Frugality, Food Waste, and Other Friday Thoughts

Looking at yesterday's grocery bill, I feel like a dismal failure at frugality. Most of my items were produce related. I also bought a few pantry items. I can't help that food prices are high, and frugality isn't always focused on squeezing every last dime.

The things that appeal to me most about frugality are avoiding waste. 

Food waste is one priority. I sometimes buy too much produce or lunchmeat. I need to plan around what I buy, instead of just grabbing anything that looks good. I also have to be realistic as I read interesting recipes or see fun things as I walk the grocery aisles. Will I actually make that dish?

I'm getting better at using vegetables before they get too old and finding new recipes that use multiple items. That also helps with the age-old problem of what to have for dinner.

Buying used is another way to reduce waste. We're buying a dining room table and chairs as well as a coffee table from our downstairs neighbor when she moves. Another neighbor is taking me to a good thrift store. I hope I'm lucky.

Jeff and I are going out to lunch tomorrow for Valentine's Day. We usually don't go out on this holiday, but it's going to warm up to the 50s, and we haven't been out in a while. I was undecided at first, but now I'm looking forward to it. 

I'm longing for spring, but knew it's still far off. Nothing like multiple snow piles to remind you it's winter. 

A Little Can Be Enough

On Sunday, I was feeling sorry for myself. I wrote in my journal that I wasn't happy with my life. Then I wrote that I'd have to remake my life into something that will make me happy. I ended with "Think about that!" 

The next day, things started looking better. Walking Jace, I felt something in the air--a little warmth. It was still cold, but it was sunny, and there was no wind. After weeks with temperatures below freezing, everyone's excited for some warmth and melting. We'll gladly take the mud and mush. 

I had a good day today with this song was going through my head. I'm happy with my accomplishments--I got a decent amount of work done (paperwork, unpacking, cleaning.) I also want to Jeff's speech therapy session with him; it gave me a lot to think about.  

A Catch-Up Post

It's been a busy ten days. Deep snow in Maryland and Connecticut complicated our lives. The highways were great driving to and from Connecticut (Wednesday and Saturday, respectively.) Getting out of the condo here and parking in Norwalk were our biggest challenges, thanks to ubiquitous snow piles and icy patches. 

We are no longer Norwalk property owners. I had a few things to do before we met with our attorney on Thursday. Despite a few glitches, everything worked out. After we signed the papers, I ran errands. Then, I got takeout from Little Kitchen, our favorite Chinese restaurant in the area. We enjoyed our favorites: Sauteed Sliced Chicken with Hot Peppers and Crispy Spinach and Dry Sauteed Shredded Beef Szechuan Style, as well a Bean Curd with Vegetables Country Style for Jen who graciously hosted us again. We already miss Little Kitchen.

We vegged on Friday, and I finished Badlands. On Saturday, we drove back. There had been talk of more snow, plus I couldn't wait to get home. 

This week has been a blur of medical appointments and paperwork. Today, I stocked up on food in case the predicted snow amounts to more than an inch. I also picked up a welcome mat and some baskets we've needed. Now, I can really focus on our new home.

Tuesday Topics

We got a lot of snow over Saturday and Sunday. The official total closest to us is 9 inches in Middle River. 

Unfortunately, our new condo management is very bad at snow removal. And their office is still closed. I know this is a rare heavy snow event in the Baltimore area, but damn, it's not like we're in Mississippi or somewhere else in the Deep South where cities don't even have snowplows.

The parking lot is decently plowed but needs more work. All the walkways need to be cleared. It's especially frustrating because Jeff and I are planning to drive to Connecticut tomorrow to finalize our condo sale and take care of some other business. There's no way I can get Jeff or anyone using a walker or cane to the car.

Thank goodness for our friendly and helpful neighbors. One couple on the first floor shoveled from their patio to the street and will widen that path. They lent me a cart to take our luggage downstairs through their unit. Two neighbors will help Jeff get into the car. I appreciate their help but am disappointed that I need to rely on them and not the management company that we are paying. 

On top of all that, there is the potential for another snow event next weekend. Jeff and I may have to cut our trip short. We'll see.

The Dread Before the Storm

Forecasts are dire and the weather media seems to relish the worsening reports. 

