tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44738614779230528182024-03-12T22:09:50.413-04:00LivingWiseWelcome to my blog. Here you will find family-approved recipes for healthy eating; gardening tips; updates from Wise Farms; and money-saving ideas. All a part of the 7 Principles of LivingWise!Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.comBlogger208125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-73176488744933880272014-06-15T18:02:00.002-04:002014-06-15T18:02:19.126-04:00Nicholas Has Struck AgainNicholas the Bunny devoured my first okra garden, and now he is at it again. He has chewed the leaves off 4 more plants. So, I am trying an old family secret that my Dad shared. Sprinkle a little white flour on the plants. It should keep Nicholas away. I'll keep you posted and let you know if it works. (I would post pictures but the computer ate my chip.) :(<br />
Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-92047444210654229402014-06-08T20:04:00.000-04:002014-06-08T20:04:28.675-04:00Sunday Summer SupperWhen I was a child, Sunday summer supper almost always included a banana sandwich. It was the staple that complemented leftovers from a home-cooked lunch. While I know that bananas aren't native to NC I always keep them on hand for a quick Sunday night supper fix. And for any non-southerners out there who may be wondering, <em>what in the world is a banana sandwich?</em> I say, wonder no more. Simply slap some mayonnaise and sliced bananas between two pieces of bread and voila! Sunday summer supper is served.<br />
<br />Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-4199917501724037012014-05-31T19:23:00.001-04:002014-05-31T21:24:42.828-04:00Storing Summer's GoodnessToday has been a busy day. I started by cleaning my refrigerator to make room for summer's goodness. You know, it's just getting started-blueberries, squash, onions, melons, and so much more.<br />
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I still had about a dozen apples from last fall. They weren't too pretty to look at; and at first glance I thought, <em>these apples are spent; they probably aren't any good.</em> But as I started to peel them, and taste them, I was much surprised at their crispy freshness. So, those bad boys became this.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05Bkh3OmInaleWMqTtSSy_D4sLiiyT5j_sZ0JqZasLhxPNjh6ixVs4IHE9L0eMWRlI7sYMjCr3svcshkOa-mhvSAW448c8NkSp6LrbwxKuQ30nf0dGVf4jEJD1AMDKRbivhzCCNLe-mF6/s1600/DSCN1909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg05Bkh3OmInaleWMqTtSSy_D4sLiiyT5j_sZ0JqZasLhxPNjh6ixVs4IHE9L0eMWRlI7sYMjCr3svcshkOa-mhvSAW448c8NkSp6LrbwxKuQ30nf0dGVf4jEJD1AMDKRbivhzCCNLe-mF6/s1600/DSCN1909.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cinnamon Applesauce-made with granny smith, red delicious <br />
and pink lady apples from Sugarloaf Orchards.</td></tr>
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Then, I discovered the sugar snaps, grown by my brother at Wise Farms. Time to transfer from the fridge to the freezer. So easy to do. I didn't even wash them first. In order to keep them from sticking together as they froze, I spread them out in a pan and put them in the freezer for an hour or so. Twenty minutes would've been plenty of time as well. Then, when they were good and frozen I popped them into freezer bags. When I want them for a stir fry, or with pasta, or in a salad, I'll just grab a handful, wash and prepare. This is how I enjoy summer goodness all year long!<br />
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<br />Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-50453577271250972572014-05-24T11:19:00.004-04:002014-05-24T11:22:57.206-04:00Money Advice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE8r1RttMK1Ka1oMvDZPmtJ4_abwoQprFVX3dh0GgZSPPEMeSqc6vOOF3GcaZD9tN3NVWvuu5QYab5ufkpHsx_1knFZowLNq5r40HC5fwk_Utw7XgFw3rYVPl2w8UDXuyeWjT4ztptj8y5/s1600/dollar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE8r1RttMK1Ka1oMvDZPmtJ4_abwoQprFVX3dh0GgZSPPEMeSqc6vOOF3GcaZD9tN3NVWvuu5QYab5ufkpHsx_1knFZowLNq5r40HC5fwk_Utw7XgFw3rYVPl2w8UDXuyeWjT4ztptj8y5/s1600/dollar.jpg" height="200" width="190" /></a></div>
