A VISIT WITH GRAMMY

THANKS FOR THE MUD PIES---HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!

2010-05-07T07:00:00.002-04:00

This is a picture of my Mom. Isn't she beautiful?

I posted this back in August of last year because my Mom was born and died in August.

I'm posting it today because I'm thinking a lot about past Mother's Days....

and because I really miss her today.

She was a very strong woman!

She was married to the same man for 56 years.
She raised 5 children (4 of them boys!)
She worked outside the home for much of her life.

1942: While she was pregnant with her 3rd child, she lost her Mom, Dad, brother, a niece and nephew in a horrible house fire. Six weeks later, her sister died with TB, and of course that was the year war broke out.
1992: my Dad died . Two months later my oldest brother died. (He was buried on her birthday)
1996: my 3rd brother died. Three months later, my nephew died.
Within 5 years she lost these ones I mentioned plus several other family members that were very close to her.
And during that time, she was diagnosed with lung cancer)
Even though she had a lot of tragedy in her life, she was fun to be with, she laughed a lot, she was the life of every party, and she never met a stranger.
Some people tell me I’m a lot like my Mom. I consider that a compliment and an honor.

Today I will honor her memory by sharing this poem I wrote for her many years ago.

THANKS FOR THE MUD PIES

When I was just a little kid,

Back in the "olden" days,

I did the things a little kid does,

Played games that a little kid plays.

I remember one thing that you let me do,

That sticks the most in my mind,

Was making "MUD PIES" (and making a mess),
With "pie pans" that you'd help me find.

You'd look 'round in that big ol' kitchen,

Take jar lids and stuf' off the shelf,

And send me out in the back yard,

To make a mess of it and myself.

And now that I'm grown, with kids of my own,

It's now that I realize,
It's not just MUD, but PATIENCE and LOVE,
That go into making MUD PIES.
There's many things I could thank you for,
I wouldn't know just where to start.
But somehow it's always those MUD PIES,
That stick in my mind and my heart.
You took care of all the big things,

But somehow you must have known,

It's not the big, but the little things,
That make a house a home.

And now when I'm weary of doing,

All the things that a Mom must do,

I take time to think of those MUD PIES,

And I thank God for a Mom like you.

And now that I'm grown, with kids of my own,

It's now that I realize,

And say "thanks for all the PATIENCE and LOVE,"

And "THANKS FOR ALL THE MUD PIES!”

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY
AND THANK YOU
TO ALL THAT "MOTHER"

LOVE GRAMMY<><

WILLIAM TELL MOMISMS--HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!!!!

2010-05-06T12:27:00.005-04:00

A few weeks ago I attended the WOMEN OF JOY CONFERENCE in Louisville, Ky., along with 14000 of my closest friends :) (10 of which I traveled with)

It was unbelievable!!! One of the speakers was Anita Renfroe. She's a wonderful Christian comedian that left us ALL laughing until our sides hurt.

(A Merry heart doeth good like a medicine!!!)

In honor of Mother's Day Weekend, my friend, Anita, has given me permission to share her "William Tell Momisms" video with you.

Enjoy!

http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DYYukEAmoMCQ&h=a3127

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY
AND THANK YOU

TO ALL THOSE WHO "MOTHER"

LOVE,

GRAMMY<><

SPRING HAS SPRUNG IN KENTUCKY!!!

2010-04-11T00:33:00.008-04:00

Spring is my favorite season of the year and Easter is my favorite Holiday.(It's all about the new life!) The only trouble is that where I live, it's hard to tell just when It's going to happen (Spring, I mean, not Easter) Over the years, I've dressed my kids in both short sleeves and winter coats for Easter.

Well I think SPRING has finally "SPRUNG" here in Kentucky...

Of course, in this part of the country, it's more of a "Bounce" than a "Spring". Last week you would've thought we had skipped Spring all together. It was up in the 80s. Last night in was 34. But today, my sweet niece posted this beautiful picture from #TwitPict on Facebook and I think no one can deny that truly...

SPRING HAS SPRUNG!!!

HALLALUJAH!!!

LOVE,

GRAMMY<><

SUPER DOUBLES AT REMKE MARKETS!!!

2010-04-09T12:00:00.002-04:00

REMKE MARKETS are doing SUPER DOUBLES

on April 9, 10, and 11th (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday).

I'm sorry for the late post on this---The prices vary from store to store---Most of these reported here are from the Florence store, but I have heard that Newports' prices are a little different---

HAPPY SHOPPING! and HAPPY SAVING!!

Remke already doubles coupons up to $0.50,

but for this event---

coupons up to and including $1.00 will be doubled,

coupons from $1.00 -$2.00 will be worth $2.00,
coupons $2.00 and over will be worth face value.

CANS/BOTTLES
Campbell’s Cream of Mushroom Soup $0.99
$1/2 Campbell’s Condensed “Great for Cooking” Soups printable=$2.00
=FREE

Carnation Milk 5 oz. $0.79
$0.50/2 Carnation Evaporated Milk Cans printable=$1.00
=$0.29

Del Monte Canned Vegetables 4/$3.00 ($0.75 each)
$1/4 Select Del Monte Products printable (IE) or printable (FF)=$2.00
$1/8 Select Del Monte Products(RP 03/21/10)=$2.00
=as low as $0.25

Dinty Moore Beef Stew 3/$4.00 ($1.33 each)
$1.50/3 Select Dinty Moore or Hormel Products(SS 3/7/10)=$2.00
=$0.63

French’s Classic Yellow Mustard $1.79
$0.50/1 French’s Mustard printable=$1.00
=$0.79

French’s Honey Mustard $1.99
$0.50/1 Select French’s Dipping Sauces(SS 3/21/10)=$1.00
$0.75/1 French’s Honey Mustard Sauce printable=$1.50
=$0.49

Heinz Gravy $1.59
$1/3 Heinz Homestyle Gravy printable=$2.00
=$0.92

Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing 16 oz $2.99
$1/1 Hidden Valley Bottled Dressing printable=$2.00 (must register)
=$0.99

Hidden Valley Farmhouse Originals $3.99
$2/1 Hidden Valley Farmhouse Originals(SS 03/14/10)
=$1.99

Muir Glen $2.39 (some were even on clearance for $1.79!)
$1/1 Muir Glen Product printable =$2.00
=FREE – $0.39

Ovaltine $3.69
$1/1 Ovaltine Product(ALL YOU Feb ‘10)=$2.00
=$1.69

Smucker’s Grape Squeezable $1.79
$1/2 Select Smucker’s Fruit SpreadsRP 03/28/10)=$2.00
=$0.79

Starkist Tuna Pouch $1.59
$1/2 StarKist Pouch Product(RP 2/14/10)=$2.00
=$0.59

V8 Fusion $3.99
$1/1 V8 V-Fusion(SS 03/14/10)=$2.00
$1/1 V8 V-Fusion Juice printable=$2.00
=$1.99

Wishbone Dressing $2.99
$0.75/1 Wish Bone Product printable (IE) or printable (FF)=$1.50
$1.25/2 Wish-Bone Western Dressing(RP 03/28/10)=$2.00
$0.75/1 Wish-Bone Product(RP 03/28/10)=$1.50
=as low as $1.49

FRIG/FREEZER
Activia $2.89
$1/1 Activia Product(SS 03/28/10 #2)=$2.00
$1/1 Dannon Activia(SS 02/28/10)=$2.00
=$0.89

Coffee-Mate 16 ounce original $1.89
$0.75/1 Coffee-mate Liquid Creamer(RP 02/07/10)=$1.50
$0.75/1 Coffee-mate Liquid or Powder printable=$1.50
=Pay $0.39

Daisy Sour Cream 16 oz 2/$3.00 ($1.50 each)
$0.50/1 Daisy Brand Sour Cream(SS 03/28/10 #2)=$1.00
=$0.50