In our first winter in Essex, we've experienced the coldest December in twenty years. Now, this weekend may bring the biggest snowstorm in 20. Bad timing for us, or maybe a neighbor was right when she said I brought the cold from Connecticut. 

I ran most of my errands yesterday, including the second grocery run of the week. I missed a few things when I went shopping on Monday. Plus, I figured I should stock up--I won't be driving anywhere until at least Monday. The best errand was going to the Essex Library. I got a library card and three books. 

I admit I'm worried about losing power and being unable to cook. I'm used to having a gas stovetop. It could be lots of peanut butter sandwiches. Good thing we love peanut butter. 

Catch-up Post: Snow, Celebrations, and Holiday Prep

We had our first measurable snowfall last Saturday night--two to three inches. Previously we had only experienced flurries. Funny, my friend insisted it doesn't snow here. Well, this has been the coldest December in 20 years.

Our building had a bite and sip holiday party last Friday. My salmon spread was a big hit. Jeff and I enjoyed ourselves. After about an hour, we brought Jace downstairs to join us. Talk about a big hit--he was quite charming. 

On Monday, I went to a celebration of life for my cousin's husband. There were many people there--I only knew two beside my cousins. It was very cold, but Sunday's snowstorm didn't cause any problems. I was happy I could attend. It truly was a celebration of Tom's life. 

As I mentioned in an earlier post, we didn't do much in the way of Christmas decorating, but I can still see Christmas things I love around the living room. 

I'm going to cook this Christmas. I wasn't happy with the Whole Foods Thanksgiving meal and catering options for two or four are limited. I'm making filet mignon for Christmas Eve with scalloped potatoes, sauteed spinach, baby bella mushrooms, and crescent rolls. Jeff bought a Christmas pudding for dessert. I also have cheese with cranberries as an appetizer as well as soups. 

I'll make Christmas breakfast on Christmas Day. I haven't decided on dinner yet, but I want something easy. 

Wet Weather

It feels like it's always snowing. I know that isn't true. Didn't it snow/rain three times this week? And three times the week before that?

There are hints of more snow to come later this week--possibly a lot more. 

Not even two-thirds through winter. How am I going to hold on? The Mets play their first spring training game next week. Maybe that will help. 

Monday Blahs

We had chili yesterday, a Super Bowl tradition for us. Unfortunately, it didn't agree with me. I didn't sleep well either. 

I dressed for the gym this morning, but didn't go. I just wasn't up for it. Instead I did some stretching here, ran some errands, and took Jace to Sherwood Island. It's a state park; the parking lot is well plowed, and many of the walking paths are clear of snow.  I don't remember when we were last there. We walked for about 35 minutes, which is much longer than we've been walking around the neighborhood. There are too many uncleared spots around here especially after four inches of snow Saturday night. And...there's potential for two more snow events this week.

I have a case of the blahs or many cabin fever. Haven't even made it halfway through February.

Longing for March

Another week has passed--with two snowstorms. I'm happy that next Friday is March. I know we have another month of winter, and winter weather may ignore the calendar. But getting through February is hard, and I'll celebrate it. 

I haven't been happy with my year so far. I've barely been writing and done very little blogging. It's been eight days since I've been to the gym. I'm still reading my second book of the year. I was on my seventh book by this time last year.  

I need to make some changes. To be continued. 

Tuesday Snow Day and Other Miscellanea

We're currently dealing with the biggest snowstorm of the season. Today is my day to care for the birds at New Canaan Nature Center, but I didn't go. I feel guilty about it, but it's better to be safe. At least winter is half-way over.

I made sure to go food shopping yesterday. ShopRite was crowded, but not as bad as I expected. I focused on things for tomorrow--Valentine's Day. we're having filet mignon, shitake mushrooms, scalloped potatoes, and creamed spinach, a gimlet, and Faithful Hound wine. We'll even eat by candlelight. I can't remember the last time we did that. 

It's been over a week since I last posted. That's pitiful if I want to maintain a presence here. I started a post about TV shows that we've been watching. I had been hoping that blogging would kickstart some other writing for me. So far, no good.

At least I've done some creative things. I've been working/playing in my art journal. I may not have much to show for it, but it makes me feel better.

