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The Holidays- Came and Went

Wednesday, December 28, 2022

The holidays came and went for us. Quiet. I hope all my readers had a peaceful holiday season.


We are glad we came home from the USA early actually. ( Normally we are gone for the whole winter- this year we only did 3 weeks). The weather has been so bad all over, and I'm not sure how much we would have been warming up down south. Here in southern Alberta its been warmer than where we used to live, but rain and snow, and living in a hilly city, the last part of this week haven't been the greatest.




The front of our place looked like a skating rink on the road the other day. You would not want to be walking on it! We had to buy some ice melt today for our fine folks who do the deliveries- Amazon, flyers, etc. I hope they are being watched over to keep them safe.


Keeping eyes peeled for those after Christmas sales. Could use some lights for outdoors for next year and a few other odds and ends but will wait till the sales hit 75% ! Those are THE best!


I did buy myself a new Windows 11 computer tower during Boxing Day. My old one was a Windows 7 and had slowed down so so much that it was refusing to do much of anything. We will have to get rid of the hard drive and recycle the rest. New one that was a floor model - costed me $422 with taxes. I also have a lap top- more so use it for travel or when I need to be in another room where I can easily move it around.


Had Jake at the vet over the last week- he had x-rays to check on his breathing and found the collapsed trachea and an enlarged heart. ( he is a 12 year old Yorkie). Ended up he needed medication. Then ended up medication was too strong and he was either too tired from it or not himself. Now we are on trying him on the lowest dose for his heart, with the water pill. If that doesn't agree we will look at something else or just leave it. Will work with the vet to see what is the best for him.


Been busy still renovating. So much to do. Well lots for Gerry to do. Waiting on a rebate cheque too which we will use to finish the plumbing in the washroom off our bedroom, and to get carpet and underlay at the discount carpet store. There was alot of cigarette smoke damage in here too. Alot of yellowing...and took at least a month is not longer to get the smell out. It's nice though seeing it all come together. Nice too that Gerry can do most of the work too. Saves us alot .


5 Ways to Save Money for the Holidays

Friday, December 23, 2022



Now that the holiday season is here, you don’t want to feel like the Grinch. However, with the economy in the doldrums, overspending could do more harm than good, leaving you to pick up the pieces in 2023. 


This year, holiday spending on gifts is predicted to fall by more than half vs. year-ago levels due to the challenging economic environment. The clothing and footwear categories are expected to see the biggest declines as consumers show more reluctance to part with their hard-earned money. This is for a reason.  


Fortunately, there’s a way to strike a balance and defend your finances against the common traps that so easily ensnare people. Here are five ways to help you save money this holiday season. 



1.     Put Yourself First 


No matter how long your holiday list is this year, be sure and include yourself at the top. While it may be the season of giving, you’re not doing yourself any favors if you struggle to pay your bills or fail to sock away any savings for a rainy day. Contrary to popular belief, taking care of your personal finances first is unselfish. It is one of the most generous things you can do for yourself and your future before giving to others. 


2.      Don’t Buy What You Can’t Afford 


A book that sums it up entitled “Don’t Buy What You Can’t Afford” sums it up. It details how debt has become a way of life in America, with millions of households saddled with credit card debt and expensive loans. It’s a quick read that the author, James Obvious, suggests is short enough to finish while your coffee is brewing but powerful enough to place you on the path to financial freedom. 


If you don’t buy what you can’t afford, you can help break the cycle of debt in your life — even during the holidays. You might even want to get this mini-book as a stocking stuffer for those on your list. 


3.       Give What They Need 


With prices soaring and interest rates rising, many people are feeling the pinch this year. That’s why it is the perfect time to give those on your holiday list something they need instead of what they want.  Consider giving practical gifts that save you money and go a long way for people who may be hurting financially, such as a gift card to a grocery store or do-it-yourself home improvement retailer. 


