Meet a Reader | Jean from Michigan
Hello, everyone! Today we're meeting Jean, who hails from a chilly part of the country: Michigan.
1. Tell us a little about yourself
I am in my mid-seventies and seem to have “retired by default” to Muskegon, Michigan.
I was married for many years to a man who was an engineer with the State Department, so I have lived and traveled all over – Kuwait, Athens, Greece, and Ankara, Turkey.
My two boys came with me back to the Midwest when we divorced in the 1990s. Employment and relationship opportunities brought me to the eastern shore of Lake Michigan in 1999, and here I’ve retired.
My oldest boy lives in Portland, Oregon, with his family, and I haven’t been able to visit often enough in the last few years. Airfare is getting more and more expensive, and it’s just far enough that driving out and back takes too much time.
For company, I have lots of friends (my made-up family), and I have two rescued cats and a lovely little Jack Russell terrier, Daisy Mae.
2. What's the "why" behind your money-saving efforts?
I am stuck in that no-man’s-land of having a fixed income when prices are absolutely not fixed, and I’m exploring ways to stretch my budget as far as I can without having to suffer too greatly!
I also have some unpredictable additional income -- I buy and sell old junque at a local antique mall and on eBay, I walk dogs, and currently do merchandising for Five Below, putting things on the shelves at the store a couple times a month.
3. My frugal ways
My mother was a bit of a spendthrift, so I have fought against that tendency for a long time. I was also accustomed to having more money coming in every month, so it was easy to be a frivolous spender.
Now I’m having to budget quite closely to live comfortably, eat nutritiously, and continue to save for my old age (although apparently THIS is my old age)!
I love to read but rarely purchase new books, although walking into Barnes & Noble without buying at least a fancy magazine is a struggle.
West Michigan has an excellent local library system, so I’m able to get almost everything I’m interested in delivered to my branch.
We also have an active free book giveaway twice a month, where I donate what I’ve read and find free books for my Little Book House donation spot at the local supermarket and for my own reading shelves, as well.
I knit and crochet and sew many of my own clothes, although I wish it weren’t so easy to run into Old Navy to buy a $10 white t-shirt.
I am a messy eater (watch me drip sloppy joes on my boobs), so I don’t spend much on a t-shirts because they get stained too easily.
However, that cheapie t-shirt is cut on the crooked of the fabric, so it never hangs properly, and the knit it’s made from has become thinner and less sturdy.
One of my current projects is to create a t-shirt pattern for myself with various necklines and sleeve lengths, so I can make one when I need one.
Cooking (and grocery shopping) for one person is challenging!
Aldi and Trader Joe’s, please don’t put three green peppers in a package! I love soup (which is a frugal meal) but cooking an economical batch means eating it for days.
The freezer on my fridge is freezer-burn-city, but at this point in my life, a chest freezer doesn’t seem sensible.
4. What's your best frugal win?
Buying the house I’m in, and refinancing it almost right away to lower the interest rate and get rid of the private mortgage insurance.
I own a little three-bedroom ranch on a large lot in a 1960s subdivision, and I squeaked out enough money to purchase it from a friend in 2018.
It has almost doubled in value, so even though I hope to age in place, if I had to sell I might have enough cash to find another, smaller place to live.
5. What's an embarrassing money mistake you've made?
I didn’t imagine I would ever marry again, but I fell in love with and created a business with a person I didn’t marry.
We were together for almost 25 years until we weren’t together anymore. In the end, there was no legal protection for the assets of unmarried couples; our earned money is in his bank accounts and in his name.
If he dies first I will inherit; in the meantime, I’m living on a small pension and social security. My monthly stipend is comfortable but not generous, so I am having to count every dollar.
The mistake I made was not planning with legal counsel for my protection in the event we split up.
6. To splurge or not to splurge
Cable television is my #1 splurge.
I love movies and certain embarrassing reality television shows (Amazing Race, anyone?) and can’t seem to keep the ever-rising costs of cable TV at a reasonable level. I have tried a satellite dish with mediocre results.
I MUST have Netflix, but I’m not quite ready to go to all-streaming entertainment.
I’m not much of one for diamonds and furs. Also, booze, to be honest. I buy an occasional bottle of wine, but I’m not much of a drinker. Not having a drink with dinner out keeps costs down.
7. If $1000 was dropped into your lap today, what would you do with it?
Save it in my trip fund for a trip to Scotland. I love to travel and have long wanted to visit the country where my family originated.
8. Is there anything unique about frugal living in your area?
My county is fairly small, with about 100,000 people.
Craigslist and Buy Nothing groups have fizzled, to some extent, and with the nearest big city 45 minutes away, it almost doesn’t pay to spend gas to travel to get something free.
However, our second-hand markets are very, very strong. We have a Goodwill Depot where things are sold by the pound. The Rescue Mission has several good stores, and many churches have as their mission the resale of used items in various ways.
We also have great “antique” and refurbished furniture shops for furniture and household goods. I think the most expensive item in my entire house was my $197 television.
9. What frugal tips have you tried and abandoned?
I am not fond of couponing or apps like Gas Buddy. I want the cheapest gas to be on my main street, not in the next town 12 miles away!
I’ve also tried in-store coupons, which drive me crazy – either the expiration date is too soon, or they offer products I have no interest in purchasing.
