Year Without Walmart Update

Sooooooo, I was doing so good. From January to about May I didn't go to Walmart but I think one time? Well, I have gone about three times over the summer. Twice because my father (who I drive on errands because of his vision) insisted on going. But at least once I went on my own volition. I admit, I was lured by the back to school prices. I happened to be in Mississippi where the state tax is lower and had an opportunity to be child free during back to school shopping. I was weak, I caved. But I did save...

Overall, it's not been hard to avoid it. I use Target, grocery stores, Amazon (GREAT prices on  Gluten Free foods if you need them! Organic too.) Wal-Mart is fairly easy to avoid.

Will I go back to shopping there when this experiment is over? Probably. But probably not at the frequency I was before. I buy less STUFF by not going there because I focus on locally owned grocery stores. I'd rather put my money in a family owned local business than a huge conglomerate. I'm blessed with a variety of stores to choose from, I realize not everyone has that choice. I appreciate the deals WM affords people, I just wanted to see if I COULD do it. Admittedly, it's not easy and I've not gone COMPLETELY without shopping at WM, but I've done pretty good.

Thanks for following my journey! I'll do a final update at the end of the year.

~~Amy

Getting Crafty With It...Chalkboard Bill Center

A few weeks ago my sister and I were perusing around antique shops (if you recall from my Beyonce' meeting post.) And I found this awesome shutter set for six bucks! Right away I knew I had to give it a go at upcycling it.

I got a can of chalkboard spray paint, sanded the shutters down and got to spraying. After a few coats on each side and some dry time, it was ready!

I set it atop the small rolltop desk my husband uses to pay bills at. When we move, I plan to hang it on the wall. I'll also write something more witty on it later when my brain cells have recouped from the spray paint.

I also got chalky with my vinyl and this frame I found at Hobby Lobby for 50% off. Again, when we move, I'll spray paint the frame a pretty color to fit the new kitchen (I'm hoping blue!) but for now, I'll leave it white. Every night I write the dinner menu on it for the kids to read.

 

Psst, want to hear my secret? I just stuck the chalkboard vinyl on the wall and hung the frame up over it :)

Have you done any fun upcycles lately?

~~Amy

WIP Wednesday

This week's WIP is another version of the cowl from Frayed Knot...I loved it and had to try it in my favorite yarn EVER...Chroma by Knit Picks. I had some of this one left and am giving it a go :)

Isn't that yarn yummy??? I seriously could just fondle Chroma all day long....