Book Review

An Oldie but Goodie


In today's world of increasing prices, decreasing wages, and decreasing jobs this is a good time to dig out this book and give it a serious look.
I picked this up years ago as part of a book club's promotional enticement to join.  Truth-be-told, I was more interested in this book because of the thrifty decorating tips.  I was a recently graduated interior design student in my first apartment.  When I discovered that it was more on thrift as a lifestyle I set it aside for years.  I used it as a prop in my apartment, holding that vase at the right height.  As my life has changed with marriage, divorce, major moves and career changes I dug it out and learned how to pinch a few pennies. As my life changes again, I find myself digging it out again. 

 It is amazing that the chic organic way of living that we are being bombarded with is actually living a thrifty life.  No wasting, obscene spending, but honest living off our land and recycling, fixing, and reusing our over abundance of stuff.  What could be more chic and improvisational and, well, I might add, fun? 

This book has been long out of print.  I have not seen any copy at thrift sales, ever.  At the time of the post, she did not have a web-site.  I bet the savvy shopper could find it.  I know that is one book that you will not part with. 
The name is "The Complete Tightwad Gazette--Promoting Thrift as a Viable Alternative Lifestyle."  By Amy Dacyczyn a.k.a The Frugal Zealot.  It is from Random House. 

I am currently baking my own bread, inexpensively and from her formula, and am ready for the second rising. 

Thanks Amy!  A penny saved just might save me.

Dog Days of Summer

As the heat of the summer crept up, I decided to make my living room feel as if it was a summer house draped in all its covering and momentos of beach walks and sight seeing.  The room was painted a buttery yellow.  It was accented with blue and white, sea shells, and games.  The Not-So-Lab Lab thought it was a cozy spot to avoid the heat.  Sitting in this room I was convinced we were sea-side instead of land locked.  What will this summer bring?  

Tile as Art

This really innovative and fun tile takes the edge off.  It reminds me of a beautiful Calico Cat and looks beautiful with white cabinets.  The tile acts as the art in this delightful application.