The grocery stores are offering app-based coupons for Buy-One-Get-One Half Off, which was a terrible invention.
I need only one. I want only one. Please do not ask me to buy two, because buying two does not save me money today. Toothpaste, maybe – but canned peaches. I don’t think so.
10. Which is your favorite type of post at the Frugal Girl and why?
I live vicariously through your “what I spent” each week, and I can’t figure out if I’m just nosy (just what did you spend that money on?) or curious as to how you manage to feed yourself and your girls with today’s food prices.
Thanks so much for letting me go on (and on). Please enjoy your ski trip, and let me know if you need anything else. It was strangely liberating to write this, and I am amazed at how beautiful this area is, even in the dead of winter.
___________
Jean, I really enjoyed getting a peek into your life! Thank you for sharing! I think your secondhand bookshelves are so beautiful; I love how you have them styled, and I love the artwork on your walls there too.
I want to know more about the colorful dishes in the background of one of your cat photos. Tell us about them, please.
Also, I totally agree about "buy one, get one half off" sales. That's only 25% off each item, which is not that good. Buy one, get one free sales are way better.
Yes! Please tell us more about those dishes. They are beautiful. What are they and where did you did you find them?
@Faith, the cabinet on the left is full of Homer Laughlin Luray Pastels, made in Ohio. Moderntone is spilling out of the cabinet on the right -- they were made in the 1940s, and some were theater give-aways. Martha Stewart sniffed at Moderntone once -- she didn't like them.
@Jean, My great gandmother had a bunch of the Moderntone she got as theater give aways. Wish I had them! Fab.
@Jean,
I am a vintage dish addict and have quite the sizable collection! I love seeing your beautiful collection!
I eat every meal on either vintage Homer Laughlin Fiesta Ware or Harlequin. My spring dishes are Luray, which actually were made by Taylor, Smith and Taylor and not Homer Laughlin. I also have children's Moderntone pieces because they play well with my Fiesta!
@Jean,
Oooo, I love Luray! I love vintage dishware. I don't own any that are particularly valuable, just random pieces I come across.
Hi Jean! This was fun to read, and I particularly loved the photo of Daisy. Such an appealing little face.
@kristin @ going country, Daisy Mae! Terriers are The Best. But I could never trust my terrier with that gorgeous crocheted blanket she's lying on.
Jean,
Your most recent crochet blanket is stunningly beautiful. It's just gorgeous.
Thank you for sharing a bit of your life with us. It looks like life is beautiful in your part of Michigan.
@K D,
I must agree that is exceptionally beautiful. I love the colors!!!
@Bee, thanks! Color idea belongs to a British crochet designer Attic24, who is currently hosting an afghan crochet-along in those colors. It's called Springfrost, and yarn kits are available at Wool Warehouse in the UK.
@Jean, it is beautiful! Some of those stitches look very complicated but so we’ll done!
Hi Jean! O enjoyed your interview. You created yourself a lovely home with adorable pets in a seemingly pretty environment.
I hope your travel plans to Scotland will work out soon and also that you will get to see your son more often. It sounds interesting the various countries you were living in. Which one did you like particularly?
@Lea, Greece was beautiful and affordable, with so much to see and do in Athens. We lived north of the city, near where the marble was mined to build the Acropolis, and it was just a hop, skip and a jump over the mountain to the sea on the other side. It was lovely.
Hi Jean, your crocheted blanket is gorgeous. Do you ever sell your needlework?
@Sarah, No, sorry. Although I always encourage people to buy a crochet hook and give it a try. It's amazingly zen once you're good at it!
@Jean, would you sell the pattern for the blanket? That would bring in some bucks, too, and I'd sure leap at it! Or are you keeping it as a one-of-a-kind that will end up in the Smithsonian one of these days?
Hi Jean; thanks for sharing! I agree with Kristen about your bookshelves/wall, and KD about your crocheted blanket - I'm drawn to your eye for color! Lovely.
I often think what a difference it must make to live in an area with a thriving second hand market, whether it's Buy Nothing or thrift shops or whatever. I've never been to a Goodwill that sells by the pound - around me, they just seem to keep raising prices on stuff that's not that great. But we do have a few good church type thrift shops in the area, with more reasonable prices. I enjoy poking around in them!
I'm interested in your t-shirt project - how is that going? What a great idea to be able to make a staple item like that.
@Suz, T-shirt project is at a full stop. I'm madly trying to finish a quilt, as I redid my bedroom last year and the quilt was the centerpiece of the color plan. Slow progress on all other projects until that gets finished. Thank you!
It’s always nice to meet a fellow junk lover. I have bought, sold and collected for at least 25 years. I also have a lot of “merchandise” in my garage. I see so many vintage gems in the background of your photos.
On a serious side, inflation has hit us hard too. I find it challenging to stretch our income. We have experienced a 20%+ increase in living expenses over the last two years without any change in standard of living. Unfortunately, we have not received a 20% increase in income. I am flexing my frugal muscles daily.
I know that handmade items never sell for what they are really worth, but afghans like that beautiful one on your table could be an additional source of income. Also, I love the blue background floral picture over your book shelves!
Trying to save money when you are cooking and eating for one is challenging, even before prices rose so dramatically. It amazes me that food stores have yet to acknowledge the vast market of single-person buyers who, as Jean noted, do not want or need 3 peppers in a package and the like.
