Roadside Bargain

The entry way to our home is very small. It is basically a small hallway with a coat closet. Even though it is tiny, I have always wanted to make it a little more welcoming by adding a small table. Most of the small tables that I find are horribly expensive, so I have never found one that I liked in our price range.

However, yesterday was my lucky day! Unlike most people, I commute from a larger town to a smaller town for work. While driving through this smaller town, I happen to spot a junk store that had a few pieces of furniture by the road. One of the pieces happened to be a small table similar to ones I have looked at in the past, so I stopped to peek at the price. It was in great condition and only $29.99.

I tried to negotiate with the guy a little, but he wasn't having any of it. I think I need to work on my negotiation skills a little! However, at $29.99 I couldn't pass up such a sweet little table. I purchased it and immediately texted my husband to let him know that I just bought a table on the side of the road.

I think he was scared to see what I brought home, but I don't think it is too shabby for a roadside purchase. (Sorry for the poor photo quality. I took the picture with my phone). I think the picture hanging above it dwarfs the table a little, but I think I can solve that with a few accessories for my new table (maybe a cute bowl or vase, maybe a few books, or a small lamp).



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My Favorite Things: Gift Giving Edition

Since Christmas is sneaking up on us, I thought I would spend the next few weeks dedicating "My Favorite Things" post to gift giving ideas. I have to admit that my first idea is an idea I borrowed from my friend, Diana. It is definitely a gift idea that I will be using this year!

If you are looking for a thoughtful, fun, and inexpensive gift for a female friend or coworker, then a pair of monogrammed gloves might be your answer. A pair of fleece gloves from Old Navy are regularly priced at $7.50 or 2 for $10 in store. Old Navy always has great sales, so it is possible to get them even cheaper.

A pair of these gloves on their own make a little bit of a boring gift, but add a monogram and you've got a super cute and special gift! Most any town is going to have a shop that does embroidery. If not, check to see if you have a friend or relative with an embroidery machine.

Image Source

Want to add to the gift? Pair the gloves with a monogrammed scarf or a nice bottle of hand lotion! Great gifts don't have to be expensive! Just use your imagination or borrow ideas from friends! :)

Trader Joe Advice Needed! (And A Few Cute Coats)

Athens, GA has a new grocery story by the name of Trader Joe's! Yipppeee! Last week was the first time I have ever set foot into a Trader Joe's, and I have to admit that I am in love.

So far I have tried the wine, the Mandarin Chinese Chicken (frozen meal), and the pumpkin bread mix. All were outstanding!

Now, I need your help!!! What are your favorite Trader Joe's items? Tell me your must haves, so I can try them too!!!

P.S.-I can't let the weekend pass by without telling you about the great prices on cute coats at Old Navy! I'm wearing this precious green coat today that I purchased for only $29!

They also have several darling ruffle coats at 50% off. I'm thinking about ordering this one! It's currently prices at $49.50.


Make sure you check them out if you are in need of some winter wear! Have a great weekend!

A Yummy Recipe for a Chilly Day

Today has been the first truly chilly day we have had in Athens this Fall. Days like today make me want to run home, put on my fuzzy slippers, and make a yummy stew or chili. Oh how I love my soups and stews during the Fall and Winter!

My mom makes a fantastic stew that she calls Brunswick Stew. It isn't a true Brunswick Stew, but it is delicious and so easy to make! I thought I would share it with you. Michael and I will be enjoying some tonight! Since it isn't a true Brunswick Stew we will call it, "Not Really Brunswick Stew".

Not Really Brunswick Stew

Ingredients:
1 pound of ground pork sausage (browned)
1 pound of hamburger (browned)
1 can of whole kernel sweet corn
1 can of sweet peas
1 or 2 can(s) of tomatoes
1/2 of a sweet onion (diced)
1/4 cup of ketchup

Directions: Brown your sausage and hamburger meat. Combine in large pot with rest of ingredients and cook! When adding corn, peas, and tomatoes, do not drain.

That's it! How easy it that! It is one of Michael's favorites! I usually serve it with cornbread or a yummy cheese bread. I hope you enjoy!!

P.S.-The training I told you about last week. Well, I worried over it and studied really, really hard, and I passed! Yippeee! Thank goodness it is over!