After having fallen victim to a flim-flam artist earlier this week, I thought I'd switch gears for a minute and share a bit of money advice. You know, the kind they don't teach at schools. It only comes from experience, and maybe for some it's just common knowledge.<br />
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<strong>Debit Cards</strong> - If you're like most people you rely on your debit card for your purchases rather than hard cold cash. But beware. If you or the cashier have to swipe the card twice, make sure that you check your account to see that the transaction was processed only once. If your account is charged twice, believe me, it can take 10-21 business days for the bank to get it all straightened out.<br />
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<strong>Online Banking -</strong> If you use online banking do you know the difference between available balance and posted balance? Often times the two numbers are different. The posted balance only shows what has cleared the account; so it's important to not trust the posted balance as the final number. The available balance will show debit transactions outstanding, but again should not be trusted as the final number because it is a computer, after all, and has no idea that you may have written checks that haven't yet cleared. That's why it is so important to reconcile your account. It's not that hard. Just make sure that you don't spend more than you put in or the bank will eat you alive with overdraft fees.<br />
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<strong>Cash in Hand -</strong> After this week's incident I have discovered first hand how easy it is to become frazzled and confused, especially if the cab driver speaks broken English and doesn't have change. Or, if there are impatient customers waiting in line behind you. Just slow down. Breathe. Take your time. <em>Keep your mind on your money and your money in your hand, and you won't fall victim to the flim-flam man.</em>Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-43919648145327790422014-05-22T07:46:00.000-04:002014-05-22T07:46:46.821-04:00NicholasAs promised here's a picture of Nicholas, who lives in a hollow tree and chases butterflies in the summertime. I wish. Instead he has taken up residence at our house and has done some serious damage to my okra. Any gardeners out there have suggestions for keeping Nicholas out of my garden? <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2-cWFAnpcWoVrCpVW5nia6JT6K1QplZ9XBdGP6k2gOhIfY7We3vD3P8xkhlXmD1TP04oBRntKUAI-5KRPoJKunJ0R0vlQYxfPmX3cLiRLqOvEkroegbC1GFaNLdw8AGx7U4Hv7nNzuqY6/s1600/DSCN1900.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2-cWFAnpcWoVrCpVW5nia6JT6K1QplZ9XBdGP6k2gOhIfY7We3vD3P8xkhlXmD1TP04oBRntKUAI-5KRPoJKunJ0R0vlQYxfPmX3cLiRLqOvEkroegbC1GFaNLdw8AGx7U4Hv7nNzuqY6/s1600/DSCN1900.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nicholas</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj9gkOtkbdNd1BFfj6JQrn0Nwt9YfVCCXC7M_neDDKlJJJpQeCF96ff4ClAWDH7LBGmJ2Mi44PUhYmJGb6o18iHErP5DxKoheiQUyUBiAW__PbMm4Vm8WuoWIeoDJ8JDWpI7w8b9EJhryc/s1600/DSCN1907.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj9gkOtkbdNd1BFfj6JQrn0Nwt9YfVCCXC7M_neDDKlJJJpQeCF96ff4ClAWDH7LBGmJ2Mi44PUhYmJGb6o18iHErP5DxKoheiQUyUBiAW__PbMm4Vm8WuoWIeoDJ8JDWpI7w8b9EJhryc/s1600/DSCN1907.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's just no coming back from this. I'm devastated.</td></tr>
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Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-57842819082886119612014-05-19T18:11:00.001-04:002014-05-19T18:12:08.572-04:00Spring Garden TourBack by popular request. Yep, it's true. I'm blogging again. As I enjoy this beautiful spring day, I thought I'd take you on a walk and show you a few things growing in my garden. Brings back memories of my Grandmother Rachel who would always say to us when we visited, "Come out back. I want to show you my flowers." I didn't realize it then, but there is a sense of accomplishment when the seeds we sow start to grow and produce. Enjoy the tour! I'll bring more later this week...and introduce you to Nicholas the bunny.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHDSyyBP9gImbUvQpENyNHeGp2_KybGBVuD8Z8flvAivJY0O1Hx0pN57_salhvygEAnYT8nO34L0e_GkD5GJg6G4GFAdrA0t3y6DApLS9nMVt1UV0907J9ceP-b9RHRLc_m13vrYP_OrOx/s1600/DSCN1890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHDSyyBP9gImbUvQpENyNHeGp2_KybGBVuD8Z8flvAivJY0O1Hx0pN57_salhvygEAnYT8nO34L0e_GkD5GJg6G4GFAdrA0t3y6DApLS9nMVt1UV0907J9ceP-b9RHRLc_m13vrYP_OrOx/s1600/DSCN1890.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of Lettuce-Nothing much better than cropping a few <br />