A single friend who has lots of single friends nearby her (which many of us do not) has started combining shopping lists, as it were, to see where, if anywhere, they can combine to purchase both from regular supermarkets as well as big box stores like costco. Yes, it takes some work and some compromises but, since she has no way to store frozen items or more than her regular-size fridge can hold, this is what she needs to do.
I, too, live by myself and eating "fast" enough to get through some meals is a challenge No, I will not have the same leftover three nights in a row. I do freeze leftovers but my freezer is already full with items purchased on big sales as well. Balancing the amount of space "open" for leftovers is always tricky. That's the other thing: Sometimes you have to make so much when you cook that you could not eat it in one or even two sittings anyway. And when you're on a budget, any waste is particularly painful.
The other thing that another friend does is share food she makes with a neighbor in her apartment building. Luckily, they both like the same things and the proximity makes it possible.
Someone suggested I ask a neighbor to put some things in their freezer for me when I run out of space. I live in a big city. This is NOT what we do in our apartment buildings, no matter how friendly we are with each other.
The situation is complicated for those of us with mobility issues who must rely on food delivery services (not restaurants but supermarkets), where prices fluctuate and timing for sales is hard to do with minimum amounts to order, delivery charges and tips. You all probably spend less money on gas overall even if you travel store to store.
It really irks me that housing and food remain huge challenges to living alone in big cities.
It's great that Jean was able to buy her home. Great move. And I greatly admire her skill to make her clothing.
FYI: I, too, have a tendency to spill things but since I live alone, I have no problems using a very fun patterned vinyl sort of long bib (kind of looks like an apron) when I'm eating.
Would I use it if eating out? No. But I do not eat out anymore due to our prices which I wouldn't pay even if they were in my budget as I am always contemplating how much food I could buy and cook for what they charge for one meal.
I'm envious of the availability of local resale shops. We used to have some great ones here with, depending on where they were located, some really good stuff. But many closed permanently due to COVID and now, the folks who run these shops take what they want for themselves and resell. THey are forbidden to do so but I've seen it happen. Plus now everyone seems to be trying to sell elsewhere rather than donate. Over the years, I got some great clothing and various items for the apartment. No more.
I wish there were organizations that could help those living on their own combine their needs and buying power to get more for their money. It just seems folks are either unaware of the challenges of paying for housing, food and the basics today for people of all ages, but especially older women who may have worked for years (and may still be working) but don't have pensions or other savings due to working lower salaried jobs for years and years. Today's young women have tons of financial advice to guide them, something my friends and I (also in mid-seventies) did not have in the past.
One thing I recommend to Jean, if she does not do already, is to sign up for Rakuten or Retail Me not. Easy to use and you get cash back on online and in-store purchases. Even little bits add up and every year I have a couple hundred dollars more from these.
Jean, I'm sorry you are not selling your crochet works. I know myself and others would love to have you create items for ourselves and gifts for others. Due to health issues, I can't knit or crochet and have always admired the work of those I know who do knit or crochet. I inherited some beautiful pieces from my grandmother.
@Irena, Thank you so much! I have a secret feeling that us old ladies are going to conquer the world, because there are so many of us! I appreciate your suggestions, and completely understand how hard it is to economize by buying quantity. (PS I admit I buy toilet paper by the dozen at Aldi, and when I'm down to only a dozen rolls, I buy another dozen. Just to be prepared for anything!)
@Irene
I live in a big city as well ( in Germany). Actually it is much easier here to have access to all sorts of grocery shops, discounters, high end fancy food shops, open air markets etc compared to living in the country side or little towns.
I used to feed a family of five on a daily basis - and more often than not I actually cooked for a crowd of 8 - 10 people every time extended family came to visit or on nearly a daily basis my three sons would bring home friends from class for lunch whenever they felt like it. We always kept an open house.
Now I am a widow and my sons are grown up - and finally I can indulge in whatever I feel like eating. Like if I feel like having liver or kidneys or lamb chops or whatever I go ahead and do so. Nobody complaining!
And as I am not the only one among my friends living on her own now and because of living in a big city I often invite my friends over when I feel lasagne would be nice or a pot roast or a whole duck or whatever - or I get invited for lunch or dinner.
@Lea, the Bestest Neighbors and I also often share or split meals. This both saves money and keeps us from having to eat our own leftovers all the time. We also sometimes divide up bulk purchases (cases of things, BOGO deals, etc.) and could probably do even more of that than we're doing now.
@A. Marie, When I first moved out, I didn't have a lot of money, so ate lots of leftovers. I got creative, so it wasn't always the same. I could put taco meat in a taco, on hotdogs (instead of chili) & in a salad. I could eat hotdogs plain, with the taco meat, with condiments added or added into beans. I could eat porkchops with side of cucumber & tomato, in a taco or in a salad. I could use taco meat instead of sloppy joe mix in a hamb bun, etc, etc. I hated cooking for 1, so could cook enough meat for 3-4 meals. I'd occasionally make meatloaf or burgers just to change things up . Lunch was sandwiches & leftover veggies & 3 cookies. Boring, but it worked! 🙂
Jean, you have such a great eye for color! That crochet blanket is marvelous, as is what you shared of your home.
@N, Thank you from the bottom of my Boho heart!
Jean, what a charming house you have and I just wanted to compliment your eye for color, as demonstrated in the crochet blanket your cute pup is on, the LuRay pastels (Taylor, Smith & Taylor), and the pretty "junque" shoppe paintings.
