tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35940810969423978992012-02-16T12:00:04.233-05:00Making Life Beautiful and SimpleJuliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.comBlogger321100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-43674827303671305062011-12-20T22:40:00.000-05:002011-12-20T22:43:20.515-05:00

Here is a quick tip just in time for stocking stuffers. I love to wrap every little thing in our kids' Christmas stockings...partially because it makes each item seem a little more special. The other main reason is that we just don't put much in the stockings. This year, in lieu of wrap, I decided to make little origami boxes. The inspiration: My mother in law. She is awesome at gift giving,

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-8636837138787597262011-03-12T16:39:00.006-05:002011-03-12T16:56:42.642-05:00

Once you've made my gluten free flour mix, you NEED to make the following cookie recipe.GF Toll House Cookies (adapted fromverybestbaking.com)2 1/4 cups Julia’s all-purpose flour1 teaspoon baking soda1 teaspoon salt1 cup (2 sticks) butter, softened3/4 cup granulated sugar3/4 cup packed brown sugar1 teaspoon gf vanilla extract2 large eggs2 cups (12-oz. pkg.) gf chocolate chipsDirections:PREHEAT

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-21868335295509958682010-10-07T13:16:00.006-04:002010-10-09T13:19:19.239-04:00

In light of many real problems in the world today, head lice is a minor issue. But, if your family has ever fallen victim to this nasty ailment, you'll know what chaos can ensue when you say the word "louse."As I type, my head feels itchy. Last school year, my little family experienced lice infestation. My poor husband knows I am great with many difficult situations, but this is a whole other

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-64918670676003130712010-05-10T09:27:00.006-04:002010-07-22T22:28:25.061-04:00

I have decided to give away my gluten free flour recipe. I've tried TONS of gluten free products available today. Many of them are gross, and many of them are fine. None of the gluten free flours did everything I desired. What I wanted was a gf flour that could serve my baking needs. I wanted something that behaved like real four and tasted decent. What I came up with is a flour that tastes and

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-67655309848992194442009-12-06T11:41:00.004-05:002009-12-06T12:17:13.353-05:00

I had a friend tell me that her husband grew up in a family of little means. Her husband has not-so-fond memories as he remembers dining out as a family. Dad would get a soda and he and the other kids would get water. And I must admit, that more than a few handfuls of times, I have done this. Not that my kids need overloads of caffeine and sugar, but neither do I! Also, I want to be an example to

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-83751974932731239372009-09-21T13:32:00.004-04:002009-09-23T09:55:11.153-04:00

10. Eat a banana for heartburn relief.9. Eat a spoonful of sugar to stop hiccups.8. Oil and vinegar are more than just salad fixings. Clean stainless with them.7. Rub your hands on a stainless steel surface after cutting onions to remove the onion smell.6. Pinch the skin between your thumb and pointer finger to alleviate headache pain.5. Put Noxzema on a sunburn to take away the pain.4.

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-12119540480301734922009-05-27T06:29:00.003-04:002009-05-27T07:30:37.799-04:00

Like I've stated before, I am an all or nothing person. Half-hearted is just not how I want to be described. But really, if I had to have a bachelors degree in every activity I tried, I wouldn't do much.Here enters the quote at the top of this entry. For context: Linda Dollar was a role model in my community when I was in high school. Her simple statement meant a lot to me then and still does now

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-17703310243804762532009-02-17T15:28:00.004-05:002009-03-11T08:23:07.709-04:00

I love the idea of redeeming objects. When I see something with potential, I grab it. That tossed out chair by the dumpster. That dresser someone is selling for pennies at a yard sale. That yardage of fabric grandma doesn't want.My home is decorated with re-purposed or renovated items. It's cheap and it's rewarding, but it has a dark side. For every warm feeling that comes from finishing a piece

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-64049013922614029792009-01-22T07:25:00.005-05:002009-01-22T19:11:47.935-05:00

1. Prep the walls. You wouldn't put make-up on a muddy face, would you? Stripping wallpaper, filling holes, sanding rough spots, and wiping down with a tack cloth will insure a better finish every time. Preparation is the most tedious part of the whole project, but this is what separates the sloppy from the sleek.2. Use primer when color is drastically different. A good primer is almost always

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-64099837410351607422009-01-07T19:43:00.003-05:002009-01-08T09:25:32.352-05:00

With the new year comes new goals, new resolution, and new ideas. Let's start with a new book! I recommend Lose 200 Pounds This Weekend by Don Aslett.Most of us just received a plethora of wonderful gifts in the past month. Now we suffer from affluenza. Affluenza is an overwhelming sense of dissatisfaction amidst bountiful provision. While we desire to "count our blessings," we dread the upkeep

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-30708400076610060432008-12-15T15:12:00.002-05:002008-12-15T15:39:57.143-05:00