DanActive $2.99
$1/1 DanActive Multipack(SS 03/28/10 #2)=$2.00
$1/1 DanActive Product(SS 02/28/10)=$2.00
=$0.99

Dannon Danimals $2.69
$1/1 Danimals Smoothie or Crush Cup(SS 03/28/10 #2)=$2.00
=$0.69

I can’t believe it’s not butter 8 oz spray or 15 oz tub $1.69
$0.75/2 I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter!(RP 03/28/10)=$1.50
=$0.94

I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter Sticks $2.39
$0.60/1 I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter Stick(RP 3/28/10)=$1.20
=$1.19

Kozy Shack Puddings 22 oz 2/$5.00 ($2.50 each)
$0.40/1 Kozy Shack Chocolate Pudding(SS 02/07/10)=$0.80
=$1.70

Lunchables $2.09
$1/1 Oscar Mayer Lunchables Lunch Combinations(SS 3/21/10)=$2.00
=$0.09

Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh Lunchmeat 2/$6.00 ($3.00 each)
$1/2 Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh Meats(SS 03/07/10)=$2.00
=$2.00

Welch’s Juice 64 oz 2/$5.00 ($2.50 each)
$0.75/1 Welch’s Refrigerated Juice(SS 03/14/10)=$1.50
$1/2 Welch’s Refrigerated Juice or Juice Cocktail printable=$2.00
=$1.00 – $1.50

Yoplait Delights $2.89
$1/1 Yoplait Delights Yogurt Multipack printable =$2.00
=$0.89

PACKAGED
Betty Crocker Pouch Potatoes $1.09
$0.40/1 Betty Crocker Potatoes printable =$0.80
$0.25/1 Betty Crocker Potatoes(SS 03/28/10 #2)=$0.50
=$0.29 – $0.59

Coffee-Mate Sticks $1.19
B1G1 Coffee-mate Stick Pack printable
=$0.59

Crystal Light (select varieties) $3.29
$1/1 Crystal Light Drink Mix Product(SS 03/21/10)=$2.00
=$1.29

Earthbound Farm Organic Romaine Hearts 3 count 2/$4.00 ($2.00 each)
$1/2 Earthbound Farm Product printable =$2.00
=$1.00

General Mills Cereals 2/$6.00(select varieties shown: Lucky Charms, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Reeses’s Puffs, Golden Grahams, Honey Nut Cheerios)
$1/2 Select General Mills Cereals printable =$2.00
$1/2 Select General Mills Cereals(SS 03/07/10)=$2.00
=$2.00 (Plus buy 4 and get a Gallon of Jersey Farms Milk FREE!)

Goldfish Crackers $2.19
$0.75/1 Select Goldfish Crackers printable =$1.50
=$0.69

Hamburger Helpers $1.49
$0.75/3 Hamburger Helper Skillet Meals printable HERE and HERE =$1.50
$0.75/3 Hamburger Helper Skillet Meals(SS 03/07/10)=$1.50
=$0.99

Hungry Jack Syrup 2/$5.00 ($2.50 each)
$1/2 Hungry Jack Pancake Mix or Syrup(RP 02/21/10)=$2.00
=$1.50

Idahoan Potatoes 2 oz. instant original $0.59
$0.75/3 Idahoan Potatoes printable =$1.50
=$0.09

Jell-O Gelatin $3.39
$0.75/1 Select Jell-O Gelatin Snacks printable=$1.50
=$1.89

Jolly Time Popcorn $3.29
$1/1 Jolly Time Microwave Popcorn printable=$2.00
=$1.29

Keebler Cheesecake Middles $3.59
$1/1 Keebler Fudge Shoppe Cheesecake Middles printable=$2.00
=$1.59

Keebler Chips Deluxe $2.49
$0.55/2 Keebler Cookies(RP 03/07/10)=$1.10
=$1.94

Keebler Pie Crust 4/$5.00 ($1.25 each)
$0.25/1 Keebler Ready Crust Pie Crust(RP 03/21/10)=$0.50
=$0.75

Kellogg’s Clever Kids Fruit Snacks $2.99
$1/1 Kellogg’s Clever Kids printable=$2.00
=$0.99

Kool-Aid Fun Fizz $2.69
$1/1 Kool-Aid Fun Fizz Product(SS 03/28/10 #2)=$2.00
=$0.69

Lipton Tea Bags 16 count $1.19
$0.50/1 Lipton Tea Bags or Iced Tea Mix(RP 03/28/10)=$1.00
=$0.19

McCormick Black Pepper $2.29
$1/1 Select McCormick Products(RP 03/14/10)=$2.00
=$0.29

Ore-Ida Potatoes 2/$5.00 ($2.50 each)
$1/1 Ore-Ida Hash Browns(SS 03/21/10)=$2.00 (if included)
=$0.50

Post Cereals 2/$5.00 ($2.50 each – select varieties – shown Honey Bunches of Oats, Grape Nuts or Shredded Wheat)
$1/2 Post Cereal(SS 03/14/10)=$2.00
$1/2 Select Post Cereals(SS 02/28/10)=$2.00
$1/2 Post Honey Bunches of Oats(SS 3/14/10)=$2.00
$2/1 Post Raisin Bran, Shredded Wheat or Grape Nuts Cereal printable (must sign up)
=$0.50 – $1.50

Pop Tarts 12 count $2.69
$1.25/3 Kellogg’s Pop-Tarts(RP 03/28/10)=$2.00
=$2.02

Quaker Oatmeal $3.89
$1/1 Quaker Oatmeal printable (IE) or printable (FF)=$2.00
$1/1 Quaker Oats or Instant Oatmeal printable=$2.00
$1/1 Quaker True Delights Instant Oatmeal, (RP 2/14/10-*exp. 4/10/10*)=$2.00
=$1.89

Quaker Quakes $2.19
$0.75/1 Select Quaker True Delights Snacks, (RP 2/14/10-*exp.4/10/10*)=$1.50
=$0.69

Ronzoni Smart Taste $1.69
$1/2 Ronzoni Smart Taste printable=$2.00
$1.00/2 (SS1/10/10) =$2.00
$0.75/1 Ronzoni Smart Taste printable =$1.50
$0.75/1 Ronzoni Smart Taste Pasta printable=$1.50
=$0.19 – $0.69

Uncle Ben’s Long & Wild Rice $2.29
$1/1 Uncle Ben’s Whole Grain Brown Rice(RP 02/21/10)=$2.00
$1/1 Uncle Ben’s Long Grain & Wild Rice Box(RP 03/28/10)=$2.00
=$0.29

Yakisoba $0.99
$1/2 Maruchan Yakisoba(SS 03/14/10)=$2.00
=FREE

CLEANING/LAUNDRY/PAPER
Downy Ultra Blue 34 oz $4.99
$1/1 Downy Liquid or Dryer Sheets(P&G 04/04/10)=$2.00
=$2.99

Febreze Air Effects $2.99
$1/1 Febreze Air Effects(P&G 03/07/10)=$2.00
=$0.99

Glade Relaxing Moments Spray $3.19
$1/1 Glade Relaxing Moments Spray(SS 02/28/10)=$2.00
=$1.19

Rubbermaid (small) $2.19
$1/2 Select Rubbermaid Containers(SS 03/07/10)=$2.00
=$1.19

Tide 2 x Ultra Liquid 20-32 uses or Tide Powder 31-40 use $5.99
$1/1 Tide Product(P&G 02/07/10)=$2.00
$1/1 Tide Product(P&G 04/04/10)=$2.00;
$1/1 Tide Product(P&G 03/07/10)=$2.00
=$3.99

Wisk 32 load 3x $4.99
$1/1 Wisk Product printable=$2.00
$1/1 Wisk Ultra Laundry Detergent(RP 03/14/10)=$2.00
=$2.99