One of these days we should just have house tours of readers' homes. I love all that stuff. (And you will love Scotland, I hope. I do and I miss it and need to go back.)
@Rose,Thank you. You got me on the LuRay, I had Homer Laughlin on my mind!
@Rose,
Yes, Yes, Yes to house tours of readers' homes. Not a competition by any means, but I love seeing everyone's different styles!
@Rose, I like that idea about house tours. Some of you, such as you yourself and Jean, have already done that to a certain extent in your Meet a Readers--but I wouldn't mind seeing it become a recurring feature.
Hi Jean. I agree about the deals that force you to buy a certain amount to get a discount. Also annoys me when they excluded certain varieties from the deal, which are invariably the one I want. We finally cut cable last year and went full streaming. It was a bit of an adjustment, but cost far less than cable. It was really annoying trying to call the cable company each year to get a better deal and then getting nothing more than a slight discount for services we hardly used anyway. With streaming we limited it to a few sites that had what we actually want to watch and now we feel we are getting our money's worth.
Love those colorful dishes! Where are they from?
@AnnieH,Thank you! Left side, LuRay; right side, Moderntone. I have a lot of yellow vegetable serving dishes because they gave them away at dish night at the movies.
The crocheted blanket is so beautiful. Gorgeous!
I live in SC now, but my husband and I lived in West Michigan for 12 years. If you don't mind snow 😉 it can be a great place to live! I can attest to the GREAT library system in your area. It is awesome!
Hi Jean! Thanks for sharing your story. As an older adult, I like reading stories about other older people who are frugal.
Hi, Jean,
You and I would get along very well when choosing colors to live with. Even the fabric stack awaiting a quilt pleases me, as does the cat snoozing with it. Your house looks like an explosion of color, which suits me just fine. It seems as though that would cheer me up in the duller seasons of the year.
Your animals are adorable.
I'm cooking for one now, and yes, it can be hard. However, I have no problem eating the same leftovers for three or four days, so that makes it easier for me, ha. I know most people can't stomach doing that.
I would suggest getting a very small freezer, putting it in your garage, perhaps. They make them as small as 4 c.f., but even that small of a size would give you more flexibility with food.
I'm so sorry things ended the way they did with your partnership, and I hope that situation will improve somehow.
I visit a website called Apple Green Cottage - https://www.applegreencottage.com/
There are pattern roundups for home and clothing, many of the patterns are free, and I believe one included a simple tee-shirt. You might want to check that site out if you haven't before. Some patterns don't even require a printer.
Thanks for sharing!
@JD,thanks for the suggestion! and about the freezer -- I've been watching for a small second-hand chest freezer at estate sales in the area. Meantime, I made stuffed peppers last week, and I'll give you one guess as to what's for supper tonight!
@Jean, peppers freeze very well, so when I see any color pepper for a good price, even two or three in a bag ---I just chop them up and put them in a freezer bag. My husband uses them on weekends when he makes himself a fancy breakfast. One or two chopped peppers don't take up much room in the freezer. They are not my favorite so I don't like making a meal around them, but I often saute them with onions and add to a casserole or pasta sauce.
Love the kitties and pup, they make life so much better!
Jean, at the risk of sounding like an echo chamber, both your crocheted blanket and colored dishes grabbed me. You are brave (buying a house alone), adventuresome (saving for Scotland!), and resourceful (bouncing back after that partnership collapsed). Thank you for sharing your life with us.
This may possibly be my favorite "Meet a Reader" post. I feel a real kinship with Jean.
Jean I love your style and all the colors you use. And your dishes are amazing.
I wondered if you have a Michael’s craft store in the big town near you. That is where I buy T-shirts. Last spring they had them on sale for 3 for $10. That was up from the year before when I bought them for 4 for $10. We will have to see if they have a sale this year. Last time I looked they were $5.99 each but that was months ago. I have found them to actually be a pretty good quality. They have lots of colors and are indented to be decorated so they are all blank, I have found that I need to buy them there as my husband is very messy both dribbling when he eats and working in the yard. I can usually get everything clean but sometimes the stain just will not come out.
I used to crochet and I think I may have to start again after seeing your blanket.
A few years ago I moved from Portland,Or to across the river into Vancouver, Wa. So I live close to your son.
@Nancy H., Michael's is in Holland MI, down the road a piece, so I plan those trips to combine with other errands, but will check next time. What a good idea! By the way, Portland is one of my favorite places on earth. Even though they've had some problems lately, the city won my heart because it's so green 12 months of the year!
@Jean, there's a Michael's on Alpine Ave in Grand Rapids--not sure where you are in Muskegon, but it's closer for me.
Jean, Thanks for this lovely look into your life. That crocheted blanked is awesome! That varied, complicated stitching in each row!
In my town we also have an active group of Little Free Library houses. I have one and get hundreds of books going through it each month. Best sellers, kids books, cookbooks, magazines—you name it.
Love it when I see people stopping by to browse or add from my kitchen window.
@Erika JS, Thanks so much! I share mine with a mystery person. The book house is walking distance to several schools, and it was empty the first summer I started, so my person might be a teacher (or a student!). This week I did young adult books -- Ms. Mystery did all picture books, so we're ready for all ages!
