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Wednesday, January 9, 2013

A Cold Wind a'blowin'....

Hi, Everyone.
We've all been enjoying SOUPS thru these cold days....
It's been REALLY cold around here since Christmas. 
Winds, mixed with low temps equals UNCOMFORTABLE to be outside. When I got up on one of these cold, cold  morning and saw how cold it would be all day long, I immediately thought of HOMEMADE POTATO SOUP....just LUV that soup.
 In fact....is there ANYone that doesn't like a good soup on a cold day ??

For some reason, THIS pot of soup was extra good....
well, for one thing, I had a little bit of HALF and HALF to add to the pot
and it really made my soup creamy.
I added a LOT of cubed potatoes, and since I was out of fresh celery,
I added CELERY SEED to the pot, along with fresh, diced onion.
I added lots of shredded cheese and fresh, chopped green onion tops.
The only thing that kept it from being
 LOADED POTATO SOUP
was lack of bacon and sour creme...I was out of both.
(since many trips to the grocery store COST MONEY, I try to go as little as possible)


I nearly ALWAYS make cornbread to go with our Potato soup ............


but I had a can of
Crescent rolls in the fridge that was due to BURST WIDE OPEN just any minute so I decided to serve those with the soup instead.

I had beautiful photos of the rolls but just discovered all the photos are on my DESK TOP...
and my DESK TOP is at the Computer Hospital .......
BUMMER !!

Now, these ended up REALLY good.
Melted butter brushed on each roll, before rolling.
Sprinklings of
 GARLIC SALT...
CRACKED BLACK PEPPER
SHREDDED EXTRA SHARP CHEDDAR
rolled and baked until nice and brown.                      ummmmm um, good !
*******************************************
 Speaking of a COLD WIND BLOWING, I think we might all get ready for some hard times ahead. Taxes, excessive spending and health care is going to take a huge toll on a lot of people, business and the nation, in general. The next 4 years and beyond are liable to be pretty rough.
 ♥ ♥ ♥
A few of my humble suggestions are...
 get as many of your bills paid as you possibly can ...I firmly believe the people with as few bills as possible will weather the storm a lot easier.

I remember my mother telling me that the people with less debt during
THE GREAT DEPRESSION faired a lot better than those that had a lot of debt.
 "Be assured that it gives much more pain to the mind to be in debt, than to do without any article whatever which we may seem to want." ~ Thomas Jefferson, June 14, 1787
♥ ♥ ♥
Save as much money as you possible can...even if it means doing without some of the things you are used to. Try cutting down on your grocery bill each week. Even a few dollars tucked back are going to help you in the long run.
"A bargain ain't a bargain unless it's something you need." ~Sidney Carroll
 Lots of veggie soups ....cheap and very good for us. We don't need red meat more than 2 times a week...chicken or pork, one day a week and salads and veggies the other days. Cheaper, more healthy and THEY'RE GOOD. ;)) These veggies are well known for slimming a little off a well padded butt. :)
 ♥ ♥ ♥
SAVE YOUR LEFTOVERS:
If you make cornbread and you have half a skillet left, put it in a Ziploc and into the freezer. Every single thing you can freeze will not only save ya lots of money, you'll have that cornbread, some night when you need bread with your black-eyed peas and you'll be tickled to death not to have to MAKE it. :)
Of course, I realize I am of the age that SAVED everything....and sometimes, I might overdo it just a little....but I love having quick things I've made, in the freezer, just in wait for me to serve with my meal.
I've lost count of how many pots of soup I've made FROM LEFTOVERS that were delicious.
♥ ♥ ♥

Cut spending on your gasoline (thank goodness, price IS down a little) by combining errand trips into one or two.

 People that don't NEED two vehicles can save a TON of money by cutting back to one vehicle....less gas...less insurance, less upkeep.
Mr. Sweet and I did this 2 years ago and have never looked back. It doesn't bother us a bit to share the car with ea other. :) I love the extra money it gives us to help pay bills AND TAXES.
♥ ♥ ♥
EVERYone knows this...
Wash your hands OFTEN...Mr. Sweet and I have found that IT IS TRUE, that by doing so, it really helps to keep you more HEALTHY....which means less dollars spent on doctor visits and meds. I keep a bottle of HAND SANITIZER in the car and we use it after shopping, before and after going to a movie or restaurant....going thrifting....we use it ALL the time.
 ♥ ♥ ♥
AND...we are VERY loyal to our DAILY vitamin. We just don't miss. I am convinced that is one reason we have been doing so well the last couple years. No trips to the doctors other than for annual appointments. (knock on wood) Every trip to the doctor's office or to the pharmacy that we can avoid is money in our pocket.
OBAMACARE is going to be so expensive,......
Not knowing fully how much MEDICARE is going to be cut, I pray every night that our good heart doctor will be able to continue his practice.....his judgment and knowledge has saved Mr. Sweet's life twice. The same for his cancer doctor.

