grateful for them in all forms! In fact, I pondered on this fact the other day as I happily removed the contents of a very raggedy billfold and placed them into a brand new, lovely, Michael Kors wallet </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">(thank you Rosie!); a</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">nd again, as I prepared a small area of our tiny garden to receive newly acquired additions of herbs (and a tiny Italian Pine tree that promises even more gifts of pine <i>nuts</i>... in approximately fifteen years, give or take).</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">As I was digging through the soil, I thought of something I'd read long ago: <i><b>Anything of value multiplies when it's given.</b></i> I admit to testing this philosophy over the years and have found it to be surprisingly accurate. Giving can create much happiness for the giver as well as the receiver. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Whatever the gift, it is the emotion and thought of the giver that sets its <i>true</i> value. When thinking back on important gifts I've received in my own life I find them to be too numerous to count. Yet, there are a few that stand out from the rest.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">My first great gift in life came from my mother. Besides the obvious gift of life, of which she played a key role, my mother bestowed upon me an avid love of learning. She tutored me in my first struggles with phonics and was a wise, gentle guide who unlocked the door of my young mind and allowed me access to that secret world of reading... and all the joys and benefits that grace those who wander through it. My favorite books from childhood (many of them classics she once recommended) continue to be my friends and counselors. I find it ironic that these books have offered me much needed advice during the years after my mother became too ill to guide or counsel me. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">This gift continues to increase the quality of my life as well as enrich my soul. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">I suppose it's no surprise then that the second great gift of my life came much later, from my father. My mother's illness (Multiple Sclerosis) had progressed to the point where she became unable to care for herself in any way. Her doctors recommended that she be permanently admitted into a convalescent facility. My father adamantly refused their strong suggestions and he was unwavering in his answer. <i>"If I were in that wheelchair she would be taking care of me...and doing a better job of it than I am."</i> He would quietly explain. That was in 1976. For thirty years (until October 2006 when she passed away) he cared for her at home and we visited often. Although she could no longer speak she was vividly aware of our presence. We know this by the way she greeted us. Her eyes sparkled... her arms feebly reached out to each of us for an embrace as her lips silently mouthed the words "I love you". My father would look on and then tell us later how much healthier she seemed when we were there. Who could ignore the valuable gift found in his example of loyalty, love and unselfishness?</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Now that it's a new year, like most of us, I've made a few resolutions. Among them... at the top of my list... is the decision to make a conscious effort to maintain my focus on the many <i>gifts</i> I've been given... tangible as well as intangible. </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> No more focusing on what I don't have. Instead, I plan to put the art of appreciation into high gear and look for the good gifts that are present in all things and experiences. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Wishing you and yours a blessed 2013 brimming with tangible and intangible gifts !</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Sending love and good thoughts to all.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Warmly</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Tracey and Family</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">x0x</span><br />
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-62594667189736164682012-12-21T14:44:00.000-08:002012-12-23T10:22:53.630-08:00"Proof of Heaven"... and the Power of Prayer<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"> </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><i>" A Single Prayer Moves Heaven . "</i></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 19px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">~ Japanese Proverb</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 30px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d; font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.lifebeyonddeath.net/" target="_blank"><i>"Dr. Eben Alexander's near death experience is the most astounding I have heard in more than four decades of studying this phenomenon... one of the crown jewels of all near death experiences... Dr. Alexander is living proof of an afterlife." </i> </a></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 30px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0c343d; font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.lifebeyonddeath.net/" target="_blank"> ~ Raymond