@Jean,
Ooh, I love this little Mystery Person story. What’s life without a bit of whimsy?
You have a lot of cool talents and I love a book lover. As for that sweet Daisy Mae, I could wrap her right up in the pretty throw and take them both home with me.
@Erika JS, Thank you! I do love my little Daisy Mae, she's been great company during this kind of stay-at-home time. She was a rescue from an animal hoarder, and house training her during the first Covid shutdown kept me very very busy.
I think this is a really interesting post for many reasons. A lot of people always think about their retirement and "golden years" with their partner, but this is one of a few posts that has a made a point to say "hey, I am doing this alone." As women, I think it is so important to be prepared and have the means to do life alone if we must. I remember my grandmother telling me to always have some money that was just mine and Jean's comments about her former business partner really hit home.
@Heather, Yes, I fully agree with you. We as women need to be prepared to take care of ourselves.
@Heather, amen to what you said about retirement. A lot of us here have had our plans for our "golden years" up-ended by divorce, separation, or (as in my case) partner disability. But we do what we must, because we have to. And I wish all of us who are in this boat a happy Valentine's Day.
@A. Marie, some of us have had their plans for their “golden years” up-ended by the death of partner.
There are so many ways our visions for the future can taken from us; I can definitely sympathize with that. Hugs to you.
And I also agree that it's important to be able to be good company for oneself!
@A. Marie, I think women have to think about this seriously, and learn ways to be good company for yourself. Go to the movies alone, or go out to eat alone, take out the garbage and recycling by yourself! I sometimes miss having a partner (especially on garbage night), but I try to always have things to do.
@Shirley, true, and I was remiss in not including that.
@A. Marie, I appreciate your kind response. I’m feeling a little blue today.
@Jean, I didn't marry until I was 34, and I didn't date much before then, so I had a lot of adult years on my own. I always felt that there were skills I was learning in my singleness that nearly everyone will need at some point! I learned how to dine alone in restaurants, enjoy going to the movies on my own, how to dress up leftovers so they didn't feel so repetitive, and how to maintain friendships and make friends with people who were in a different phase of their lives (marriage, parenthood, etc.). While I wonder sometimes what my life would have looked like if my husband and I had met earlier (and definitely what it would have been like to have kids younger), I know that who I am now was shaped by my time alone. I try to keep those skills in good shape.
Glad to meet you! Cheerful colors do brighten up our lives. I sew, crochet, and knit. Maybe you would find a pattern useful that I recently used, from the indie company Cashmerette. The pattern is expensive but it offers a big range of sizes, and I am very happy with the tee I made from it. I trace patterns I like to preserve them better, and the more times I use a pattern the cheaper it is per use.
Your cats are gorgeous too! Remind me of my old cat, who insisted on sleeping on incomplete quilts. It was her version of test driving?
@Kristina, Thanks! I've seen Cashmerette patterns, but they are expensive, but your recommendation is great, now I'm willing to try one and see how it goes. And the cats -- they find amazing places to take their many naps.
Jean,
I too am on my own and really don't like the packaging of things for the most part. I have always cooked for 3 or more my entire life so being on my own was a change in it's self. The one thing I did for myself is a bit of research on what foods easily freeze and what don't. I know you mentioned that freezer burn was an issue for you as well yet I will get to that in a bit. Onions, bell peppers, potatoes and a lot of other foods freeze up well cooked and in the raw. Also I always cook from scratch so making a bit more to freeze up is always good for me on those days when I get home late. Freezer burn is due to air getting into what you are storing. I know zip lock bags, of all types, claim to keep air out yet what about the air that remains in the bag after you seal it? It stays in the bag of course no matter how much you suck out with a straw before sealing. To remedy this I bought myself a food vacuum machine. Loved it so much that my sister decide to purchase a name brand costly one for me as a gift. My first machine was under $30 and I believe, even in this costly world we have now, that you can still obtain a machines for under $50 via Amazon /Ebay. I even saw one yesterday that was on sale for under $30 so they are around if you keep your eyes out for one. I will forewarn that the name brand machine are very costly when it come to the vacuum bag/rolls yet there are some lesser costing bags out there which work just as well. What having such a machine does is sucks out every bit of air so freezer burn happen less often and/or takes tons of time to occur. The bags when sealed correctly do have an exchange rate of how long it takes for air to enter yet it usually is months and months down the road. For example, I recently opened a pouch of cheese that I sealed up about a year ago. No freezer burn and just as fresh as the day I sealed it up then froze it. I have sealed plenty of meals over the years and really love the fact I don't waste as much food any longer to include bread. I am not a big bread eater yet when I want something that required bread it mean that most like the rest of the loaf will go bad before I use it again. Lucky for me my machine also has a 'moist foods' setting so when I do buy a loaf now I simply freeze up the rest of the bag for use later.
Of course this is just a suggestion yet if you are interested in such I truly believe you will really like such!
@Terri, What a great idea! I understood that the frost-free freezer on my old fridge was the culprit, but now I'm going to try another way to put things away. I'm old and cranky and very very slow to adapt to new tools, so thanks!
