Why We're A One Car Family*

*For now.

Image I found online, not from our dealership...but it's the winter gray color of our Prius!

Today we went to pick up our new car.  We traded in our Ford Fusion for a Prius Three hybrid.  The Fusion is an amazing car, which we recommend to anyone looking for a awesome mid-size sedan.  Almost 100,000 miles, never a problem and gets awesome gas mileage. But with Nora in the backseat, where Sophie usually stretches out, we knew we needed to look at either an SUV or a hatchback where she could stretch out in the back.  I normally hate Priuses because, at least around here, the drivers seem to all be jerks who drive like idiots. Almost 100% of the time if someone swings out on the red and nearly clips us, it's a Prius.  Not sure why, but it's a pretty commonly held opinion out here on the East coast.

But we got the Prius because it meant not having to get an SUV and it gets awesome gas mileage.  People seem surprised that we were trading in our car rather than getting a second.  But we're a one car family for now.  First, we live in a city where we only have on-street parking, and nearly every day of the week you can only park on one side of the street for several hours because of street cleaning.  Which means if I had a car here, I'd have to make sure it was on the right side or get up early to move it.  Um, no.

Secondly, we only have 1 car payment, 1 insurance payment and 1 car to gas up.  Saves a ton of money.  And since I rarely need the car, that rocks.  The car payment for the Prius is a little higher than ours before, but it about evens out because of the gas savings.  And by having less money going towards transportation, it allows us to put away a decent amount every month for savings.

And finally, when I do need the car I can either drive G to work, or I can drive him to the train station (located less than 2 miles from our home) and drop him off for the MARC train that can take him to work.  Easy peasy.

Eventually, when we move to a home with off street parking, I'll probably get my own car.  By that time Nora will be older and we will probably be living in a less convenient place.  Right now I live 10 blocks from our favorite cafe, Starbucks, Chipotle, Barnes and Noble, Coldstone, etc, etc.  We have a park a block from our home.  Eventually this may not be the case.

And G has promised me my Audi TTS....unless he wins the lottery and then I get an Aston Martin.  Ahem.  I love the Audi, and it will be my baby so it will have a nice cozy home in a garage.

Late Night Thrown Together

G has mentioned that he's happy I seem to be eating more, and I recognize it for what it is: he worries that I don't eat enough.  Well, last night it was getting late (after 8), and I was exhausted, but I wasn't hungry at all.  I had had a decent lunch, packed full of protein and veggies, so I wasn't too concerned but knew I probably needed something.  My mind raced through the few ingredients I had on hand, decided eggs were definitely not on the menu, and finally thought about the fact that I could probably improvise some baked mac n cheese.

Keeping in mind that I had never made this, didn't have milk, only cream, on hand, and that I didn't have cheddar, but rather dubliner cheese I decided to wing it.  Found a recipe on AllRecipes and began it all.  Luckily there are a few things I always have on hand: pasta, breadcrumbs, butter, and onions.  I mixed it up with my improvisations, including adding peas, then put it in the oven to finish.

Turned out pretty good.  The dubliner cheese is definitely not a normal mac n cheese flavor, but seems to be a good substitute for things lately (used it in the quiche because I couldn't find a gruyere I could use).  I added a little bit of water to the cream to thin it out a bit, but overall, the cream made for a nice thick sauce... which may be why my mac n cheese was thick.  I liked it though, and even though I made half the recipe, which was supposed to be 3 servings, I basically got 4.

What's your favorite thing to throw together when you're hungry? 

Shiny Pennies Get Dirty Quick

G and I have spent a lot of time recently discussing finances.  When I say that, most people assume that something is up, but nope, it's just a topic we enjoy touching base on occasionally.  And with our first child coming this fall, and plenty of start up fees with that, it's been a frequent topic of discussion.

I've always said that I was perfectly okay with used items.  Mainly because I recognized that most things for babies don't get used long enough to be really worn, and that other things get worn so quickly that buying new only keeps it looking nice for a short while.   I went a little crazy for a bit over a pottery barn crib that didn't work out (they no longer carry it, otherwise it'd totally be mine).  But overall, I'm fairly calm.  We already have a dresser that will have a changing pad attached to the top.  We have G's grandmother's rocker.  And we have a pretty tiered side table to sit next to it, to keep books for me to read, burp cloths, etc.  The furniture needs some work (we'll be painting the dresser and side table, and the rocking chair will be sent off to be recovered), but other than a crib, we're set furniture wise.  I plan to keep an eye on craigslist for a crib (we aren't planning to move her to her nursery until she's 3-4 months old).

We're cloth diapering and have plans to buy a lot of the stash brand new (due to a couple new things that we think will work well).  However, thanks to a consignment sale, craigslist, ebay, and meeting up with a blogging friend later this month, we actually already have a nice start.  We're exploring the different types and getting a variety to try this way without it breaking the bank.

Also, thanks to the consignment sale I have the exact JJ Cole Urban Bundle Me I wanted...it looks like it didn't really get used, but I got it at half the cost of it in stores.  I also have cute pink chuck taylor shoes that I picked up for $2 (they're big enough for when she's walking).  And our collection of used clothes we've been acquiring for a very long time means we have a Ralph Lauren corduroy snowsuit (pink) for the winter, plus a ton of onesies, bibs, blankets, and dresses.  That coupled with gifts and hand me downs (my niece is about the same time of year clothing wise as our daughter will be), we're pretty set for that for awhile.

And I've won some nice items such as the Boba carrier, a blanket, diaper bag, etc.  We've also kept an eye out on freecycle, and have enough small bottles for her entire infancy (and they'll fit the breast pump!).  We still have to buy new nipples, but that's a minimal cost.

Does this mean we're only buying used?  No.  We have been discussing a stroller and carseat deal from Britax for next month that costs a pretty penny.  But the car seat is one of, if not the most, safest car seats you can buy, and the stroller has the ability to add on an extra seat (meaning down the road a toddler and a baby or even two small kids can share it).  I also splurged last night and bought 2 4-packs of Aden Anais muslin swaddlers, because they had a facebook deal for 30% off.  We have a baby swing on our registry that if it doesn't get bought for us then we get it at 10% off (which is why I even put it on there!).  And if it comes down to it, we'll buy the crib new if need be.  We also have the costs of re-doing the rocking chair and sending the pram off to be made all sparkly, something I'm not even going to try and guess at the cost.

Part of the blessing is that we've been planning on kids for a long while, so have slowly accumulated items over time, either for free or inexpensively.  And while we have a purple bedding set that was given to us last summer (when we were looking into the foster to adopt), chances are that will go on to bless someone else, because I'm hoping to sew most of the crib bedding myself, thanks to some amazing tutorials.

