Prepping Our Home For Uncertain Times

 

I recently uploaded this video (above) it's one that I had placed on private on my YouTube channel. I live in Maryland (USA) and their is alot going on politically that is creating alot of uncertainty for the economy and safety. Regardless on what side of the coin your feet stand on. These are times where everyone will be effected regardless. 

I urge everyone to pad your pantry's and creating a refuge for your families during these difficult times. Gas prices are going up and up. Food supply will soon be effected via pricing and availability. It's a terrible domino effecting across everything. 

These are some of my efforts for my home. Long term foods that will be there when I need them. I don't have to worry about a quick turn over for time.

 

These canned goods from canned meats, vegetables, butter and even canned bread. You will also see some emergency lighting there as well.

This shelf carries a variety of goods from beans, vegetables, dumplings, soups, and more. 

I believe that slow and steady wins the race. Keeping in my mind what our families enjoy eating. Picking up duplicates of sale priced items and adding them to our shelves. As long as your starting your ahead of the game and you will see your pantry grow. Enjoy the video!

Dollhouse Miniature Ebay Treasures

 It's January 18, 2026 and I started to go through some of my treasures that had been placed in the basement. This particular video I'm sharing my Ebay Dollhouse Miniature purchases I made many moons ago. I'm embarrased to say that I have a large portion of my collection in boxes and bags.

They sat quietly for me till I was ready to embrace my hobby again. As most miniaturist we have seasons in our lives were our hobby gets placed in the back burner. Some of the seasons in my life lasted a year to a few years in between. Regardless, Dollhouse Miniature's has always been a constant for me. This hobby started 39 years ago for me. 

This particular piece is beautiful. The details from the perfect pink solid arms to the charming print that coordinates. The pleated bottom that wraps around the entire piece to the bunka used to accentuate the curves and line.

If you didn't know green is my favorite color. This gem sparkled from the packaging. It gave me cozy cottage feels with country vibes. So, this piece will be able to transform for many uses and holiday room updates. I can see this in a log cabin, rustic country room scene to a cottage deep in the forest or by the sea. I appreciate you coming by. Check out for 3 part series for the Dollhouse Miniatures I pulled from a huge moving storage bag. Enjoy

My Dollhouse Miniature Collection and Amazon Finds For Your Dollhouse

 First I like to share my newest Amazon Dollhouse Miniatures Finds in the video above you will see some of my Dollhouse Collection.

I found these 300 books for $8.99 

https://amzn.to/4rOcJH9  These are in 1:12 scale. Perfect for book cases and room scenes.

iLand Sofa 2 cushions and table $24.79  https://amzn.to/4pwlB2M This is a beautifully constructed 1:12 scale piece. A higher quality piece of furniture. In the video you will see the detail of the birds in the fabric.

iLand chairs with cushions this is a set of 2 chairs $21.99 

https://amzn.to/4rWJWjV in the video these 1:12 scale chairs are beautiful with the same coordinating fabric as the sofa above. These are higher quality.

Sticker Treasury Woodland Adventures Book $20.99 

https://amzn.to/4aagdNQ  I fell in love with this sticker book. I was able  to cut out many stickers that I will use for my dollhouse's. These stickers are highly detailed and look more like true art.

Here is another treasure you will see in the video. This one is from 1925 Tine Litho Horse Drawn Wagon Angelus Marshmallows Cracker Jack Prize. 

Dollar Tree Has Prepper Friendly Finds On A Budget

 In the video above you will see money saving options on a tight budget. I share just a handful in this video. I will be focusing more on my pantry and items that can be found at the Dollar Tree. I hope you subscribe and not miss my future uploads.

A good example is this Margaret Holmes Seasoned Butter Beans. These are already seasoned and ready to eat in a emergency. I have served this for my family many times and it's a crowd pleaser. 

Mothers Maid Apple filling is another gem to be found at the Dollar Tree. This can be used in many recipes and provide comfort (comfort food) during stressful times.

Planters Salted Caramel Peanuts are a great staple for snaking and meals found at the Dollar Tree. This is shelf stable and ready in any emergency with no heating or cooking required. Great for on the go for hiking, go bags, car kits, and more. 

This Dollar Tree Planters Sea Salt and Vinegar was a surprising new taste for my family that was enjoyed. So, this is a new addition of go to flavors for us on a budget.