I'm always looking for more value for my money. Cheap groceries, clothes at deep discount, or ways to cut back on the costs of family entertainment. But some things are always more valuable than others. People always matter more than things. With that in mind, I point you to this video. Today was the launch of a campaign called 5 Dollars In 5 Days.Safe Harbor is a local organization in the

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-54692399974866506662008-12-03T07:21:00.005-05:002008-12-04T07:06:33.381-05:00

Decorate minimally. A few lights and ornaments go a long way. We limit our holiday decorations to one large Rubbermaid bin. (Aside from the tree itself, of course.)Be selective about holiday activities. Discuss what events are meaningful to each member of your family. Then say "no" to the extra invites.Turn off the TV. The glow of the Christmas lights are great ambiance for cuddling up to read a

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-40337485989637884142008-11-25T06:56:00.003-05:002008-11-25T07:10:43.639-05:00

Have you ever noticed the back of a Christmas tree? The rear of the tree is where all the ugly ornaments go to die. Well, not really die, just hide. All of us have them: the tacky dough ornament that was an unwanted gift even the day it was opened, the souvenir ornament from Aunt Gertrude’s stop in Dolly Wood 12 years ago, the handmade pipe cleaner and clothespin reindeer from your third grade

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-29252901250737973572008-11-19T06:28:00.004-05:002008-11-19T21:02:51.599-05:00

You may not feel you have time for a book, but everyone has time for an article. Here are five links to quick reads on decluttering. If your interest is piqued, you may be surprised at what you can find at the library on this topic.Where Do I Start? OrganizedHome.comHow to Declutter FlyladyTen Ways to Declutter Your Home Peter WalshThe Clutter Control Rules Jeff CampbellInterview with Don

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-27560751618074826962008-11-17T08:10:00.005-05:002008-11-18T08:34:47.499-05:00

How quickly the fall goes by! We are on the cusp of Thanksgiving, and the holiday pace will snowball from there. In the midst of all the hustle and bustle, no one wants to replace celebration with chaos. But, how do we keep that from happening? It takes conscious effort. Forethought is helpful.In the Fall of 2001, I went on a women's retreat where I received a helpful list of stress tips

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-5915841088152401562008-11-13T06:30:00.010-05:002008-11-13T17:37:43.644-05:00

We have friends that are light years ahead of my husband and me when it comes to financial know-how. And in sync with the previous quote, my hubby and I went to them for fiscal advice. When they recommended The Total Money Makeover, we listened. And we are glad we did.Dave Ramsey, the writer of said book, has been mentioned on this blog before. I know he will be mentioned again later.

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-78745648725457173142008-11-10T16:03:00.003-05:002008-11-10T16:40:01.313-05:00

I am practical. Some say overly practical at times. But even in my practicality, beauty is something I desire. I prefer pink rubber gloves to yellow. I prefer a pretty writing pen to a regular ball-point. I prefer stationery to plain paper.And today, I prefer the simply gorgeous hues of the beautiful eggs on my kitchen table to the plain white ones I buy on any given grocery day. I have

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-7691006862848986962008-11-08T21:43:00.003-05:002008-11-08T22:15:33.278-05:00

For Halloween, my children and I crafted some gifts for local nursing home friends. Generosity is an attribute I want to help them develop. This was also something I remember doing as I child. So any creative kudos you may wish to give, can be passed along to my mom.It's easy, cheap, and also uses up those spare writing utensils we all have stashed around our homes.Supplies needed:fuzzy faux

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-76549052564558882322008-11-07T06:54:00.005-05:002008-11-07T09:50:11.886-05:00

My little family lives on a budget. We live within our means. But, with that in mind, we also are foodies. My hubby and I LOVE a great steak. We munch seasonal fresh fruit and veggies. Trying new recipes is a joy! But we all need those staple meals that keep our funds in check. Our recipe repertoire needs to contain as Dave Ramsey says, "beans and rice, rice and beans."I can eat plain rice

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-88249808140888440012008-11-01T13:49:00.003-04:002008-11-03T15:29:07.840-05:00

I always wear pink sunglasses. These are my reasons:Pink is one of my favorite colors.If I leave my glasses somewhere (which I often do), they are easy to describe.I like how I look in cheap plastic pink sunglasses.Looking at the world through pink plastic makes me feel better.It's really true that pink is a feel-good color. Your sense of well-being seems hightened when everything looks rosy.

