How is 2014 treating you so far?
I can't help reminiscing about when I was a stay-at-home mom--about 10 years ago. We were able to keep the bills paid and even had extra money at the end of the month for music lessons, pizza outings, and savings.
Where are we today?
Well, to say the money doesn't go as far as it used to is an understatement. In addition, I see no reason to believe the economy will get better soon.
How's that for a new year's sentiment from an otherwise "Pollyanna" blog?
It's time to get busy. Seriously.
Whereas frugality was a lifestyle choice for some, I believe it will become necessary for all but an elite few. But most of us will need to get super creative with how we live. Creative with food, creative with transportation, creative with recreation, creative with utilities.
Frugality is but a distant memory.
The good news is that when we start thinking about life OFF the treadmill, we find unexpected joy. By eating the food we grow, our bodies become healthy. By working outside to produce that food, our lungs enjoy fresh air and our muscles tone. By pooling resources with our neighbors, our communities strengthen.
Hey wait. Maybe this is still a "Pollyanna" blog.
How about a dessert recipe?
Apple Crisp
Ingredients:
8 medium apples from your backyard orchard (Ha! Made ya look.)
1 1/2 cups brown sugar
1 cup flour
1 cup oats
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon nutmeg
2/3 cup butter, softened
Directions:
Butter a 9x13 baking dish.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Skin and slice apples.
Arrange apples in the dish.
Mix remaining ingredients and sprinkle over the apples.
Bake for about 30 minutes.
Serve warm.
It's up to us to keep spirits up. We've got a lot of work ahead, but we can do it!
Have a neighborly day! (I'm serious)
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