BABY
A&D $2.45
$1/1 A+D Product(ALL YOU Apr ‘10)=$2.00
=$0.45

Balmex 2 oz $2.85
$1/1 Balmex Diaper Cream printable (IE) or printable (FF)=$2.00
=$0.85

Johnson’s Baby Oil 4 oz $1.99
$1/1 Johnson’s Baby Product(RP 03/07/10)=$2.00
=FREE

Johnson’s Baby Shampoo 7 oz. $1.99
$1/1 Johnson’s Baby Product(RP 03/07/10)=$2.00
=FREE

Johnson’s Baby Bar $1.79
$1/1 Johnson’s Baby Product(RP 03/07/10)=$2.00
=FREE

Johnson’s Head To Toe Wash 9 oz $2.59
$1/1 Johnson’s Baby Product(RP 03/07/10)=$2.00
=$0.59

Johnson’s Lotion 9 oz. $2.59
$1/1 Johnson’s Baby Lotion printable (IE) or printable (FF)=$2.00
$1/1 Johnson’s Baby Product(RP 03/07/10)=$2.00
=$0.59

Johnson’s Buddies Detangler 8 oz $2.89
$1/1 Johnson’s Baby Product(RP 03/07/10)=$2.00
=$0.89

Johnson’s Baby Powder 9 oz $2.69
$1/1 Johnson’s Baby Product(RP 03/07/10)=$2.00
=$0.69

Johnson’s Baby Cologne 6.6 oz $2.59
$1/1 Johnson’s Baby Product(RP 03/07/10)=$2.00
=$0.59

Kandoo 50 count $3.15
$1/1 Kandoo Product(P&G 04/04/10)=$2.00
=$1.15

Pampers $9.99
$1.50/1 Pampers Diapers or Pants(P&G 04/04/10)=$2.00
$2/1 Select Pampers Diapers(RP 03/14/10)
=$7.99

HYGIENE/MEDICINE
Aleve 50 count $5.29
$1/1 Aleve Product(SS 03/21/10)=$2.00
=$3.29

Colgate Total 4.2 oz $2.59
$1/1 Colgate Total Toothpaste(ALL YOU Apr ‘10)=$2.00
=$0.59

Crest Kids Toothpaste $2.29
$0.75/1 Crest Toothpaste(P&G 03/07/10)=$1.50
=$0.79

Halls $1.99
$1/1 Halls Cough Drops(SS 03/28/10 #2)=$2.00
=FREE

Herbal Essences Conditioner/Shampoo $2.99
$1/1 Select Herbal Essences Products(P&G 04/04/10)=$2.00
$1/1 Select Herbal Essences Products(RP 03/14/10)=$2.00
=$0.99

Olay Ribbons $4.49
$1/1 Select Olay Body Washes or Lotions(P&G 04/04/10)=$2.00
=$2.49

St. Ives Body Wash $2.99
$1/1 St. Ives Body Product(SS 03/21/10)=$2.00
=$0.99

Sure Deodorant $2.49
$1.50/1 Sure for Men Deodorant(SS 02/28/10)=$2.00
$1/1 Sure Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant(SS 02/28/10)=$2.00
=$0.49

PET
Friskies Party Mix Cat Treats 2/$3.00 ($1.50 each)
$1.50/2 Purina Friskies Party Mix(SS 03/28/10)=$2.00
=$0.50

Let me know if you find more or different matches.

