Life Archives - Page 15 of 19 - Miss Everchanging

Categories: Decorating, Healthy Living, Random Things, Saving Money, Singledom

7 Ways to Lower Your Utility Bill

When I was married, I obviously thought that money grew on trees. It wasn’t that I had much money; I just spent it carelessly. I took for granted that I’d always have extra money coming in if I were to ever get in a bind. In hind sight, I should have been much more money conscious. I nearly had a heart attack when my first round of monthly bills came in the mail. I knew immediately that the best strategy was to lower the largest bill…my utility bill.

After only a month of changes, I was able to cut my utility bill in half. On the energy report that my electric company sends out, I’m now almost at energy-efficient status. Yay, me! Why hadn’t I done this before?

Here are seven ways to lower your utility bill…

1. Install a Programmable Thermostat

One of my awesome friends gifted me with a programmable thermostat when I separated. Best gift ever! I am able to program my thermostat to a more energy efficient temperature before I wake in the mornings and when I’m gone. I’ve easily gotten used to a higher temperature in the summer and a lower temp in the winter. I think it’s really cool, too, that I can control the thermostat from my recliner with the use of an app on my phone.

2. Install Timers

Using timers is a very simple way to lower your utility bill. First, I installed a water heater timer. No longer do I have to run my water heater constantly. Now, it only runs for a couple of hours in the morning and a couple of hours at night. To keep the water hot longer, I bought an inexpensive water heater blanket to insulate it. I was worried about cold showers, but I’ve had no problem at all…and I am the queen of long showers.

I also bought a couple of cheap timers for my lamps. If I get home after dark, I don’t have to fumble to turn on lights. Also, as a single girl, a few lights make me feel more secure. Not having to remember to turn them off is very convenient!

I’ve had a timer on my pool pump since the pool was installed, but I’ve never used it. This year, I put my timer to good use. I limited the amount of time my pool pump ran. I even ran the pump on low the entire summer. While this probably wouldn’t be recommended by a pool professional, it worked fine for me. We just kept an eye to make sure the chemicals were balanced.

3. Purchased Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs

I’ve changed over all of the bulbs in my lamps and most of my overhead bulbs to LED lights. The LEDs are more energy efficient and they last for years, which is more convenient. The only bulbs I haven’t replaced are the ones in the chandeliers. Hopefully, they will make prettier bulbs soon. I just can’t bring myself do the half-white bulbs. At least, not yet.

4. Reduced Outside Lighting

I have outside accent lighting on the front of my home. It makes me feel secure when I’m home alone. Rather than having them on from dusk to dawn, I’ve set the timer so that they are on only for a few hours. For my other outside lighting, I use motion-activated lighting.

5. Limit Washing Machine Use

Instead of running several small loads, I only wash clothes when I have a full load. For myself, I usually wash one gigantic load a week. Unless I really need it, I usually wash in tap water, instead of hot. Warning….you may need to buy more underwear and towels. And, by the way, only wash clothes during the off-peak hours.

6. Limit Dishwasher Use

When I was married, I’d run my dishwasher nearly every day. Now, I place all my utensils, glasses, and greasy items in the dishwater. I wash my plates and bowls by hand, because they are quick and easy to wash. So far, I’ve been able to run my dishwasher only once or twice a week. I use the energy efficient setting on my dishwasher, as well as the air-dry feature. Don’t skimp on the quality of the detergent. A good detergent makes your glasses sparkle. I learned the hard way that not all detergent is the same. Once again, run your dishwasher during the off-peak hours.

7. Unplug Appliances On Standby

I’ve read that plugged-in appliances use more energy on standby than you’d think. I now unplug all chargers, my laptop, and my printer. I even unplug the upstairs television and speakers when I’m not actively using them. It’s not that much of a pain. It only takes a second to plug and unplug.

As a single girl, I’m still discovering that I have a lot to learn. There’s nothing like the feeling of accomplishment from lowering a bill! Making those seven changes brought out the thrifty diva side that I never knew existed. The more money I can save on utilities, the more I have to spend on clothes and shoes. Those are the fun things on which to spend money!

I’d love for you to share your tips for saving on your utility bill !