4.     Give Your Time


Speaking of DIY retailers, you might offer your time to help a friend or loved one finish a project in their home or garage. Or you could volunteer to watch the kids or do some pet sitting to make their lives easier. Time is still a valuable commodity that could go further than spending money on a gift.


5.    Cash Is Still King  


If you have trouble keeping track of your spending, choose one payment method this holiday season: cash. By allocating a set amount of funds, say $500, available to spend for the holidays, you won’t have to worry about breaking your budget. When the cash runs out, so too should your spending. To shop online, purchase a prepaid card at a big-box retailer for a designated amount and pay for it in cash. 


Conclusion 

With the clock winding down in 2022, create a strategy for your holiday spending this year. Otherwise, you could find yourself falling for one of the many traps out there designed to get you to open your wallet wider than you had planned.


Where Does the Time Go?

Saturday, December 10, 2022



I have honestly been meaning to write what's been happening around here for a while already.  I have always told Gerry you have to be in the right mind set too to just sit down and write. Since I do alot of my writings out in the family room on the PC, at times Gerry is watching tv and it can be hard to focus on writing. Sometimes a person is just lazy too, but in the back of your mind your thinking- " are my readers wondering where I'm at?"


We have been busy here with life, and renovations now that we are back home . As most of you know we came back from the USA early and decided not to stay the winter. Did get the trip all paid off. Have the big RV for sale but amd sure it won't be looked at till Spring at least when people are thinking of camping and getting on those road trips again- and then we'll downsize. Something for less money and not as hard on gas.




Since we are renovating we're unsure we will be putting up a tree this year. We did some decor outside but inside there is just too much going on to start decorating.


We have been taking in a few holiday outings such as lights, CP Holiday Train and events the city has had to offer over the holiday season. We didn't find this much was happening when we were living in our small town, so it's been nice to come to the city to take advantage of so much more ...







All-New CLIF Thins Will Pick You Up Without Weighing You Down!

Wednesday, December 7, 2022



Whether you're heading out for a hike, outdoor workout, or are a busy professional trying to get through the day, grabbing a snack that is both fulfilling and tasty will fuel you! Packed with essential calories and nutrients, all-new CLIF® Thins are the perfect addition to your bag or pantry.

 

The latest launch from the leading maker of nutritious snacks, CLIF Thins are a crispy, crunchy take on the original CLIF BAR, intended for everyday snacking. Will be available nationwide at Canadian retailers, this snack is made with plant-based ingredients and has only 100 calories and 5 grams of sugar per pack. With flavours like Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Peanut Brownie and White Chocolate Macadamia Nut, you won’t resist grabbing these snacks for a quick bite before tackling whatever your day brings.

5 Ways To Spend Less on Gifts This Year

Monday, November 21, 2022






Are you looking for ways to spend less on gifts this year? You're not alone. In fact, many people are looking for ways to save money during the holiday season. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to reduce your costs without sacrificing quality or selection. Here are a few tips to help get you started.



1. DIY Gifts


When it comes to gift giving, many people feel pressure to spend a lot of money on expensive gifts. However, this is not always necessary. One way to reduce the cost of gift giving is to make your own gifts. With a little creativity, DIY gifts can be just as thoughtful and appreciated as store-bought gifts. Not only will you save money, but you'll also have the opportunity to personalize the gift to suit the recipient's taste. So next time you're looking for a special gift, consider making it yourself. DIY gifts are a great way to spending less while still showing your loved ones how much you care.



2. Group Gifts


Group gifts are a great way to save money on gifts, especially for special occasions like weddings, baby showers, and birthdays. By pooling resources with friends or family members, you can purchase a higher quality gift than you could afford on your own. Plus, group gifts are often more meaningful to the recipient since they know that many people were involved in selecting and purchasing the gift. If you're looking for a way to cut down on your gift-giving expenses, consider giving a group gift next time you have an occasion to celebrate.



