Small Signs of Spring & Frugal Accomplishments

Hello, friends.  Last week, I learned teeny, tiny chicken eggs are called fairy eggs.  For a dinner, I made a pasta meal, which used our canned tomatoes and summer squash, and fresh rosemary.  I pulled our frozen okra out of the freezer for a dinner, and made kale salad with our kale, to have with leftover quiche.  I sent another email to swagbucks, as points from our vacation in September have still not been credited.  After an out of town appointment, I went by a nearby Trader Joe's and Whole Foods.  The majority of what I bought was fruits and vegetables, as J is needing quite a bit to start on his allergy protocol.  I had hoped to find it all at TJ's, but there were several things I had to buy at Whole Foods.  Happily, I found out at my appointment that eggs are OK on occasion for me.  Whew!  On my way to the appointment, I dropped off an order at the Fedex site.

On Wednesday, the last part came, J hooked it up, and we had water at the kitchen faucet again.   Hooray!  I paid our propane bill online to save a stamp, and in time to get a discount, saving $3.04.  Two dozen eggs were shared.  I froze homemade bread that we weren't going to eat right now.  Several more sweet potatoes were dehydrated for pup treats.  I picked ones that had bad spots, so what was good could still be used.  The ugly bits went into the compost.  Eggs have been gathered from the chickens daily.  Ziploc bags were washed for reuse. Candles were used most nights while eating dinner.  I sold two items on ebay.  Not much, but every little bit helps.  I'm staying on track, doing small kitchen chores while waiting.  One of the crispers was cleaned, and a bit more of the fridge wiped down.  Having been inspired by these small changes, I cleaned and organized another kitchen drawer. 

I pulled another box of my friend's antiques from the shed, this time metal items.  I worked on three items to list on ebay, and got everything done except figuring shipping, which I plan to do on Saturday, and list them on Sunday.  A few paperwork and tax chores were crossed off the to do list.  One item was mended.  My sister and I met for dinner.  Nothing frugal there, other than we both brought home leftovers.  It's just wonderful to spend time together.  I've been having pain in one of my feet, and learning about foot health.  I first heard a podcast with Katy Bowman, then found one of her books in the library.  One thing I've learned is that you want a toe box that is big enough for your toes to fit comfortably, not squished.  Just stopping using some of my footwear has already made a big change in how my foot feels.  I really needed something better to hike in, and ordered a pair of $200 boots that between their markdown and a 20% off code, were $40, with free shipping and returns.  I really hope they work well.  I've begun doing some of the exercises too.  Here's to healthy feet, and remaining mobile for many more years.

There have been a few signs that spring is coming.  I've noticed leaf buds on a number of plants, and saw several daffodil buds this week.  The broom by the road has begun blooming.  The next two nights will be in the teens, so I expect that will slow things down a bit.  I did get to list the items on ebay.  I assisted J in working on our new painting system, and we finished it Saturday evening.  On Sunday, we painted 6 orders, and all came out well.  This will be a major improvement for our little business.   I hope all those affected by the winter storms are staying safe and warm.  Be well, friends.