As you see a sneak peak into some tasty options for your pantry on a budget. Check out the video for additional finds I got for my pantry.

DIY Dollhouse Miniature Tudor High Back Seat Using Cardboard

I previously created a Tudor style bed from recyclables for my dollhouse and wanted to create a matching seat. I have videos posted for the Tudor Bed on my You Tube Channel just click the video (below) and head into You Tube and subscribe.

 

Here is the box I received from friend mail that I used to create my Tudor style bench seat. I saw the package had a unique rounded portion and I knew it would be used for a project.

I'm simply shaping the cardboard into the shape of the seat I desire. In the video you will see what I used to help keep the chair bends in place. 

These are the pieces I found from the Dollar Tree crafting department that I am using for the decorative elements on the chair These come in many different shapes.

I'm simply choosing the shapes I want to use. I turn them around and place the glitter portion against the cardboard. I don't want any glitter spreading on my piece.

I hot glued the pieces down and started mixing the paint on a paper plate. I chose black and brown paint to do the base of the seat. I will use several coats. 

The chair has several coats of paint now.  I will let this sit and dry and repeat the process. In the video you will see I added side pieces to the chair to give it a more complete look. Although, I am not done I'm very pleased so far. I will come back with Part 2.  Please subscribe to my channel to see the last step of this project.

DIY Dollhouse Miniature Unique Vintage Animal Pillows and Rug

 I know many of us are guilty of putting things away and not looking at them for long periods of time. Well I was going through some bags filled with craft supplies, dollhouse miniatures, fabrics, and more. One particular fabric called out to me as I was going through my treasures. 

You will see a better view of the fabric in the video above. It has a large teddy bear, stars, and animals on it. After looking at it I thought I could make a rug and pillows from it.

These are the pillows I was able to create by cutting out 2 of each animal. I used hot glue to piece them together and stuffed them with some polyester fiber fill from my stash. 

Here is the bear that sits by a antique pull toy holding a black and white teddy bear. I know a bear holding a bear how cute. 

As you see it's turning out great. I used a needle tool to work out the tightly woven fabric along the entire edge to create a rug fringe. It was a bit of a challenge but it was worth it. Please enjoy the video above. 

Dollhouse Miniature Diy Mirror Using Recycled Cardboard and Washi Tape

 I enjoy challenging myself to use packaging from items I receive in the mail. I wanted to put a mirror in my gentlemen's room. I went online to check out the prices and was taken aback by what they are asking for. So, I decided to make my own. 

Here are the supplies I used:

Paper cutter (optional)

Scissors

Red line tape (basically double sided tape)

Cardboard from any packaging

Mirror (from packing)

Washi Tape (optional: you can use decorative paper/paint) 

This paper cardboard package I used was on the thinner side. It held face masks. You can use anything you have in your stash even heavier cardstock paper.

These are some of my washi tape options. Although, you can use decorative paper, paint, trims/ribbon or colored marker/pens to achieve your look.

I did ultimately choose the faux wood grain washi tape for the project. I could have easily chosen one of these other washi tapes options for a more unique look.

Using a cutting board is optional and not necessary. I happen to have one and decided to use it. 

On the video above you will see the mirror better and in different angles. I feel it was a great success and another unique one of the kind pieces I created myself.

Christmas In July 1940 Dick Powell, Ellen Drew, and Raymond Walburn Comedy Romance Full Movie

 

Christmas in July is a 1940 American screwball comedy[2] film written and directed by Preston Sturges, and starring Dick Powell and Ellen Drew. Enjoy the Full length move (above).

Based on Sturges' unproduced 1931 play A Cup of Coffee, it follows an ambitious clerk who is tricked into thinking he has won $25,000 in a slogan contest for a coffee company, and begins using his believed winnings to fulfill his dreams. It was Sturges' second film as writer-director, after The Great McGinty (1940).

Directed by Preston Sturges Screenplay by Preston Sturges Based on A Cup of Coffee

1931 play by Preston Sturges Produced by Paul Jones Buddy G. DeSylva[i] Starring Dick Powell Ellen Drew Raymond Walburn William Demarest Cinematography Victor Milner Edited by Ellsworth Hoagland Music by John Leipold[i] Leo Shuken[i] Distributed by Paramount Pictures Release date October 18, 1940 Running time 67 minutes[1] Country United States Language English

Dollar Tree Price Increases! Can You Still Find Deals? Is It Worth Going?

