Our Fall 2025 Bucket List

 Hello Frugal Friends!

Many of you enjoyed reading our Summer 2025 Bucket List and now that we've completed it, I wanted to share our Fall 2025 Bucket List.

As a reminder, the kids choose these items without any kind of prompting or guidance (clearly). I LOVE seeing what they actually want to do...it's always so simple! So instead of running myself ragged giving them alllll the fall fun this year, we are just going to do what they want. Here's to affordable family fun!

Riley Family Fall 2025 Bucket List

Register for 4H (October 1)

Start 4H Projects

Take photographs for 4H

Annabeth's Birthday (October 5)

Chicken Fingers/Mashed Potatoes/Gravy/Corn Dinner

Make Homemade Starbucks

Vacation with Kuhns (Scheduled)

Apple Orchard with Cousins

Fall Camp (Owen and Mark)

Go on a Fall Hike

Go to a Football Game (Scheduled)

Bake a Pie

Playdate with Neighbors

Zoo Teen Sign-Ups

Trick-or-Treat with the Sichting Family (October 31)

Throwback to Fall 2017 and my favorite

picture from October ever!

I am looking forward to a busy fall filled with the things we want to do!

What's on your Fall Bucket List? 

2,025 in 2025!

 Yesterday we finished our 2,025 in 2025 Decluttering Challenge!

Surprised?!

ME TOO!

If you remember, we cleared out 2,024 items in 2024. We finished in late September, having actually started in November of 2023. It was a project I took on, inspired by my friend Justina over at Well Planned Mama, and that the family went along with it. In the end, we all learned a lot! I was VERY into the project and loved the process. I shared many updates last year on the blog and loved talking about it with people in "real life" too. I felt accomplished, in control, and excited that we had done it. Mission Complete.

So...imagine my surprise when on January 1, 2025 Mark and the kids asked where our 2025 coloring sheet was and where we would declutter first! I had no intention of doing the project again or asking them to do it again but they asked - so we did! 

Now, not even all the way through August, we are 2,025+ items lighter!

Annabeth decluttered and colored in the final 10 squares yesterday!

Last year I made a point of not setting monthly goals or personal goals and that worked really well for the family. This year I only had the goal that I wanted to be patient and try to sell more than last year. Last year felt like a frantic rush to let things go but this year the house already felt more manageable. In 2024 we made just over $500 from our decluttering and this year we made just over $1700. This was a huge blessing in our budget as we spent a decent amount of money on gas, experiences, and lodging as we traveled Indiana and to the kids dance nationals. I am thankful that we were able to turn stuff into money for experiences!

So...where do we go from here?

Well, we already have three huge totes filled and tagged for the HWGA Kids' Sale in October. These items are NOT included in our 2,025 items gone so we're already well on our way to keeping the trend of letting go, going!

ALL of this is leaving soon!

Another 100+ items headed to new homes

How do I feel now that it's done?

I am glad we did it again! When my Momaw passed in June, we were blessed with many items from her home. We took some furniture, clothing, decor, Christmas ornamnets, etc and thus quite a few items entered our home. Thankfully, we knew right where each item was going to live and how we wanted to use them. Our decluttering journey helped us wisely choose to bring in only items that we love and/or that serve us well. It's given us the confidence to say "I don't need that" and even "I don't want that" when offered something or out shopping. We choose to bring in less, manage what we have, and to continue to bless others with our excess. 

Secretly, I am hoping we've created such a standard of letting go that we won't even need to color and track in the future. I hope that we've all learned to simply let go when it's time to do so.

Are you on a decluttering journey? Are you meeting your goals? 

Peace on the Little Pigeon River

 July 5 we headed to Pigeon Forge, TN for the kids' dance nationals. It was our third year in Pigeon Forge and we were already dreading the huste and bustle of the parkway. If you read my last post you know that our summer has been filled with loss, grief, changes, and many days an overall sad spirit. Needless to say, we were not in the mood for overpriced mini-golf, wax museums, or crazy souvenier shops. 

Our first morning in Pigeon Forge was a Sunday and instead of worshipping online with our church from home, I found that First Methodist had a service time that worked with our dance schedule. I made the short drive and found myself, in the middle of the PF Strip, at the sweetest brick church right along the Little Pigeon River. The sign out front told me of church ancestors who had built this little place after the last pandemic and a historic flood over 100 years ago.

Just beyond that tree is the Little Pigeon River

Inside, I was warmly welcomed like a lost friend. Seated in the "Midwest section" among other out-of-staters from Ohio, I was greeted by the pastor and most of the church members. I heard "Glad to see ya" and "What brings ya'll here?" and "So glad you've stopped in today" over and over again. 

Seated on a pew, well worn by 100 years of use, I worshipped alongside those in their Sunday best, those decked out in Dollywood souvenier gear, and even a gal ready for her next work out. We sung old hymns accompanied by a piano and organ that have been used by several generations and worshipped the One who's been here for all time. 

