What inspired this blog?

When my youngest got her first apartment 2 years ago, I made her a book of “mom stuff.” It included recipes for simple and inexpensive foods, as well as family favorites. I also added laundry tips, ideas for entertaining on a budget and helpful hints that I hoped would make her transition a little easier. Even so, I have still received frequent phone calls with questions about everything from crushed tomatoes to what outfit to wear to an interview.

I am often told I’m the “mom” of the group, regardless of the average age of the people I’m with. It isn’t unusual for me to get a text message or call from a friend asking about recipe ingredients, or home remedies. My kid’s friends will tell them to “call and ask your mom” when they have questions about everything from finances to travel arrangements.

Make no mistake, I’m not the perfect mother. I’m not an expert at anything! I raised two kids and we all survived. I’m still married to my best friend after almost 35 years, but it hasn’t always been easy. I am no Martha Stewart. I won’t be telling you how to make napkins out of hand towels, or stenciling a holiday tablecloth. I do hope to share some practiced ways to simplify, save money, entertain and prepare some easy meals. I’m just offering a few pointers from someone who has already “been there and done that.”

As my daughter often says, “Mom, what should I do about…?”