3. Thrift Store Shopping


The holiday season is a time when many of us focus on giving gifts to our loved ones. However, this can also be a time when our budgets are stretched thin. If you are looking for ways to save money on gifts, one option is to shop at thrift stores. At a thrift store, you can find gently used items at a fraction of the price you would pay for them new. This can be a great way to get unique gifts that your loved ones will appreciate without breaking the bank. Of course, thrift store shopping requires a bit more effort than simply heading to the mall. But if you are willing to put in the extra work, it can be a great way to save money on gifts this holiday season.



4. Re gifting


The holiday season is a time when many of us feel the pressures of gift giving. With budgets tight, it can be tempting to skimp on gifts or simply re-gift something that we received but don't really want. However, before you resort to re gifting, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure that the item you are re gifting is appropriate for the person you are giving it to. It's also important to be discreet; if the person you are giving the gift to knows that it was originally given to you, they may feel insulted. Finally, take some time to wrap the gift nicely; a shoddily wrapped present will only make it more obvious that you didn't put much thought into it. If you keep these guidelines in mind, re gifting can be a great way to save money without sacrificing your holiday cheer.



5. Flowers


Flowers are one of the most popular gifts for special occasions, but they can also be a great way to show your appreciation without spending a lot of money. A simple bouquet of daisies or tulips can brighten someone's day, and it doesn't have to cost a lot. In fact, you can often find flowers on sale at your local grocery store or floral shop. If you want to make a more personal gesture, contact Pearsons Florist for assistance. They can help you choose the perfect arrangement for any occasion, and they offer discounts for bulk orders. Whether you're looking for a way to show your gratitude or just wanting to brighten someone's day, flowers are an affordable and thoughtful option.


This holiday season doesn’t have to be as expensive as you think. With a little bit of creativity and forethought, you can give your loved ones gifts that they’ll treasure without breaking the bank. Try some of these tips and see how much money you can save – without skimping on the quality or thoughtfulness of your presents.


Heading Back Home

                                                               

After being on the road for over 3 weeks, we made the decision to turn around and head home. Wasn't the original plan for sure. We had thought get as far as South Carolina or Florida and make that our Winter home. The things we saw were great but what wasn't great was the cold, the money we were spending on gas, and losing $$ with the US exchange, the price of groceries and the heavy traffic on the interstates in the mid west and east. We decided there was a window of opportunity to make it back home on the highway and hope not to hit snow. 


We are definitely going to put the RV up for sale. Too much of a gas guzzler for frugal folk, and look at getting something less expensive and hard on gas.


We also gained a big appreciation for truck drivers. Some of those highways are unreal with the traffic. We stayed a couple nights too at truck stops and they get full fast and then others are looking for a place to get off the road, and sometimes there just isn't a place close to stop, so this is why you may see some just stopped on on ramps, or on highways. Even some Walmarts do not allow overnights for them. It's sad to see because they are hauling our goods to where they need to get to. We need to be more accommodating for them. Truck stops don't always have enough room.

We Found The Colonel- in Corbin , Kentucky!

Wednesday, November 16, 2022

You can't drive through Corbin, Kentucky without stopping in the original home of the Colonel!







2022 Holiday Gift Guide for Kids



We're thinking "It's time to talk Christmas!"  Watching the season go by through the eyes of a child is wonderful. It  makes the season that much more special. I had no idea just how great the Christmas season was until we had kids. Even if you don’t have your own kids, your nieces, nephews, grandkids and friend’s kids are just as fun to shop for !

We have some great gift ideas for the kids this year to share with you..


Cabbage Patch Kids 9" Cuties - Exotic Kora Kitty




Let's get to work with Blippi! Watch your child explore 2 amazing careers with the Blippi Job Explorer figure. This 5-inch figure allows your child to dress Blippi as either a firefighter or construction worker. This interchangeable accessory toy has everything you need to explore both careers. Firefighter Blippi is ready to save the day with his firefighter vest, firefighter helmet, and fire extinguisher! Construction Blippi is ready to build a beautiful world with his construction vest, construction helmet, and jackhammer. Your little worker will have so much fun learning more about the careers they see and learn with Blippi!