Moody, MD, PhD</a></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.lifebeyonddeath.net/" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://www.lifebeyonddeath.net/sites/default/files/ea-poh-3d-bookcover.png" width="247" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.lifebeyonddeath.net/" target="_blank">"<b>Proof of Heaven</b>"</a> is a very thought provoking book. I read it a few weeks ago and each chapter is fascinating. Yet, I can't stop thinking about the segment where the author tells us he fell into the depths of despair after being informed he was to leave the Heavenly place. Deeply saddened at his impending loss he absentmindedly observed what looked to be a sea of butterflies fluttering beneath him. A closer inspection revealed that it was NOT a sea of butterflies at all but an ocean of<i> <b>prayers</b></i>. The frequency/vibration of the love, good thoughts and faith were delivering them from Earth to Heaven. They served to immediately lift him out of despair and back into the happiness he had felt only when he was 'within the gates that housed the One.'</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Reading this book impacted me profoundly... the b</span>utterfly scene especially brought an entirely new dimension to my own prayers.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> <i><b>What a gift... to be given a glimpse of what our prayers look like on the receiving end!</b></i> </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">It is such a wondrous reminder of the power we each hold...<i> recourse to prayer </i>! Yet... sadly... some individuals barely recognize they possess this power. </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">During this hallowed and gracious season I felt a strong need to share this information with you kind souls who visit.</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;"> As the kids and I used to pray when they were little (on the way to school each morning): <i>"Thank you Lord for making the bad people turn into good ones... and the good people of this earth to have perfect wisdom, truth and understanding... and to take action with that truth, wisdom and understanding in a perfect way for all concerned." </i></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit; font-size: large;">I give thanks to Dr. Alexander (a highly respected neurosurgeon) for having the courage and taking the trouble to share his amazing... after-life affirming... experiences with us via his book and media appearances.</span></div>
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Sending love and good thoughts to all for a blessed and happy Christmas and Holiday season.</span><br />
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-38995726901526980132012-12-13T13:15:00.000-08:002012-12-14T10:31:37.547-08:00How to Find the Time...Getting Things Done During the Busy Holiday Season...Without Losing the Joy!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RjEmjCGakro/UJXDjyYfMaI/AAAAAAAAFJM/aRoi-OebEU4/s1600/BLOG+SUMMER+2012+IMG_3064.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Frugal L<span style="font-size: large;">u<span style="font-size: large;">x<span style="font-size: large;">uries: <span style="font-size: large;">Newsletter Classics</span></span></span></span></span></a></div>
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<tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption"><span style="color: #0000ee; font-size: large;">Here are a few strategies for<span style="color: #0000ee;"> finding the time to</span> mak<span style="color: #0000ee;">e</span> gifts and get things done during the busy holiday season...while keeping the joy alive<span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="font-size: large;">.<span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i><span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="font-size: large;">Note: This article<span style="font-size: large;"> is an excerpt </span></span></span>from </i><span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>a 1</i><span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>99</i><span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>8 issue of our newsletter, </i>Frugal Luxuries<span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>. <span style="font-size: large;">At the </span>bottom of the page <span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">you'll find</span> a scan of the original page!</span></span></i></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></td><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td></tr>
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<li><i><span style="font-size: large;">Every evening, after dinner, I would choose an old movie to watch on video or television (I enjoy <span style="font-size: large;">watching </span>those with a holiday theme<span style="font-size: large;">...t</span>o spark my enthusiasm). I settled myself in a comfortable seat in the family room to prepare the apples [for the apple pies I planned to give as gifts]. Flanked by two large mixing bowls, I peeled and cored apples over bowl #1. Next I cut the peeled apples into slices directly over bowl #2 (I also added a bit of lemon juice at the bottom of the bowl beforehand, to prevent the apples from browning). This process continued until all of the apples were processed, taking about two hours. I then seasoned the apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, sugar and cloves and set them, covered, in the refrigerator. The following eve<span style="font-size: large;">n</span>ing, while playing my favorite Christmas music, I prepared a quantity of pie crusts, and proceeded to bake the apple pies.<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">[See <a href="http://frugalluxuriesfood.blogspot.com/2009/09/dreams-of-manderlay-homemade-chunky.html" target="_blank">HERE</a> <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> for more<span style="font-size: large;"> on <span style="font-size: large;">easy <span style="font-size: large;">food prep.]</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></i></li>