Welcome February

February is my least favorite month. But I welcome it because we need to get through February to get to March and spring. Plus I didn't enjoy the last few days of January. I went into a funk last week at this time. I had an ambitious to-do list and barely made a dent in it. Then I got thinking about self sabotage; I had trouble with my story; Jasper landed on my head. I started to turn things around yesterday.

***

I woke up to snow on Tuesday and Wednesday. It's as if winter itself suddenly woke up and said, "I better get to work." It had been in the fifties on Sunday and Monday, and the snow didn't linger. New York City got its first snow of the season yesterday--apparently a news story of the utmost importance.

I checked the news to see what Punxsutawney Phil predicted. Whatever he says, we have six more weeks of winter--I just hope it feels like spring. 

*** 

February brings Valentine's Day. It's overhyped, but I still enjoy it. Jeff and I are talking about dinner plans. I'm thinking a sushi appetizer and a saketini. Do I want to cook or get more takeout? Oh, we'll need dessert too. Decisions. 

Lousy Smarch Weather

Just a few days ago, temperatures were flirting with 70 degrees. Today it rained and snowed. Luckily it started a few hours later than predicted, and I was able to take Lola to Oyster Shell for a walk. More rain and snow are predicted for Saturday. Ugh. 

Oh well, I can watch this clip and laugh.

Snow Squall

I was about to take Lola to Oyster Shell Park, when our phones starting buzzing with a snow squall warning. So we waited out the squall. The snow swirled furiously for about a half hour. Afterwards, the park looked beautiful like funnel cake sprinkled with powdered sugar. 

We weren't the only people there, but in some places ours were the only foot (and paw) prints. Somehow, it made me feel special. 

By the time we came home, ice was beginning to form on the parking lot. I'm glad to be in for the night.  

Weather Update

Today temperatures rose to 30 degrees. It hurts to have to write that. But we're in Connecticut in January.

Norwalk got off lucky with the blizzard Saturday; we got about eight inches of snow. There was also a lot of wind which conveniently blew all the snow off my car and from around it. 

On Sunday and today, I took Lola to Oyster Shell Park for walks. Yesterday, some people were sledding. One hill was a good one, but I saw a guy overshoot the bottom and land in some bushes. Another hill didn't have that problem, but the snow cover was patchy. 

No sledding today. In a clean patch of snow, I saw the initials S&D enclosed in a heart. A few yards away, I saw another heart with the initials S&A. S gets around, but at least is open about it. 

I'm looking forward to temperatures in the forties in a few days, but dreading the resulting mud and puddles. 

And so it goes. 

Snow

We knew it was coming, but as one weatherperson said, our first major storm of the season overperformed. (Don't think I've heard that expression concerning a snowstorm before.) 

We got about nine inches of snow. Luckily the snow was dry and light--relatively easy to brush off the cars--no scraping required. I made it to Lola's vet tech appointment at 2 (but damn, forgot to ask about her weight--she's been losing weight lately.)

Afterwards, I took Lola to Sherwood Island, but it was closed. Next we tried Winslow. Lola ran and seemed to enjoy herself in the fifteen minutes we stayed. 

Unfortunately, the snow will be around awhile; it's going to be a cold week. 

Lazy Weekend

I had the lazy weekend I didn't even realize I needed. The most ambitious thing I did was go to the gym Saturday. I went to the art supply store Friday as I mentioned in an earlier post,  and I took Lola for walks. Other than that, I mostly stayed in: I read, did spelling bee puzzles, played with my art journal (but not my new supplies) and watched TV/movies. We ate Thanksgiving leftovers for Friday dinner and Saturday lunch. 

Tomorrow is the first Monday in months without a writing class: we're off until January. It's hard to believe it will only be a week since my last class. It feels as if it were much longer. I need to do my own writing.

Driving around, I've noticed more lights and other Christmas decorations. Oddly, I haven't seen any Christmas trees tied to the top of cars. My first sightings of the season are usually over Thanksgiving weekend. 

It snowed this morning. Luckily it didn't amount to anything, but it wasn't a welcome sight. I'm not ready.

Catching Up

I didn't expect to wait nine days since my last post. I had actually started another post immediately after the I published the last. 