In a church who's mission statement read "...to make disciples of Jesus Christ who worship passionately, love extravagantly, and witness boldly" it was a JOY to commune with them. I typically choose to visit Methodist churches while traveling as they all practice open communion, allowing for any and all to commune with them. As the pastor welcomed all to the table he said, "Welcome All. We care not what journey in life brought you here today or where you are in your spiritual journey just that you are in this space with us today. Because you are here, you are welcome."

During prayers, they asked for names to be spoken aloud

for the church to hold in prayer. I took this as I spoke dear Halle's name

into the silence. In the moments that followed, a congergation of strangers

lifted her name in prayer alongside me.

At the end of service, this church often filled with travelers, acknowledges that many will never worship together or in that space again, and thus they sing "God Be With You Till We Meet Again." Someday, other the other side of the River of Life, we'll all sing and worship together.

Dear Readers, if you have not yet found a place to worship that says "I'm SO glad you're here" or "You're welcome just as you are" - I am in prayer for you! It is my dearest desire that all would find a church home that is warm, welcoming, and inclusive. If you're local to me, please ask about our church home and how you have a place there. 

Dear Readers, if you already have such a church home - are you welcoming all who stop by on their journey? Are you grasping the hands of others, making eye contact, welcoming them in on this day that your paths have crossed?

I have written Psalm 40:10* and Acts 20:24** on my heart and aim to live them daily. Friends, even in this hard season, I am living in faith, in hope, and in the promise that God loves us. ALL of us! God has chosen us to be here in this time, living for Him, and for His people. My goal is to speak Truth, to love big, and to witness boldly that all might know Him. I am thankful for that quiet reminder on the banks of the Little Pigeon River. Amen.

* "I do not kept the Good News hidden in my heart. I have talked about your faithfulness and saving power. I have told everyone of your unfailing love and faithfulness." - Psalm 40:10 

** "I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given to me - the task of testifying the Good News of Jesus Christ." - Acts 20:24  

Where We've Been...

 Hello Frugal Friends.

Long time no "see"

It's been a month since I've posted, probably the longest break I've taken since beginning blogging in 2008. 

Our June was . . . 

I don't know how to describe our June.

The end of May, we had the most beautiful day with my Momaw. We had lunch with her, talked about home projects, celebrated Owen's birthday, and for a bit of the afternoon just she and I sat in her living room. I read a long time ago that "grandparents are your first best friends" and that is 100% true for me. Momaw was always my voice of reason, encouragement, and her pride in me was just what I needed when I was unsure. We left that evening with a "See you next Friday."

Over that weekend, we celebrated Owen's 10th birthday a day early with a trip to the Indianapolis Zoo for the rhino experience. He was thrilled to meet his favorite animals and watching him pet them was a gift to me as much as it was to him. There was a long moment where he stood, eyes closed, hands to the side of a rhino and it was almost like a religious experience. I could feel him speaking to the rhinos soul and back. 

Owen turned 10 on June 2 and that same evening Momaw entered the Life Eternal. 

We did indeed go back to visit her that Friday - for her funeral - but we did go. Like many funerals, it brought family in from far away, put nearly everyone in the family in the same space at the same time, and I tried to enjoy that gift. God is always good, always working for us, and we all couldn't help but smile that the route from church to the cemetery (without any planning by the family) took us past the Barnard-Jones building at KWC, her favorite bread shop, the old neighborhood, the country club, and past her favorite orchard. It was one last tour with her of all of her favorite places. 

We spent a week+ in Evansville/Owensboro with our family, doing what needs done to begin the process of closing a house. Then we came home to our busiest week of summer - VBS and six dance shows all in one week. My parents came up for that week and we enjoyed even more time together.

Last week, Annabeth had her favorite week of summer - Production Camp and Owen and I finished our Indiana Counties tour. We also said "See you soon" to one of our pastors. As United Methodists, we are always changing pastors and this was our third to leave since 2020. We'll say "hello" to our second new one in just a few weeks. I love our church and this tradition as we faithfully accept the will of God for leadership in our church but it isn't always easy as we truly miss the people. 

As we left church that afternoon, I said "Lord. Please no more." 

Then we got word that a dear little girl, a friend of Annabeth's since Kindergarten, was in a car accident. We've spent day and night since then praying for Halle and for her family. Just like my Mama, I'm one for pacing the house at 3 AM when I can't sleep, and I've covered many miles it seems as I pray for Hal and her family. I am so thankful for a BIG God who can do BIG things. If you would, join us in prayer for her.

This month I have not been at my best. I have not shown up for others as I probably should have. I have not felt like connecting but God had a different plan. In a month when I've wanted to be selfish and sad, God has given us neighbors who needed lawn care help, friends who needed meals made, birthdays to celebrate, and life to live. 