LOVE,
GRAMMY

AMAZON END OF THE SEASON BOOT SALE

2010-04-05T07:42:00.002-04:00

~~~~~END OF THE SEASON MARKDOWNS~~~~~~

up to 60% OFF!!

Until April 9, 2010 you can save up to 60% on purchases of select qualifying boots from 350 brands including EMU, Jessica Simpson, Chooka, Miss Mooz and Steve Madden. The discounts are available on both amazon.com and endless.com.

LOVE,
GRAMMY<><

DIAPER DEAL AT AMAZON.COM

2010-04-04T19:33:00.000-04:00

For a good deal on diapers, check out Amazon.com

• Free 2-Day Shipping on all diapers, wipes, and formula sold by Amazon
• An additional 15% savings through Subscribe & Save, our auto-delivery program
• Favorite brands like Pampers, Seventh Generation, Huggies, and Similac

LOVE,
GRAMMY<><

ORGANIZING COUPONS

2010-03-30T22:17:00.002-04:00

SINCE A LOT OF PEOPLE HAVE BEEN ASKING,

HERE IS A REPOST ABOUT HOW I ORGANIZE MY COUPONS....

Many people ask me how I organize my coupons.

Before I share my method with you, let me just say;

THERE'S NO RIGHT OR WRONG WAY

TO ORGANIZE COUPONS!

I am giving a coupon class next week.

I have invited two other "COUPON QUEENS"

to explain their method

(different from each other’s and mine)

to the class

WHATEVER SYSTEM WORKS FOR YOU IS THE BEST!

I have tried MANY systems for organizing my coupons.

They have ALL failed me in one way or another.

The one I use has failed me the least…so, that is why I use it.

It is the BINDER/BASEBALL CARD HOLDERS System.

The “down side” to this system is time consuming to set up,

however, once it is set up, it doesn’t take long to maintain.

* I get 2 papers delivered. (More about this on another post)

I buy more if there’s going to be lots of coupons.

(Sometimes, I have up to 7 or 8 of each page)

* I match the pages together so I can clip them at the same time.

* I keep a shoebox with index cards for dividers

(in case I don’t have time to put the coupons in the binder)

* I lay the index cards out on the dining room table and

as I clip each coupon, I separate them by categories.

* I put the coupons into their proper place in the binder

and I’m ready to shop!

I HAVE THREE MAIN CATAGORIES--

FOOD, NON-FOOD and OTHER

UNDER FOOD:

1. CANS/JARS

2. FRIG.

3. FREEZER

4. PACKAGED

5. PRODUCE

UNDER NON FOOD:

1. CLEANING

2. HYGIENE/BEAUTY

3. MEDICINE/HEALTH

4. PAPER/PLASTIC

5. SCHOOL/OFFICE/ETC

UNDER OTHER:

1. BABY

2. PETS
3. RESTURAUNTS/STORES

4. MISCELANIOUS

5. GIVE AWAY

I have “sub-categories” under each category

(I know… it sounds obsessive)

Then they are alphabetized by brand.

(I know…. it sounds REALLY obsessive)

I have learned (the hard way) that when you use this system,

it’s better if you don’t “pull” the coupons.

You just make a note next to the items on your list

of which coupons you are going to use

and how many you have.

Then, as you put the item in your cart,

you get the coupon(s) from the binder

and put it in an envelope or pocket of your binder.

When you are ready to check out…there’s all your coupons.

The best part is if you don’t use a coupon,

you don’t have to re-file it!

BOTTOM LINE-

When I am in the store and

something I use all the time is on an

“Unadvertised Special”,

And I quickly flip through the binder

and find that coupon that makes it

“FREE or NEARLY FREE”,

IT IS WORTH EVERY MINUTE I SPEND ORGANIZING!!!!

How do you organize your coupons?

I would love to hear from you about your method.

Just leave me a comment!

LOVE,

GRAMMY <><>

WHAT'S IN THE BIBLE?

2010-03-30T01:30:00.018-04:00

One day last week, Crystal, over at Money Saving Mom posted THIS about a WONDERFUL Spring Sale at ChristianBook.com

Thanks a lot, Crystal!!

I've been shopping since then!!

ChristianBook.com is a great place to find lot's of good deals,

but this SALE is the BEST EVER!!

Well, just today, my precious daughter, Lana, over at I Love My 5 Kids, posted THIS about Phil Vischer, the creator of Veggie Tales' new DVD series; "What's In The Bible".

(Be sure to visit I Love My 5 Kids to get all the details.)

She tells us that Vol. 1 – Genesis: In the Beginning, approx. 60 minutes and Vol. 2 – Exodus: Let My People Go, approx. 60 minutes, are both $14.99, retail.

Thanks a lot, Lana!!

Here's the best part....

While I've been shopping like crazy at ChristianBook.com , I found out that you can get Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 for $19.99 for BOTH! And we will be able to get the first 3 Volumes on June 1, 2010 for $29.99!

I'm so thankful for all the wonderful bloggers that work so hard to inspire and teach us and bring us the "deals". I learn something new every day.

So see---It IS possible to teach an old dog new tricks!!

LOVE,

GRAMMY<><

AMISH FRIENDSHIP BREAD..yummmmm

2009-12-20T08:00:00.012-05:00

It's that time of year again. It seems like almost every Christmas someone gives me a starter recipe of AMISH FRIENDSHIP BREAD..yummmmmm (It's hard to say it without saying yummmmmmm)

If you've never tried it, you need to. I had always heard that only the Amish know how to start it, but I came across this starter recipe (in case there's no Amish in your neighborhood)

DIRECTIONS FOR AMISH FRIENDSHIP BREAD STARTER
In a small bowl, dissolve yeast in water. Let stand 10 minutes. In a 2 quart container glass, plastic or ceramic container, combine 1 cup flour and 1 cup sugar. Mix thoroughly or flour will lump when milk is added. Slowly stir in 1 cup milk and dissolved yeast mixture. Cover loosely and let stand until bubbly. Consider this day 1 of the 10 day cycle. Leave loosely covered at room temperature.

These are the instructions I use and send along with each "starter" I give away. I put the instructions in a page protector to prevent messes ( I learned this the hard way)

AMISH FRIENDSHIP BREAD INSTRUCTIONS
**Do not use any type of metal spoon or bowl for mixing ** Do not refrigerate ** If air gets in the bag, let it out ** It is normal for the batter to rise, bubble and ferment
Day 1- Do nothing, this is the day you receive the batter (or the day you made the batter)-- go by the date on the bag
Day 2- Mush the bag
Day 3 - Mush the bag
Day 4 - Mush the bag
Day 5 - Mush the bag
Day 6 - Add to the bag--1Cup Flour, 1Cup Milk and 1Cup Sugar--then Mush the bag
Day 7 - Mush the bag
Day 8 - Mush the bag
Day 9 - Mush the bag
Day 10- Follow instructions below:
1. Pour entire contents from the bag into a NON METAL bowl
2. Add 1½ Cups Flour, 1½ Cups Sugar and 1½ Cups Milk
3. Measure out 4 separate starters of 1 Cup Each into (4) 1gallon zip-lock bags.

Keep a starter for yourself and give the other 3 to friends along with a copy of this recipe. Should this not be passed on to a friend on the first day, be certain to follow the instructions for each bag and tell the friend which day the batter is at when you give it to them. It’s helpful to mark the bag with the date when you separate the starters. (Day 10 of one batch will be Day 1 of the next.)

4. Preheat the oven to 325°F
5. Add to the remaining batter in the bowl:

3 eggs
2 tsp. Cinnamon

1 Cup Oil (or ½ Cup Oil and ½ Cup Applesauce)
½ tsp. Vanilla

½Cup Milk
1½ tsp. Baking Powder

1 Cup Sugar
½ tsp. Baking Soda

2 Cups Flour
½ tsp. Salt

1 Large Box Instant Vanilla Pudding
1 Cup Chopped Walnuts (optional)
6. Mix Well

7. Grease 2 large loaf pans.

8. Mix an additional ½ Cup Sugar and 1tsp.Cinnamon and dust the pans with ½ of the mixture.

9. Pour the batter evenly onto the pans and sprinkle the remaining Sugar/Cinnamon mixture over the tops.

10. Bake 1 hour (check after 50 minutes).

11. Cool until bread loosens from the pan evenly (about 10 minutes)

12. Turn out onto a serving dish--serve warm or cold: for guests or yourself. (yummy)

I made this Grocery List so I would have everything on hand

4½ Cups Flour 3½ tsp. Cinnamon

½ Cup Applesauce 4 Cups Sugar

½ tsp. Vanilla 1 Large Vanilla Inst. Pudding

3 Cups Milk                       1½ tsp. Baking Powder
1 Cup Chopped Walnuts    3 Eggs
½ tsp. Baking Soda           (4) 1 Gallon Zip-Lock Bags

½ tsp Salt 1 Cup Oil (or ½ Cup--if you use the applesauce)

If you keep a starter for yourself, you will be baking every 10 days.
The bread can be frozen for later. It makes Great gifts! As in Christmas ;)

Reminders:

Once you have made the starter, you will consider it Day One, and thus ignore step 1 in this recipe and proceed with step 2.
You can also freeze this starter in 1 cup measures for later use. Frozen starter will take at least 3 hours at room temperature to thaw before using.

LOVE,
GRAMMY<><

ABC's OF DE-CLUTTERING

2009-12-18T06:57:00.008-05:00

~~Some~~ of these......OK,OK........MOST of these...I haven't tried,

but I intend to...

(ONE DAY NEXT WEEK)

A: AIM TO REDUCE CLUTTER BY A DEFINITE NUMBER. When getting rid of items, have a specific goal in mind. Instead of saying you want to get rid of SOME of the books on your overstuffed bookshelf, say you want to get rid of 50%. Don't say you want to get rid of a FEW pairs of shoes, state you want to donate 10 pairs to charity. Focus on reaching your goal.