So, you've read all this and you're thinking, "that's great, but how does it apply to me?  I'm not having a baby."  The concept can be applied to anything!  The easiest example is of course in decorating/supplying your home.  A lot of items in my home that people compliment me on were free (like our beautiful antique mirror and dressers), or bought used.  And while I've still not attempted it, I've heard making things like curtains and throw pillows is super easy (and I'll let you know how it goes because I've gotten fabric for pillows).  It's about getting creative, and having a good idea of what you're going for, because that makes sifting through things (either in person or online) easier.  And by saving in some places, it will allow you to "splurge" a bit in others. 

**I have been keeping lists of what we already have, and will share once it gets closer to time about costs and savings for those who might be planning for babies.**

Coo-pon, Que-pon

Okay, so the title made me giggle, because G swears I say coupon wrong.  And he's probably right, but after nearly 30 years I doubt that's going to change.  I was reading a financial blog, and the author spoke about this show called Extreme Couponing, and called it "organized hoarding."  I was intrigued, so I looked up a couple episodes online to check it out.

Oh. My. God.  These people are insane.  Like, seriously, I think it's an actual addiction.  They all (every single one of them) mention their heart racing and getting super nervous as the numbers tally up at the register... and then suddenly success!  I'm going to go ahead and assume it's like drug use.

I sometimes use coupons.  I think the most we've ever saved at one store was maybe $15 or $20, but that was with higher price coupons when stocking up on shampoo (the commissary sometimes has excellent coupons for Alba and Jason products and we buy several of each), or when we first moved back and got Muir Glen products (soups, canned tomatoes, sauce) practically free.  However, I don't even like to look through coupons in the newspaper because 90% of the time, they're useless to me.

We don't buy a lot of packaged goods.  So as a rule the only coupons I use are for exciting things like toilet paper and deodorant.  And buying papers just for that isn't worth it.  I'll occasionally check coupons.com or print some deal off if I have an e-mail from a company, or saw a great deal on a blog.  But I can't imagine buying over $3,000 worth of products in one shopping trip and having enough coupons to get that down under $100 (and yes, the lady on the season finale did just that).

I was disheartened to see one family buying 600 of some candy item.  I understand flavored fitness water is expensive, so a family with 4 guys buying 400 for the summer made more sense to me (they actually got every bottle free).  And I will say that several of the families buy for charities as well, providing for the homeless and animal shelters.  One guy even was buying things for 1,000 military care packages.  But they were all buying boxes and bags of things that I can't understand eating much less stocking up on.

Basically, sure, I'm impressed with a wall of toilet paper or canned tomatoes.  But 62 mustards or 50 bbq sauce bottles?  One lady was quoted as needing to find other ways to use toothpaste she had so much.  I got nauseated and was a little creeped out.

Do you coupon?  Or are you more like us buying too many fresh food items to make it worth your time?

Tacos!

Taco Night is a simple meal that can be done fairly inexpensively and rotated into your meal planning every week or two.  Since most people like Mexican (or at least our American version of Mexican), it's a winner.  And for those of you who live outside the U.S. where it's harder to find the seasonings (and I so feel your pain... England's Mexican was as bad as drinking the water in Mexico), I'm posting a recipe to make your own at home and keep stashed in a jar!

Having a Mexican night is simple.  You can change it up each time by what you have on hand.  For mine last night I took 1 lb. of hamburger and browned it with some onions.  After draining (something you don't have to do if you used a lean meat), I added it back to the pan with some chopped up jalapenos.  I like it spicy, so I add them to my meat as well.  Then I poured 1 cup of water in, added a bunch of the seasoning mix (I use a lot more than required), and brought it to a boil.  You basically just cook it down until it's thick and no longer watery.  Part way through I added a can of no-salt added red kidney beans.  Then you just lay out a tortilla (or use hard shells), add the meat, and add your toppings!

I chose to not buy sour cream for these.  The Fage whole fat Greek yogurt I've been getting is tangy enough it works as a sour cream, and it's a multi-tasker.  I hate buying yogurt or sour cream for myself because too many times I've ended up with it going bad!  This is a way to do it cheaper, and it tastes just as good as a good full fat sour cream!  I also used a can of red kidney beans instead of dealing with the dry ones I had on hand because of my exhaustion.  Normally I recommend saving yourself money by going with a dry bean.  They're easy to cook with. 

**And for those of you who are new here, I use full fat.  I've done a lot of reading and realized that the natural types of fat are actually not only not going to kill you, but in fact can help.  Chicken fat is incredibly important when making chicken noodle soup, as it's what keeps you healthy and helps fight colds!!!   Chicken soup when you're under the weather has actually been studied and is a good medicine when made right. **

For toppings it really just depends on what I have on hand.  I picked up salsa because I didn't have the time/energy to make my own (though I'm making a huge batch today to freeze).  When G is home the toppings always include cheese, and usually guacamole, lettuce, fresh tomatoes, etc.  You can do sides of rice, whether mexican rice or cilantro lime.  In fact, a friend of mine adds that to her meat mixture.  I try to limit how many carbs I am getting.  Not because I'm one of the low-carb people, but because I like granola, french bread, croissants, etc so I get plenty throughout my day and don't want to over-do it.  Garret loves rice though, so I try and make that for him. 

For those of you who prefer seafood, you can also easily do this cheaply with tilapia.  I bake it with seasonings (usually just some lime, cumin, and garlic powder) and then tear into chunks.  This is good with a black bean, corn, and cilantro mixture. 

Taco Night gets you a well balanced meal, is tasty and really affordable.  Use beans to make the meat go further.  Even if you're not a bean person, with the seasoning you won't taste the difference! 

Taco Seasoning: 

(This makes a small batch for one meal, but tastes just like stuff you buy.  I usually make a very large batch of it to keep in a jar in my cupboard, and I suggest you do the same, though it takes buying some spices in bulk... for which I recommend health food or ethnic food stores.)

* 1 Tbsp. chili powder
* 1 1/2 tsp. cumin
* 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
* 1/4 tsp. onion powder
* 1/4 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
* 1/4 tsp. dried oregano
* 1/2 tsp. paprika
* 1 tsp. sea salt ( I use a heaping tsp. of kosher salt)
* 1 tsp. black pepper

Mix all of it up well and store in a container.  When I make a big batch I multiply the ingredients by 7-10 times this.  Keeps well in a small jar.  It's suggested you use 3 Tbsp. per lb. of meat, but to be honest, I use a heap more because I like the meat to be flavorful!

Living On Less Part Deux

A reader had left a very interesting comment, and one I feel I should address.  My instant reaction was I got angry, but then decided perhaps it was a simple case of me needing to clarify.  I am well aware of the economy, and extremely grateful that my husband has a secure military job, as I have no idea what I would do if I had to go back to work.  I've said it to friends that while money can be tight at times, I have chosen to not even entertain the idea because we don't need the money that badly, and I know there are others who getting a job I might apply for could be the difference between eating or not.  I live in a big city with many homeless and plenty on hard times. 

