On this long weekend I accomplished a lot, wanting to economize on space, time and money.
I tried a new recipe – solo. It was one of the favourite meals that one offspring would prepare often before moving out of the nest. I used to watch the process while lingering in the doorway of the small kitchen, breathing in the delicious aromas.
Well, I wanted it to be one of my projects this weekend, to prepare the meal all by myself. I succeeded, ate two servings and lived to tell the tale. Now I have plenty of freezer portions to bring for work lunches in addition to vegetarian chili and meaty pasta sauce.
Although I enjoy the social benefits, I need to cut back on expenses of lunches and dinners out.
Caribbean (sweet) Potato Soup
Caribbean Potato Soup
https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/caribbean-potato-soup/
I challenge their claim of “prep/total time: 30 minutes”. It took me much longer with all the vegetable preparations.
Considering the investment into most ingredients (spices, oil, ginger root, etc.) I am likely going to make this meal often over the winter.
Another project was rearranging the living room, putting the TV back at one wall instead of stuck in a corner. This was reversing what the Feng Shui consultant convinced me to do in 2018 during a home visit.
Once again I can see the TV from the dining table and kitchen door, which will provide a convenient distraction while tackling homework this coming school year, or peeking from the kitchen as I stir soups and check on other meals.
The living room feels so much more welcoming, spacious and functional now. The television acts as a modern day fireplace with its viewing options through the over the air antenna, a DVD player and Netflix. To alleviate any inauspicious luck, I placed a few items, some Feng Shui “Allies” beside the electronics. I’m not superstitious at all.
Then there’s the guest room, sometimes referred to by the cats as the forbidden room.
Another offspring has bounced away after occupying the room this summer. I still have not patched the hook and nail holes in the ceiling and walls since another offspring moved out.
The empty bedroom
The empty bedroom
Smudges and nail holes remain
Sentimental Mom
It’s like I’m holding onto memories of the times each of my trio occupied the room at various turns. I considered giving it a make-over with a few coats of fresh paint. I also considered the time, energy and cost of this undertaking if I plan to move in the next few years to a smaller, more affordable place.
I feel lucky to have the ample space. I like the idea of having a guest room, of providing comfort for visiting family and friends. There’s also my persistent plan of luring the youngest back home to live rent-free while seriously focusing on post secondary education.
I don’t like the idea of moving right now. I also don’t like that the landlord keeps applying to raise the rent above provincial guidelines year after year. I may stick it out for a while longer – until my furry roommate passes on.
“Did I hear you say “treat”?”
The elderly diabetic cat would get too stressed out by the commotion of packing and moving. I will wait until she leaves this earth instead of turning her comfortable little world upside down. After all, she is the remaining member of pampered cats and other household gods.
With all the domestic duties the past few days, I’m ready to go back to work!
So… how was your Labour Day weekend?
T
Shewrite63 