leaves from each plant and tossing them together for a quick salad.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi02sOcdIaX_egVw3qeE_Q2T7ndGUPlgqwBGhhC0trT9ATeQSVhrbIvearp2LCJGnTNgBxZ2tM3u0R6yxpTkby3UfRJyw5kseVn-0rEZnnkLi3gEIzr2P7V79pwW989W5QB8NEZqxKm3I4z/s1600/DSCN1892.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi02sOcdIaX_egVw3qeE_Q2T7ndGUPlgqwBGhhC0trT9ATeQSVhrbIvearp2LCJGnTNgBxZ2tM3u0R6yxpTkby3UfRJyw5kseVn-0rEZnnkLi3gEIzr2P7V79pwW989W5QB8NEZqxKm3I4z/s1600/DSCN1892.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Squash bordering the butterfly bushes. The rain washed away some of the mulch <br />
revealing the newspaper underneath, which suffocates the weeds.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Q57B9oNCiM9FU21KoQfXyePCncTgJRpyv424vp545U49Fieezc74yjMHwAPveo4FJHDshbyueRJ8BgNA7wAefZiaG3dv_VVXBrtru64KS41herkLkMIwpl08n-aB5JTxSKQUIZUGheGg/s1600/DSCN1894.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Q57B9oNCiM9FU21KoQfXyePCncTgJRpyv424vp545U49Fieezc74yjMHwAPveo4FJHDshbyueRJ8BgNA7wAefZiaG3dv_VVXBrtru64KS41herkLkMIwpl08n-aB5JTxSKQUIZUGheGg/s1600/DSCN1894.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Day Lillies- They proliferate more and more each year! Started as three<br />
small plants. Now they cover an area roughly 6 by 8 feet. <br />
They will be blooming soon and usually bloom two to three times <br />
throughout the summer months.<br />
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<br />Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-36053506045581313682013-07-28T10:05:00.001-04:002013-07-28T10:05:35.138-04:00Saving Dollars! Hollar!One would think that Schick was trying to give away their razors this weekend. And since I am not picky about which brand of disposable razors we use, I thought I'd give Schick a try. It also didn't hurt that I had 2 coupons for buy one, get one free (BOGO). In addition, Lowes Foods had Schick razors on sale. And on top of all that, two of the packages had a coupon that said "Save $2 on one NOW"! And since this was Lowes Foods Super Doubles Week, it meant that the $2 would double to $4.<br />
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Well, I will not keep you in suspense any longer. Here's my deal.<br />
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I purchased 4 packs of disposable razors that were marked $8.20 each.<br />
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The BOGO coupons marked them down to $4.10 each.<br />
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Then, the $2 coupons doubled to $4 and since I had 2 of them that marked the price down an additional $8.00<br />
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Here's the math:<br />
4 x $8.20 = $32.80<br />
Less 2 x $8.20 = $16.40<br />
Less additional coupons - $8.00<br />
Total Cost = $8.40 for 4 packs of razors - that's $2.10 a pack.<br />
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Then, when I got home I noticed that 3 of the 4 packs have $2.00 coupons inside the box! That's an additional $6.00 in coupons just for purchasing Schick razors. I'll be saving these coupons for the next super doubles week and hopefully catch another good deal! <br />
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If you are a couponer I'd love to hear about your most recent savings! Post a comment and share with the world!Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-742909579859264992013-07-07T09:54:00.004-04:002013-07-07T09:54:58.371-04:00Blueberry PancakesHave you ever had blueberry pancakes and wondered, "Where the blueberries at?" Well, not at my house. I add lots of blueberries to the mix so you get a blueberry in every bite! <br />