If my post was unclear with the comment about not living the stereotypical American lifestyle, my post was referring to what I know as an American.  Some of what I said could probably apply for other countries, but not living there, I cannot speak to that effect.  As to a small paycheck, it's decent because my husband has put 6 years into the military, but it's by no means impressive.  We are firmly in the middle class by annual salary standards.  I am "lucky" that my husband is deployed so that he makes more than usual and I'm the only one really living on it (he eats at the chow hall in Iraq... his splurge is a box of granola bars for snacks).  It's been said that I eat out a lot.  I have no qualms about admitting that since I've been pregnant I totally have.  Mainly because my husband and close friends tell me to eat and I have no desire to cook.  When left to my own devices I eat fruit.  This is not an exaggeration, I eat fruit and maybe some nuts.  I've been told this isn't sustaining enough, though my care providers keep telling me my appetite will come back at some point.  G will often tell me to go to Carma's and get an actual sandwich.  My frequent coffees out are $1.50 with free refills.  (I split a pastry with a friend on occasion... mmm!)

I also stated "We do go out to eat more than the average couple on a budget, but that's because of our other choices, and it's something we plan to limit to continue to increase our savings."  G and I have discussed just within the last couple of weeks how we plan to only go out once a paycheck (we usually spend less than $30 for the two of us, with enough for leftovers the next day).  Even The Frugal Girl does weekly takeout with her husband as their date night.  It is because we don't spend in some areas that we can spend in others.   Furthermore, as people who support "Buy Local" we usually choose locally owned establishments in order to aid our local economy.

We have had to discuss how much money we've simply blown these last 2 years, and have been thoroughly discussing a budget in order to start putting money away that will stay in an account rather than be used for splurges.  Other than our gas card (used on base it's 5 cents off a gallon), that we pay off each month, we have no credit cards.  We've used cash for pretty much everything except our car and our house.  We only have the one car, and I usually just stay around the house.

When G is home I cook the majority of our meals.  And it's from scratch.  I make my own pie dough, pizza dough, pizza sauce, dressings, bread, even my own chicken stock with the bones from chickens I roast... and that's just the tip of the iceberg.  I make enough pizza dough for 4 at a time and freeze 2-3 portions.  I make bread in 2 loaves and it's what we use for sandwiches, toast, or to go with soup.  If you're going to claim to read my blog, take a look around, I am known for the way I cook.  I also do it as cheaply as I can to the standards we choose.  I choose to spend more on ingredients at times, but we eat less and make it stretch.  We've been known to add more veggies and wine/stock to make a soup last longer (usually a pot last us about 4-5 days, but we've pushed it further before).  I'm learning to can/preserve to be able to stock up on cheap fresh fruits and veggies we get this summer.

We spend more money on food, but less on other things.  We haven't had a t.v. plugged in (we technically have my college one somewhere) for 2 years, we don't have cable, and if our home security didn't need it, we wouldn't have a land line phone.  We have the cheapest cell phone plan we could get, utilizing a military discount on top of that.  We don't go to the movies, we don't even really rent movies, and we tend to stay in and play board games or go to free art museums.  Even when we grab a coffee out, it's not unusual to see us sharing one.

I haven't bought new jeans since we first moved back to the U.S., and in fact have been utilizing the rubber band method to keep wearing mine as long as possible.  I figure I can just wear a lot of dresses and skirts this summer, though I'm quickly finding less and less clothes that fit.  I will probably buy one pair of maternity jeans, 2 if I'm feeling daring, and if we choose to not have another child I'll sell them.  A lot of my clothes I buy from thrift stores, because many of the brands I wear I've been able to find super cheap there (and I can be super cheap).  I've needed new black flats for a year now, but have chosen to wear all my old (various colored) ones I've had for 3-5 years instead because I have been unable to find a simple pair at a price I feel isn't ridiculous.

And as for a vacation, we've never had one that wasn't us going home for a family even or holiday... a hellacious 20+ hour drive.  In England we chose to stay local (except for the cruise that his co-worker had paid for for herself and a friend and the friend cancelled and she asked if I'd like the spot), not even going to Scotland or Ireland.  The trip to Paris I've been discussing is only possible because G has deployed.  If we're able to do it (and with a baby I'm still questioning it), it will be for our 5 year anniversary, and the first time we've splurged on a trip of any sort for ourselves.  Well worth the insane hit to our bank account.  

Basically my point is that yes, I get it, we live a nice life.  That was kind of my whole point all along.  I know people who live well on much less than we do, and people who make much more and yet always seem to be paycheck to paycheck.  Our goal going into this marriage was to live a life where we slowly squirreled enough away for a rainy day/emergency fund, but also didn't hoard it.  We both firmly believe that there is no taking it to the grave.  We have lived paycheck to paycheck before, and found that through tweaking we've been able to get away from that.  If we continued to have issues, I would clearly be out looking for a job to help pay bills.  Instead, when we realize we've been spending too much, we discuss it and then perhaps don't go out for a month and limit our spending only to what we truly need.

I'm proud of the way we live.  It isn't perfect, as I never claimed to be.  However, I had been asked by a handful of people how we do it, where we cut back, what we choose to splurge on and how much we try and save and so I have been trying to answer those questions.  I've said it to others, we've been incredibly fortunate, but part of it has been simply saying no to what for us were frivolous things.  Eating out is a treat, and usually reserved for something we can't make at home easily.  For someone else they may choose to eat out less but be able to buy crafting supplies because that makes them happy.  The point isn't to cut out everything or to do anything "just like I do" but to look at your own budget and honestly re-evaluate if there are places to save or change things, or to consider taking on another job if the money is important to you.  For some, the answer will be "no, right now we're living as tightly as we can" while for others (like us) you'll suddenly see a lot of places that can be tweaked that you won't miss.  All I can do is share my experience, and from where we're at, we live a more frugal life compared to most people I know.

Living On Less

I've heard it said more than once: "We could never live on one income!"  I always sit there is a sort of shocked silence, because we live on a single military income, and it isn't much.  And sometimes I seriously think I should teach a class on it.  Is it always easy?  It didn't used to be, but now, yes, usually.  And honestly, neither one of us ever thinks, "I/Kate should go back to work so we would have more money."  We have previously discussed me eventually going back to work for my own independence and as a way to add more money to a savings account.  But we always decide against it.  And I want to tell you that no matter your reasons, if you desire to be a one income family, most times you can make it work.  I always hear protestations to this, but for most people it comes down to choices and to making tough decisions that our self-serving selves don't like to make.

We have chosen to have 1 car for now.  Eventually (probably years down the road) we will end up with two:  a small SUV for our family (SUV because it will have room in the back seat for kids and room in the hatchback for Sophie!), and a tiny gas-efficient car for G to drive to work.  I would like to add a third, my dream car... but that's a ways off, and would have to be because the SUV is sitting in the garage for road trips, which seems silly.   About the one car now... I actually do not want a second, and am trying to put that off as long as possible.  Sure, it's a pain occasionally when I need the car for something, so I have to drive him to work... but for me it's less hassle than owning a second car in the city.