B: BRIBE YOURSELF. Make something you really love to do dependant on the completion of today's task. If you promise yourself you won't call your best friend until you organize your medicine cabinet, you're sure to finish the small task. No cheating!

C: CHOOSE A SPECIFIC SPOT FOR KEYS. Take the time to return keys to the chosen spot after each use.

D: DUMP JUNK MAIL into the recycling bin or trashcan the moment you receive it. Deal with other mail at least once a week.

E: ESTABLISH MINI-GOALS. If you can't face organizing an entire room, break the job down into manageable tasks. When cleaning your closet, sort shirts one day, skirts the next, shoes the next, and so on. This way you won't be put off decluttering because it is too big of a task.

F: FIX IT OR DITCH IT. Have you ever put aside broken items to fix "one day"? Chances are these items are still broken. Immediately schedule a date on your calendar (one week from today is ideal) and repair them by the time the date rolls around or finally toss them. If they're not important enough to repair, they're not important enough to keep.

G: GIVE EVERYONE THINGS TO DO. Organizational chores should never rest on a single person's shoulders. Hold every capable member of the household responsible for their own clutter. Penalize people for noncompliance.

H: HANG A LARGE FAMILY CALENDAR IN THE KITCHEN. Write appointments, lessons, meetings, etc. on the calendar so everyone can see what's happening this week. Each family member should have his or her own color so you can tell who's doing what with a single glance.

I: INVEST in some fun and decorative wall hooks for each family member to hang up backpacks, bags, hats, or jackets. Place them at appropriate heights for each person.

J: JUST SAY "NO!" to people or activities not supporting your goals. There's just not enough time to do everything for everyone. Understand what you're trying to accomplish, where you are going, and how you plan to get there. Don't overextend yourself by doing anything else.

K: (I LOVE THIS ONE) KEEP A RUNNING GROCERY LIST on the refrigerator or bulletin board. Jot down grocery items as you notice you need them. This way you won't have to do a list from memory before you go to the store.

L: LABEL any storage containers in detail so you won't constantly have to open them.

M: (MY PERSONAL FAVORITE) MAKE LISTS: Make lists for things you have to, both immediately and in the future. Clearly label each list appropriately, like "To-do," "to call," "to email," "to follow up," "to buy," etc. Such lists will help you get things done.

N: NEVER SAY NEVER. If you always feel overwhelmed by clutter and don't believe you'll be able to change your buying habits or packrat tendencies, the chances of you becoming clutter free are pretty slim. Always have a positive, take-charge attitude. Never allow your clutter to rule your life. You're in control.

O: ORGANIZE CUPBOARDS WITH VARIED BINS. Have one bin for your spices, one bin for pastas, one bin for baking goods, one bin for teas, etc. These bins will reduce the chances of having cluttered cupboards where nothing is easily found.

P: PUT EACH ITEM AWAY after each use so you won't waste time searching for it when you really need it.

Q: QUALITY, NOT QUANTITY. It's better to have a few items you truly love and enjoy than many items you don't really like. Always remember "quality over quantity," and you'll simplify your life.

R: RECYCLE CONSTANTLY. When the new issue of a newspaper or periodical arrives, immediately pop the last issue on the recycling bin. Don't hang on to old issues in the event that you'll finally get around to reading them. You won't. Likewise, when you buy a new shirt, an old shirt must be discarded, given to a friend, or donated to charity. This "one-in, one-out" rule keeps the level of stuff below the clutter point by limiting total numbers.

S: SET THE TIMER for 5, 10, 15, or however many minutes you can organize uninterrupted and work on the most pressing issue at top speed. It's amazing how much you can get done in a short amount of time.

T: TAKE A PHOTO. Take pictures of possessions you don't want to forget and save the pictures in a photo album or scrapbook. Keep the memory instead of allowing the memory to take up space.

U: USE IT OR LOSE IT. Cancel your subscription to any periodical you toss into the recycling bin without reading. Date your pantry items and toss them after a year of nonuse. Give away clothing you haven't worn in the last year. Pass along books that you know you won't read again. Assess anything that sits unused for six months.

V: VISUALIZE. Close your eyes and take a deep breath. Think about how wonderful your life is going to be when your environment is organized and clutter free. Don't think about the amount of effort that it will take to achieve your vision. Just focus on the dream.

W: (THIS IS THE WAY TO DO IT) WRITE THINGS DOWN. Don't try to remember everything. Just jot it down when you think of it and refer to your list or notes when needed.

X: (MY MOST FAVORITE THING TO DO---ASK MY FAMILY). X THINGS OFF YOUR LIST Cross out the chores you've completed off your to-do lists. It fosters a sense of accomplishment.

Y: YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION. In order to have an organized home and a simpler life, you must stop the clutter influx. Stick to buying the things on your grocery list and avoid stocking up on the "great deals." (UNLESS THEY'RE FREE OR NEARLY FREE) What's the point of buying 100 containers of Palmolive Dish Wipes if you have no place to store it?

Z: ZIPLOC BAGGIES. Don't underestimate the great organizing power of little Ziploc baggies. Sort your junk drawer, throw all like items (matches, thumbtacks, small nails, etc.) into bags and line them up in the drawer. When you need something, just grab the needed bag and go.

OK...now I feel inspired...I'm going to get with it...

As soon as I get

"A ROUND TUIT"

Sorry...I couldn't resist

LOVE,

GRAMMY<><

ONE DAY NEXT WEEK

2009-12-17T05:50:00.006-05:00

I’ve often thought about writing a book about being a mother. At first, I thought I might call it “Motherhood is a Constant Interruption.”

How many Mothers have finished something you were doing without having to stop and do something else in the middle?

How many Mothers get to have a bath (or even go to the bathroom) without some small person coming in?

It seems that I was always going to get back to something I was doing- in a few minutes,- but first, I have to finish these dishes, or... but first I have to put in a load of wash or... well you can fill in the blank.

Now what was that thing I was doing? Hmmmm…..

There's one thing that might have helped. You’ve probably heard about the round tuit. No? Sure you have… It’s a great thing to have. It helps you get a lot of things done. Everyone wants one because you hear them saying “yes, I’ll get this or that done...when I get a round tuit........

(pause for groans)

OK, so as time and years have gone on, the title of my book has changed... It’s now called:

ONE DAY NEXT WEEK.....

ONE DAY NEXT WEEK I'm going to call my friend...

ONE DAY NEXT WEEK I'm going to wash the kitchen floor…

ONE DAY NEXT WEEK I'm going to clean out the refrigerator...

ONE DAY NEXT WEEK I'm going to shave my legs....

You see where I'm going here... You know, it might not even happen next week because I’m not sure if I can get “a round tuit” by then.....

(Pause for groans, again)

I really Do intend to write a book. Who knows, maybe I’ll be the next Barbara Johnson. If you haven’t read her books, you should try one. She wrote “Where Does a Mother go to resign?” and my favorite “Living between Estrogen and Death” and many more. A couple of my favorite quotes from her books are:

“If raising children is supposed to be so easy then why did it begin with something called Labor?”

and

“You know why God doesn’t give babies to women over 50?.. Because they would lay them down someplace and forget where there they put them..”

and the list goes on...... (I have a list for Everything)

Speaking of Estrogen (I did say something about Estrogen didn’t I? Oh yeah, the Barbara Johnson book)

Anyway... I’ve now reached that part of my life I call... MENTAL PAUSE.

I can be in the middle of an important conversation, start to begin a new sentence, and poof, it’s vanished... Lost forever in the Bermuda triangle of Mental Pause. Or I can’t remember names of common things around the house, like... door... or… sink…or…Husband.

I’ll be talking about something to old “what’s-his-name” and the name of the object disappears... finally, I just point at it and say “THAT thing, you know what I’m talking about!”