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Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-67789803818957322902013-07-04T16:05:00.001-04:002013-07-04T16:05:20.191-04:00Puttin' Up CornIf you can carve out a little time to do this...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghYa3TSlb2iMF38lKYDEPvDADbyPwkdroGTr07xMv-x3vXv-II7pDHY5Yfcc_HYDLBGdGA_IKrVttv2XD58La8ELdWbzInrP3anNdKWNmtOpJVDCNO79oS8t7lpChEJnaPHox7vex5jdop/s1600/IMG_1351.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghYa3TSlb2iMF38lKYDEPvDADbyPwkdroGTr07xMv-x3vXv-II7pDHY5Yfcc_HYDLBGdGA_IKrVttv2XD58La8ELdWbzInrP3anNdKWNmtOpJVDCNO79oS8t7lpChEJnaPHox7vex5jdop/s320/IMG_1351.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Get a big bag of corn from your local farmers market.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt7_oObVcydW4rreBrtssZfbOSinM8Dm5FvuZvWMzLVL92KXt8fF-TnBOpiy8p9Pb7bu6-kaxyMaAEGue84AJfeCXSrOpdtBWKFQXsKddo1B35U_YSW2oyICpHXnkKcjva7G-02hIygPKb/s1600/IMG_1352.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt7_oObVcydW4rreBrtssZfbOSinM8Dm5FvuZvWMzLVL92KXt8fF-TnBOpiy8p9Pb7bu6-kaxyMaAEGue84AJfeCXSrOpdtBWKFQXsKddo1B35U_YSW2oyICpHXnkKcjva7G-02hIygPKb/s320/IMG_1352.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Find a seat in the shade and start shucking away.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyrf5_rR-fkpT4l079J8oCjr2QEBKLv9f9V5pdsa36q-xeI6SG_Oxph_kXUehayhjQjSfb3mheXiD2Sv9NefgmCxW8j_YB8Wv_qHMYpT2siRNs2CHi3U-Nril0WMZELl7lfp-8eQX26qvs/s1600/IMG_1353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyrf5_rR-fkpT4l079J8oCjr2QEBKLv9f9V5pdsa36q-xeI6SG_Oxph_kXUehayhjQjSfb3mheXiD2Sv9NefgmCxW8j_YB8Wv_qHMYpT2siRNs2CHi3U-Nril0WMZELl7lfp-8eQX26qvs/s320/IMG_1353.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ready to wash, blanch, and freeze.</td></tr>
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...then, at Thanksgiving and Christmas and any cold winter day when you sit down to a meal with fresh corn, you'll be glad you did! <br />
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Happy 4th!Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-64051015698867144002013-06-30T08:25:00.005-04:002013-06-30T08:35:00.568-04:00Thrifty Summer-Time TreatsHere's a thrifty summer-time, any-time treat. If you have children you may know that it costs a whopping $4.69 for a box of 20 popsicles. This week, they are on sale at Lowes Foods for $3.00/box. Wow! What a deal, right? Especially if you have a coupon.<br />
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But this deal is a bit sweeter, and costs a lot less. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisjzEwZ_n7kqefUSR2M7aMqD1OD_WSETQwg7siWd-8J9wNT4E2MzvPlIqd4RhQoSla6J5hqR3lvrCvakgogVFZETPTfmQ-HDcfFbym4O5OauZkZtWx1mqTKk1YUIVadoBg5lieBYOjBQOY/s1600/IMG_1350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisjzEwZ_n7kqefUSR2M7aMqD1OD_WSETQwg7siWd-8J9wNT4E2MzvPlIqd4RhQoSla6J5hqR3lvrCvakgogVFZETPTfmQ-HDcfFbym4O5OauZkZtWx1mqTKk1YUIVadoBg5lieBYOjBQOY/s320/IMG_1350.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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You can get reusable homemade popsicle containers for $1.00 at Walmart and Dollar Tree. Then, stock up on your favorite flavors of Kool-Aid mix. Food Lion had Kool-Aid packs on sale last week 5/$1.00 AND I used a coupon Buy 10/Get 3 Free. So, for $1.40 I got 10 packs - that's .14 cents/pack compared to the usual .25 cents/pack. That's less than 2 cents a pop (.14 cents for the first round) compared to .24 cents for store-bought brand. It may be only pennies...but hey, those pennies add up to dollars!<br />
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Anyway, mix up a pitcher of your favorite Kool-Aid, fill the popsicle containers, pop in the freezer, and when it freezes treat your kids (and yourself) to a cool summer-time treat! It will put a smile on everyone's face!Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-35554117874928076552013-06-29T20:46:00.000-04:002013-06-29T20:46:01.220-04:00Hot! Hot! Hot!These finger-length peppers may be small, but don't be fooled. They pack a powerful punch.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYqvh0j-NIrNwG45IgxE1ZgJw2w6yc135i_yfBGw87wdQW4Lx2iMfmdg85wzqU4x3VnViPEWpW3TQTUI6EWmRUDCCLaA_fr-YMmIgttbkjVEJZsB4G3XX5Ec-Z57YOHfUbAbgYrUk2Z8rw/s1600/IMG_1349.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYqvh0j-NIrNwG45IgxE1ZgJw2w6yc135i_yfBGw87wdQW4Lx2iMfmdg85wzqU4x3VnViPEWpW3TQTUI6EWmRUDCCLaA_fr-YMmIgttbkjVEJZsB4G3XX5Ec-Z57YOHfUbAbgYrUk2Z8rw/s320/IMG_1349.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jalapeno growing in my garden</td></tr>