Today I am so thankful to be here, for my children to have started school this week, and for the gift of serving God and others every single day. 

Thank you for your patience as I let this space go to hold space in "real life" for work that needed to be done there. 

See you next week Frugal Friends! 

Owen and I found solace in a tiny house in the woods.

We saw deer, rocked in a hammock, and

walked down the road for dinner. 

Our Summer 2025 Bucket List

For the past few Christmas seasons, we've had the kids made a Christmas Bucket List. I found when we did it the first year that what the kids wanted was always very simple and small compared to what I thought they wanted.

We've never done a Summer Bucket List before but last year we saw our friend the Swanson Family's list. Annabeth remembered and asked if we could do it this summer too. 

While I know most people are just beginning summer, we are already at our halfway break from school. We go back July 1 so we've been really working on crossing items off. Our goal is to finish our list by August 1st. 

Riley Family Summer Bucket List

Sign Up for Summer Reading

Finish Summer Reading (I'm the only one not done)

Finish Indiana Tour (9 counties to go!)

Visit Momaw

Visit Eblings

Movie Night with Sichtings

Cook-Out with Friends

Annabeth Learn to Mow Lawn

Eat Ice Cream Cones

Play in Backyard Sprinkler

Swim in a Pool

Wash Cars

Go to Farmer's Market

Owen to Summer Camp (Scheduled)

Annabeth to Production Camp (Scheduled)

Annabeth Post-Dance Haircut (Appointment Booked)

Ice Cream Cones ON our Indiana Tour

2 Birds, 1 Stone.

I love doing these lists with the kids because it shows me what really matters to them! It's never big, fancy, or expensive. They truly love seeing family and friends, being together, and simple fun. 

Do you have a summer bucket list? What plans are you most excited about?

Frugal Friday 574

 Happy Frugal Friday!

Here's how we saved money/spent money wisely/made extra money this week:

- Friday to Sunday my parents kept the kids and Oscar for us. They went to the Strawberry Festival, played MANY games, spent Saturday in Nashville (IN), and sooooo much more! My parents have had an incredibly busy spring caring for my Momaw and I am so thankful that they were kind enough to set aside this weekend to help us. The kids loved having them here!

- While they stayed home, Mark and I went to Cincinnati to celebrate our 16th wedding anniversary. For Mark's birthday in March, I gifted him a hotel stay and tickets to the Reds/Cubs game. We found lots of free fun (I detailed it on my business Facebook page) and had fun on budget! Free stops included 21c hotel museum, William Howard Taft Presidential Site, Fountain Square, Findlay Market, Taft Museum of Art, and the riverfront. We parked our car on Friday and left it in the garage until Sunday. We walked over 10 miles exploring the city! We had a great time away, reconnecting. 

At the Cubs/Reds Game.

It was my first MLB game and I was excited to cheer for the Cubs.

My Grandma Chico was a huge, lifelong Cubs fan so it was really special

for me to see them play in person. 

- Sunday before coming home from Cincy, we stopped at Jungle Jim's. We found many Anna-Safe items and an incredible sale on crab cakes! We also bought lots of little treats for the kids.

- Monday we made a huge lunch for Memorial Day. Mark smoked ham and chicken. Mama and I made squash casserole, macaroni and cheese, green beans, and mashed potatoes and gravy. Annabeth made strawberry shortcake and a cookie cake. It was excellent! We ate it for leftovers for three meals.

- My sister came up for the day and while she was here she gifted Owen his birthday gift from her. She gave him a grocery store shopping spree. Together they went to Meijer and he chose: ice cream, fizzy waters, Mexican sodas, chocolate milk, Doritos, sushi, and watermelon. I think this is the third time she's given him this gift and he LOVES shopping with her for items of his own choosing. 

With Aunt Lu and his haul.

She also let him choose some Hot Wheels and toy cars. 

I am so thankful for the aunt and friend she is to my kids!

- After lunch and birthday excitement, us ladies all went to Goodwill to thrift. Each of the adults found a couple of items and Annabeth found five items. Thanks to a 10% off deal + a gift card, Mama spent under $50 for everything. One of Annabeth's sweatshirt was new with tags for $65 so we definitely came out WAY ahead of retail pricing! Thank you Mama for the fun outing!

- My sister brought some clothes to trade after cleaning out her closet. Annabeth and I each kept a few pieces and we will pass on the rest. Her clean out motivated me to do my own!

- Tuesday evening was Owen's last Cub Scout Pinewood Derby. I cannot believe that by next spring he will be in Scouts! Owen and Mark worked on his car for days and days. In the end, he was very proud of his design and placed 2nd Overall!

2nd place winner

Gold and Green design.

I especially liked the gold weights under the window!