Hi Jean, Thank you for sharing about your life. My parents both grew up in Muskegon, and I have many relatives there. I live in Arizona now, but have definitely spent a lot of time in Muskegon over the years. It was so fun seeing pictures of your pets. I am a pet-sitter and dog-walker as well. I'm also a reality TV junkie and could never give up my DISH Network. The shows on TLC and Lifetime are my favorites. Check out Southwest Airlines for trips to Oregon. They are running a lot of sales on Southwest right now, trying to win back customer favor after their issues in late 2022. I will be flying them next month to Las Vegas for a work trip. Their prices were so much cheaper than their competitors.
@Beth B., My son bought me an Easter ticket on Allegiant, which is making a direct flight from Grand Rapids to Portland. YAY! Otherwise Southwest is usually my first option!
For the record, it is 54° with full sun in West Michigan today. I live in that "... big city 45 minutes away ..." from you. My confused daffodils are poking through the cold ground. I liked your contribution to Meet a Reader. Just a thought on your legal conundrum. I had a legal real estate issue with a relative for 14 years. A very expensive but good lawyer I consulted suggested mediation. It cost me only $150 and we settled our dispute. Such a relief to have that off my plate. I no longer have the legal headache and along with the peace of mind came a financial bonus.
@Nancy, I just took the dog for a long walk until raindrops started falling on us! Thanks for the suggestion!
I am also curious about those colorful dishes. So pretty!
Thank you for your piece, Jean. I can identify with you--I am 85, widowed, and the mother of six grown daughters. After a very busy life, I am alone, but between gardening, knitting, sewing, active book club assignments, and now signing on to become a Master Gardener Volunteer, life is still full. I am grateful for good health. I also live in a 3 bedroom ranch house on a large lot, and the place brings great joy and satisfaction. I am thankful we moved here when we downsized, and not into a condo! I hope to remain here till the end, also. Having helped a daughter go through a horrible divorce, more than I should have, I am also watching every penny. This blog helps remind me. Thank you, Kristen, also!
Oh my, Jean, that crocheted blanket that Daisy is lying on in your photo is absolutely gorgeous! I'm not much of a crocheter but a knitter and I totally appreciate the work that went your blanket. Your colour selections are gorgeous too! Please tell us more about your work of art?
And thank you for sharing your story!
What a pretty life you have crafted for yourself. Pets, crochet, art, junque - in some ways you’re living my dream!
I’m sorry about the unfairness regarding the laws and clearly your ex’s integrity issues that you’re having to deal with. I got forced out of the housing market in ways that feel pretty unfair, and it’s a bitter pill to swallow. Most of the time I try to move on and not dwell on it but there are moments it still rankles. (Like the 1st of every month, when I fork over almost $3000 in rent…) Dwelling on it poisons my life today, so I try not to, and recognize a similar effort in what you wrote. I’m glad you have enough for a full and fulfilling life, even if it’s not always easy.
Thanks for sharing! Your pets are adorable, and that crocheted blanket is just gorgeous.
I haven’t read all the comments so forgive me if this is a repeat but we subscribe to You Tube TV instead of cable (we also use other streaming services but this is for basic cable channels). I am not sure of the cost but know we spend less on our services then a cable package in our area. You do need a smart tv I believe to use it but we get all the channels so I can indulge in my guilty pleasure show - Amazing Race!
Jean, that crocheted blanket that you made, with your cat on it, is beautiful. You're quite talented.
Hello Michigan Jean from Heather in Portland. I'm sorry you don't get to see your son much - I concur that the travel from here to the midwest is horrible. Thanks for the peek into your life. I can tell your home is a comfortable, happy one. I wanted to give you a tip on that t-shirt project. There's a great shirt pattern called Laundry Day Tee from Love Notions, and if you're on facebok and join their group, you can get the pattern for free. It's only $5 otherwise, so a great deal either way. It's super versatile and just what you're looking for. I plan to make it into a dress, but haven't got my sewing room set up yet.
@Heather,Thanks for the suggestion! That's a reasonable price for a pattern!
Jean - So nice learning about you! First, my Mama's name is Jean, and we are also of Scottish decent, so we're practically related! Second, your kitty (in the wire basket) looks identical to my Holly-Day who passed last October (she was 19!). Her BFF followed about 4 months later (I think she died of grief). I too love to read and love antiques (I'm not quite at your level)! I swear, we have to be distant relations! The similarities end with knitting, crocheting, and sewing...I am hopeless. Your crocheted blanket is lovely! I've really enjoyed "getting to know" you!
Jean, I love your home (especially all those books- swoon!). I move frequently and always appreciate when someone has a living space that looks like a home.
I lived in Vietnam for quite a while and loved the fact that I could buy just what I needed- half a pineapple, a quarter of a cabbage, three eggs, etc. Decades ago, I used to live by a small co-op that did the same thing and it was so appreciated. That was nice because I could bring in my own containers (weighed as I entered and at register) and could buy just what I needed (like three cups of flour). Without all the fancy packaging, things were so much cheaper. I wish they'd do that everywhere!
Jean,
I am a fellow reader! Have you heard about the Overdrive and Libby apps? Your local library should pay the subscription fees and you can download millions of books to your ipad, kindle or laptop. I read at least two books a week (and listen to audio books when I walk.) I haven't paid for a book in over 15 years. It could save you a lot of money. FYI, you can increase the font size on digital books to make them easier to read (I read at about 1.5 times the normal size)
Love your cute kitties! Susan
Hello Jean ~ Nice to meet you! You mentioned that you were with someone for many years, unmarried. Could you be eligible for higher Social Security benefits if you applied as a common law spouse? It might be worth a call to your SS office to check. I've heard C.L. marriages are not recognized in Michigan, but since the benefits are on a federal level, it might increase your check. Take care, a Michigan girl living in Texas, Donna
Yay!! I love all of the Meet the Readers posts so far, but I especially love reading about fellow Michiganders. (Kristen - I've been hoping for months that Kris will do a Meet the Reader submission!)