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Made homemade salsa tonight, and let's just say that 1 of these peppers would've been enough. Used 2 large, vine-ripened tomatoes, 2 jalapenos, 2 small purple onions, 1 tsp sugar, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp cilantro. Next time I'll use fresh cilantro and only 1 jalapeno. :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigXMkf3kusxBqqDn5kSZiGskqZWKeaPqnczom1pE82qS1wWY_gLbddKoVHFrEZYTqicPGpBJ4aLQP9R9Eg-koVRDBk56Fbp41ImYy9lcfS8tYqJhPNPsQorc_QgxgC6LbMFg1hIVFZpjQG/s1600/IMG_1344.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigXMkf3kusxBqqDn5kSZiGskqZWKeaPqnczom1pE82qS1wWY_gLbddKoVHFrEZYTqicPGpBJ4aLQP9R9Eg-koVRDBk56Fbp41ImYy9lcfS8tYqJhPNPsQorc_QgxgC6LbMFg1hIVFZpjQG/s320/IMG_1344.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Delicious! But a little hot, hot, hot if you prefer mild.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxS5rCGUvzjFAy4psXuECxynJjHozCPg1eHGtf3bfOjyUpdyq70DxtMJQFcsS962b4mfYqPs3DnNgsxAOmKoQB-TQFvTTMaeg9-QLNv0M-l-iFTMQt4DzjFwSQN84m9N9tHPC78vOVnFC/s1600/IMG_1347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDxS5rCGUvzjFAy4psXuECxynJjHozCPg1eHGtf3bfOjyUpdyq70DxtMJQFcsS962b4mfYqPs3DnNgsxAOmKoQB-TQFvTTMaeg9-QLNv0M-l-iFTMQt4DzjFwSQN84m9N9tHPC78vOVnFC/s320/IMG_1347.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nachos with homemade salsa</td></tr>
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Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-72076401718716192972013-06-22T14:04:00.000-04:002013-06-22T14:04:10.368-04:00And We Have Peaches!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBAkCDlfN0bNPaE6vxT5xXy6ZfX5gVFRsAMK7gJ34xkRvU9sENPWyUObv8BIAkhn_ZO8xkg4Siq_fOIN-VeQNfsAfoZd-EVfB2q6NbCesu8dx91fRcKZ1RnEgekFcYjmvSJvMEZLuSRneF/s1600/DSCN1439.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBAkCDlfN0bNPaE6vxT5xXy6ZfX5gVFRsAMK7gJ34xkRvU9sENPWyUObv8BIAkhn_ZO8xkg4Siq_fOIN-VeQNfsAfoZd-EVfB2q6NbCesu8dx91fRcKZ1RnEgekFcYjmvSJvMEZLuSRneF/s320/DSCN1439.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peaches purchased at Michelle's Produce at the NC State Farmer's Market</td></tr>
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Well, here they are! Beautiful and delicious. I tasted the syrup pack and could only utter one (well 3) words-OMG! These peaches are going to be sooooo goooooood! Sitting here listening to the lids pop, pop, pop which means SUCCESS! <br />
I did find a few bad peaches that I had to throw out; and some that weren't quite yet ready. They will sit on the table and ripen a bit more and will be great for snacking on later this week. As a result my yield was only 8 jars instead of the 15 that I had originally calculated. No problem. That's still a deal at $1.00/pint. I'll take it. Here's the link to the recipe I used. <a href="http://www.pickyourown.org/peachescanning.htm">http://www.pickyourown.org/peachescanning.htm</a><br />
It was super easy, and the whole process has taken only 2 hours of my time! What a way to spend a rainy Saturday afternoon; and my family will thank me when they are enjoying fresh peaches later in the year after peach season has passed.<br />
Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-32065673869577838512013-06-22T09:08:00.003-04:002013-06-22T09:15:33.176-04:00Why I am Canning PeachesBoy, do I get some funny looks when I tell people that I am canning peaches. <em>Why on earth would you want to do that when Del Monte does it for you and sells them for $2.09 a can?! I mean, that's affordable, right? Further....How in the world do you have time? </em><br />
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Well, in my defense, I'd like to share why I am canning peaches.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5pJ3AQi9D5oZq7B4DWqvb121LRV24MjZc1XjsFtFdGokNwtezAO0sDx_ElMeYZUi2UxKFOb1aHrrTT6LkcQM-Kdq9WKTvUY4tDj1CQYWbH9GC3_2cnnAwFuPU-ifyJvtdcwo9yHGjy2M4/s1600/DSCN1435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5pJ3AQi9D5oZq7B4DWqvb121LRV24MjZc1XjsFtFdGokNwtezAO0sDx_ElMeYZUi2UxKFOb1aHrrTT6LkcQM-Kdq9WKTvUY4tDj1CQYWbH9GC3_2cnnAwFuPU-ifyJvtdcwo9yHGjy2M4/s320/DSCN1435.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These bad boys are tree-ripened and ready!</td></tr>