Why haven't I been posting? It's partially a case of avoidance, partially a case of being preoccupied with Jeff's recovery plus my own health. We had neglected getting regular checkups and are working with some new doctors, researching insurance coverage, etc. 

I've had some writing block issues. I had two weeks for my latest class assignment. The theme was paths crossed using two characters from our previous two assignments. I wasn't crazy about my characters (one was based on me) they just weren't all that interesting. Writing the new story was a slog. 

I also need to talk about the mundane: habit. I got out of the habit of posting. Previously, I've compared blogging to working out at the gym. It can be hard to get started, and sometimes the process is frustrating, but it feels so good when it's over. There's a sense of accomplishment. 

I mentioned a snow hangover in an earlier post. We didn't get rid of that snow before we got another six inches (or thereabouts) last Thursday and Friday. It was flurrying when I got up on Saturday--I felt as if the meteorologists had betrayed me. They told me the snow had finally ended on Friday. On Monday we got additional snow/sleet/rain. It didn't amount to much in terms of measurement, but it was demoralizing. The older I get, the more I hate snow and its aftermath of slippery surfaces and slush. There were days when even Lola didn't want to go out. 

I'm stressed: a perfect storm of concern about Jeff, added responsibilities while Jeff is recovering, depressing winter weather, illness (I had a bad cold last week--the worst in years) plus Covid isolation and the usual day-to-day to-dos.

I know what I need to do. I've got to get better organized about my to-dos, so they don't overwhelm me. When I stop to think about it, I really don't have things that bad. I'm actually pretty privileged. 

I need to talk to friends more often. I may not be able to see people in person safely, but we can talk. 

Finally I need to create. I need to write more for my class and otherwise. I need to work on collages and art journals. I took a gelli plate workshop last month but haven't done anything since then. It's true that the layout of our condo is not conducive to making art, but I just have to make due. 

Snow Hangover

It started to snow sometime around 9 on Sunday night and lasted through sometime today. Norwalk got 15.9 inches (way to be precise News 12 Connecticut.) We also dealt with rain, sleet, and flurries today. 

Living in a condo, I don't have to shovel the sidewalk, but I do need to dig out my car. That's a job I hate. At least there wasn't ice on my car this time. 

Today Punxsutawney Phil predicted six more weeks of winter. I'm sick of winter already.

Snow

We're not easing into winter weather. The biggest storm in years is here now. We had taken Lola for a long walk from Mathews to Oyster Shell Parks around 10:30. Later we walked up to the corner around 4:30 just as it started to snow. 

We're predicted to get at least a foot of snow through tomorrow afternoon. I'm not happy about it, especially as the first snowfall of the season. At least, we don't have to go anywhere except to take Lola out. 

We're stocked up on food. We probably would have been okay, but I shopped Monday morning anyway. I bought a bit too much, and it's hard to close the freezer. I took lunch from it today and will make dinner from something in the freezer tomorrow. That will free up room for the ice cube trays.

Tomorrow is a good day to make soups.

A Visit to Sherwood Island

On Monday, Jeff, Lola, and I headed to Sherwood Island. I-95 North was packed with slow-moving cars, so we bagged that idea and went to Taylor Farm.

Yesterday Lola and I made it. Sherwood Island is one of my favorite places to go after a snowstorm. Its roads are always plowed and walkways clear of snow. That's not as much of a problem after the few inches of snow we had last week, but it's tough after a big snowstorm.

At one point, Lola stopped on a sheet of ice. I thought she was nervous and tried to help her get across the ice to where I was standing. No, she just wanted to go in the other direction; the ice didn't faze her. As we walked along, I noticed a deer to the left of us. It ran off with a second deer. Then I realized there were another three deer to the right of us. I think they were all female deer--I didn't see any antlers. They seemed cool with us though eventually moved away.

Sherwood Island is a state park of 235 acres. There are lots of new areas for us to explore. Lola and I continued down a side road until we reached an area that wasn't open to the public. I would have liked to go further but obeyed the signs. I saw a building that could have been a garage and then maybe a house. We walked by what looked like a graveyard for Christmas trees. They smelled wonderful.

For the most part, I'm enjoying our walks even this winter. We just have to stay bundled up against the cold and especially the wind. Recently heard on the radio that winter is one-third over. I notice the days getting longer. Hoping for an early spring.