We have become more conscious about our driving.  We do grocery shop more like a European (several times a week), but we try and make sure we're not driving about unnecessarily.  And if something gets forgotten, we usually make do without. 

I cook a lot at home.  We do go out to eat more than the average couple on a budget, but that's because of our other choices, and it's something we plan to limit to continue to increase our savings.  When we eat at home I don't do processed foods, I take the time to put my love for my family into our meals.  Does it take longer than hamburger helper?  Yes.  But is it really all that difficult or time consuming? Not at all.

We buy sparkling wine for our Fridays and save a real champagne for special occasions.  I love Veuve Clicquot.  We've discussed how if we ever had a lot of money I would buy it by the case.  But, honestly, for the every week treat, a good prosecco works for me.  And it allows us the funds to splurge (like I did recently on a 98 V.C. for when G returns) when it's a celebration.

These really are only a few things off the top of my head.  However, the key is that we've said no to the American style of overbuying and the need for more and bigger.  I may purchase something that some would consider insanely expensive, but I own less and I take care to make things last.

Does this life sometimes get us funny looks?  Sure.  But I can tell you that living on a single military income I know that we're still able to live a chic and sometimes lavish life while putting away a pretty decent chunk into savings.  It can work for almost anyone.  The key is learning to say no to always saying yes to yourself.

*Oh, and completely unrelated, but for those who have been asking, you can see my first bump pics HERE on the baby blog!*

Calculating Cost

 Photos right now are from my phone, so please bear with the fuzziness.

So, I have to share that during G's deployment I am trying really hard to save all of my grocery receipts.  I'm interested in seeing how much I spend on food at the store when it's just me.  Now, some things like my pricey bottle of olive oil will be in use long after G gets home, but for the day to day I'm really curious as to how much the meal planning might help save me money.

And I want to talk chicken.  Organic, free-range chicken.  Yes, it's pricey, but I truly believe the quality of the animals life, the texture of the meat and the knowledge that you aren't pumping excess hormones into your body is worth it.  Last night I bought a chicken for $10.68.  To some of you that price is insane and you would never spend that much.  But here's the breakdown:

* One breast combined with the wings will be used for dinner last night, dinner tonight, and with two helpings of the goat cheese tart which is 4 meals.

* 1/2 of one breast combined with one thigh will be put into the chicken and veggie soup, and I'm estimating that will be enough for minimally 6 meals.

* 1/2 of a breast will be shredded and frozen for later use to be used to make chicken tacos, for a minimum of 2 meals.

* One thigh and the two legs will be shredded and frozen for later use in pesto pasta, resulting in minimally 4 meals.

Even when just calculating the minimum (and many of those are low estimates), that is a total of 16 meals from one chicken.  Meaning each serving of good quality meat is less than $1 a serving.  Chances are I'll actually be able to stretch it to closer to $.50 a serving, which in my opinion is phenomenal.

That also doesn't include the fact that I boiled the giblets and ate the liver for iron, and will use the carcass to make the stock for my soup.  

I'd rather eat less meat and fill up on a variety of healthy veggies (keep in mind I'll still be getting the recommended amount of protein) and be able to buy a better quality meat than eat more and have to buy meat I don't feel comfortable with.  Last night I had a decent portion of chicken breast, sauteed mushrooms, beet greens (covered in hot sauce), smashed potatoes, a beet, and steamed broccoli.  My plate was colorful, satisfying and decadent.  And totally worth the cost.

Clearing Things Up

I would like to start of by saying that I am not ashamed or embarrassed by liking nicer things.  I maintain that I still spend no more than the average person (and probably less) total.  And that my items will last longer, saving me more in the long run.  It used to be that people bought items to last decades.  But the clothing industry no longer thinks that way.  And because of my morals, I've really begun to evaluate where my clothing is coming from.  I'm having a hard time buying items that are made in China.  I am sure some companies pay well and such, but that's hard information to come by.  I cannot justify buying items that were possibly made by children or families who are paid a pittance, anywhere really, but particularly from countries where my children may be.

As for the pair of JBrand jeans I already have....they were bought at a thrift store for $4.  They suit my body, and after trying on other pairs today I have to say I just like how they fit me, and how great the material feels.  It's thicker, feels more sturdy.  I would rather own 2 pairs of something like a straight leg or bootcut from them than 6 pairs from a less expensive place.  I will still buy denim from Gap/Banana Republic for every day, but I like to have a pair or two of nicer jeans, in classic styles and colors that I can wear for years and years.  I used to love Old Navy, but they wear out too quickly.

Those expensive shoes will be re-soled to within a half inch of their life (I've been looking only at leather soled shoes which can be repaired).  The trench will be looked over frequently, washed on delicate, the buttons kept nice and sewn on well.  The cashmere sweaters will be handwashed with a special detergent and hopefully last at least 20 years.  And there will be fewer items.  I have every intention of taking care of my things so they last a minimum of a quarter of a century.  And as my style is basically classic, they don't really go out of style.  Sure I'll occasionally buy trendy pieces that fit within my style....but they'll probably be from some place like Gap.

I will be purchasing clothing from a thrift store/consignment store when I find items that meet my quality requirements and my planned purchasing database empty slots (things I plan to purchase rather than on a whim).  And of course sales are a girl's best friend!  Rebekah thinks the same way and discusses this in her posts.  I now am the very proud owner of a gorgeous Hermes scarf....which I bought from a friend.....for over half off.  

The children thing is something I've had to consider when making my list.  I think my "mama" uniform will probably be a fitted black tee, a cashmere or cotton cardigan (dependent on the season), dark wash jeans and either flats or wedges with some statement piece jewelry.  Still my style, but a more workable one.  It actually sounds like my outfit from today: dark bootcut jeans, black flats, one of G's black Calvin Klein tees (they are nice and thick and were purchased at TJMaxx), with a statement necklace.  I've taught in both pre-school and kindergarten classes and know that I have to be practical.  But I am unwilling to lose myself simply because kids are messy.

I think what I failed to mention in the last post is that sales, ebay, and consignment stores will be my best friends.  For pieces that are pricier and seasonal (such as the handbag I am lusting after), I'll save and splurge.  But for most of my handbags, they're a classic style.  My Gerard Darel was was bought gently used (I think the woman carried it a few times before deciding it wasn't for her) from a woman in Portugal for less than $200 (they're normally $400-$500 dependent on the style, zippers or not zippers).  While that may still seem like a crazy price to some, it's still in the same condition it was when I bought it, I've carried it nearly every day for over 2 years, and it's been literally around the world (I took it on the Mediterranean cruise, so it's been more places than G!).  I'm not as gentle as I would like to be with it, it gets overstuffed, heavy things placed in it, dropped on the floor, smacked into things.  But it was made very well (it's a classic French bag), and it has held up far better than I expected.  And finally, some of the items on the list I plan to save for 10-20 years for, and may change my mind by then!  (such as the lovely Birkin bag.)

