TRIED & TRUE ◽ TIPS

Every month, there’s learnin’ to be had, if we just listen, observe and marvel at the world around us. So here’s my list of what I learned just last month…
If your soup turns out a bit too spicy, you can add honey and some citrus to tone it down!
If you need to store bathroom or other small room rugs that you change out, purchase a plastic trash can, roll up the rugs and insert. It works! And little dish tubs work for folded tablecloths.
If you wonder, who uses tablecloths anymore, I do! They’re great for laying out on the floor for picnic suppers at home, watching a show!
If you like to change out your purses like I do, just keep a few main things you switch, and it will make the activity easy. Mostly, just a large and small wallet and a zip bag will do!
If you need plates with sides, for enjoying nachos for dinner with friends, use deep dish aluminum pie plates for each person! You can order these from Amazon!
If you’re hosting a party, bandannas make great napkins, and they’re cheap to buy!




If you’re traveling with kids in tow, this amazing pouch/book with lots of activities is a hit. Found on Amazon.
If it’s raining and you, the adult, need an activity to do – try this felt succulent kit – it’s fun to do and fun to enjoy wherever you place it when you’re done!
If you need something at Old Navy, just wait and follow them and sign up for emails… and it will be half off!
If you want a fun activity to play with the family with little kids, grab animal flashcards at The Dollar Tree and let them draw one at a time, and play charades by either acting out the animal or describing it!

If you have a small mirror or can find one, it makes a great base for a little trio in your bathroom.
If you like Hallmark and need a “different” but really good movie to watch one night, check out Falling Together – it has a great message too!
If you are young, you might not know what “notions” are in regards to sewing. My daughter didn’t. So all the little things you need for sewing, like needles and thread, etc. are called notions!
If you need a new (old) cookbook, The Cook is in the Parlor is one I found that’s a super fun read, and I’ve tried the banana bread – with sour cream – it’s amazing!
If you need some new pens for your desk, Michaels always has the cutest pens that are fat and pudge with a cute topper – check them out for gifts or for yourself!
If you need a series to watch on television, we are enjoying Matlock – the new version with Kathy Bates. We’re hooked!



TELL US WHAT YOU'VE LEARNED! DON'T FORGET TO CHECK OUT OUR OTHER TIPS STORIES
Last Month's Learnin'...
by Marcy Lytle
TRIED & TRUE ◽ TIPS

I’m always learning, trying new things, and sharing them with you. Feel free this month to add things you’ve learned in the comment box below, and we’ll share it next month!
Battery operated lamps – they saved us when the power went out – do you have some? Keep several on hand as décor!
Puzzles – 300 pieces – kids can put these together in a couple hours – if you need them to stay occupied for a bit. Amazon has lots!
Do you bake potatoes in the slow cooker? Wrap in foil, place inside, along with ½ cup water. Cook about 8-9 hours on low.
If your card table is old and nicked up…Amazon has elastic covered tablecloths that work like a charm to restore the table to beauty!
When’s the last time you purchased and plugged in a new nightlight? It’s an easy affordable treat for fall fun.
A couple of good movies to see with the kids…Inside Out 2…and The Hill (on Netflix). First one is animated but shares a great lesson, and second one is better for the older kids…it’s based on a true story.
Looking for great and personally made, quality jewelry? I love Ink and Alloy. Check out their pieces!
Did you know there are bracelets (the cutest!) for you and kids…that when you purchase…you can track a specific animal? Check this out!
The Target Dollar Spot often has organizers that work well in pantries. I recently found shelves and baskets I love…with green trim!



Solar lamps on your porch are just plain cute and inviting. Big Lots has a cute one!
Best Maid pickle juice over ice, then bits of pickle on top – they say it’s good!
Need some new lawn chairs? We tried very style in multiple stores and opted for the old style with the woven straps in a pretty green and brown…and we love them.
Have you made lemonade this summer yet? Why not? Squeeze some lemons in a cute summer pitcher and add water, and however much sugar you like. It even tastes good with a slice of banana bread for breakfast!



Thinking of upgrading your front yard or porch?
Pick a neighborhood you like and go for a walk there, and snap photos of looks you love. It helps!