Bedford Manor on a Budget: Christmas Wreaths

A few weeks ago, Dot surprised me by crafting this wonderful piece.

The colors are subtle yet attractive. It’s the perfect fit for our Italian Coffee House color scheme at Bedford Manor.

I haven’t crafted for quite some time. Around here, we’ve been deep cleaning and decorating and working and writing. Feeling very productive. But there’s something about crafting that soothes my soul.

And Dot knows it. So on Black Friday, she surprised me by taking me to Hobby Lobby with a $20 budget. At first, I didn’t know what to do. There are so many wonderful options! I did … read the rest. . .

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Pinterest Worthy: Autumn on a Budget

I love decorating, but let’s face it- sometimes it can be costly. I do what I can to avoid a strain on the wallet.

Autumn starts the holiday season at Bedford Manor. The above collage is from three years ago. I haven’t started to put out my decor this year but that will change in 36 hours.

I get a lot of decorating tips like most of us, from Pinterest. And my mom. She’s the Queen of Budget Decorating.

Just check out these fun and frugal ideas for bringing the colors of the outdoors, indoors.

A small bag of autumn-themed … read the rest. . .

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Stocking up the Cabinet

A month ago, I shared with you a few suggestions for stocking up the pantry to easily provide for your family and company without having to go to the store at the last minute. These tips are also great for those times when inclement weather or lack of transportation interferes with your daily schedule.

But what about those non-food needs? A well-stocked cabinet not only covers emergency moments, but can also provide some fun family time. Pretend you’re going camping: turn off the lights, the TV, the computers and see what you can do without electronics.

Batteries for flashlights and … read the rest. . .

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Stocking up the Pantry

It’s only September, but chatter has it that winter will be wearing out its welcome with voracity this year. I’ve talked with many gardeners over the past few months who tell me their baskets are less than bushels-ful. The Farmer’s Almanac has the country abuzz with their predictions of an earlier, colder, and longer winter.

Now’s the time to start stocking up on those food items that can get you through any storm. They’re handy when there’s unexpected company. They’re reliable when you can’t get to the store. And most of the items are inexpensive, which allows you to save … read the rest. . .

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HOLIDAY GIFT BASKET GIVEAWAY: Aroma Housewares Juicer

Is one of your New Year’s Resolutions to eat better? Really… who’s isn’t.

How about adding some more fruits and citrus to your diet? Those vitamins are calling you! They want to party down with you in the kitchen!

Remember this lovely moment? It makes the whole Kitchen Party thing a bit… difficult.
Yeah. It’s always fun to work in the kitchen with a finger splint taped to your hand… not!

It’s even more fun when you’re trying to squeeze citrus juice good to the last drop. Unfortunately, my recurring early-onset arthritis is currently recurring.

Fortunately, Aroma Housewares sent … read the rest. . .

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