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As I've said before, and I'll say it again. If there were no other reason in the world, this one is enough. It is why I do what I do. It is simple. For the <span style="font-size: large;">Taste</span>. Nothing, and I repeat Nothing tastes better than freshly harvested fruit and veggies from the vine. If you don't believe me just do a taste test. Yep. Go ahead. I dare you. Get some peaches that have been shipped from who knows where, and harvested days (maybe weeks before they were ready). Then, go to one of those pick-it-yourself farms and grab a peach, ripened and ready, straight from the tree. Taste the two. Which one is better? Oh, taste and you will see!<br />
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Anyway, the second reason I do what I do is because I am a bit <span style="font-size: large;">Thrifty</span> at heart. This canning cost me $8.00 in peaches! And with a yield of 15 pints, that's .53 cents a can! Let's see...Del Monte-$2.09? Or, home-canned, NC goodness-.53 cents? Which would you choose?<br />
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And what about the time? Well, many years ago a very wise person told me that we make <span style="font-size: large;">Time</span> to do the things that we value and consider important. Man, did that comment slap me in the face when he said it, because at that time in my life I soooo didn't want to hear it! But it has been some good advice. It comes back to me time and time again. What do you value? I bet you your bottom dollar you are making time for it! :)<br />
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Last, but not least, there is one more thing that motivates me as well. It's from Proverbs 31:27, which says, <em>She looks well to the ways of her household, and eats not the bread of idleness.</em> Beautiful! <br />
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Now that I've preached my sermon (3 points and a prayer) I need to get busy in the kitchen. The canner is a'calling! I will post pictures and share the recipe when I'm all done!<br />
<br />Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-41715436747552567772013-06-12T20:16:00.002-04:002013-06-12T20:16:10.606-04:00LettuceThis was my first attempt at growing lettuce; and it has been a success! I owe it to a long, cool, beautiful spring. Thank you God! Here's my final harvest. The hot summer days aren't being very kind to my little plants, who have served me well this season with lots of yummy, fresh garden salads.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTnxxbfkpJP4BGYBgpB-IlO5897GJAy9lQvw9Glf5czWSlQI1vObNQfocc1gaklwv-zlrUCUNdJ9xmrVNr1uZD-A8y3XqT6EhMqGevg2IUVw2NSIMAnTH8kW_soNrG-ng9eIXqvzQHdxM9/s1600/DSCN1428.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTnxxbfkpJP4BGYBgpB-IlO5897GJAy9lQvw9Glf5czWSlQI1vObNQfocc1gaklwv-zlrUCUNdJ9xmrVNr1uZD-A8y3XqT6EhMqGevg2IUVw2NSIMAnTH8kW_soNrG-ng9eIXqvzQHdxM9/s320/DSCN1428.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Let us enjoy fresh lettuce!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGTFKau7qa5jI5ndz6y85MTXPzecnDh5BDyJqcMbku7sky1Ie_vdkoE9T7i5y44XUdYmu6AfqFmYzYQDSPx6eNgP6rjB2zUlIxW2fJXpVgKtKtfGe2ZwAcmLgOgH8wmd6ZhNzf3bQWigbi/s1600/DSCN1429.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGTFKau7qa5jI5ndz6y85MTXPzecnDh5BDyJqcMbku7sky1Ie_vdkoE9T7i5y44XUdYmu6AfqFmYzYQDSPx6eNgP6rjB2zUlIxW2fJXpVgKtKtfGe2ZwAcmLgOgH8wmd6ZhNzf3bQWigbi/s320/DSCN1429.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Highly recommended - Royal Oak Leaf Lettuce. Leaves are shaped like oak leaves. These plants were large producers. A mainstay in my future gardens!</td></tr>
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Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-14217735753249570402013-05-27T11:50:00.000-04:002013-05-27T11:50:26.531-04:00Enjoying SpringIt's a great time of the year to save money by cutting off the central air and opening up the windows. I remember spring Saturdays when Mama would raise every window in the house, turn up her music, and clean. So much for sleeping in. And pollen allergies? Simply unheard of back then.<br />