Hello to you, Jean, from about 3 hours southeast of you. 🙂 I believe that my first time to Muskegon was 2 summers ago (we went twice that year.). We like to camp near Lake Michigan and I'm sure we'll end up in Muskegon again within the next few years. We toured the S. S. Milwaukee Clipper while there and loved it. It was pretty inexpensive and very fascinating! I recommend it if you haven't checked it out yet.
I echo what others have said about the beauty of your recent crocheted blanket. I was amazed! It might be the most beautiful crocheted blanket I've ever seen.
And yes... I do find that a lot of the books I order through Mel come from libraries in your neck of the woods. I'm thankful for your awesome library system, too!
I totally understand the "no sunshine" January, but think the picture of your house is just beautiful. A couple of weeks ago I was talking with one of my kids about how thankful I was that God made snow white instead of a color like gray or tan.
Thanks for sharing a little of your life (and your awesome bookcases) with us!
@Ruth T, you made me laugh out loud. Literally. I'll think about doing a Meet the Reader post but I am generally more interested in seeing/learning about others than I am in talking about myself. I was pretty excited about today's post, since I'm also in the Muskegon area. Hearing about Jean (she sounds like a hoot) brightened my day (which I needed after the sad events at MSU last night).
The Clipper is a great tour-----I know that touring the Silversides submarine is expensive, but it's worth it, especially if you can get a two for the price of one deal. Also, the Hackley/Hume home tours are really neat. I'm also a great fount of information for free/cheap entertainment in our area if you need ideas. Ha.
@Kris and Ruth -- You should not be afraid to contribute. I was hesitant because DANG, IT'S PERSONAL INFORMATION and even after I sent everything to Kristen I was nervous, but it's really like opening the door and letting in about a thousand friends, all of who are helpful and very very nice. I'm having a good day!
Aww, I'm so glad you feel that way! I've heard the same thing from lots of readers who have participated; this is a nice space to make your online debut. 🙂
@Kris, I'm glad you'll consider it!
I wondered how close you were to Jean. So fun!!!
We also did the Silversides submarine tour. It was very cool, though a little scary with our younger kids at some spots. (To our 2 or 3 year-old: "No, you HAVE to hold our hand! This is not an option!" Those boats and subs are definitely not designed to keep little ones from going over the edge.) And my oldest daughter, who doesn't like bridges or boats, was not a fan. Everyone loved the museum, though! I'll have to let you know next time we head that way and get some recommendations from you. Thanks!
@Jean, I was one of the early Meet the Readers. 🙂 You can go back through and read about my little bit of Michigan!
I'm so glad you are enjoying the experience!!
Here you go! https://www.thefrugalgirl.com/meet-ruth-t/
Absolutely love the crochet and jealous of your bookshelves and books!
Jean: Like so many others, I'm loving the colors of your dishes and blankets and lilacs! And of course, not everyone is wise enough to spell "junque" with a "Q".
For going to Portland, have you looked at prices on Amtrak? Especially if you have more time to travel, though pet care is an issue? Getting through an airport takes So many extra hours, it seems, and Amtrak does not, though you would probably have to change trains, probably Chicago. Amtrak also has very generous baggage allowances if you are taking things for your son.
I had a conference a few years ago in Portland and, with few days open after it, I took Amtrak from Portland to Seattle, where I had never been, and flew back from there. The train was inexpensive, convenient (with mass transit by the stations at both ends), comfortable for a short ride, and I got to see new scenery. However, I suggest NOT doing so on a day the Seahawks are at home, as the station is almost next to the stadium and the train was very full.
Dear Jean,
I felt like we got to know you more than a bit, just reading about your life and a little of your past. The style of your writing was engaging. Have you thought about writing short stories, either from your life, or from your imagination?
I had the thought as I sat reading, I like her. 🙂 Wish we were neighbors. I'm sitting in Des Moines, Iowa on a rainy Valentines' Day with my littles, 7 and 3. Stopped for a not-so-frugal Culvers ice cream to celebrate first successful tooth cleaning for my little gal. Now home until we pick up my big girl from school.
Good to meet you. Wish you the very best.
Brenda
@Brenda, Thank you! I had an emergency dentist appointment this morning (ouch and $$$) and celebrated with a quick trip to Culver's for a root beer float and a little cup of goodness for Daisy Mae! It really is a small world!
Jean, I'm late to the party here, but I too enjoyed your Meet a Reader immensely. As older single women, inveterate junquers, and book and animal lovers, we have a great deal in common.
Oh, and I forgot to mention how hard I laughed at your "sloppy joes on the boobs" remark. Because I buy 90% of my clothes at thrift stores, this makes me a little less worried about spilling things on my own ample rack (and thus probably less likely to spill).
And on the few occasions that my mother and my mother-in-law met, my DH and I used to have a naughty private bet going on which of them would spill down their ample endowments first. My mother usually won, being less inhibited.
Haha, I love your private bet with your husband! What a nice memory that must be for you.