Our security system was only $40.00 a month but when I called to cancel it, the lady asked what the problem was. I told her that we needed to trim our budget so we'd  be able to save a little money and I thought we could do without the security alarm. She was the SWEETEST thing and said that she could cut it in half for us (something about being senior citizens and NEEDING the security) so we now pay $20 a month and it really helps.
Don't be afraid to ASK for a reduction in any of your monthly bills. There's some mighty nice and understanding people in this world.
We downgraded our DISH NETWORK tv because, first of all, there were a lot of channels we didn't watch and  secondly, it was a way to save MORE money monthly. So, we went from $87.00 a month to $37.00.
We are just fine with the channels we get.

As soon as our contract with AT&T is out, we will switch cell phones. We only TALK on our phones....no bells and whistles....I think the PAY AS YOU GO at Walmart might be a good plan for us. I SELDOM use my phone...only on trips, mostly. 
Mr. Sweet bought a MAGIC JACK for our landline that will save us a ton of money. We haven't tried it yet....will connect it at our new home and I will be sure to let you know how it works.

I know a lot of people have canceled their land lines and just use their cells....we would rather have an old fashioned phone. :)) 


********************************************************
These are just a few ways we might save a dollar here and there....there's many.
But, with things in such an uproar with our economy and such...we better suck in our breath and get ready for a COLD WIND a'blowin.


Just know that as long as we look for the best and keep our spirits up, no matter what,
we'll all be just fine.

                                                              XOXOXO
                                                 bj
Please share with all of us on the  MONEY SAVING tips that YOU might have......
Joining:
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cottage style party
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35 comments:

Madeline's Album said...

I agree with all your suggestions, and have been doing them for some time now. I am from the old school if you do not have the money to spend on something you do not need it. I love soup on a cold day. Your potato soup sounds delicious. Have a blessed day. Madeline

pbrenner said...

Your potato soup sounds wonderful on this cool rainy day - I'm in the hill country, and we sure welcome the rain! I'm just a little younger than you, but my parents grew up during the depression and sure pounded those same truths into us! I did have a spendthrift stage (rebellion I guess, lol), but I'm blessed to be married to a thrifty (not cheap, mind you) man who has kept us out of debt except for our mortgages, and has built us a nice nest egg for emergencies.

I have a funny story about crescent rolls ... I found a can in the back of the fridge that was 2 years old (!). I cooked them up anyway - they were a little dried out, but nothing a little butter couldn't fix :-)

Thanks for a lovely blog!

Patty

Susy said...

All VERY good advice BJ. We cut up the credit cards several years ago too ~ and get along just fine without them.

I use dabs of leftovers in omelettes, quesadilla and rice dishes. Cook once, eat twice (or three times) is my motto.

Plus, giving to those in need will be a blessing to all. "Your outgo determines your income." Tried and true!

Theresa said...

BJ, I love reading your blog each day. Thank you for great suggestions for saving. My husband and I are retired, living on fixed income, so we need all the tips we can get, hope other readers will share money saving tips. Like your earlier post, we read local sales ad for groceries each week and plan menu and shop accordingly, also try to stock up on sales items, use coupons when possible. My son is great at finding bargains, especially on internet, helps us especially at Christmas. When eating out, I don't usually eat all of meal, get take out box. We have neighbor that loves to garden, he shares vegetables with us in summer, freeze any that we do not eat. I am learning to freeze left overs, not wasting anything. Potato soup looks delicious, make some yesterday, thanks for recipe for bread. Keep the money savings tips, recipes, and decorating ideas coming for us. From a GA fan of yours!

Carol said...

Great post, BJ! Now I'm inspired to get creative with watching our dollars. You're right, the next 4 years and beyond are going to be rough. My Hubby's 1st check for 2013 was $56.00 less. That means $112 less each month. For some people it's no big deal, but for us it's a lot of money.

Smiles,
Carol

Carol said...

Hey, BJ! Yes, you can use my comment. : )

Smiles,
Carol

Debby said...

Great trips for saving money. Please keep them coming. This recession isn't over even though some things seem to be improving. Less on our paychecks is scary and so is the medical increases. I have had to be thrify for several years. I keep trying to find ways to cut back. I make alot of soup. I use what I have as well. It's a good way of getting in the veggies for sure. Wish I could cut the cable/tv/internet bill. And the vet bills.....yikes......my dog is limping and I know I have to call the vet. She isn't in any pain but I can't ignore it. Maybe all of us together can share tips and help each other out. Thanks BJ. Good luck on your move. Can't wait to see your new digs. (((((HUGS))))

Vee said...