Pointing has become my latest aerobic activity and “what-cha-ma-call-it” is my noun of choice these days.

Before this, umm...what was I saying...?

Oh yeah... before this Mental Pause, I went through Peri-menopause. (Personally I prefer Perry Como---Everyone under 35, ask your Mom who that is) and before that of course there was PMS. Which now seems like a “walk in the park”;

but I digress…

One of my goals in life is being organized.....

(as mentioned in another post--I pause while those who know me best try to control their laughter.)

and I’m hoping that this blog will help me do that and maybe share a little wisdom with others while I’m at it, Not to mention a little humor while I'm at it.

"A merry heart doith good ...like a medicine" proverbs 17:22

LOVE,
GRAMMY<><

A DAY TO REMEMBER

2009-12-16T01:31:00.005-05:00

It was 16 years ago today...

Our oldest grandson was born...

It was the day I became a "Grammy"

I remember the day he came home. His Mom and Dad were living with us. He was beautiful...no, I really mean it.. He was beautiful..even though he was a little bit of a "cone head" (which rounded out quickly, with a little rubbing from Grammy ;) ) My DH said to someone, "I have to keep reminding myself that he's theirs and not ours".

It seems he couldn't decide when and how to make his arrival. His Mom was my baby, so it had been a while since I had been in the labor and delivery wing...now it's called the birthing center..and everyone gets to be there...Long story short---after about 13 hours of labor, with about 3 hours of pushing (thus the "cone head"), NEHEMIAH (what a beautiful name) was delivered by emergency C-section. I was in the operating room when he was born and I was the first one to hold his hand.

I knew even then that he was someone very special..

I've been looking around my house to find one of his baby pictures and, of course, I can't. But I have this one of him with his Dad when he was very small .

Here's a more recent one...

And one more, with his family, to show how much he's grown...

As you can see, I have some more grandkids (aren't they BEAUTIFUL!) There's 12 here in this picture, one in heaven and one the way! That will make 14!

Each one of them is so special and so precious to me. Each one holds a place in my heart that no one else can fill. I am truly

BLESSED BEYOND MEASURE!

But, today, my mind goes back to that day, sixteen years ago, when a handsome young man came into my life. He stole my heart away and changed my life forever.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY NEHEMIAH!

LOVE,

GRAMMY<><

MARKING TIME

2009-12-15T16:23:00.004-05:00

I was in the band since the 5th grade

and in the marchig band since the 7th grade.

There was a term that was used called "Marking Time".

This meant that the band member was still marching

only they weren't going any place.

I have decided to do this for a while with my blog.

My main purpose for my blog was to pass along "words of wisdom" and some practical advice about life in general. One of the main goals was to help others save lots of money by shopping with coupons. I have been working on changing my blog around to include a data base of information....

It's taking longer than I thought....

A LOT longer than I thought....

SO...

for a while...

I'm just going to "MARK TIME"
In other words, while my posts may be interesting,(hopefully), they may not be so informative.

I am going to start with this...

DID YOU KNOW?

Take your bananas apart when you get home from the store.

If you leave them connected at the stem, they ripen faster.

Store your opened chunks of cheese in aluminum foil

It will stay fresh much longer and not mold!

Peppers with three bumps on the bottom are sweeter and better for eating.

Peppers with four bumps on the bottom are firmer and better for cooking.

Add a teaspoon of water when frying ground beef.

It will help pull the grease away from the meat while cooking.

To really make scrambled eggs or omelets rich add a couple of

spoonfuls of sour cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream in and then beat

Add garlic immediately to a recipe if you want a light taste of garlic

and at the end of the recipe if your want a stronger taste of garlic them up.

Heat up leftover pizza in a nonstick skillet on top of the stove,

Set heat to med-low and heat until warm. This keeps the crust crispy.

No soggy micro pizza. I saw this on the cooking channel and it really works.

For easy deviled eggs, put cooked egg yolks in a zip lock bag.
Seal, mash until they are all broken up. Add remainder of ingredients,
reseal, keep mashing it up mixing thoroughly, cut the tip of the baggy,
squeeze mixture into egg.Just throw bag away when done easy clean up.

For more fluffy frosting, when you buy a container of cake frosting from the store,
whip it with your mixer for a few minutes. You can double it in size.
You get to frost more cake/cupcakes with the same amount.
You also eat less sugar and calories per serving.

To reheat refrigerated bread, place them in a microwave with a cup of water.
The increased moisture will keep the food moist and help it reheat faster.

To prevent weeds, wet newspapers, put layers around the plants,

overlapping as you go. Cover with mulch and forget about weeds.

Weeds will get through some gardening plastic but,

they will not get through wet newspapers.

When outdoors, place a dryer sheet in your pocket...

It will keep the mosquitoes away.

To keep squirrels from eating your plants, sprinkle your plants with cayenne pepper.

The cayenne pepper doesn't hurt the plant and the squirrels won't come near it.

To get something out of a heat register or under the fridge,

add an empty paper towel roll or empty gift-wrap roll to your vacuum.

It can be bent or flattened to get in narrow openings.

Pin a small safety pin to the seam of your slip and you will not have a clingy skirt or dress.

Same thing works with slacks that cling when wearing panty hose.

Place pin in seam of slacks and ... ta da! ...static is gone.

Before you pour sticky substances into a measuring cup, fill with hot

water. Dump out the hot water, but don't dry cup. Next, add your ingredient,

such as peanut butter, and watch how easily it comes right out.

Hate foggy windshields? Buy a chalkboard eraser and keep it in the glove box of your car

When the windows fog, rub with the eraser! Works better than a cloth!

If you seal an envelope and then realize you forgot to include something inside,

just place your sealed envelope in the freezer for an hour or two. Viola! It unseals easily.

Use your hair conditioner to shave your legs. It's cheaper than shaving cream

and leaves your legs really smooth. It's also a great way to use up the conditioner
you bought but didn't like when you tried it in your hair.

To get rid of pesky fruit flies, take a small glass, fill it 1/2' with

Apple Cider Vinegar and 2 drops of dishwashing liquid; mix well.

You will find those flies drawn to the cup and gone forever!

Put small piles of cornmeal where you see ants. They eat it, take it 'home,'

They can't digest it so it kills them.

It may take a week or so, especially if it rains, but it works

and you don't have the worry about pets or small children being harmed!

If you use dryer sheets, remember to wash the lint filter with soap and water
often to save the dryer and prevent dryer fires.

Most of these I knew but some of them I just learned..

SO...

even though it may be hard....

It IS possible to teach an "OLD DOG" new tricks!!!

LOVE,

GRAMMY<><

HOME MADE SIMPLE BOOK

2009-11-11T18:21:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Andrea over at Mommy Snacks,

I sent for my FREE
Home Made Simple Coupon Book,

There's over $35.00 worth
of coupons in there!!!

I can't wait!!!

LOVE,

GRAMMY<><

ORGANIZING COUPONS

2009-10-07T16:16:00.003-04:00

Many people ask me how I organize my coupons.

Before I share my method with you, let me just say;

THERE'S NO RIGHT OR WRONG WAY

TO ORGANIZE COUPONS!

I am giving a coupon class next week.

I have invited two other "COUPON QUEENS"

to explain their method

(different from each other’s and mine)

to the class

WHATEVER SYSTEM WORKS FOR YOU IS THE BEST!

I have tried MANY systems for organizing my coupons.

They have ALL failed me in one way or another.

The one I use has failed me the least…so, that is why I use it.

It is the BINDER/BASEBALL CARD HOLDERS System.

The “down side” to this system is time consuming to set up,

however, once it is set up, it doesn’t take long to maintain.

* I get 2 papers delivered. (More about this on another post)

I buy more if there’s going to be lots of coupons.

(Sometimes, I have up to 7 or 8 of each page)

* I match the pages together so I can clip them at the same time.

* I keep a shoebox with index cards for dividers

(in case I don’t have time to put the coupons in the binder)

