The Savvy Mamma

  Upcycle Project  Thrift Store Microwave Stand We moved into a new place with very minimal counter space and being a family of 6 this is quite the issue for us. So being the savvy mamma that I am I quickly found the cheapest way to maximize the space we we're working with.  I searched all the second had stores in my local area. I would have loved to go yard sale hunting but I live in Erie PA and it was not the time of year for that. So naturally I did the next best thing and I went thrift store hopping. Starting with the well knowns like The Salvation Arm and Good Will, they were a bust. It didn't take me long at all to find this one pictured here for only $5.00! This is why I love the littler private owned shops. You always find the most unique things and at a great price!  Here is my before picture of the microwave stand. It needed a very good cleaning first and for most. I knew there were a few options for me when it came to this transformation. I could paint it,...

It’s the little details that always make us smile and full us up with joy. Those little things are just what we each need in our lives, no matter how we find them, cherish them. For me it was the little details I added in while cleaning out my office space for the new year. I completely emptied my desk and everything on top and started fresh for the new year. I honestly think that’s the best way to clear clutter and get rid of the things you simply have no use for anymore.  I don’t know about you but I can’t work, let alone think, in a messy area. Same goes for the kitchen too. So my goal this year is this: Simplify, organize and prioritize. Simplicity was achieved when I cleared the desk of all clutter, next came organization. My main source of chaos is the papers that filter into this house daily. Papers from each child every day when they get home from school, the mail , which is mostly junk and papers from work. My kindergartener alone could fill a room with one w...

I love my garden, so much that I give it the best possible fertilizers I can. One of the best ways to help your garden flourish is by mixing in compost. Being a family of 6 we generate quite a bit of stuff to add to the compost pile and living up north I dont have the luxury of beautiful weather all year around so adding to my compost daily is not pleasant. Although that chore is reserved for my 8 yr old son. Still, having banana peals, apple cores and egg shells laying around my kitchen until I feel like trudging out back through 2 feet of snow is not ideal. Plus my cleaning OCD just won't allow it! I just needed something to hold my compost until there was enough to take out back, which only takes a day or two in my house. It also had to be easy to clean and have a sealed lid. What better way than to use and recycle a plastic tub! I found a 4 lb tub that once contained the most delicious ox roast this tri state area has to offer! Nice excuse to buy and devour a container in ...