Bits and Pieces

I've been a bit totally lax in following my grocery budget this summer. I find I have to plan my weeks menus before Sunday, as that's when I do most of my shopping. I have to shop on either Sunday, Monday, or Tuesday because my Grocery Game list comes out late Saturday, and it expires on Wednesday. SO, I've resolved to do menu planning on Thursdays. Because I'm a train-wreck in the organization department, I also have a few ready-made menus made with pantry staples for emergencies. If you aren't familiar, Grocery Game is a commercial site that publishes lists of household goods and foods that are at "rock bottom price" based on weekly store ads. By "stockpiling" and using coupons I regularly save 40-50% of what I used to spend. There's a bit of a learning curve at first, but it's really fun to see how much you can save and still produce healthy and tasty meals.I've been subscribing for years, but I really think it would be beneficial for young families in economic stress. I've no connection to the Grocery Game, except as a satisfied subscriber.

This seems to be the week of resolutions for me. I really need to get back into my exercise routine. I have a yoga routine that my daughter gave me, and a the weather and early morning light are perfect for walking. I know if I exercise I will sleep better, which will help my moods and energy level. Have you ever heard of Joe's Goals? I'll be using it to track progress on my exercise resolutions.

I've been so fortunate to catch up with many women friends I haven't been in contact with for years. Some old college friends have reached out. I re-connected with a terrific friend (hi Marilyn!) from our 25 odd years living in southern Oregon. These last two years, seven of us from my year in Spain (1974!) have been meeting annually for a long weekend in Sonoma. And recently a group of my cousins from my mother's side of the family have been mulling getting together. Not that I lose touch with them, but I can't forget the weekend I had with my three sisters this past March. We plan to make it a more regular event.  Each of these re-connections has given me such a boost. There's nothing more enjoyable and energizing than slipping into easy conversation and laughter with people you know so well. Facebook has been extremely helpful in facilitating these revived connections. I resisted it for a long time, and now wish I had started using it long ago.

My mother died two years ago this August 17th. It really seems like it was just yesterday. For a long time I worried that I would forget her, the sound of her voice, her mannerisms, her laugh, her facial expressions. But I haven't. And for that I'm so very grateful. A graveside visit is out because that's a 9 or 10 hour trip. I hope to be able to go to Mass and spend some quiet time remembering and being thankful that she was my mother.

At our parish we have two Sunday masses, 8 and 10:30. I usually go to the later one. It's nice to see so many families with their children in tow. Yes, there are lots of fussy babies and squirmy little ones. But I don't mind at all. I remember what it was like to try and get everyone ready to go, then to deal with boredom and irritability once there. I want to applaud all those moms and dads out there who make this effort. I don't know how much focused attention you get to pay to the service, but you are certainly providing a wonderful example for your kids. God Bless you for it!

Got tomatoes?  I must make this. Today.