* I lay the index cards out on the dining room table and

as I clip each coupon, I separate them by categories.

* I put the coupons into their proper place in the binder

and I’m ready to shop!

I HAVE THREE MAIN CATAGORIES--

FOOD, NON-FOOD and OTHER

UNDER FOOD:

1. CANS/JARS

2. FRIG.

3. FREEZER

4. PACKAGED

5. PRODUCE

UNDER NON FOOD:

1. CLEANING

2. HYGIENE/BEAUTY

3. MEDICINE/HEALTH

4. PAPER/PLASTIC

5. SCHOOL/OFFICE/ETC

UNDER OTHER:

1. BABY

2. PETS
3. RESTURAUNTS/STORES

4. MISCELANIOUS

5. GIVE AWAY

I have “sub-categories” under each category

(I know… it sounds obsessive)

Then they are alphabetized by brand.

(I know…. it sounds REALLY obsessive)

I have learned (the hard way) that when you use this system,

it’s better if you don’t “pull” the coupons.

You just make a note next to the items on your list

of which coupons you are going to use

and how many you have.

Then, as you put the item in your cart,

you get the coupon(s) from the binder

and put it in an envelope or pocket of your binder.

When you are ready to check out…there’s all your coupons.

The best part is if you don’t use a coupon,

you don’t have to re-file it!

BOTTOM LINE-

When I am in the store and

something I use all the time is on an

“Unadvertised Special”,

And I quickly flip through the binder

and find that coupon that makes it

“FREE or NEARLY FREE”,

IT IS WORTH EVERY MINUTE I SPEND ORGANIZING!!!!

How do you organize your coupons?

I would love to hear from you about your method.

Just leave me a comment!

LOVE,

GRAMMY <><>

Super Deal on Baby Einstein DVDs (TODAY ONLY)

2009-09-26T14:03:00.005-04:00

+++UPDATE+++ THIS IS TODAY SAT. (SEPT 26) ONLY.
Charlene at My Frugal Adventures has posted a great deal on

BABY EINSTEIN DVDs

at Toys R Us and Babys R Us.

The Baby Eistein DVDs (Reg.-$14.99) are on sale-

"Buy one get one free".

That's a pretty good deal.

BUT, they also have a promotion going on-

Buy 2 DVDs and get $10.00 off at the checkout.

Now, that's a GREAT deal!

2 Baby Einstein DVDs for $4.99 total = $2.50 each!!!

I think this sounds like a great deal for a Grammy,

or for anyone that needs a gift!

(You might want to call your store first to see if they still have some)

Go here for additional information.

LOVE GRAMMY<><

Breaking News: Biggs to TRIPLE!

2009-09-25T06:28:00.009-04:00

Little Miss know It All just announced that Biggs is going to tripple coupons on October 2nd - 5th!!!

Ready...Set...Clip, Print, Organize, Shop....SAVE!

Time to STOCKPILE!!!

Go here to learn more.

Happy Shopping!!

LOVE,
GRAMMY<><

OLD FOGIES

2009-09-15T23:16:00.007-04:00

Here's something just for fun.

Just in case you weren't feeling too old today,

this will certainly change things.

The people who are starting college this fall across the nation were born in 1991.

They are too young to remember the space shuttle blowing up.

Their lifetime has always included AIDS.

The CD was introduced 4 years before they were born.

They have always had an answering machine

They have always had cable.

Jay Leno has always been on the Tonight Show.

Popcorn has always been cooked in the microwave.

They never took a swim and thought about Jaws!

They don't know who Mork was or where he was from.

They never heard: "Where's the Beef?", "I'd walk a mile for a
Camel", or "de plane, Boss, de plane".

McDonald's never came in Styrofoam containers.

They don't have a clue how to use a typewriter

Do you feel old yet? (Sorry)

Notice the larger type, that's for those of you who have trouble reading.

Save the earth. It's the only planet with chocolate.

Feel free To harass any other “old fogies” you know with these facts.

LOVE,

GRAMMY<><

25 THINGS ABOUT ME

2009-09-10T15:09:00.002-04:00

I came across this list I made a while back on Facebook...It was written with people that know me pretty well in mind, but since it took me a really long time to put it together, I didn't want it to go to waste..so..

I thought I would share it with you...

1. I LOVE lists; so doing this is right up my alley.......
(everyone that knows me probably already knows that)
2. I LOVE my family…..
(everyone that knows me probably already knows that)
3. I LOVE my husband, Bill. We have been married for 43 years. (Sept. 17, 1966)
3. We have 4 children….
(everyone that knows me probably already knows that)
4. We have 13 grandchildren; 12 here and 1 in heaven….
(you might not have known that)
5. I was the baby of my family, with 4 older brothers; 2 here and 2 in heaven….however, I was NOT spoiled, honest!....well, not by my brothers…I WAS kind of a “Daddy‘s Girl“ though.
6. My family went to Virginia Beach and Washington D.C. when I was 3 years old…
AND I REMEMBER IT!
7. One of my best memories of my childhood was laughing at the dinner table.
8. I always liked (and loved) my parents, even when I was a teenager. (I was very un-cool)
I thought I had the smartest Dad and the prettiest Mom in the world (my opinion hasn’t changed)
9. I LOVE music…my favorite is Southern Gospel, but I like it all.
10. My family was, and is, very musical. (My family I came from, my family I married into, my kids and grandkids!)
11. I was in the band and chorus in school….(if you didn’t know that, you probably guessed by now)
I played the clarinet for 2 years, then switched to French Horn……
(I know, It doesn’t make sense to me either.)
12. I have been a hairdresser for 44 years and I have a “beauty shop” in my laundry room.

( This is harder than I thought, especially trying to think of things about me that everyone that knows me doesn’t already know.... I‘m kind-of boring.)

13. I was kind-of a nerd in school. I never got in trouble and was the “teachers pet” a lot.
That could have something to do with being a “people pleaser” now.
14. I play the piano a little, (and don’t forget the clarinet and French Horn) but, if I could learn to play any instrument really well, it would be the BANJO, yep, that's right, the BANJO.
15. My newest passion is couponing. I can’t believe how much money I save. It is so much fun!!!
16. I have OFFICALLY started a BLOG. It’s here- http://avisitwithgrammy.blogspot.com/
It’s about “Saving and Giving, Life and Living”
(and making lists….did I mention that I LOVE making lists… )
17. I LOVE puzzles and games….Jig saw puzzles, Crossword puzzles, any kind of board game, I love a challenge.
18. My favorite movies are the typical “chick flicks” and mysteries. I also like kids movies…this is good since I love to make some popcorn and watch a movie with my grandkids.
19. I have lived in Campbell County,KY. (in only 6 different houses) my whole life, except for 2 years when we lived in Coronado, California when Bill was in the Navy.
20. I like to camp…especially with my family and friends
(of course, these days camping means "backin' in and hookin' up" )
21. My favorite books (besides the Bible, of course) are the “Left Behind” series, Anything by Frank Pereti, and Anything by Barbara Johnson.
22. I LOVE to be in the presence of other Christians, for worship or fellowship..
23. I have been a member of only two churches in my life.
24. I collect angles, especially Dreamsicles. I also collect roosters (in my kitchen)….
This is because they remind me that God’s Mercies are “NEW EVERY MORNING”
25. I am a Grammy (to 12 grandkids), and a Mom (that’s how I got the grandkids), and a wife (that’s how I got the kids) but, before I’m a Grammy or a Mom or a wife.. I’m a servant of the Most High God and I thank Him every day that He loved me enough to send His Son, Jesus to die in my place.

I used the word LOVE here a lot but, of course you all know that I really mean "LIKE EXTREEMLY", except when it applies to my family and friends and my Lord!!!

I hope you enjoyed know a little more about me.

LOVE,
GRAMMY<><

MY KMART SAVINGS

2009-09-09T14:04:00.032-04:00

In my last post I told about the Kmart double coupon sale. I mentioned that this might be the last one for a while... or forever!

Well, I decided to take the challenge to see just how many FREE, OR NEARLY FREE things I could get.

I only got to make 2 trips because our family's cars starting "dropping like flies" this week and because of life in general. It was difficult , but I managed to do pretty well.

HERE IS MY REPORT:

TOTAL BEFORE SALES AND COUPONS- $223.49

TOTAL OUT OF POCKET- $21.36 ($9.52 of that was tax)

I SAVED 90.5%

HERE'S WHAT I GOT "FREE, OR NEARLY FREE":

(Just so you know that I bought things my family really uses).

(1) 72 ct. CHINET PLATES--$2.15

(3) 36 ct. CHINET PLATES--FREE

(6) GLADE 2 oz CANDLES--FREE

(6) PLAYTEX GLOVES--FREE

(2) RENUZIT AIR FRESHENER--FREE

(6) J & J FIRST AID KITS--FREE

(4) 32 ct. ADVIL--FREE

(2) 24 ct. ST JOSEPH ASPRIN--$.78 ($.39 ea.)

(2) HUNTS KETCHUP--FREE

(3) 10pk. REECES CUPS--FREE

(2) TWIN pk. TRIDENT GUM--FREE

(2) QUAKER OATS--$.98 ($.49 ea.)

(2) BAN DEODORANT--FREE

(2) DOVE DEODORANT--FREE