Ages: 3 to 6 years

Toys R Us, Amazon





Blippi Job Explorer






Let's get to work with Blippi! Watch your child explore 2 amazing careers with the Blippi Job Explorer figure. This 5-inch figure allows your child to dress Blippi as either a firefighter or construction worker. This interchangeable accessory toy has everything you need to explore both careers. Firefighter Blippi is ready to save the day with his firefighter vest, firefighter helmet, and fire extinguisher! Construction Blippi is ready to build a beautiful world with his construction vest, construction helmet, and jackhammer. Your little worker will have so much fun learning more about the careers they see and learn with Blippi!

Ages: 3 to 6 years

Availability: Toys R Us, Amazon





AEW Unrivaled






Wrestling between a few different gift ideas? Look no further than the AEW Unrivaled collection! With different characters to collect, this adds to any super fans collection. For more information, click here.

Ages: 8 to 12 years

Availability: Walmart, Toys R Us, GameStop






Mystery Mini Squishmallows




With over 24 ultra-squeezable plushes to collect, these make for the perfect addition to your child's Squishmallows collection! Not only are they small and cute, but are also compatible with Squishville. Join the squad! For more information, click here.

Ages: 5 to 9 years

Availability: Indigo, Walmart, Toys R Us





Roblox Mystery Figurines




Each mystery box comes with one Roblox figurine out of 24 to collect! You can mix and match parts to create your very own unique characters. Each figure comes with a code for an exclusive virtual item that can be redeemed on Roblox. Collect them all! For more information, click here.

Ages: 6y+

Availability: Walmart, Toys R Us





Fisher-Price® Thomas & Friends™ Launch & Loop Maintenance Yard™





Young conductors can get ready for loops of Sodor adventures with the Thomas & Friends™ Launch & Loop Maintenance Yard™ train set from Fisher-Price®. This epic track set features 16+ feet of track for little engineers to recreate the loop de loop featured in the show, Thomas & Friends™ All Engines Go! Kids can send the motorized Thomas engine through the loop, up two different hills, and then use Carly the Crane to complete the track and help Thomas make his delivery. This set is compatible with any Thomas & Friends™ track, except wood. (Additional track and train sets sold separately and subject to availability.)

Ages: 3+

Availability: Toys R Us, Amazon, Walmart





Meditation Mouse






The Meditation Mouse from Fisher-Price® introduces your toddler to guided meditation through physical prompts and breathing exercises to help them unwind during the day and before bedtime. This soothing plush mouse is the go-to calming cuddle buddy to help your little one learn how to nama-stay relaxed. Choose from 3 calming modes, including a daytime relaxation session, a nighttime soothing sounds mode, and a 3-part bedtime wind-down exercise. Ready for relaxing and snuggling, this plush pal has an embroidered face and is made from a variety of soft and satiny textures (including super cute pajamas!).

Ages: 2 to 5 years




Barbie® City Adventures Café And Cab By Little People®






Toddlers can journey around town with this Barbie® City Adventures Café and Cab pretend playset by Little People®. Kids can place the figure in the push-along taxi to “drive” to the café. Then, with the press of a button, the café door opens, so kids can help the Barbie “Brooklyn” Roberts figure place an order for a refreshing treat to enjoy at the “outdoor” patio before heading off on her next adventure!

Ages: 18 months to 5 years

Availability: Toys R Us and Walmart





Fisher-Price® Corn Popper®




As your baby pushes the Fisher-Price® Corn Popper® toy along, the brightly coloured balls excitedly pop around, encouraging your little cruiser to keep going. And the faster your baby goes, the faster the poppity-pop action! A great first birthday gift, this classic push toy helps strengthen your baby's gross motor skills and introduce cause and effect as they push the toy along to make the balls pop around inside.

