Do you unload the dishwasher as dinner cooks on the stove…while you talk on the phone, compile a grocery list, and have a load of laundry going? Engaging in all of these activities at once is an example of what is commonly referred to as “multitasking.” I’ve done this a multitude of times and I often think I’m more productive and efficient … [Read more...] about Multitasking: Time Saver or Time Waster? (Part 1)
Keeping the Home
Healthy Game Day Snacks
The biggest football game of the year is just over a week away. Traditional game day snack menus feature everything from fried chicken and bacon-wrapped cocktail weenies to loaded nachos and pizza. While some of these options are tempting, I’m considering some healthier alternatives. I will not pretend the selections featured below are as … [Read more...] about Healthy Game Day Snacks
Should I Purchase an Extra Freezer?
We’d been having a bit of an issue with freezer space… …so my husband and I began considering the possibility of purchasing an extra freezer. Do the benefits of an extra freezer outweigh the costs of purchasing and providing power for one? Benefits of having an extra freezer You have room to store foods purchased in bulk. Several … [Read more...] about Should I Purchase an Extra Freezer?
Rampant Reusing: Wire Hangers
While wire hangers can always be employed for their intended use (you know…hanging clothes), I’m not pleased with their performance in this capacity. As a result, the wire hangers my husband and I have are currently taking up space without providing any benefit. Hopefully, with the help of the ideas listed below, this will change. 10 … [Read more...] about Rampant Reusing: Wire Hangers
Cuban Ham and Bean Soup with Cilantro Lime Rice
Earlier this week I pulled from the freezer what remained of our leftover Christmas ham. The ensuing dish was amazing! Soup ingredients 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 medium onion, chopped 2 tablespoons minced garlic 1/2 of a red bell pepper, seeded and chopped 2 cups cooked ham, chopped 2 cups cooked black beans or 1 (15 oz.) … [Read more...] about Cuban Ham and Bean Soup with Cilantro Lime Rice
Handling the Upfront Costs of Buying in Bulk
The judicious purchase of foods and household items in bulk can be a wonderful strategy for decreasing how much you spend on groceries. While bulk purchases often have lower per unit costs, they do cost more upfront because you are buying large quantities. A 16 oz. package of pasta costs $0.99. You can get the same pasta for only $0.83 … [Read more...] about Handling the Upfront Costs of Buying in Bulk
Setting Goals for the New Year
In just a few days I will begin my annual phase of faltering when writing the date. My brain will recognize the error a split second after my hand automatically writes “2012.” The New Year is often conceptualized as a fresh start or a blank slate. My husband and I have chosen to capitalize on this concept by setting goals for the coming … [Read more...] about Setting Goals for the New Year
Cookies ‘n’ Creme Dark Chocolate Brownies
Around here, baking is often like assembling a jigsaw puzzle. I try to fit together unique components that are of no use on their own, but together form a beautiful (or in this case, tasty) product. Today was no exception as I prepared some goodies for a dessert exchange that will occur during a Christmas party my husband and I will attend … [Read more...] about Cookies ‘n’ Creme Dark Chocolate Brownies