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My house today is covered in morning and late afternoon shade. When the weather is cool at night, and warm during the day, I like to take advantage of it. That is, if we can survive the house's rising temperature in the afternoon. Just hold on! It will be cooling off as soon as the sun sets! But, there are two in my family who suffer from the pollen. They feel much better with the air on, and the windows down. :(<br />
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So, I move outside. To my deck. Listen to the birds sing. They are happy indeed. Pull weeds from the garden. Take a walk. How have you been embracing this beautiful spring weather?<br />
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Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-28230665088414140812013-05-25T08:33:00.000-04:002013-05-25T08:33:47.989-04:00Things I Love #9Nearing the end of my list of things I love is this. I LOVE it when my hubby gets in the mood for home improvement. He pours 100% into it and the end result is great. And I get things like pull-out baskets in my lower kitchen cabinets; and his most recent project - a bathroom reno. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs7ZUVYggrODz6BtbP2_xuV-6qJXtyGt87dtGlF3cAk499pwqEIqeZlsgbz0RlDOyXk8gzvGfxxXqNcNJVQugn_CNTuUFVUWugBVU8KJX-rmaaub62XB9d7F1LAn4oNkLMUhFNkameoxVG/s1600/DSCN1417.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs7ZUVYggrODz6BtbP2_xuV-6qJXtyGt87dtGlF3cAk499pwqEIqeZlsgbz0RlDOyXk8gzvGfxxXqNcNJVQugn_CNTuUFVUWugBVU8KJX-rmaaub62XB9d7F1LAn4oNkLMUhFNkameoxVG/s320/DSCN1417.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He surprised me with this project. I was out all day and he installed drawers inside the lower cabinets; lined the shelves with contact paper; installed lights inside the cabinets; orgainzed the silverware drawers; and purged items that I haven't missed.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz0nGaeH0jb5zco-B3voArCWUmWMCfZNI0cL4wWSroY1medKZZ0miUCegtZE2nAfVGj3lA1aceymZDcheZw3dkVnBiohBIn6numLEDzMZQcU2e2SQzA0INgBR9_OGr1ZOzgVzxWjRMjOxv/s1600/DSCN1419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz0nGaeH0jb5zco-B3voArCWUmWMCfZNI0cL4wWSroY1medKZZ0miUCegtZE2nAfVGj3lA1aceymZDcheZw3dkVnBiohBIn6numLEDzMZQcU2e2SQzA0INgBR9_OGr1ZOzgVzxWjRMjOxv/s320/DSCN1419.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gave new life to this worn out vanity. Stripped the white paint and stained ebony with a marble countertop and new sink and hardware. </td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzRbvos67Jv3xyPFIpKFwfBTw5xWlXVk3M5496vbiWpgJIAimX5k-v_qsQg_ZpcxL94ublkpphrN4TyCHCJ2IprzP7MjF3dLSxU62G6NTrJotExepAjyEy6az2cd5Vfr_-P7NbABn_g5-k/s1600/DSCN1420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzRbvos67Jv3xyPFIpKFwfBTw5xWlXVk3M5496vbiWpgJIAimX5k-v_qsQg_ZpcxL94ublkpphrN4TyCHCJ2IprzP7MjF3dLSxU62G6NTrJotExepAjyEy6az2cd5Vfr_-P7NbABn_g5-k/s320/DSCN1420.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Walls had been covered in flowers and striped wallpaper from the 80s. Stripped and refreshed with a coat of subtle gray. New towel rod and shelf.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A peek into the tub area. He regrouted all the tile and it looks brand new! Who knew! </td></tr>
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Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-53226265296949888722013-04-30T23:12:00.002-04:002013-04-30T23:12:43.348-04:00Things I Love #8Continuing with my list of 10 things I love - here's my number 8. Actually, it's a tie between 2 because both of these provoke strong sentiment.<br />
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First, it is the laughter of children at play. 'Tis one of the most beautiful sounds in the world...a sound of innocence, and energy, and excitement, and freedom.<br />
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Second, I love to hear a newborn baby cry. So precious. And helpless. To watch the new mother care for her baby with gentleness, and patience, and love is simply divine!<br />
Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-60233053323917548062013-04-30T22:52:00.001-04:002013-04-30T22:52:35.311-04:00From the GardenThis is my third harvest of lettuce. It doubles each time. Today's pick yielded 2 gallon bags full of fresh buttercrunch, red leaf, and oak leaf lettuce. It should stay fresh in the fridge for 5 days or so, if it lasts that long. <br />
