It's been a minute...

It's been a minute since I've blogged in this space. Over six months, really. I haven't fallen off of the face of the earth, just trying to make some decisions. A little background on me. I come from a family that avoids talking about uncomfortable situations at all cost. I've never been okay with that, but as a kid what can you do?

As an adult and in my household, we discuss things no matter how much they may sting. Even if it changes peoples perception of us...oh well. It is what it is, and we are who we are and we've never asked anyone to put us in a little "ideal" box anyway so...*shrug*.

This openness has kept my household from relying on unhealthy vices as a way of "numbing out" the discomfort of some of the most trying situations. This openness allows us to be honest with ourselves & each other, which truly draws us closer.

I shared all that to say I started to feel censored here. As long as I keep what I share about deaf awareness it's fine. Wanna talk about hair, love, funny things that happen with the kids okay...but leave your feelings and that other stuff at the door. Here's what I mean.

As long as I write about the previously mentioned things there's no problem. The minute I write about something current that has somehow been shaped by a past experience I get side-eyes, messages and darn near interventions from family certain  people.

To me it's not that serious, and besides that I only share what I feel is relevant to the message I'm trying to convey. This is not a "tell all book", it's a blog...so simmer down! lol

Anyway...do I leave LWTD up as a archive for my deafness-related post? Do I continue to update this blog when I feel I have something to say? Do I make "Life With the Diva" a D/deaf awareness category on Curly Hue and stick to hair while spreading awareness that way??  I haven't decided as of yet, so well see.

Stockpiling: How Much... Do I Need Again?

The idea of stockpiling can be a bit overwhelming, when first starting out. Quantity purchasing guidelines may vary tremendiously depending on who you ask, but I found these Stockpile Amount Guidelines by The Krazy Coupon Lady to be reasonable for families on a modest budget.

She suggests:

• A two week supply of milk, eggs & bread
• A one to two month supply of perishables {meat, frozen veggies, etc.}
• Six months or more of canned goods, drinks & other packaged foods
• A one to two year supply of non-perishables {tolietries, paper goods, laundry goods & other cleaning supplies}

Does this mean that you can't purchase more if your budget allows? Absolutely not! It just means your stockpile will grow faster :) Remember, if at all possible buy before you need and only buy what you can/will use. You will not spontaniously combust if you walk away from some deals {believe me I've done it, and lived to write this post}. Final note: Need + Stockpile = Total Shopping Budget so you don't break the bank.


Check out this article on Couponing 101: How to Build a Stockpile to Save Money

Switched at Birth: Download the series premiere free for a limited time!

The wait is over, Switched at Birth premiered last night. I loved it as much as I thought I would! If you missed it, not to worry, for a limited time you can download episode one for FREE on iTunes {please note that it's not captioned there :( }

Also if you haven't already, you can join Switched at Birth on Facebook and follow the show on Twitter @ABCFsab

True Life: I Crave Coupons

It all started with a text from a friend inviting me to a local couponing class. I immediately accepted, but at the last minute was unable to attend. I few weeks later, we decided to meet for lunch so that she could show me some of the things that she learned.

She took out a binder that was well arranged that contained all you'd need for a "super saver shopping trip". After our lunch I was amazed, excited, but also unsure. With a recent reduction in income, I wasn't sure how I'd be able to focus on building a stockpile and  tackle my weekly grocery bill. I decided that no matter what, I was going to give couponing a try.

(Source)

One thing that stood out to me was the advice to "plan meals according to what's already available at home and what's on sale ONLY'', so I figured I'd start there. I also decided to start my stockpile with items that I can get for free (or close to it) each week. Things that aren't urgently needed right now, but that my family uses often {toiletries, cleaners, etc}.

I now keep a running list of things that are getting low or that we are out of. Each week when the "junk mail" comes with store circulars, I check them to see what's on sale to begin planning my weekly menu. Many websites often give you a "preview" of what will be on sale. Coupon Match up sites, have quick and easy summaries about hot deals & savings from a variety of stores.

Next, I'll share with you:

• Where to find Coupons
• How I choose to organize & other ways that are out there
• What my "baby steps" shopping trips look like

Deafness: Should Fear Be A Factor

(source)

As my world becomes increasingly silent, I find myself somewhat anxious, sometimes worried, and even scared. I've noticed that it is harder & harder to sit through a verbal conversation with my family & friends without becoming completely frustrated. Voices that my ear still remebered, have become just as muffled, distorted....unclear like the rest.

Should fear be a factor?