Sunday, March 13, 2011

It's Almost "Happy Spring!"

I know the calendar says it's still winter, but, it's 70 degrees here yesterday and today and we are landscaping. Rick is very good with these kinds of things. Me, I don't even notice. I mean, I notice when he makes everything look nice, but, living here alone all these years, I just quit taking notice of my surroundings.

Rick and I have decided to give up all our cats. He's keeping the dog, a miniature Pinser. Our cats aren't too bad, but, having to feed them downstairs and giving them a way in and out has attracted many strays and ferals. They have done several hundred dollars damage to the heating ducts under the house. If we get rid of "our" cats, we can close off entry into the basement, quit putting feed out, and the others will move on to more friendly environs. Rick is allergic to cat dander, so, my beloved pets had to be moved outside. I just think it's better all around to try to find loving homes for them so that they can have some companionship.

We've been working quite a bit lately and eating out way too much. It's just too much to work all day and then come home and try to cook something decent. Rick said the other day that he was getting tired of cooking, so, I'm going to have to brush up on my cooking skills and help out. I did prepare dinner last night and Rick has put a chuck roast in the crock pot this morning for tonight's dinner. Of course, the size of the thing means we'll be eating it for three or four days!

I was pleased to find some bargains at the grocery the other day. There was a P&G Q for $3 off Gain fabric softener. My Bi-Lo had it on sale for $2.99 and lucky me, I had 2 coupons! Free softener to last for a while. I also had one Q for BOGOF Swiffer refills. Those wetjet pads are almost $7 a box! I once made the mistake of buying the CVS brand which is supposed to work with Swiffer wetjet. It does not and I bought 2 boxes. They don't have a sticky side to stick to the mop head. So, in trying to save money, I wasted it. I did take back the unopened box for a refund but I didn't have the moxy to take back the open box. You know, I might just take a run at trying to take back the opened box. It clearly states on the box that they can be used with Swiffer wetjet.

So far this year, I have only spent about $176 on groceries and used about $400 in Q's. It's hard to keep it under tight control the way I used to, as Rick likes to go the the grocery and just roam the aisles, throwing things in the basket willy-nilly. Since he does most of the cooking, I can't really say much about his shopping habits.

I must confess one thing about my grocery shopping; I've started buying those pre-cooked, boiled and peeled eggs from Eggland's Best. Yes, they are pricey, but, I always have a coupon, doubled, and besides, they are a great convenience. When I first saw them in the store, I said, "Now, that's pretty lazy to buy eggs already boiled and peeled!" Having to eat those words now.

Well, Rick is calling for me to help in the yard. He's putting in azaleas and other stuff I can't pronounce or spell.

We'll talk soon.