 

I've been a Dollar Tree Hauler for over 9 years. I share my finds on my You tube channel (above). I encourage you to subscribe to my channel. My Dollar Tree finds have helped my family make ends meet and provide a passive income doing videos. Dollar Tree often has close out finds like name brand medicines, household goods, foods, clothing/socks, beauty, and more.

I look forward to my trips to the store not knowing what I can find. Although, the prices have increased and you have less economical finds to choose from...they are still there. Hidden gems that are still at their rock bottom prices. 

Don't get me wrong. I'm am disappointed that they have integrated so quickly with these price increases and continue to increase. Honestly, in the beginning of the change I felt a sense of betrayal. I felt that they didn't care about the effects on the loyal customers like myself. Dollar Tree has been a life line to alot of families. Many that live paycheck to paycheck. But I knew it couldn't be helped with all the economical changes due to politics and government. Now back to the finds.

This particular trip I felt like I was in Daiso. We don't have one here on the East Coast so to find Kawaii type items for only $1.25 each I was like a kid in the candy store (video above). 

These themed Kawaii items are located in the school supply section at the top of the store. As soon as you enter. So, there are still good deals to be found.

Diy Dollhouse Miniature 1:12 scale Bench Using Recyclable Items

 This is a Dollhouse Miniature bench 1:12 scale. This is easily customizable to any scale example: Barbie. I gathered my materials from my stash of supplies. I didn't need to buy anything.  A list of materials I used:

Aleenes Tacky Glue

Fabric (my stash)

Coffee Stir Sticks

Foam Core Board (my stash)

Foam (my stash)

Wood Cutter (I used my wire jewelry cutter)

Scissors

                                       Here is the Fabric I choose 

It immediately gave me Lodge or cabin vibes. Its difficult to describe the pine cone effect so here is a close up of it (picture above). 

The project ran smoothly and I was very happy with the end result. I still have the option to customize the wood color with some wood stain pens or paint but I wanted to have the natural wood look. The contrast between the fabric and wood is perfect. I hope you enjoy the video (above). 

Kid Dynamite 1943 Movie Full In Color

 

Wildest Riot Theses Rascals Ever Staged Anywhere! When schemers snatch Muggs to rig a boxing match, Danny steps up, clinching the victory in the ring. Fueled by envy, Muggs grows bitter and mistakenly distrusts his loyal pal, sparking tension in their scrappy crew. The East Side gang is challenged to a boxing fight against the West Side, but their champion boxer is kidnapped right before the fight. Original title: Kid Dynamite (1943) Directed by Wallace Fox Writers: Based on the short story "The Old Gang" by Paul Ernst Main cast: Leo Gorcey - Muggs McGinnis Huntz Hall - Glimpy McGleavey Bobby Jordan - Danny Lyons Gabriel Dell - Harry Wycoff Pamela Blake - Ivy McGinnis Benny Bartlett - Beanie Miller Sunshine Sammy Morrison - Scruno David Durand - Joe "Skinny" Collins Bobby Stone - Harry "Stony" Stone Minerva Urecal - Judge Jack Mulhall - Clancy Daphne Pollard - Mrs. McGinnis Genres: Comedy, Crime, Drama Release date: February 4, 1943 Black & White version: • Kid Dynamite (1943) East Side Kids | Leo G...

Sharaf Blend Extrait De Parfum by Zimaya Review It's Autumn in a Bottle

I recently added this parfum to my collection. This is my 1st Zimaya perfume. I was browsing Amazon and it came up. The beauty of the bottle and it's crystal look impressed me immediately. I appreciate a unique bottle that will stand out among my others. I read the notes: 

Top Notes: Dates, Nutmeg, and Saffron

                     Middle Notes: Vanilla, Praline, and Tuberose

              Base Notes: Tonka Bean, Amber Wood, Benzoin and Musk

 The fact that it's an extrait which means a stronger concentration of oil 20%-30% will give this fragrance a longer lasting experience.  So, I took the chance clicked. Here is my Amazon affiliate link:  https://amzn.to/3ZuYfj5 for under $24.00 and got it home. 

Upon opening the box the presentation was beautiful. The bottle sat nestled in the center (securely). It truly was an experience and would be an excellent choice for a gift for anyone age 18 and above. This fragrance I feel is unisex and be worn year round as a signature scent. To see my full review click the video below.