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<li><i><span style="font-size: large;">My "movie watchin<span style="font-size: large;">g strate<span style="font-size: large;">gy"</span> is also quite effective for many craft projects as well. You may settle yourself in a comfortable chair and hand sew or craft over</span> a deep (2 inch) lap-size tray (you may substitute cardboard boxes, or jelly roll pans if you have no trays available). Doing this keeps your mess within a confined space (the tray) and makes clean up simple and easy. If your project requires several days, you may set aside your tray (perhaps on a closet shelf) until you have a chance to finish. </span></i></li>
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<li><i><span style="font-size: large;">Create a master craft and cooking/baking list helps you to budget your time. Because you are able to see at a glance the many projects you wish to accomplish during the holidays you may easily prioritize and edit your plans if necessary.</span></i></li>
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<li><i><span style="font-size: large;">Another self-induced incentive to action is to invite friends over for a few hours, and host a cooking, baking, or craft night. The old saying that "many hands make light work" is drenched in truth. I have done this and find that at least twice as much gets done when you have help. As well, the simple fact that time has been set aside for you to specifically accomplish such tasks makes it more difficult for you to procrastinate or become sidetracked, before they are completed.</span></i></li>
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<li><i><span style="font-size: large;"> Perhaps the most important thing to remember when performing any task is to make them as enjoyable as possible. If you look at something as a chore you will naturally find ways to put off doing it. Listening to your favorite music, watching a favorite holiday video, listening to <span style="font-size: large;">[audio] books....or visiting with <span style="font-size: large;">friends (remember the efficien<span style="font-size: large;">cy of the old~fashioned quil<span style="font-size: large;">ting bee?) will most definitely enhance any pro<span style="font-size: large;">ject.</span></span></span></span></span></span></i></li>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">(</span></span>Zucchini spice bread, using the <span style="font-size: large;">farm stand </span>zucchini I saved by freezing...I wrote about<span style="font-size: large;"> it <a href="http://frugalluxuries.blogspot.com/2012/11/the-art-of-frugalityrecent-practices_9.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<span style="font-size: large;">)</span></span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sE0e1HfqaTE/UJXEp9CZ5eI/AAAAAAAAFJo/TroDNV8agKQ/s1600/BLOG+SUMMER+2012+IMG_3122.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="224" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sE0e1HfqaTE/UJXEp9CZ5eI/AAAAAAAAFJo/TroDNV8agKQ/s320/BLOG+SUMMER+2012+IMG_3122.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">I made these <span style="font-size: large;">while implementing my<span style="font-size: large;"> classic "<span style="font-size: large;">Movie Watching Technique<span style="font-size: large;">"</span></span></span>... <span style="font-size: large;">a<span style="font-size: large;">ll<span style="font-size: large;"> accomplished</span> within a few episodes of <a href="http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/masterpiece/downtonabbey/" target="_blank"><b>"Downton Abb</b></a><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/masterpiece/downtonabbey/" target="_blank"><b>ey"</b></a> season 2!</span></span></span></span> </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gift2rqftuA/UMotpeDeopI/AAAAAAAAF8c/62OSGlcY46M/s1600/BLOG+getting+into+the+spirit+of+the+season+.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gift2rqftuA/UMotpeDeopI/AAAAAAAAF8c/62OSGlcY46M/s400/BLOG+getting+into+the+spirit+of+the+season+.jpg" width="290" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">This page <span style="font-size: small;">scanned from the</span> 1998 Holiday Issue of our original newsletter, <i>Frugal Lux<span style="font-size: small;">uries</span></i><span style="font-size: small;">.</span> To enlarge right-click and choose "view image"<span style="font-size: small;">...</span>then click th<span style="font-size: small;">e</span> image to view a larger size.</span></td></tr>
