Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!

Oh it’s that time again! The tree is down. The Christmas decorations and lights are tucked away for the year, though I really miss seeing the pretty lights every evening. I kinda think we should enjoy a little sparkle every night!  My grandkids agree. christmas eve kids

But, it’s now time for resolutions, and to set goals for healthier living, saving money, and getting organized. In other words, it’s a clean slate, and our chance to start the new year right. I take advantage of my holiday break to get things lined up and organized while I have the opportunity and am off work for the holidays. Here’s a few of my “Get Fresh Quick” Strategies for a Happier New Year. Continue reading “Happy New Year!”

Gift Ideas for Couples Who Have Enough Stuff!

Gift Ideas for Couples Who Have Enough Stuff!

Even though our nest has emptied, our lives stay full of blessings and bounty. Work keeps us busy, and our friends and family (and grandkids!) keep us active and involved in life. Life is so busy, and the holiday season is no exception! But as the hubs and I have gotten older, and after 35 years of marriage, we realize that we don’t need as much “stuff”. There is literally not one single thing I can ask for this Christmas that I don’t already have enough of. I have enough clothes in my closet (Lord knows!), and if I want an outfit, I buy the outfit myself! I have plenty of purses and shoes. I absolutely DO NOT need another small appliance or kitchen gadget. I don’t want or need any more tchotchkes or figurines or home décor. So the hubs and I talked, and decided that we would gift each other with experiences and memories we could share together. I guess we’ve become sentimental in our midlife years! If you’re on the same page, read on for some clever ideas! Continue reading “Gift Ideas for Couples Who Have Enough Stuff!”

My Five Favorite Shopping Apps

My Five Favorite Shopping Apps

I got my first cell phone back in 1994. It was a gigantic Motorola flip phone that had to be plugged into my car’s cigarette lighter to charge. And it was strictly for emergencies. So I never used it. Through the years our family’s gone through flip phones, bag phones, Razr phones, Nokia phones. (and those are just the ones I remember) Seems like cellphone technology changes faster than Carrie Underwood at the CMAs! Smartphones have made our lives easier by allowing us to connect via social media, messaging and voice. But have you used your cell for shopping? The ever-changing landscape of shopping apps available for your cell phone can make shopping EASIER and can even SAVE YOU MONEY! Which is nice when you’re a busy working woman on a budget like me! Here’s a list of my favorite shopping apps. Continue reading “My Five Favorite Shopping Apps”

Preparing for the Empty Nest (while you’re still young)

Preparing for the Empty Nest (while you’re still young)

This may surprise you, but this message isn’t for those moms about to send their babies off to college, or marriage, or out into the world to spread their wings and fly. It’s actually for you busy young mamas who are in the early years of their marriage. You know who you are. You might have spit up on your yoga pants, your hair is probably in a ponytail, you don’t remember the last time you wore makeup or even left the house for something other than grocery shopping. Or you’re running that perpetual taxi service to school and dance practice and ball practice and church and birthday parties. I was you, once upon a time, not too long ago, and I know you’re super busy and overwhelmed right now, but let me tell you, if you’re not preparing your marriage for the empty nest, you’re making a huge mistake. Do I have your attention? Great! Keep reading! Continue reading “Preparing for the Empty Nest (while you’re still young)”