So, in conclusion, I am who I am.  I meant by my questions at the end of the last post in reference for whatever you consider a splurge.  For me, it's several thousand dollars, and takes years of savings.  For others, I completely understand their priorities are different and it may be something from Ann Taylor.  I just wanted to pass on Rebekah's idea that it's better to have a list of items and buy from that over time than to simply "go shopping."  I bought a pair of d'orsay heels by Via Spiga today on clearance at Nordstrom.  The lace covered shoe was one I have been looking for, so it qualified for my list.  It's the perfect ladylike shoe for wearing to formal things with G where I need to look like myself, but a bit more demure.  And while there I tried on several pairs of shoes.  The black flats in the last post almost got bought, but honestly as much as I wanted to like them, I didn't love them and so I said, "No."  It was a big moment for me, and exactly what this planned database is all about.  I don't have room for 5 pairs of mediocre black flats....I'm searching for an amazing pair to last. 

Planning Purchases For My Wardrobe

It's not even 8:30, I'm sitting at Starbucks, the sun streaming in as it bounces off of the shopping center parking lot outside.  Shopping centers, places where too many people buy too many things they don't need.  I've become quite annoyed with the consumerism I see every day, where people shop not for something they need or even really love, but to try and fill a void, to find a distraction, to look like everyone else.  I've fallen in that trap before and found it leads no where good.

 

 Emma Watson in one of the most awesome spiked trench coats!

So I was thrilled when Rebekah did a series about planning for a wardrobe, using a database concept.  I actually ended up doing this for myself one day while waiting around for G.  I thought long and hard about the sorts of clothing I really love, what looks best on me, what brings out the personality I prefer.  After discussing it with the husband, I decided that the best way to describe my style was Feminine European with an Edgy Rock 'n' Roll Twist.  Taking that knowledge, I'm working on going through things I pulled from magazines, images I've saved from online, and compiling a wardrobe binder.  I do this for our home, so it makes sense to do it for my closet as well.  In doing so it really helps you see what you love, and then think about whether or not it will work for you.

Not necessarily a fan of the actress, but this outfit is splendid!

Because here's the thing with me, my dream "uniform" that if I could I would wear every day would be fluffy, flouncy cocktail dresses in bright jewel tones (this is where my bohemian leanings come into play) with Louboutins and a leather biker jacket.  I would curl my hair into some more volume, smudge my eyes and go about life as if I'm moving from one glass of champagne to another.  However, for the day to day, that is wholly unrealistic for me! 

Love Undergarments from Agent Provocateur.

So I did as Rebekah suggested and typed up a list of everything for this wardrobe of mine, including pieces I already own and pieces I'd like to own.  I need to look over it and check to make sure I haven't left anything off, but I was pretty thorough.  From smaller diamond studs and sheer nude matching undergarments to a trench coach and a spiked leather bag.  I let G look over it, and he agreed the list was completely "me," and more so, the best version of "me," where he sees me at my happiest.  Knowing I was on the right track, I continued. 

Picture this in black, J.Crew perfect fit scoop neck tees.

I've begun prioritizing the items I need to purchase, either in addition to what I already own, or as replacements (my black t-shirt type tops nearly all need to be replaced).  I first begin researching good quality items, reading reviews, asking those I trust about this.  Then I start to list the order or importance on buying these items, and how quickly I think I can obtain them.  For instance, black leather flats are first on my list, because I desperately need new ones.  But the undergarments, new jeans, and Burberry trench coat are having to wait until later this summer/fall.  I'm spending this time learning better eating and moving about habits, so that once the weight is off I can easily maintain it, thereby making my purchases good investments.  (and in doing so, I'm saving money, which I will use for the planned purchases!)

I know that this sounds like it's too easy, and it is.  As in, perfectly easy!  I really had my doubts, but in the last few weeks, when shopping, I've found it so easy to say no.  No to the item I don't need.  No to the item on my list that doesn't look great.  No to the cheaper version.  Sure my current dream handbag is a huge chunk of change, but G has told me if I can put away the money, I can get it (it's spiked and gorgeous and we joke that it could literally fend off a mugger...and we're serious).  I thought there was no way this will work, but it's saved me so much money from unnecessary spending these last few weeks!  So I'm using this system not just for my wardrobe, but for my bath/beauty items and home items. 

The big items on my list to save for include items like the Burberry trench coat, dark wash J Brand jeans (they look awesome on me), Frye boots, leopard print heels, and warm, soft, oversized cashmere sweaters.  I found one that is both striped and off the shoulder and I'm trying to figure out the brand's sizing.  It would kill 3 things on the list in one go!  (cashmere, striped, off shoulder)  I'm also trying to decide whether or not I want to save and splurge on the Aegean necklace from Tiffany.  I've tried it on a handful of times, it looks perfect, but it's a decent down payment on a car.  Hmm.  So right now I'm looking into what I would wear it with, how often, and doing a cost analysis.  In the end, I want to be completely in love with every item in my closet.  If that means I have to build very slowly, so be it.  I'd rather have a couple pairs of jeans I adore than 5 so-so pairs.  I'd rather have only a half dozen sets of undergarments than a dresser full of pieces that don't do their job as well as they should.  And I'd rather have a few great pieces of jewelry than enough to open my own store. 

If you could save for one major item in your closet, what would it be?  And have I convinced you to go ahead and do just that?

Lasting Luxury

Back in October I visited the La Mer counter at Nordstrom.  After trying the original moisturizing cream and their eye cream as well I asked if there was any way to get a small sample to try for a few days to kind of see how my skin liked it.  It's an expensive product, and I am not willing to splurge for something I'm not sure about.  The woman working that day was extremely nice, agreed that you really no need to try it for a few days and promptly filled two sample containers with a generous amount of both the original cream and the eye cream (the eye balm intense).

Those two containers last me about 2 weeks.  It was insane, really.  But I found with exfoliated skin the rubbing into your fingers and patting on method (versus simple slathering on) really did work, and allowed me to use less product.  So early to mid November off I headed back to the store* to pick up a 1 oz. container of it.  I told G that if I liked it after using up this container that I would be continuing with it, to make sure he understood the cost before I bought.  He agreed that it made my skin soft (I have dry skin, so it really was miraculous), and that the cost was worth it.  I assumed that I would need a refill by the middle of January, guessing one jar would last me two months.  I still had some of my rose cream from Korres, which I was using at night once I got La Mer.

I was wrong.  Oh so wrong.  With the product being in a white glass jar I really wasn't certain the volume of product, since I know some companies use this as a way of making it look like the container holds more than it actually does.  And so the other night, trying to determine how much I had left I decided to use the very scientific manner of sticking my finger down through it to the bottom.  I turned to G with a shocked face.... I was a little over halfway through the container!  And it's nearly the middle of February!