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-13908652735614470582012-12-01T09:00:00.000-08:002012-12-02T07:22:27.565-08:00Homemade Holiday: The Gift of Dinner<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">"I am in the habit of looking not so much to the nature of a gift as to the spirit in which it is offered."</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">~~Robert Louis Stevenson </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I've been putting together a few <span style="font-size: large;">Frugal Feasts</span> for the <span style="font-size: large;">G</span>ift <span style="font-size: large;">P</span>antry to<span style="font-size: large;"> give</span> as token gifts to neighbors, friends and hosts/hostesses. It's pretty simple, as you can see from the photos! I take a collection of different types of beans and lentils, mix them nicely in a big bowl and then package them in pretty vintage or recycled jars. Sometimes I make homemade chile'/taco seasoning and put<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">three</span> tablespoons of it</span>, along with a dry bay leaf, in a small cellophane bag.<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">I've also <span style="font-size: large;">used the taco seasoning mix I buy in bulk at Costco for this gift, in a pinch<span style="font-size: large;">.</span></span></span></span> I'll carefully fold this packet, seal it <span style="font-size: large;">with a small sticker,</span> and place it atop the beans before I close the jar. Other times, I'll simply include a store bought packet of chile seasoning<span style="font-size: large;">: S</span>lipped inside an appropriately sized envelope and hung like a tag<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>along with the recipe (<span style="font-size: large;">you will find the printable </span>above) it <span style="font-size: large;">creates a pretty presentation</span>. There are numerous <span style="font-size: large;">variations </span>of this gift<span style="font-size: large;">,</span> of course, depending upon my time and resources<span style="font-size: large;">. Sometimes the <span style="font-size: large;">Calico <span style="font-size: large;">C</span>hile' is inclu<span style="font-size: large;">ded as part of a larger gift <span style="font-size: large;">basket that a<span style="font-size: large;">lso offers side<span style="font-size: large;">~</span>dishes such<span style="font-size: large;"> as</span> cornbread <span style="font-size: large;">(a mix or <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">freshly~baked)<span style="font-size: large;">, a <span style="font-size: large;">small jar of honey butter <span style="font-size: large;">and </span></span>a bottle <span style="font-size: large;">of sp<span style="font-size: large;">arkling cider. <span style="font-size: large;">Sometimes I'll <span style="font-size: large;">include vintage silver spoons<span style="font-size: large;"> and/or servers</span> (as in the picture above) a<span style="font-size: large;">nd line<span style="font-size: large;"> the basket or box with a pretty table cloth or set of hand towels... or ... !</span></span></span></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Quite often</span> it's</span> imagination and resources that make <span style="font-size: large;">the decision<span style="font-size: large;">. It's all about using what's inexpensively and easily available to you at the time! </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sending love and good thoughts to all, as <span style="font-size: large;">always!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Warmly,</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Tracey and <span style="font-size: large;">Family</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">x0x </span> </span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </span><br />
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-39478326208534771102012-11-21T00:00:00.000-08:002012-11-24T20:56:52.062-08:00Sending Out Thoughts of Gratitude and Appreciation...A Blessed Thanksgiving to all.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://frugalluxuries.blogspot.com/2011/11/day-four-thanksgiving-progressive.html" target="_blank"><b>Classic Turkey Noodle Soup </b></a>made from the </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>"</b></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Remains of the [Thanksgiving] Feast".</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span> </span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span> </span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span> </span></span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span> </span></span></td></tr>
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<a href="http://frugalluxuries.blogspot.com/2011/11/day-four-thanksgiving-progressive.html" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-size: small;"> </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">C<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">LICK </span>HERE FOR RECIPE<span style="font-size: large;">.</span></span></span></span></b></a><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Sending good thoughts and love to all.</span></span></span></span></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">x0x </span> </span></span></span></span></b></div>