Good tips all. I'm so impressed with the Security Company...that's good business. Yes, we are trying to figure out ways to scrimp and save. Thankfully, all but the mortgages are paid off. The price of groceries is through the roof, though thankfully gasoline is down just now. We pray for health for ourselves and our friends. We simply must stay well until...

The soup sounds yummy and I just so happen to have a few potatoes left.

Stacey said...

You are a smart woman. On my agenda for the next week or two is to look at some of our bills and see how they can be reduced. About your security bill, I know our homeowners insurance is a % less per year because we have a monitored security system. Do you have that with your insurance company? You know, we still have two boys in college...it's so expensive. I would really like to stay home and not go back to work but I'm afraid the taxes alone are going to force me back. The property taxes in Texas are so much higher than they were in Oklahoma. It's ok though..we are back in God's country.

Auntie sezzzzzz... said...

WONDERFUL POST, "BJ." Chock full of useful information and reminders. Just Super!

I thought....Could we all start a spot on our daily posts? Perhaps at the bottom, and clearly labeled? Something like "TIPS FOR HARD TIMES", or some such?

Every time we came across something, we could share it, at the bottom of our posts. Perhaps not everyone in Pretty Blog Land would want to do this. But... Also perhaps, some would...

Your thoughts?

"Auntie"
With 2 posts today

Theresa said...

Great advice from my wise friend! We had potato soup last night with cornbread and it really hit the spot:) We retired with no bills and it has been really nice! Just utilities, groceries and gas! I still save every penny every way possible! My hubby just went on Medicare and we are about to see how it works! I was familiar with it when my Dad was living, we'll see how it has changed! Thanks for the tips! Have a blessed day dear BJ, HUGS!

Patti @ Pandoras Box said...

Great tips! We also freeze leftovers - they make such quick and easy dinners on those lazy nights! Now that we are both retired, we also are learning to cut back (but it is hard!) One thing I will not give up is my cell phone - haha. Enjoy your day!

Cranberry Morning said...

All such good tips! I think most everyone is looking for ways to trim their budgets in this bad economy.

I haven't made potato soup in a long time. Sounds delicious.

LV said...

Potato soup is my very favorite. Could eat it everyday if you made it. All your suggestions are great, but remember what goes around comes around. We are seeing that every day. Lived in the depression days and they will return. You can save all the money you can, but if that happens, the banks close. So where can you put your money now without the threat of losing it all. I may get me a can like the old folks did and put some in for the basic needs.

Marty@A Stroll Thru Life said...

Amen, I made a new budget and am doing the same thing with cutting back everything we possibly can. Got to save more. Hugs, Marty

Our Neck of the Woods said...

I am making so much soup lately, and potato soup is one of our favorites. In fact, I'm making potato leek soup tonight! Your soup and cornbread looks delicious!

Great fiscal advice. We have paid off all of our bills except mortgage obviously and my husband's student loans. It took us nearly 7 years but we are whittling down our debt! It makes me sleep so much easier at night knowing we don't have credit card debt :)

Blondie's Journal said...

Great soup and great tips, they seem to go hand in hand. I like to use up the veggies that are getting old by making soups and stews, some to eat, some to freeze. My grocery bill is my highest expense so I plan our meals carefully and when we are out of something, I don't rush back to the store. And hubby is frugal, too. He has NEVER paid full price for anything! I'm slowly learning! ;-)

XO,
Jane

Barbara F. said...

BJ, you offer some sound advice here. I use every bit of leftovers. I wash my hands constantly (they feel like sandpaper) and use those antibacterial things. Eating less meat and more affordable veggies and beans (I'm not crazy about them but I have try). I eliminated premium channels from cable, I cut back on electricity too and refuse to raise my heat. I have to focus on "wants vs needs". xo

Beth said...

Excellent post BJ. I gave up my cell phone with AT&T a couple of years ago and bought a tracfone at Walmart.

nonie everythingsewing said...

BJ,
Your post is so perfect. We are in for a rough few years.
Your soup looks so good I can almost taste it. I think my fvorite tip was how to perk up those store bought rolls, that come in a can.

We will be getting a Hobby Lobby in the spring and I can hardly wait to shop there.
Where can I find a Hobby Lobby logo to put on my blog?
Nonie

Anonymous said...