Categories: Healthy Living, Random Things, The Single Life

The Divorce Ring

“What exactly is a divorce ring?” I’ve been asked that question several times. I suppose there isn’t anything actually labeled as a ‘divorce ring’. Really, it’s just something I made up. Maybe I’ll start a new trend.

So, here’s the story behind my divorce ring….

I’d already had the diamond from my previous marriage. Trying to make the more economical choice, we decided to recycle the diamond. Before my ex proposed, he surprised me by having it reset in a band that he chose himself. As difficult as it is to say anything nice about my ex (I’m working on not being bitter!) , I admit that he had fantastic taste when it came to choosing gifts. Be it jewelry or clothes, he always nailed it. As soon as I saw the ring, I immediately fell in love with it. I took the the ring, as well as my vows, very seriously. Through the seven years, I’d always worn my diamond with pride, because it represented an eternal bond. For me, it was always more than a pretty ring.

I cried the day I took off my wedding ring. Every morning, as I dressed for work, I’d see the ring sitting on a shelf in my closet and I’d be instantly reminded of the betrayal. I’d think of the girl (girl is so not the word I want to use…) that had broken up both marriages and I’d feel angry for the loss of the life I thought I’d had. I couldn’t escape the idea that my life had been completely changed by someone I had trusted. For a while, I put it away, out of sight. Rather than let a beautiful ring sit in a drawer, I decided to trade it.

At first, trading it seemed a little overindulgent. The more responsible choice would have been to sell it and put the money into my savings. I could have even applied it towards my house loan. But, so far, I’m managing my bills. I really didn’t want to give up my sparkling diamonds. I definitely didn’t want to wait a thousand years for a man to buy a ring for me. Sometimes, logic aside, you have to do what feels right.

So I did it!

After a few weeks of searching, I said yes to a ring of my very own. Although I cried the morning I traded it, I knew that I was ready to leave yet another thing from my marriage behind. So that night, I celebrated with one of my best friends. She’s been through this this entire experience with me, her loyalty never wavering. We laughed, drank wine, and celebrated another milestone in this journey. And I felt blessed for all of the good things in my life.

I love the slightly vintage look of this new ring. It’s something that will be timeless. It’s as bold as the new person I have become. It represents my new life, with a world of possibilities. It symbolizes my independence. It reminds me that I’m allowed to be true to myself and that I’m allowed to make my own choices. When I look at my new divorce ring, I’m happy… maybe even a little proud. I’m proud that I’m a survivor. I’m proud that I can manage on my own and that I can still have nice things. With this beautiful new sparkly diamond ring, I’m embracing this beautiful new life.

Categories: Healthy Living, Random Things, The Single Life

I Think I Like Being Single

Seven years ago, as I stood at the altar, I remember thinking that it was the best day of my life. I was marrying the man of my dreams; the man with which I’d grow old. Two months ago, I was thrown into this newly-single life. I’ll be the first to admit that it was scary. Really, I was terrified. This single thing has definitely been a learning experience. I’ve learned to budget. I’ve learned how to drain the pool. I’ve learned how to handle a temperamental sewage system that hates the rain. And the list goes on… Although I didn’t chose this single life, I made the decision to embrace the whole “fresh start” challenge. New beginnings, right? I’ve been sad to the point that I’ve cried myself to sleep and I still feel angry. I’m angry that the same girl broke up both marriages. How did that even happen? I’m angry about the betrayal. Needless to say, I won’t be getting over that any time soon…. As I’ve crossed the sea ever-changing emotions, I’ve settled into a happiness that I haven’t felt in a very long time. This new independence feels pretty darned good!

Here are the things I love about being single….

I can sleep in the middle of the bed.

I can park in the middle of the garage.

I never have to turn on the television, except to watch BRAVO.

I can sing Bon Jovi’s “Living on a Prayer” and Adele’s “Hello” at the top of my lungs without anyone overhearing me.

I can finally incorporate pink into my living room.

I can take hour-long hot showers.

I can play the piano at midnight….loudly.

I can have only wine for dinner if I choose, without being questioned.

I can have movie nights with my girlfriends without prior approval.

I can have the entire closet to myself, with my things neatly folded.

I can have more cat babies, if I chose to do so.

I can pay my own bills, without having to ask for any help.

