Our Entryway - Still in Progress

Our Entryway - still in progress

I'm thinking of purchasing an inexpensive table or bench for this area. The curtains came with the apartment. I have no plans to change them since our stay is short term.

The Lettered Cottage - Blog Recommendation

Pottery Barn inspiration

These days I know that many of us are reading blogs that are frugal based. How about including some blogs that have a focus on creating beauty in your home?

I have discovered The Lettered Cottage yesterday. The blogger is an interior designer who's style I just love! The rooms are warm and inviting. She shares her project, which is remodeling an older home and her clients.

You'll enjoy a much needed break from all the bad news. I sure do!

Ultimate Blog Party - March 20-27, 2009

5 minutes for mom is having their annual Ultimate Blog Party on March 20-27, 2009. Stop by their blog for all the party details and to grab a button for your blog!

Ultimate Blog Party 2008 was great fun!

I'll be offering an Ultimate Blog Party drawing prize, from our favorite online bakery, Simply Seasonal.

BerryMorins Bits and Tips will be there. Will you?

Works For Me Wednesday - Renewal Ceremony Invitations and Mailing

Renewal Ceremony Invitation

On Monday, August 11, 2008, Charles and I mailed our invitations! This was a joint effort since hubby addressed the white booklet envelopes using Microsoft Word. We worked together on the wording for the invitations. Marcus assisted with feedback on the coordinating stationary, from Vistaprint.com.

By the way, Office Depot had the best option on white booklet envelopes. They offer them in packages of 25.

We placed all the invitations, RSVP postcards and enclosure cards in the booklet envelopes.

I had weighed all the contents and envelope so I knew postage was .59 cents. I purchased all my stamps online, via USPS. Oh, I shouldn't forget to mention the postage card stamps for the RSVP postcards.

My postage was under $40! Not bad for my budget.

Wordless Wednesday - March 11, 2009

Part of the Dining Area of our Apartment

Kitchen Redo - Nesting Place

I'm currently thinking of inexpensive ways to decorate this huge kitchen. Thanks to Nesting Place for some great tips I won't be breaking our piggy bank to do it. We're also only going to be in the apartment for a year.

Tip 1: Unclutter - I've never been a fan of clutter

Tip 2: Shine your sink - It's a challenge with two chefs-in-training. They can cook but hate to clean up behind themselves.

Tip 3: Clean off the refrigerator - I've decided to move the magnets and pictures to the side of the fridge.

Tip 4: Incorporate fabric - I'm not sure I'll get this one. I do have some pretty hand towels hanging on our farm chickens.

Tip 5: Emphasize Seating - We have a counter but the counter stools are too short. The hubby doesn't want to spend money for new ones since we'll only live here for a year.

Tip 6: Consider Lighting - If I find an inexpensive lamp that I like I'll buy it. The search continues.

Tip 7: Add beauty - My husband has taken a large serving bowl and placed our fresh fruit in it. He also added some pretty plaques to the backsplash. We love it!

Menu Plan Monday - March 9, 2009

The hubby and I stopped by Target last night and finally purchased some new pillows for our bed! I think it's time to replace your pillows when the stuffing is coming out or they're turning yellow. What do you think?

Marcus took advantage of the free shipping that Old Navy.com was having this weekend. He stocked up on jeans, Tshirts and some workout clothes. Our continuing growing teenager says he'll be set till summer.

I've decided due to our busy business work schedule and my severe chronic pain that I would hire housekeeping service. I've found it's been too challenging to maintain our 2000 square foot apartment. Carol King's Housekeeping will be doing the heavy monthly cleaning, as well as the laundry, vacuuming, etc. once a month.

Now onto this week's menu! Thank you Organizing Junkie for your hosting this weekly event!

Grilled Salmon, Mixed Green Salad

Turkey with Gravy, Mixed Green Salad

Baked Pork Chops, Mac and Cheese, Green Beans

Grilled Steaks, Potatoes, Aspargus

Hamburgers with Whole Buns, Oven Baked Fries

Store Area Re-Do - Nesting Place Inspiration

I want to give full credit to Nesting Place for the motivation and inspiration to do a re-do on our store area, at American Mini Storage - Nellis AFB. I don't currently have some before photos but I do like the after.

There was no money spent, just using items that I found in the storeroom and in our apartment.

Even the hubby noticed it after being out working on the grounds.

I now plan on making redos on a monthly basis, in the store, as well as our home.

Thank you Nesting Place for your tips!

Amazon.com - Subscribe and Save Program

Great sugar free food products are sometimes hard to find and expensive in the local grocery stores. When I heard that Amazon.com had a Grocery section called Subscribe and Save I decided to give it a try.

Groceries, health and beauty products, that you use frequently, can be placed on auto ship. You never run out, saves you time and money.

Right now Amazon.com is offer a 15% savings and free delivery.