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-89892446024792148042012-11-19T21:01:00.000-08:002012-12-05T11:17:26.183-08:00Frugal Gifts from the Kitchen: Gift~Pantry Vanilla ... Hand Crafted With Love<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>The irregular and intimate quality of things made entirely by the human hand.</i></span></div>
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~Willa Cather</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W2eSHwjqAmU/UKq9uT4NQqI/AAAAAAAAFVY/gEUk3PDgPdE/s1600/aaablog+holiday+IMG_2056.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W2eSHwjqAmU/UKq9uT4NQqI/AAAAAAAAFVY/gEUk3PDgPdE/s400/aaablog+holiday+IMG_2056.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: large;">This make~ahead gift began last August with re~purposed vinegar bottles... a bundle of fresh Vanilla beans... and a liter of plain vodka. I placed about a dozen, split, whole beans in each bottle then covered them with vodka and allowed <span style="font-size: large;">Time to work it<span style="font-size: large;">s' magic</span></span>. </span><span style="font-size: small;"><i>Note: While I
left my vanilla to steep for several months... homemade vanilla can be
ready for gift~giving in as little as three to four weeks. Also, I
included two vanilla beans in each bottle so that the bottles may be
refilled and left to steep and <span style="font-size: small;">thus create m<span style="font-size: small;">ore vanilla<span style="font-size: small;">! </span></span></span></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> Into the back of the pantry they were tucked<span style="font-size: large;"> for several months...</span> until I
took them out a few weeks ago to decant into these cute little <span style="font-size: large;">bottles<span style="font-size: large;"> and they <span style="font-size: large;">in<span style="font-size: large;">stant<span style="font-size: large;">ly transformed into</span></span></span>... </span></span>gifts from the
kitchen<span style="font-size: large;">!</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3eg8B2wK3EI/UKq8IAUReDI/AAAAAAAAFVA/16-I7P31ykA/s1600/111aaavround-label-vintage-cream-graphicsfairy002bwfr.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3eg8B2wK3EI/UKq8IAUReDI/AAAAAAAAFVA/16-I7P31ykA/s320/111aaavround-label-vintage-cream-graphicsfairy002bwfr.jpg" width="312" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: large;">I found this simple round template at the <a href="http://graphicsfairy.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><b>Graphics Fairy</b></a> and printed out several on a sheet to make my labels and tags.</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2LbGD3dfKz4/UKrDoRgYEAI/AAAAAAAAFWc/L1gM6iuxOH0/s1600/111aaavanilla+photo(26).png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2LbGD3dfKz4/UKrDoRgYEAI/AAAAAAAAFWc/L1gM6iuxOH0/s400/111aaavanilla+photo(26).png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: large;">Old~school (semi) ruled the day as I hand wrote the "Vanilla" on the labels... and let my friends and family know these gifts were "Hand Crafted With Love". </span></td></tr>
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<tr align="left"><td class="tr-caption"><span style="font-size: large;">The Rosemary bush in the front garden offered wisps of evergreen to attach to the tags.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">This is such a simple<span style="font-size: large;">, easy and frugal gift<span style="font-size: large;">...<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">a welcome <span style="font-size: large;">addition</span> <span style="font-size: large;">to</span> the pantries of your family and friends<span style="font-size: large;">!</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sending good thoughts and love to all!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Warmly,</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tracey and Family x0x</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">P. S. I've been peeking in on your blogs and Pinterest boards and am getting so inspired! </span></div>
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2642174337877516716.post-11723046017902357072012-11-09T21:55:00.000-08:002012-12-13T12:42:03.314-08:00Easy Organizing...Very Simple Ways to Preserve Farm Stand Bounty...and Other Saving Graces<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here are some of the ways I've recently exercised the art of frugality.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Is it my imagination or is the cost of just about everything rising?</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><img border="0" height="74" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aCyPSJNFYMg/UGD0NesMKtI/AAAAAAAAEVg/rvWQl8rl3I0/s320/aaablog+OakBranchOrnaments-GraphicsFairy1.jpg" width="320" /> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Found Storage </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-14X0DH0UVYw/UGDX1DhzhFI/AAAAAAAAERE/x4XRBO31muw/s1600/aaa+blogDSCN2747_2_2_2.png" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="290" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-14X0DH0UVYw/UGDX1DhzhFI/AAAAAAAAERE/x4XRBO31muw/s400/aaa+blogDSCN2747_2_2_2.png" width="400" /></a></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;"> As you probably know, I've long been a collector of vintage linens. Over time <span style="font-size: large;">my collection</span> has<span style="font-size: large;"> obviously</span> grown<span style="font-size: large;">,</span> finding us currently bursting at the seams and looking for storage solutions. (I am seriously thinking of conducting a thinning the first of the year...but more on that in a future post). In the meantime<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>I needed more storage boxes...and a place to store the boxes!!! Before I headed off to Ikea (which offers many budget friendly storage options ;) I decided to shop my house to see if there was something that would serve my storage purposes. Happily, I spied this suit case tucked into the back of our closet. We inherited it from Mike's mom and kept it for sentimental reasons. However, once I rediscovered it, I knew it was just the thing to help solve my current storage problem! Once it was filled with vintage linens (neatly rolled and tucked inside of cotton pillow cases) I had to find a place to put it. After wandering around the house a bit, brainstorming, I asked Mike to help me slide it...along with our vintage steamer trunk (which already holds some of our most beloved vintage linen pieces, such as my wedding dress)... atop one of our larger <i>armoires</i>. Don't you love discovering solutions that don't cost a penny...and add a bit of pretty character to a room?!</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">One Potato, Two Potato...</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bSrotZIXXSs/UJiMrz6K95I/AAAAAAAAFPw/dc-j0AkSCJ8/s1600/blog+summerIMG_2115.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bSrotZIXXSs/UJiMrz6K95I/AAAAAAAAFPw/dc-j0AkSCJ8/s400/blog+summerIMG_2115.png" width="332" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ewwr-4WcMAw/UJiM5WFGkgI/AAAAAAAAFP4/gs6lNoY4Lzs/s1600/blog+summerIMG_2122.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ewwr-4WcMAw/UJiM5WFGkgI/AAAAAAAAFP4/gs6lNoY4Lzs/s400/blog+summerIMG_2122.png" width="360" /></a></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">After finding out that potatoes, zucchini and bell peppers are included in the <b><a href="http://www.ewg.org/foodnews/" target="_blank">"dirty dozen"</a></b> list of foods to avoid due to pesticides and the like<span style="font-size: large;"> we <span style="font-size: large;">often spend a little more to buy the<span style="font-size: large;"> organic varieties. Thus...</span></span></span>I am especially diligent and frugal about finding ways to use up leftovers. Above, I peeled leftover baked (organic) potatoes then grated them onto a lined cookie sheet and froze them to use as organic hash browns!</span></li>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">While the shredder was
out...I decided to shred the remainder of the farm stand zucchini to
freeze for future stews, soups and baking. As well, the last three
green peppers were also washed, seeded, sliced and frozen for future
breakfast <i>frittatas</i> and marinara sauces. </span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nM8EGvdVKUw/UJiNM18qtKI/AAAAAAAAFQE/IwgTvVz6txQ/s1600/blog+summerIMG_2240.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nM8EGvdVKUw/UJiNM18qtKI/AAAAAAAAFQE/IwgTvVz6txQ/s400/blog+summerIMG_2240.png" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QH9PK3xGHHQ/UJiOVDnVxZI/AAAAAAAAFQc/Y7lTLINe3lA/s1600/blog+summerIMG_2245.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QH9PK3xGHHQ/UJiOVDnVxZI/AAAAAAAAFQc/Y7lTLINe3lA/s400/blog+summerIMG_2245.png" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fV_uSYouEdQ/UJiOrUV3QdI/AAAAAAAAFQk/cyxuWs4l8LU/s1600/blog+summerIMG_2247.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fV_uSYouEdQ/UJiOrUV3QdI/AAAAAAAAFQk/cyxuWs4l8LU/s400/blog+summerIMG_2247.png" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Well my kind frien<span style="font-size: large;">ds, like you, there are dozens of other small ways we are <span style="font-size: large;">trying to be good stewards <span style="font-size: large;">of our money and resources<span style="font-size: large;"> but I<span style="font-size: large;"> will save them for another <span style="font-size: large;">post<span style="font-size: large;">...as I </span></span></span>am off to an <span style="font-size: large;">early </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">sleep<span style="font-size: large;">. Mike and I <span style="font-size: large;">will be up at dawn to enjoy a nice cup of coffee and some bargain hunting at the local yard sales<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">...<span style="font-size: large;">with <span style="font-size: large;">our wish/shopping list in hand!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span> <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">What <span style="font-size: large;">things have you been doing to <span style="font-size: large;">"<span style="font-size: large;">plug the <span style="font-size: large;">small leaks in your ship"? </span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sending love and good thoughts to all!</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><br />Warmly,</span>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tracey and Family</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">x0x</span><br />
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Tracey McBride ~ Frugal Luxuries®http://www.blogger.com/profile/03043055986653442733noreply@blogger.com9