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Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-42263550037046123822013-04-19T08:07:00.002-04:002013-04-19T08:07:12.648-04:00Things I Love #7Love #7 is gardening. I'm a fairly young gardener and find it very therapeutic. Relieving stress. Digging in the dirt like a child. Planting the seeds and waiting. And praying. You know, gardening strengthens one's faith. Watching as the tiny plants burst from the ground. Enjoying the bounty. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh lettuce - tender and tasty!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lettuce and snow peas in this raised bed.<br />
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<span id="goog_1557015435"></span><span id="goog_1557015436"></span><br />Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-66041317651167031332013-04-17T21:58:00.000-04:002013-04-17T21:58:05.039-04:00What I Love #6Well, it's about time for another post. Tax season has been a kicker. Thankfully, I have Upward Soccer. Yep, you guessed it. Upward Soccer is #6 on my list of things I love. Love watching the kids play. Love the wonderful people I've met through this program. Love the spiritual side of it. Love that Jennifer loves it and has developed quite a game! Just can't say enough about Upward Soccer. Love it!Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-85158663229007262382013-02-27T19:55:00.000-05:002013-02-27T19:55:19.735-05:00Things I Love #5I have a new addiction. I admit it. I tried it once, and I can't stop. It's the rage, and if you're not doing it you are missing out. What in the world! It's couponing. Love it! I am enjoying an average savings of 45% a month in groceries, household supplies, and personal care products. And I've got my daughter hooked too!Yeah...our biggest rush was when she got 2 great big bottles of her favorite shampoo and 2 great big bottles of conditioner absolutely FREE! There is no turning back. Couponing. Love No. 5.<br />
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Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-47422485833121259142013-02-25T18:48:00.003-05:002013-02-25T18:48:42.017-05:0010 Things I Love #4Coffee. My favorite - Port City Java. It is my get-up-and-go beverage of choice on a cold winter morning. This weekend I read online at webmd.com that coffee is filled with antioxidants, and has been linked to a decreased chance of adult-onset diabetes. Even more reason for me to love it!Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-23179256685150690532013-02-23T09:38:00.002-05:002013-02-23T09:38:38.762-05:0010 Things I Love #3Love, love, love the Proverbs. It is a book in the Bible filled with word pictures that provide sound advice for living. I call the Proverbs "God's Book of Common Sense". Here's one of my personal favorites; and if you know me, no doubt you have heard me speak these words out loud. <br />
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"A child left to himself brings his mother to shame." Proverbs 29:15bPatricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-89931824931967929512013-02-21T20:27:00.001-05:002013-02-23T09:38:55.811-05:0010 Things I Love #2My post continues of 10 Things I Love. I was discussing my blog with a friend at the office who was quick to say. "Oh, one thing you definitely love is Christmas songs." I guess I don't even realize how often I hum and sing "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" at the office. So, number 2 on my list of things I love is Christmas carols. Can't we celebrate a little bit of Christmas every day?Patricia Wise Laithttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03284672635600738434noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4473861477923052818.post-371018627929102752013-02-17T20:10:00.001-05:002013-02-23T09:39:05.790-05:0010 Things I Love #1These are in no particular order, just a few of my favorite things in life.<br />
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First, southern-style fried chicken. I thank God that my mother showed me how cook this family favorite.<br />
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