Now, I do not use this every day.  There are some days I'm in a hurry, and just use the Korres, but that's unusual.  I use the La Mer nearly every day, and sometimes twice a day.  I assumed it would not last me long, but I love it, so it was worth the expense to me.  At the rate I'm going, the cream is turning out to cost me only about a dollar a day.  And I don't see that as so expensive.  Even if it was $2-3 a day I wouldn't blink.  To say I am pleased with this product would be an understatement.  My skin loves it, it doesn't cause any breakouts, and it feels luxurious, an important thing for me.  My beauty routine is sacred and me time and it should feel decadent.  So I am loving something that feels decadent but turns out, not so expensive!  Luxury that lasts longer than you assumed is tres chic!

*I picked up at the store, but actually ordered and paid for it online.  By doing so, I was able to use Ebates, get 5% cash back, and also qualified for their online deal of a travel size of the original cream and two extras.  It rocked, and was so worth the hassle of ordering and having to pick up (we were headed out that way anyway).

Sword Swallowing

I sometimes plan a whole week's meals in one sitting.  Okay, rarely.  I'm more of the "what sounds good and how many days can I stretch it out?" type.  Hence our propensity and everlasting love for soups and quiche.  And even more normal is for us to go to the store to see what ends up in our basket.  Because you can plan and plan, but when you're eating as many fresh items as we do, you just have to see what looks good.

I've been stalking the fish department of Whole Foods for a while now.  Which is why I roasted a whole fish on a whim.  And why we had king salmon fillets the other night.  But what I've really been searching for is more swordfish steaks to re-create the meal I made back in June.  But time and again they didn't have any.  Yesterday I was thrilled when I saw that they had in fresh, wild caught swordfish steaks.  We had one wrapped up and headed home.

We weren't able to recreate the swordfish meal from before.  I thought it included cilantro, instead it involved arugula, which for once we didn't have on hand.  So I improvised, pan cooking them with just salt, pepper, and olive oil.  I re-heated the leftover dijon mashed potatoes from the meal with the salmon, added some sauteed red onion and a half of a plate of salad.  I also cut up some heirloom cherry tomatoes, but they didn't make it to the pic.  We added them a little further into the meal (because honestly in my rush to finish and surprise G I forgot them on the cutting board!).

And for lunch today I decided to add in some of the flavor of the salsa G made last night.  I made a big salad with spring mix greens, heirloom tomatoes, carrots, ranch and homemade croutons.  And then took a small salad plate and had a swordfish filet, half an avocado and some salsa.  Mmmm!

The swordfish is a bit pricey at $16.99 a lb.  But we got a little over a pound and cut it into 5 portions (two meals for each of us, and then while I'm at a lunch meeting tomorrow G will have a nice lunch).  It ended up being about $3.50 a portion, which because of the thick density of swordfish was more than enough for us!  Total cost of each meal would add up to no more than $5.....not bad for something I would be pleased with in a restaurant!

Simple (Cheap) Comfort Food

I've been told that my cooking is intimidating.  And I've noticed a certain tendency amongst my friends and family to look to me when cooking as if I were a food wiki.  Apparently it's thought that I eat divine, complicated foods all of the time.  This is simply untrue.  I want to tell a quick tale of a wife who didn't really know how to cook much.  Who taught herself out of sheer determination (and more than a little desperation).  But also learned to fake it till I can make it.  My husband couldn't cook either, and his parents hadn't been huge cooks so it was easy to please him with basic home cooked things like spaghetti with meat sauce using jarred pasta sauce and a roast that I could only make after getting extremely detailed instructions from my maman and praying I didn't mess it up.  (we won't mention the overly salted noodles and gravy I made while we were dating because dear maman failed to mention the necessity of diluting the broth.)  

So as a newlywed I made things that were simple, easy, and my husband would eat, including sausage boats that we made in college.  Basically it's this:  take smoked sausage, top with boxed mashed potatoes, shredded cheese, and bake until heated.  We normally had this with a green veggie.  Tonight I made it for the first time in a long time, and I'm going to show you how!  It's super easy, can be done in parts, and tastes delicious.

I didn't use boxed mashed potatoes this time.  We had 4 small potatoes from our CSA left, so I threw those in the oven to bake at 400F for a few hours while we went for coffee and to the store for fruit.  We came home and they were pretty dang done.  Soft, easily smashable, and I didn't have to do much.  I figured baking would leave more nutrients than boiling anyway (my Irish ancestors are gasping....we seem to boil everything!).  I hand mashed them, added a couple tablespoons of butter and some half and half (we're out of milk).  A dash of garlic powder, some salt, some parsley and they were smelling pretty tasty. 

We used turkey kielbasa from Trader Joes (I really should become their spokesperson), and cut it into 4 parts.  Then took each part and cut down the middle, just until the end (so it opens up).  Plop the potatoes on top, take some shredded cheese (G grated some aged British cheddar) and sprinkle, covering the top of the potatoes.  Put into oven to heat.

We ate it with brussels sprouts.  If you're new, please visit this post on how we cook them and why they are so good we sometimes fight over who gets more.  No, I'm not kidding.  They're super duper delicious!  I also slices some of the last tomatoes of the season that we've had ripening in a brown paper sack from our CSA.

It was the perfect, simple, comfort food.  And here's the breakdown of why it's not only good for you food and delicious, but also affordable:

*Turkey Kielbasa:  $3.99, split into 4 servings

* Potatoes: estimated at about $0.25 a serving

*Cheese: $3.99, used about half for 4 servings

*Brussels Sprouts: $3.49 for stalk, used 1/2 for 4 serving

*Tomatoes: about $1 for 2 servings

*Seasoning and oils I had on hand

*TOTAL: less than $2.75 a serving!  You can't eat that cheap even at McDonalds!

So hopefully I've convinced you that comfort food can be a little different, really tasty, and completely affordable!  And it will look impressive, I promise:

Simple Yummy Dinner

We are out of a lot except veggies in this house.  So last night I rolled out the second half of the pizza dough (that we had frozen) and made ratatouille pizza with red onion, yellow pepper, zucchini, tomato and eggplant.  It turned out delicious and was our breakfast and lunch today too.

Then today, we realized, um, yeah, we still don't have much food.  So instead of running to the store (and losing our parking spot---it is a Sunday after all) I told G to boil some water and throw in some pasta (actually the only pasta we had in the house).  While that was boiling I chopped up the last remaining bit of turkey kielbasa (less than a bratwurst worth) and sauteed it to crisp it up some.  Then I sauteed some onions and garlic and dumped the rest of the goat cheese in to soften.  While that all was doing it's thing, G and I shelled fresh peas (snacking on their casings, which are delicious!).  I also chopped up some tomato.  Throw everything together and a surprisingly tasty meal is what you get.  I recommend it to someone wanting something simply but flavorful.  