I can sleep with three cozy blankets on my bed without anyone complaining.

I can organize my newly decorated pantry, with only healthy foods, in neat rows.

I can live in my house, on my land, with my things, surrounded by my family. And, I never have to worry about anyone taking those things away from me….ever.

When anyone asks me how I’m doing, I tell them that I’m good. And I am really good.

You know, I think I like being single.

Categories: Healthy Living, Random Things

A Change That Didn’t Happen

It’s the first day of school. The art room is so clean, one could eat off the floor. The lesson plans and materials are organized and neatly laid out on the front table. The seating charts await the names of this year’s art students. It’s been a long time since this 20-year veteran art teacher has felt excited about returning to school. That’s because this year is different.

For the last few years, I’ve yearned for change. I no longer felt inspired and I longed to feel the excitement I once felt in my first years of teaching. Earlier in the year, when I learned that there was a job opening in one of the local high schools, I took the leap and applied. After all, I’d always wanted to teach high school students. Although the thought of starting over was scary, the excitement of something new outweighed any anxiety. Once I had been offered the job, I eagerly accepted. I excitedly began making lesson plans and I even took personal days to observe other high school art teachers. If I were going to teach high school art, I wanted to be the best I could! I started cleaning and purging my art room, preparing for the big move. As I begin disassembling years of memories, my excitement began to fade. I felt as if I were leaving my family. I hadn’t realized that I would feel so lost…even sad. Teaching elementary art was all I’d ever known.

Two weeks before the end of school, by email no less, I learned that the principal had decided to give the job to someone else. Although shocked, I didn’t feel as bitter as I thought I would have. (Don’t ever let anyone tell you that education isn’t political!) Much to my surprise,after reading the email, I felt a tremendous sense of relief. Apparently, my dream of becoming a high school art teacher just wasn’t meant to be.

So when school started this year, I felt excited. I worked every single workday; not only the mandatory days. I bought cheerful flowers for my room and planned new exciting lessons. For the first time in years, I feel inspired! This year, I know, without any doubt, that I am meant to be an elementary art teacher. I’m looking forward to enriching lots of little lives, and I’m sure my life will be touched by them.I learned a valuable lesson. Never let disappointment get you down. God always has a better plan. You can believe that when he doesn’t give you what you think you want, it’s because there is something better for you. Always keep the faith!

To all of my teacher friends, may you have the best year ever!

Categories: Adventures, Day Trips, Random Things

Mesa Latin Kitchen in Durham- A Preview

Last night, there was a Merengue in my mouth. As the sultry Latin flavors melded together, there was an explosion of flavor that was as vibrant as the dinnerware on which the food was served. Every course heightened my anticipation for the next. Last night’s culinary experience at Mesa Latin Kitchen, located in Durham, left me longing for more….

When my friend Melissa, from Adventures of Frugal Mom, invited me to join her for the preview dinner, I eagerly accepted. For a moment, I worried that I’d have a difficult time finding healthy fare. In years past, I’ve turned down many invitations, fearing that any food other than my usual “safe” foods would cause a binge. Immediately, I thought of Bethenny Frankel’s book, Naturally Thin. In her book, Bethenny always suggests that we should “taste everything, eat nothing.” Of course, she doesn’t mean that you should eat nothing! She merely suggests that instead of always cleaning your plate, you should simply have a few bites of everything, so that you don’t feel deprived. Since reading her book, her saying has become my mantra. As a future health coach, I realize the importance of treating yourself. I decided that Mesa would be the perfect opportunity to test Bethenny’s theory of “tasting everything, eating nothing”.

Upon accepting Melissa’s invitation, I immediately began researching Mesa Latin Kitchen. Mesa officially makes it’s debut this weekend. I was thrilled to discover that Mesa is a tapas restaurant. Sometimes, for me, an entire entree is overwhelming. I’m always more comfortable with smaller servings.

With Melissa’s navigational skills, we easily found the restaurant. We were greeted at the door and I immediately fell in love with the colorful, eclectic decor. It was festive, yet intimate. There was a separate room, large enough for a party.

After we were seated, we poured over the menu as our drink orders were taken. Several of the other bloggers ordered the Sangria. My friend, Melissa, ordered the Pineapple Rumtini. I opted for a wine spritzer. I love the spritzers because they are lower in calories and alcohol.