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-359046213122854572008-10-30T06:26:00.004-04:002008-10-30T07:59:23.066-04:00

I wrote this little blurb a couple of years ago, but it is still relevant to my life today."I took my mom’s advice today. While I was vacuuming the kitchen floor, I couldn’t find the brush attachment. Making effort not to get frustrated, I did what she always recommends. “If you can’t find something, just start picking up and you’ll eventually run into what you’re looking for.” For starters,

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-18931269668357799562008-10-29T06:55:00.009-04:002008-10-29T15:38:28.995-04:00

Yesterday was one of those days that nothing got done during daylight. I know I did things, because when my kids went to bed, they had all eaten three meals, changed their clothes several times, and had various art projects displayed on every surface. But my home looked like a tornado came for a week long stay. Mondays are supposed to be laundry day. But here it was, Tuesday, and the mound of

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-23744067213611902102008-10-24T11:25:00.012-04:002008-10-25T07:23:19.621-04:00

When it came to carving our pumpkin for Halloween, I thought, "Waste not, want not."I've always felt a little sad about throwing those pumpkin guts in the trash when we made our annual jack-o-lantern. So, after the kids hollowed out the pumpkin, I carefully sorted out the seeds from the strings. Then I plopped the goo into a covered casserole to bake. I normally cut a pumpkin in half to bake

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-66128123480023433012008-10-23T08:37:00.008-04:002008-10-23T14:34:01.239-04:00

So much about life is just asking. My tip for today is to just ask. If you are at a store and you want a discount, just ask. So often I have received a manager's discount or an unadvertised special simply because I requested a deal. Even the biggest chains can often give ten percent off if packaging is damaged.If you are shopping online, do a search for online discounts for that store. You

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-58007186036772418312008-10-22T09:19:00.004-04:002008-10-22T14:42:26.013-04:00

I love Fall! I love the less of it all. The trees letting go of their leaves, the air losing it's heat, and and my schedule becoming less intense as school is well underway. For the first time in months, life has a rhythm that lends itself to the occasional nap or spontaneous picnic.It's the perfect time of year for getting to those unfinished projects around the house. Amongst those

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-45475990381487159112008-10-20T17:38:00.006-04:002008-10-20T21:47:25.872-04:00

Family activities don't have to cost much. Most of the time, ours cost nothing. Now is the time of year for families to head to a pumpkin patch or apple barn. A couple of weekends ago, my little family went to a local farm that benefits rescued farm animals. We had no idea it existed until I searched pumpkinpatchesandmore.org. It's a great resource for finding local produce, farm tours,

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-72525568072041650612008-10-18T08:12:00.015-04:002008-10-18T12:23:01.599-04:00

Gluten intolerance brings fun challenges in both the culinary and financial realms of my home. I have been gf (gluten free) since December 2006. During my third pregnancy, my body started having big problems. It became obvious that the celiac disease that plagued other members of my family was going to cause problems for me too.Ok, so it's really not as bad as I make that sound. It's totally

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-62481459626629340962008-10-17T13:28:00.006-04:002008-10-22T14:45:29.560-04:00

In my home, frugality goes hand in hand with simple living. If I am at the end of the month, and we run out of paper towels, oh well! And if there are no paper napkins, then of course, cloth napkins will suffice until next pay day. Besides, cloth napkins are prettier.Here are a few easy ways I have found to extend the life of disposable goods in my home:Use a serrated knife to cut paper towel

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-7096762300662358582008-10-16T06:12:00.005-04:002008-10-22T14:44:50.548-04:00

Yesterday, my whole family was in the backyard while dinner was cooking in the oven. We love our backyard. My hubby and I have not always been "yard people." We thought we were buying a small piece of property only to find that it was several times larger! But, three kids later, the outside has become a huge part of our life. We are thankful for that unexpected space.I looked around at my

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-56464277787543983532008-10-15T07:49:00.000-04:002008-10-15T07:55:53.335-04:00

While sorting, ask yourself the following questions: If there was a fire, what handfuls of items would I grab to save in this room? When I die, what would I hate for someone else to have to discard for me simply because I “never got around to it?” Why should I burden them with that responsibility if I didn’t even make it a priority? Do I have duplicate items? Which one is of better

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-80211004762686755922008-10-14T16:42:00.003-04:002008-10-17T09:32:39.597-04:00

Part of having a simpliful life, is removing all the clutter. Clutter keeps you harried. Who has time to seize a day when you’re so busy cramming stuff into it? Besides, it’s too heavy to seize with all that junk in it!After reading around twenty books on de-cluttering and organizing, I have some tips for you.Steps for Easier De-cluttering Read Clutter’s Last Stand by Don Aslett (as low as

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3594081096942397899.post-45235839825489616342008-10-14T15:59:00.000-04:002008-10-14T16:11:29.548-04:00

I live a simpliful life. For me, beauty is often found in the simplest subjects: beautiful simplicity. I love taking a task that seems complicated and finding a way to do it simply. Life is too short to bog down with the unnecessary and too precious to waste.So here we are. I knew a blog was in my brain, but I just wanted to ignore it. By nature, I am an "all or nothing" person. The fear of

Juliahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17311441702807978591noreply@blogger.com2