BJ,
These are all tried and true bits of wisdom.
I am germ conscious (not phobic!)and have tried to instill that into hubby and daughter. I just don't get sick.
Making soup for tonight too! Soup is wonderful - nutritious and affordable. I'm a food saver, too.
The crescent rolls are an inspiration! I just made some from scratch over the holidays...adding in the butter, pepper, garlic etc. sounds fantastic.
Saving on or eliminating cable, using Tracfones, keeping to a grocery budget, only getting a Sunday paper, etc. These are good ways to simplify your life too, which to me, increases the quality of it!
Also, keeping a garden, canning your produce, not buying anything in a box at the grocery store (no processed foods), using freecycle or craigslist, minimizing eating out, being in the habit of cooking, eliminating debt, eating less.
Everything on the list is part of a heathy lifestyle, so if you do the best you can with these things, you've nothing to lose!
Way to go, BJ! Love this post.

Linda @ A La Carte said...

BJ I love soup and this one looks so good! I too am so worried about the future. I don't have health ins and it scares the bejeebies out of me. Still I try to take care of myself and stay healthy. So far I'm doing OK. I too am a big handwasher and use hand sanitizer.
I do not want this flu going around. All your suggestions are wonderful and I'm going to implement them as much as I can. Praying for all of us!
hugs, Linda

Phyllis @Around the House said...

Loved the blog, couldn't have said it better myself...please tell us when and why and where you are moving...will you be staying in texas...waiting for the post with all the info, what a bunch of nosy bloggers huh...lol ..just worried you will be ok and hope you get settled soon...take care my friend we are in for a long ride with this resheme....phyllis

Ceekay-THINKIN of HOME said...

We have done several of the same things. We do only have cell phones now...
we all are going to be feeling the pinch....even those who think this is a great idea!

NanaDiana said...

Those are absolutely wonderful ideas, bj. I think it is easier for some of us that didn't have the "wants" of the kids today-the kids that had a big house by the time they were 25 and maxed out on everything. We slowly built our way into a better life.

I am glad for the "kids" to have things and not have to wait on them but I also see a lot of them with dreams going down the tubes because of the economy and losing it all. It is a sad and scary state of affairs all the way around.
Blessings to you- xo Diana

Lynn said...

I just made myself potato soup to take for lunch today! All great tips BJ, nothing wrong with cutting back a bit and I'd hate to see corn bread go to waste:@)

On Crooked Creek said...

BJ,
All good sound advice for saving in this economy!!!
"Mr. Ed" and I haven't gotten to the one auto, yet...but have discussed it often!
I, too, make, bake and freeze. Part of that comes from being an Army wife and being on one income for most of "Mr. Ed's" career so I could be home with our sons. Choices...life is all about choices. Amazing how many things aren't missed when you decide to limit them or write them off!!!
You are a Godsend, dear friend!!!
Fondly,
Pat

Beth said...

Great post, BJ. I agree to spend less and save more. It makes sense always, but especially now. Your potato soup sounds wonderful! Today is my grocery shopping day and I'm going to re-look at my list and menus and see what I can cut out. Groceries are a tremendous expense for us. I also wanted to say I like the new look to your blog. Your home looks cozy indeed! Like someone else mentioned, I am nosy and I am looking forward to reading about why, when, and where you are moving. You have tantalized us with a sense of mystery! Be well my dear friend.
Blessings, Beth

Donna said...

Great tips! I have had ALL my bills paid off for a long time now...saw this coming back in '07. House paid off since '94. Savings and cash on hand...I Hate what's coming!
Love the blog!

Donna said...

PS- I Also followed your blog! Love it!

Cheryl @ TFD said...

I'm visiting from Auutie Sez's blog. You've given some great tips and I agree that we all need to tighten our belts. I'm really worried about where our country is headed.
I'm now following. You have a great blog. I think I've visited before, but getting, ahem, older...it's hard to remember all the great blogs I've read, and I've forgotten a few I'm sure.
Have a happy day! ~Cheryl

Betty Stapleton said...

Potato soup looks so good, have to try it. You had no sour cream, yesterday on Dr. oz, they showed using cottage cheese with a tablespoon (might not be right) of lemon juice, put it in the blender and you can't tell the difference, less fat and less something else. Going to try it.
Enjoyed your thrifty ideas, so helpful, true and interesting. God bless...

Anonymous said...

BJ, thank you for sharing your money saving tips with us. Even saving a little adds up! Have a lovely evening.

Ivy and Elephants said...

That soup sounds delicious! Thanks so much for the cost saving tips.
Hugs,
Patti

Jutta Lenihan said...

This is such a wonderful post. Yummy soup, great suggestions! Thank you for sharing this at Wednesday Extravaganza - Hope to see you there again this week with more deliciousness and wisdom :)