 (We left the peas fresh for the crunch, and ground some fresh pepper)

Now of course I really do need to make a grocery list.  I'm thinking roast chicken since it's cheap, quick, easy and will last all week.  That with some eggplant I made last night and some roasted potatoes and steamed carrots.  A mainly veggie meal with local organic produce from our CSA!

*EDIT* Because we used all the fresh peas, I lightly cooked some frozen ones for today's lunch.  While in the freezer I found the last of our chicken meatballs that we made last month, so there is our meat for our meal!  

Beets, The Magical Veggie

Tonight for dinner G roasted a chicken (all on his own, and it was delicious!).  We roasted some asparagus and some beets, and then sauteed the beet greens.  The only way I had ever had beets was in the veggie crisps (chips) in England.  The beets were my favorite though, so I thought I would give it a whirl.  

Oh. My. God.  Um, for those who know me, I love corn (That's a mild understatement, I tend to eat all corn on the cob within a 5 mile radius).  And beets.....they're like bright pink corn.  Amazing!  I tried stealing G's slices and he nearly stabbed me with his fork.  The beet greens were okay, more bitter than spinach or chard (according to G, neither of these has passed my lips much before either).  I wasn't a huge fan of them, but I'm willing to eat them until I am.  Tonight I drizzled on the hot sauce to eat them.  That worked out really well!

We had some white wine with dinner, then finished with an espresso.  Immediately we went into clean up mode, and I tore the chicken apart for soup and salad tomorrow and some pasta on Friday.  Then I took the carcass, some onion, carrots, celery, leeks, beet juice, and asparagus cuttings and boiled it all to make stock for tomorrow night's soup.  Smells scrumptious, and I'm proud of the person I've become.

This is not the women I would have envisioned myself as.  I have always baked and done well with that, but the more rustic cooking?  Um, no thank you.  I envisioned a faster life, one that now turns me off with it's overwhelming consumerism.  I like nice things, I do.  But I prefer to wait, make sure I want it, save, and then buy something to last.  I prefer fresh veggies, and non-hormonal meat (because who doesn't hate a chicken with PMS?).  I'm still living a very chic life, my frugal ways are what allow me the nicer things.  I've just recognized that to me, a great dinner with good conversation with interesting people is more chic than all the Louboutin shoes in the world.

Leaf Lard

This turned out amazing.  Seriously, I might even like it better than our normal quiche lorraine.  And that's a big deal. 

Summer Bounty

The farmer's market yesterday was amazing.  We picked up our bag from the farm and filled it with organic cilantro, red leaf lettuce, radishes, arugula, spinach, beets, red romaine, and spring onions.  We also bought some morel mushrooms to fry for dinner (mmmm!).

We woke up today and headed to mass, then off for coffee and the Sunday farmer's market.  There we picked up a dozen eggs, some onions with the greens still attached and leaf lard.  I rendered the leaf lard for dinner and we also got some cracklings.  

Summer is here, and I am so super excited for this week.  We're planning to do a couple slow weeks of no eating out, and only buying what we absolutely need (mainly food, toiletries).  I planned a week's menu of food tonight and honestly it involves only buying 4 things:  a chicken, celery, butter, and white beans.  We're also buying jalapenos to use with the cilantro to make salsa for next week (you can freeze it, so we're making it ahead of time).  Summer is a good time to do a slower, home-cooked period since veggies are so easy to get, and fruit is ripe for the picking.  Would you ever do a slow week of no restaurants/fast food?

Feeding A Bottomless Pit

My friend Laura is engaged to Jesse.  I knew them both in high school, both are amazing people (he studied abroad in Spain, she went for a visit this fall and he took her to Venice and proposed!), and now he's home and they are quite happy.  Except Jesse eats them out of house and home.  So when Laura asked for advice (as I too have the problem of my significant other having a stomach the size of Texas) I knew I needed to write an entire post on this topic.  (Both men are annoyingly thin, I might add)


First off all, set boundaries.  If you make something nice for dinner in a quantity that is meant for 2 meals (as in 2 different meals for the two of you, not 2 meals for him!) make sure he knows it's hands off.  Don't be afraid of hurting his feelings.  Skinny as G is his nickname in our house often is "Fatty" (obviously said jokingly, not rudely, I do not advocate calling anyone this seriously, that would be mean) because he can eat as much as a person on The Biggest Loser if I allowed him to.  You will not hurt their feelings if you say something along the lines of "I made enough of this for tonight and a nice lunch tomorrow, so please if you get hungry eat _______."  


That blank spot is where you enter the staples.  If you have a lot of packaged foods in your home this is an easy fill in.  If, however, you are like us, this is where you get creative and prepare ahead of time.  First rule of filling the boy up is know your starches!  I'm Irish, we're big on potatoes and bread.  I don't think there is a potato I've met that I didn't like.  But potatoes and bread are not the only ones, try corn or even squash.  Spaghetti squash is simple to prepare (you just roast and add butter, salt and pepper, maybe some parmesan), keeps it's texture (doesn't go all mushy in the fridge) and is good hot or cold in my personal opinion.  If your man leans more towards potatoes, try keeping some roasted ones on hand or boiled ones chopped up for a salad (take greens, potatoes, onions and tomatoes, add a boiled egg or two and he will fill up).  Pasta can easily be made often, kept in the fridge (with a simple garlic and onion tomato sauce on it) and is an easy filler.  Starches will keep him full longer, so they are a good go to.


Sugars will also do the job but you don't want him attacking a bunch of candy all day every day.  Amazingly fruits and veggies (with a helpful dose of fiber) will also provide great sugars and are easy to keep on hand.  I panic if we have no fruit.  Currently we have meyer lemons, unwaxed lemons, limes, grapefruit, kumquats, oranges, and apples.  You can also prep each night before by cutting up carrots and cucumbers.  They aren't extremely filling, but they are good to snack on between meals.  Grill or steam zucchini and yellow squash to snack on the next day, or cut up celery and put peanut butter on them (easy if you use the refrigerated kind because you can prep ahead of time).  If you want something quick on hand, keep stock of instant oatmeal and granola bars.  Simple, quick, and filling.  Keep plain yogurt on hand (buy the big tubs to spoon out, they are more cost effective) and add frozen berries, peaches, or granola.  


And my most important thing is, fix filling meals and eat them slowly.  I bolded the "between meals" for a reason.  Maybe your man needs to eat more meals a day (we often do afternoon tea because we eat a later dinner).  In between should just be stalling time.  The meals need to have plenty for him, even if you eat less.  And make sure the inexpensive part of the meal (veggies and starches) is the most plentiful.  Meats can be expensive, and there are a tons of creative ways to put them in things (soups, casseroles, salads) where you can get away with less meat.  For the actual meal, doing courses causes you to slow down.  Have a salad (before or after your main, your choice), maybe do something simple like stuffed mushrooms or baked tomatoes with breadcrumbs and garlic.  If you are like me you try to not have bread on a table with other starches (pasta, potatoes, etc), but you might consider keeping some on hand for him.  Just prepare a piece or 2 for him, and put the rest away.  Make sure you have plenty of veggies (keep frozen ones on hand to make quickly and inexpensively) as part of the meal.  At the end you can have dessert or simply coffee or tea.  A hot beverage helps aid digestion as well as filling you up completely.  