- Mark cleaned out the garage some this week. We listed many items for sale. So far he has passed on one large item and sold another. The item he sold was a large set of cot bunk-beds. We bought them used several years ago but have only ever used while "camping out" in the living room. Neither kid ever wants to be on the top bunk and we end up just putting them side by side. We have plenty of cots to serve that purpose so these were just sitting in storage. We sold them for more than we paid for them so that was a win! 

- After being inspired by my sister, I cleaned out my closet and only found three items that I didn't immediately like. Here in Central Indiana, we're mid-seasons and wearing everything from shorts to sweats on a daily basis so I found it a tough time to clear out. I plan to do it again at the end of summer and to part ways with anything I don't wear this summer. Of the three items, one was donated and two went to Annabeth's closet. Both were sentimental items I haven't worn in 10+ years but now will fit her. One was a lace top I thrifted in San Fransisco and the other was a sundress I bought in Florida on our honeymoon. Neither have fit in ages but I am very attached to the memory of buying both and felt joy when I saw them in my closet. Now, I think I'll find even more joy seeing her wear them.

We're looking forward to a busy weekend with family, friends, and the biggest birthday surprise we've ever planned for one of the kids!

Happy Savings to All! meije

Frugal Friday 573

 Happy Frugal Friday!

Here's how we saved money/spent money wisely/made extra money this week:

- Friday night we had stir-fry dinner and movie night. We made chicken sti-fry, egg rolls, and watched many episodes of Gilmore Girls. It was much more affordable than eating out and still felt special.

- Saturday afternoon we enjoyed a swim birthday party for one of Owen's favorite friends. The pool was kind enough to give swim passes to guests beyond just the party time and so the kids were able to swim the whole afternoon. Thank you to my sweet friend Lauren who sent home the extra Anna-Safe treats she had purchased for the party. I am forever thankful for friends who have safe foods for Annabeth. 

- Sunday after church we went to my nephew's baseball game. After the game, we went to Mark's mom's house for dinner and belated Mother's Day. I am so thankful for the gift of cousins for my kids - they truly love spending time with all of their cousins.

- Mark's mom did a grocery delivery order. When it came, it had bottled water that she doesn't care for. They refunded her for those and sent the correct ones. She kindly gave us the three cases!! We plan to take them on a trips later this summer. 

- Somehow over the course of our booster seat years, we ended up with five seats across our vehicles and the grandparents' vehicles. I've passed two along to a friend and last weekend I passed along the remaining three to a friend who is a social worker in the city. She will be able to use these to drive some of her clients. We were glad to have the room in the garage and to have them go where they will be used.

- Monday our friend Kelley and her girls had us over. With her church ladies group, she had started some diamond dot suncatchers that will be given to a local nursing home. We were able to complete nearly all of the rest of them as we visited. Annabeth particularly enjoyed this activity. Kelley is a great encouragement to me in always finding ways to bless others. 

- Tuesday we dropped a science text book off to a friend. We finished it this spring and she mentioned looking for something different for her daughter for next year. I was happy to pass it along! 

- The kids had studio dance pictures this week. As always, we did not buy any pictures. With our dance fees the kids do already get pictures from competitions do we don't spend double buying the studio ones too. Saved: TONS of money

- My debit card is set to expire next month. The new one arrived, I activated it, but chose not to save it to any of my devices. This stopped me from impulse spending this week. Saved: $25

- Last night my parents treated all of us to dinner at Bucca di Beppo for our anniversary. Mark's mom also let us know that she will keep the kids for us for a whole day so we can have a day date sometime! Thank you all! 

Frugal Fails:

- Somehow, even though we double check everything, Annabeth and I left her jazz shoes at her last competition venue. We didn't notice there or while processing the bags at home but we did notice when it came time for pictures this week. We searched the cars and house and didn't find them. So, she borrowed some for pictures and I ordered a new pair. This was especially painful as she had worn them literally four times and they would have worked for the next few years :( 

- Based on previous years' Nationals schedules and the kids' routines this year, I had guessed we would only be away four nights this summer. We've paid a ton for condos the past two years in Pigeon Forge so I decided to book a hotel room to save BIG. A tentative schedule has come out and it shows the kids will dance every day of the competition meaning we will be there seven nights. At the hotel, this would be an additional $500+ As it was a basic hotel room with mini fridge and no other ammeneties, I decided to check VRBO and AirBnB to see if anything was left for about the same price. In the end, I found a condo for a little less than the extended hotel stay. I am excited this means we will be able to cook with a full kitchen vs eating quick food in a hotel room or being very tempted to eat out. While we don't love spending the additional money in rentals and also three more days of paying a dog sitter, I was relieved to find a rental around the same price as the hotel. 

Celebrating 19 years since we met this weekend

AND 16 years since our wedding day today.

Happy Sweet Sixteen My Love. 

Happy Savings to All!