(1) RIGHT GUARD DEODORANT--$.50

(2) SECRET DEODORANT--FREE

(2) SURE DEODORANT--$.58 ($.29 ea.)

(4) KOTEX PANTY LINERS--FREE

(4) L.A. LOOKS HAIR GEL--FREE

(4) PANTENE SHAMPOO--$6.68 ($1.67 ea.)

(I got the Patene for my daughter. It's all she uses.--The regular price would've been $16.32 ($4.08 ea.) so it was still a good deal.

SO THAT'S MY REPORT! (Wheww!)

I hope you are finding some great deals out there, too.

If so, I would love to hear about them. Just leave a comment!

LOVE GRAMMY <><

Kmart Doubles 8/30-9/5: The Last Hurrah!

2009-08-28T15:26:00.004-04:00

I just got word that Kmart is having what may be the last double coupon event next week (8/30-9/5)
Both the Newport store and the Erlanger store are participating. I'm not sure about any other local stores.

"My Frugal Adventures" has posted an awesome list of coupon match-ups and the "Rules".

Many "Free or Cheap" items.

It's time to stockpile!

If you are a serious couponer, check this out
Kmart Doubles 8/30-9/5: The Last Hurrah!

HAPPY SHOPPING!! HAPPY SAVING!!

Also Walgreens and CVS are having very good sales this week. I will try to post the lists for them later.

LOVE GRAMMY<><

THANKS FOR ALL THE MUD PIES

2009-08-28T12:53:00.012-04:00

This is a picture of my Mom. Isn't she beautiful?

I posted this back in August of last year because my Mom was born and died in August.
I'm posting it today because I'm thinking a lot about past Mother's Days....
and because I really miss her today.

She was a very strong woman!

She was married to the same man for 56 years.
She raised 5 children (4 of them boys!)
She worked outside the home for much of her life.
1942: While she was pregnant with her 3rd child, she lost her Mom, Dad, brother, a niece and nephew in a horrible house fire. Six weeks later, her sister died with TB, and of course that was the year war broke out.
1992: my Dad died . Two months later my oldest brother died. (He was buried on her birthday)
1996: my 3rd brother died. Three months later, my nephew died.
Within 5 years she lost these ones I mentioned plus several other family members that were very close to her.
And during that time, she was diagnosed with lung cancer)

Even though she had a lot of tragedy in her life, she was fun to be with, she laughed a lot, she was the life of every party, and she never met a stranger.
Some people tell me I’m a lot like my Mom. I consider that a compliment and an honor.

Today I will honor her memory by sharing this poem I wrote for her many years ago.

THANKS FOR THE MUD PIES

When I was just a little kid,

Back in the "olden" days,

I did the things a little kid does,

Played games that a little kid plays.

I remember one thing that you let me do,

That sticks the most in my mind,

Was making "MUD PIES" (and making a mess),

With "pie pans" that you'd help me find.

You'd look 'round in that big ol' kitchen,

Take jar lids and stuf' off the shelf,

And send me out in the back yard,

To make a mess of it and myself.

And now that I'm grown, with kids of my own,

It's now that I realize,

It's not just MUD, but PATIENCE and LOVE,

That go into making MUD PIES.

There's many things I could thank you for,

I wouldn't know just where to start.

But somehow it's always those MUD PIES,

That stick in my mind and my heart.
.

You took care of all the big things,

But somehow you must have known,

It's not the big, but the little things,
That make a house a home.

And now when I'm weary of doing,

All the things that a Mom must do,

I take time to think of those MUD PIES,

And I thank God for a Mom like you.

And now that I'm grown, with kids of my own,

It's now that I realize,

And say "thanks for all the PATIENCE and LOVE,"

And "THANKS FOR ALL THE MUD PIES!”

LOVE GRAMMY<><

MY GROWN UP SON

2009-08-24T16:44:00.009-04:00

I was just reading a post by a precious friend of mine on Facebook about trying to keep her house clean with two small boys. It made me think of an old poem that I found years ago.

The author is unknown.

Since my two sons are grown up now,
I thought I would share it with her--
and all the mothers (and fathers) with small children.

MY GROWN-UP SON:
My hands were busy through the day;
I didn’t have much time to play
The little games you asked me to--
I didn’t have much time for you.

I’d wash your clothes, I’d sew and cook;
but when you’d bring your picture book,
And ask me please to share your fun;
I’d say “a little later son.

”I’d tuck you in all safe at night,
and hear your prayers, turn out the light,
Then tip-toe softly to the door....
I wish I’d stayed a minute more.

For life is short, the years rush past...
A little boy grows up so fast.
No longer is he at your side,
His precious secrets to confide.

The picture books are put away;
there are no longer games to play,
No good-night kiss no prayer to hear---
That all belongs to yesteryear.

My hands, once busy, now are still.
The days are long and hard to fill.
I wish I could go back and do the little things you asked me to.

(Yeah, I have a tear in my eye, too.)

Some more "WORDS OF WISDOM" I shared with my friend,

and will share with you is:

A clean house can't give you a hug. A clean house is for a later time.

Now is for Big Hugs from Little People!!!

It's nice when that miracle happens and the house, and the kids, are clean

and the laundry is finished and supper is ready on the stove

all at the same time........

or even all in the same day...or same week...or same year...

or same lifetime!...

BUT...a clean house and all that other stuff----

should be wayyyy down the priority list!

At the top should be the important things,

like:

LOTS OF..

hugs, kisses, tickling--followed by giggling,

water guns, in the summer and snow balls, in the winter

(both outside of course),

tea parties, swimming, ball games,

swinging, sliding, climbing,

books, crayons, finger paints,

piggy-back rides,

singing, stories, naps,

and general fun---

ALL enjoyed by parents and kids TOGETHER!!!!

LOVE GRAMMY<><

A VERY SPECIAL DAY

2009-08-21T17:00:00.007-04:00

Today is my husband's birthday! He is 63 years old.

We will celebrate on Sunday,

with his favorite dinner and pies for dessert....

It will be at his favorite place.

Right in the middle of our kids and grandkids!

Just like in this picture....

Some of our family lives away :( ,

but everyone that's close by will be here.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOUUU...(cha,cha,cha)..

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEAR "DEETDAHHHH"..

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOUUUUU...

(and many more, til' you're a hundred and fifty four)

That's "Happy Birthday"as it would be sung by our grandkids.

("Deetdah" is what they call him...Our oldest grandson, who is almost 16 years old, couldn't say Grandpa and "Deetdah" is what came out, and it just stuck!)

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BILL!

ABYOU FOREVER! (another story for another day)

LOVE GRAMMY<><

I'M BACK IN THE SADDLE AGAIN

2009-08-21T12:50:00.017-04:00

"...Yes, I'm back in the saddle again"......

I LOVE saving money with coupons, but this has been a very busy summer and I've kind of been slacking. I still search for the deals and use coupons, but just not to the extent that I use to.

Then, one day last week, a friend of mine posted on Facebook how she had saved 52% at Kroger (that's where I do most of my grocery shopping). That really inspired me...and, of course,

THE CHALLENGE WAS ON!

Sooooo, I clipped, sorted, organized, ALL my coupons...Looked at my favorite blogs to get my deal list and I was off!

First, at Kroger, I got $220.00 worth of groceries for $120.00. That's a savings of $103.00! or 46% !! I know it isn't the 52% that my friend saved, but it sure felt good--and saving $103.00 is like making $103.00--not bad for @5 hours work. ( It took a little longer because I was behind on my clipping etc.)

OK, now on to K-Mart! I got $52.00 worth of stuff there for $7.50. That's a savings of $44.50! or 86% !!

NOW THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKIN' 'BOUT!!

(Oh, and BTW, $2.48 of the $7.50 was tax! )

I had to work a little harder for this savings because I was with my friend and her 3 little ones--but on the other hand, where can you go for a day out with some favorite friends and have all the fun and fellowship a person can handle for $10.29 (We met at Mc Donalds Playland beforehand and let the kids play while we got our coupons and list ready...Lunch-$2.79)

There's more, but I'm saving it for later blog about "BARTERING".

Sooo, I'm looking..... for the...uhh......yes......here it is.....

I found it.....my ol' crown.......

OK.....let me....just......put it on......There.....That's better!!

THE COUPON QUEEN IS BACK!

It's just like riding a bike (or a horse)....
(or maybe a shopping cart)

...."Yes, I'm back in the saddle again"....

LOVE GRAMMY<><