I quickly discovered that I was not alone in my love for eating, drinking, and blogging!

As the food began to come, we furiously took notes and pictures, while simultaneously posting on our social media. Let it be known that bloggers can multitask. In fact, that’s what we do best!

First, we were served homemade salsa with plantain chips.

Next, we sampled the Fried Queso Blanco and the Mixed Marinated Olives. I really need an olive etiquette class. There is nothing graceful about disposing of the olive pits!

One of my absolute favorites was the Coconut Rice, which featured crab, coconut cream, and peas; served in a coconut shell. The coconut shell was atop a banana leaf. What attention to detail! I could easily eat this every day of my life.

There were several different items included in the next course…

I adorded the Shrimp Ceviche. I’ve been a long-time fan of cheviche, but this is much different than what I make at home. Fabulous!

The Colombian Empanadas included spinach, manchego, and a sweet corn Parmesan sauce. They were both light and rich. What a paradox!

The Avocado Tomato Salad was fresh and light!

My horizons were broadened when I tasted the Grilled Octopus. It’s not often a person has an opportunity to eat octopus! Although I was skeptical at first, the octopus was cooked perfectly and was very tender.

I very much enjoyed the flatbread.

I didn’t try the Smoked Pork Ribs, although they did look tasty!

Since, I’m not much of a meat eater, I didn’t try the Crispy Braised Skirt Steak, served with tomato escabeche, black beans, and white rice. The others raved about this dish. It was the favorite of many.

Another of my favorite dishes was the Chicken Imperial. It was served with a yellow rice made of manchego, olives, peas, and peppers. The chicken was so tender, it nearly melted in my mouth. Much to my dismay, the chicken I cook at home never tastes like this.

After the ribs, we were brought bowls of water to cleanse our fingertips. So thoughtful! These are Lee’s nails. I reminded that I must have a manicure soon! Check out Lee’s blog, here. I really enjoyed chatting with her!

The service at Mesa was absolutely outstanding! We were treated like royalty.

Of course, the asparagus was delectable. The lemon on top of the asparagus was fried! Of all the fried things I’ve tasted in my life, the fried lemon was among the best. So adventurous!

Next, was the Curried Quinoa. It contained carrots, shrimp, bacon, and coconut curry. Curry has so many fantastic medicinal qualities.

We shared all of the courses with the people at our table. I made sure to eat only a few bites of everything and was amazing satisfied! I once read that the first few bites are always the best. I was pleased that I felt satisfied, but not full. I’ve found that as long as I don’t feel full, I don’t feel guilty.

After our main courses, we had a visit from the talented chef, Douglas Rodriquez. You can read more about him here. He was once on Bravo’s Top Chef.

Just as I imagined, the desserts were as spectacular as the dinner items. The desserts weren’t listed on the menu, so I’ll describe them as best as possible.

We began with a goat cheese flan. This was the favorite of one of the servers. I have to agree. It was so tender!

Next, was a guava pistachio pound cake. Light and flaky, this was my favorite!

Before last night, I’d never had tapioca. The presentation was mind-blowing! It was served in a coconut!

Although not technically a dessert, we were served the Smoked Bacon Wrapped Dates. Anything that contains bacon is a winner. I have no problem eating bacon as a dessert!

Before making the hour-and -a-half drive home, I opted for an expresso. This was my first expresso ever. Not only was I very alert for the drive home, I was awake until four in the morning!

Anywhere I go, Gigi goes with me! Although I’m not a fashion blogger, great outings call for great accessories. You can find my uber clutch and phone cover here. A southern girl must have monograms!

Without a doubt, Mesa Latin Kitchen is a place that I will visit over and over! The food and service were among the best I’ve had. From last night, I learned that I can indulge in fantastic new foods without the guilt if I eat small amounts. I learned that food actually tastes much better in small amounts. I appreciated being able to meet new people that share my passion for blogging. I learned that I can drive in heavy Raleigh traffic (as long as I have a fantastic navigator). I learned that I can eat octopus. And, finally, I learned to never drink espresso before bedtime.

Thank you, Mesa Latin Kitchen, for an amazing experience!