Which reminds me of one last tip:  hot beverages will keep you full, even better than water.  I drink my earl grey plain, so I have pretty much no calories, but I stay warm, not hungry, and I get the antioxidants of a black tea.  I drink it often, as does G.  But any hot beverage will do the trick.  


The most important thing is being upfront about it.  If you are noticing the food bill is out of control, talk about it.  Talk about the things that money could go towards.  And then get serious about prepping and keeping things on hand.  Hope this helps!  And readers, if you have any other tips, please post them in the comments!

How To...

Have a low electric and gas bill.  We just got our bill that covered one month of electric and two months of gas (that's unusual, normally it will be one month each).  It was less than $175, and that included a $40 payment for the deposit (they spread it out over a few months).  Our gas bill for 2 months was less than $20, and in actually our usage was less than $7 (the chunk of it all was delivery costs...damn).  And as I danced around the room happy as a clam that we were well under budget I realized that maybe I should share how this has been possible.  


First off, we keep the house cold.  And I mean cold.  Usually at 60F, but definitely no higher than 63F unless we're going to be downstairs and not cooking.  If we're cooking or drinking tea/coffee then we leave it at 60F.  That is why there are things called blankets and quilts.  I have a thick wool blanket with info about Lewis and Clark that was a wedding gift.  Why Lewis and Clark?  G and I are from Missouri, it was a gift from family friends in Australia (one of them lived with my mom as an exchange student in high school and they are still friends....she was a twin, so there are two women I think rock! And they're mother is pretty damn nice as well), and the friends like history.  It's an amazing wool blanket and I keep it wrapped around my legs and feet while we sit drinking tea and I sew.  If need be I also throw on my sheep (Irish fisherman's sweater) and G throws on a sweater and we drink warm drinks.  It's quite cozy, and as much as I am always cold, it works for us.  Most people think we're nuts for keeping it so cold but that leads me to last night:  "the night I turned it down to 57".  You see, we live in a 3 story home.  Heat rises.  Our bedroom is on the top level.  It was 60 in the house and we were burning up upstairs, so down it went.  It's still under 60, because I'm going to be baking.  When we bake our kitchen heats up, and as that is the heart of our home we tend to be in there.  


Secondly, my husband is like my own personal furnace.  He is generally warm, and so at night even if I were to get cold (I don't, we even have to sleep with the fan on to keep it from getting hot and stuffy) I just snuggle up to him.  Body heat from cuddling is a wonderful thing.


And thirdly, as for our electricity?  Well, it's quite simple.  We don't use much of it.  We keep the lights off a lot, use candles to eat by (because we love it that way, not for the bill).  When we're in the dining room sitting drinking tea and watching a movie while I sew, we turn off all the lights in the kitchen except the over the stove light.  Most days when G comes home the house is dark, because I'm lying upstairs with the dogs watching a show or checking e-mail.  I don't need lights on for that, so we keep it dark.  And we were lucky to buy a house that had been renovated and every major appliance (including the computer, printer, telephone and microwave I believe) except the dryer is energy star.  And our washer gets our clothes so dry what little we do use the dryer for (much gets hung up) it doesn't take more than 20-30 minutes in the dryer, even for towels.  Last night for 2 towels I think it took 15 minutes, in fact I was worried it had malfunctioned when the music started letting me know it was done.


I wanted to share things I think everyone can do, and please feel free to add ideas in the comments or tell me (and the other readers) about things you find effective.  


Blankets.  Collect them, and use them.  Same goes for warm sweaters and socks.  Let your body do it's thing to keep you warm.  (for those of us interested in keeping our waistlines down, I've read that not using too much heat or air conditioning, allowing your body to regulate like it's supposed to helps your metabolism loads!)


Cook at home.  Use the oven to bake some warm bread and you'll see how quickly it heats up the room.  


Turn lights and electronics off.  Get the switch that shuts things like your t.v. down at night (but keeps your DVR plugged in).  Consider not using lights in the house until it's dark.  If it's a grey day, open your curtains, grey days still bring light.  If you need light for a project consider a low watt (CFL's) lamp.


Run errands at night.  We're night owls so we do this naturally.  But think about it....when you're not home your lights aren't on, and you can turn the heat down.  


Any suggestions?  Let me know!  

I have been oh so busy lately.  G and I have hit up thrift stores galore, snatching up Felicity my beautiful cabinet.  

I've also picked up a couple frames that I am fixing up for a project for our home...

a silver tray that we planned to put candles on in the fireplace (but I am still looking at beeswax pillars)...

a brass candlestick (because lately we've used candles a lot as light in our home.....I grab one of our antique candle holders as I go upstairs at night, and this new one is heavy and I sewed by it a couple nights ago!)...

a couple afghans for the house...

 a milk glass platem (that I'm planning to hang on the wall)...

an old mirror...

and a vintage aluminum donut maker that I think we're going to try out this weekend!...

I also got an entire trash bag full of material for the dolls and quilts I am working on from a wonderful woman on freecycle who picked out material for each of the women who had inquired, and I ended up with a lot of beautiful fabric, some already cut into squares for quilting!


(here's a very small portion of it)

And another lady responded to my request for glass jars, and I ended up with a dozen mason/ball/kerr jars to add to the ones G had picked up for me.  I'm quite pleased, and we're supposed to go pick up a chair later!  


I've also been working on a vintage buffet scarf that my grandmama gave me several years ago to keep my hands busy and my mind focused.  My grandmother whom I shared a birthday with had just passed away while my parents were in Florida with my 2 younger brothers and I was eerily calm, but extremely distraught inside.  My grandmama knew that and gave me this project.  I never finished it, but now it's nearly completed!  I will be posting a photo of it when it's done.  It needs a good washing, but G and I are excited to eventually use it for a cheese and wine party.  


And lastly, I've been gather up the materials needed for our homemade Christmas gifts.  I think we finally have all of them, and I just need to find one last thing for a gift for my mother.  Oh, and figure out what on earth I am getting my baby brothers.  I'm thinking maybe gift certificates for a "date" with me.  Both of them vie to spend time with me while I'm home, and at 18 and nearly 16 I feel extremely grateful they love me so much, so this would be a nice little thing I think.  My middle brother (the 18 year old) will be graduating high school this year and I'm already plotting for that.  It will be a big year, he graduates, my Daddy turns 50 this summer, and late next year I'm looking at going through my first big time apart from G since I moved to England (we spent 2 months apart right after the wedding).  So it's been a blessing to be interested in learning things that will keep me busy.  


*Edit* Please feel free to visit Une Maison Chic to see the two new arrivals in our home!