Ages: 12m+





Fisher-Price® Deluxe Kick & Play™ Piano Gym




Kick play time up a notch with the Fisher-Price® Deluxe Kick & Play Piano Gym, which has five light-up piano keys, a repositionable toy arch, and four musical settings that keep your little one rocking out for years! As your baby grows from lay and play to tummy time to sitting up at the piano, you can change up the music and learning, too! Smart Stages® technology lets you change the learning content to best fit your baby's age and stage, while real piano notes encourage your little Mozart to create a tune of their own! You can even detach the keyboard for musical fun on the go!

Availability: Walmart, Amazon and Canadian Tire





Buzz Bee Toys-

Level up With Alpha Auto 72




A Motorized, High-Capacity Blaster

Designed for Pros

Whether they've been blasting for years or are about to join the adrenaline-infused world of dart blasters for the first time, they will definitely want to get their hands on Alpha Auto 72! This motorized, high-capacity blaster comes with everything they will ever need on the battlefield.

plus:


Blitz 6





Get your game face on and stay ahead in the competition with an auto-advancing, all-out dart blaster with a range of up to 100 feet.

Auto-advancing to another level

If they are new to the world of dart blasting, this is an incredible way to start the adrenaline-infused adventure. Blitz 6 was designed to be so easy to use so they  can start blasting as soon as they unpack it. All they have to do is load darts, pull back on the ring, and release before pulling the trigger to launch a dart. If  already a fan of dart blasting, Blitz 6 will be a great addition to their blaster collection. This action-packed blaster delivers advanced performance with extreme distance and leaves a lasting impression on their opponents.



Dr. Seuss's Merry Grinchmas! Game by Funko Games-




Every Who down in Who-ville likes Christmas a lot. But the Grinch, who lived just north of Who-ville, did NOT! While the Whos are busy dreaming of Christmas, the Grinch is slinking around Who-ville trying to stop Christmas from coming! Work together to collect presents to make the Whos' holiday dreams come true before the Grinch steals them away. Collect more points than the Grinch by the time Whos start singing to win!





L.O.L. Surprise! Fashion Dolls (Hair & Style Edition)


(Hair Edition): Introducing L.O.L. Surprise OMG Fashion Show Style Edition! These OMG fashion dolls love to have stylish fun with their friends and strut their stuff on the runway. They are fierce, fabulous, and ready for her fashion transformations! They also need your help to get on the cover of Fashion B.B. Magazine. Find your vibe and make that runway sparkle!





Price: $54.99



(Style Edition): Introducing L.O.L. Surprise OMG Fashion Show Style Edition! These OMG fashion dolls love to have stylish fun with their friends and strut their stuff on the runway. They are fierce, fabulous, and ready for her fashion transformations! They also need your help to get on the cover of Fashion B.B. Magazine. Find your vibe and make that runway sparkle!








Little Tikes Easy Store 3-ft Trampoline -




Little Tikes knows it is important for toddlers to stay active, and the 3-foot trampoline is easy to move so kids can bounce where ever they like any time they like! The handle bar on this mini trampoline folds down for easy storage.

Price: $89.99




Bluey's Caravan Adventure-





Little Tikes knows it is important for toddlers to stay active, and the 3-foot trampoline is easy to move so kids can bounce where ever they like any time they like! The handle bar on this mini trampoline folds down for easy storage.


Price: $44.99



Little Live Pets-






Say hello to a new member of the family and explore the cute and fuzzy world of Little Live Pets! Discover pets that come to life – your new pet will move, act and sound like the real thing. Find the pet that will be the perfect addition to your family that your child can love and care for. These interactive toys help children form an emotional connection with themselves and their surroundings through talking, interacting and nurturing play.


Price: $15.99 +




*** Watch for more gift ideas coming soon!




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