Jean,
I am so excited to see someone from West Michigan! I'm a bit farther inland from you (Coopersville) and my mom lives just off of River Road.
I'm going to agree with everyone else and also gush about your dishes and how pretty they look. And applaud the rescue cats and adorable dog.
Thanks for volunteering!
Angel
Jean! I'm also in Muskegon! We need to chat. I totally agree with you about the beauty of our area. I just got back from a walk around Dune Harbor Park on this oddly warm day.
So you don't want to drive to Grand Haven for cheaper gas????? 😉
I also like books, libraries, cats, and knitting. You sound like fun.
@Kris, I'm convinced there's a cabal of gas station owners in Muskegon County who keep gas prices up in the stratosphere. Purchased in North Muskegon for $3.17 yesterday, should have waited until I got to Whitehall where it was $3.10. I try to plan my trips (Field's Fabrics? Gas! GH Library? Gas!)
@Jean, I got gas for $3.02 on Monday. My daughter volunteers at Pound Buddies and there are a few stations on the way there which are typically less expensive. You have a very good point about the price gouging in our area. It's crazy.
Hi Jean, certainly enjoyed your post. Love how you've filled your home with things you enjoy; what a beautiful rug! Hope you get to Scotland; I've always dreamed of going too. My ancestors are from there as well. Thanks for sharing.
I wish I had something original to say about the photos of your home, but I do not. I can only echo what so many others have said---the colors you have surrounded yourself with are so gorgeous and your needle talents are worthy of being in an exhibition. Thank you for sharing your life.
Nice to meet you neighbor! I live about an hour north of you, and drove past on my way to GR last night/this afternoon.
Information about Daisy's afghan:
Faith Crochet Pattern designed by Helen at crystalsandcrochet.com. Designed in several parts as a crochet-along, pattern is available in US crochet terms and is free.
Color palette is Springfrost from Lucy at attic24.typepad.com. Lucy is a British crochet designer who offers a free crochet-along blanket pattern every year. I loved her colors but didn't need another striped blanket.
Yarn was economical and ordered from England at Wool Warehouse. Shipped by Royal Mail and usually very quickly sent, although there's a strike this year and things are moving more slowly. The yarn is #3 weight by Stylecraft Special DK, and I have not been able to duplicate their color choice anywhere in the US. Yarn is poly but washes well, doesn't pill, and doesn't split. It arrives in a lovely mesh bag that is perfect for keeping the cats out of the yarn!
Fun read! I love your crochet rug and your art above your bookcase. Pretty doesn't have to be expensive!
A hint about tee shirts. I have trouble finding long ones to wear over leggings and like you, Jean, I eat a little, wear a little—all down my front. So costly tees—no thanks. I recently bought a package of men’s v neck tees (white) and dyed them with Rit dye in colors I like. It only took a capful of dye in a gallon of water and they turned out great—for about $2.50 each. Good fabric, hang straight and if I get them dirty from spills or garden dirt it’s no huge loss!
@Karen, Good idea! and I have a 30% off coupon from Kohl's!
I loved getting a peek into your life! I enjoyed your comments on 3 peppers in a bag. I , like you, live alone since my husband passed. I don’t use up many items sold in bulk. I shop at Aldi and some items at Costco, but to buy individual products I’m forced to go to other stores. Not a real money saver! If I make chicken broth, I use pint jars so often my freezer is full of broth and such. Not an impossible situation, but certainly frustrating! Lol!
I love your photos and meeting you. I too, at some point would like to visit Scotland!
Take care!
Jean, I'm in Michigan, too, though on the other side of the state. My best friend lives in Grand Haven, so I've had lots of good experiences on your side of our state. It's beautiful over there!
My husband and I honeymooned in Oregon, and ended with a few days in Portland. We spent a day at Powell's Books - they shipped all of our books home for only $13! The airline would have charged $50 for the extra suitcase, so I count that as frugal.
Your home is lovely! Your blanket is just gorgeous I'm just learning how to crochet. My nine year old daughter wants to learn how to make amigurimi, and asked me to figure it out and show her. My grandmother was a wonderful crocheter(?). She's passed on now, but I still have some of her doilies. She tried to teach me as a teenager, but I never got beyond a very long string.
Thank you for doing the interview!
Jean so nice to meet you. You are very wise and very photogenic. Love the pet photos. So sorry that you can't visit your family as much as you would like. I hope you get to Scotland one day. I have been there and it is beautiful. All the best to you. This was a terrific post.
Nice meeting you Jean! Your pets are adorable and I am in awe of your crocheted blanket. ❤️ Take care!
That photo of Daisy Mae on the blanket you just crocheted: darling dog, and you are amazingly talented to have made such an intricate creation! Loved seeing all the scenery shots -- what a beautiful area! I'm wondering if you could find T-shirts made of good fabric at the Goodwill sell-by-the-pound place? Just a thought...Also, sadly, yours is not the only story I've heard about not being married and ending up a displaced homemaker. No need to be embarrassed, we all make mistakes, and I'm truly sorry you are having a bad time of it. Ladies out there, don't move in with a guy (or marry a guy, for that matter) until you have consulted with a lawyer about all the potential problems and pitfalls, and take the attorney's advice about how to protect yourself from the worst-case scenerio. Yes, it COULD happen to you. You think your love will last forever, but often that's not the case!