 

Dollhouse Miniature Thrift Store Find's $3.98 Fabric Jack Pot Moment

                       Finding Dollhouse Miniature Fabric 

The Challenge to find fabric in my area is real. Recently, Jo Anns our only true fabric store filed for bankruptcy and closed. Although, we will still see the name Jo Anns used in Michaels craft store now ..We know it will not be a full fabric store experience. Michaels purchased Jo Anns intellectual property (name).

So, I decided to go to the Thrift Store with my son. He was on the hunt for electronics and I for fabric, trims, and anything that I could use for my crafty makes. We both got lucky! I found 2 bags of fabrics. Although, they had many I chose the fabric with small prints (video above). I found a large amount of unique fabrics including some from Japan. 

This particular piece is lovely. It has a print of a little girl in a bonnet. The colors are vibrant. The print gives me a vintage vibes.

This next piece is a sweet Barbie pink with shabby chic details of a simple floral inside a white scalloped stripe. This will be good for bedding, pillows, curtains, and small carpet.

This piece is a vibrant pop of pink and white floral. I could use this for bedding, table cloth, curtains with a sheer in the center and pillows. I hope you enjoyed the sneak peak and will check out the video above. 

Dollhouse Miniature How to Distress Furniture For Attic, Abandoned House, or Halloween Room Scenes

 

This video (see above) shows how easily you can distress a floral sofa that is made with fabric. I was truly surprised how it came out. The fabric definitely soaked in alot of the paint so heads up multiple layers will be required. Enjoy

Setting up with my plastic plate and pulling out the various paints I want to use for my project. The plate allows me to mix the colors to perfection. 

Here you see some of the chosen colors and how I made the colors work to give me a distressed look.

I was really impressed with the look of the distressing and how the color variations gave me such a realistic feel.

The overall look is great considering this was a dated floral fabric sofa that I simply painted over. 

Diy Dollhouse Miniature Wall Shelf W/Plates Using Recycle Items 1:12 scale

 

This DIY video for 1:12 scale miniature wall shelf and plates using recycle items is great. I know that dollhouse miniature hobby can be very expensive. When your able to create with little to no money it's a win win. I have a huge play list of Dollhouse Miniature video's that can  be viewed below. Enjoy the tutorial video above. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Um2rTd2TJA&list=PL-5oAtVxljmy5lNMZOf-MWY2Nl70s0h-S

New Dollar Tree Finds Name Brands Items!

 I am always looking for deals. Dollar Tree had $1.25 mugs that are normally sold in Kohls! The quality and craftmanship are amazing.

These type's of find's help my family to save money for other needs. Check out the other money saver finds in the video's (below and above).

Let’s Keep This Our Little Secret Indulgent Moments Parfums Review

 Today, Im sharing Indulgent Moments Parfum's (video above)

Nectarine & Blushing Freesia Lavender & Honeysuckle Neroli & Sea Salt Sunkissed Hibiscus & Pomelo Jasmine Petals & Cedarwood They are all economical fragrance I purchased from Fragrancenet.com They are all 4.2 oz or 125ml They are large beautiful cut glass bottle with wooden caps detailed in gold. I found the fragrance to last about an hour and close to the skin. I can smell them longer if my clothing is sprayed as well. There is no overwhelming alcohol scent when sprayed. These often can be found in TJ Max,Ross and fragrancenet.com.

Kid Dynamite 1943 East Side Kids Little Mobsters 1943 Crime - Comedy Directed by Wallace Fox Full Movie In Color

 Wildest Riot Theses Rascals Ever Staged Anywhere!

When schemers snatch Muggs to rig a boxing match, Danny steps up, clinching the victory in the ring. Fueled by envy, Muggs grows bitter and mistakenly distrusts his loyal pal, sparking tension in their scrappy crew. The East Side gang is challenged to a boxing fight against the West Side, but their champion boxer is kidnapped right before the fight. Original title: Kid Dynamite (1943) Directed by Wallace Fox Writers: Based on the short story "The Old Gang" by Paul Ernst Main cast: Leo Gorcey - Muggs McGinnis Huntz Hall - Glimpy McGleavey Bobby Jordan - Danny Lyons Gabriel Dell - Harry Wycoff Pamela Blake - Ivy McGinnis Benny Bartlett - Beanie Miller Sunshine Sammy Morrison - Scruno David Durand - Joe "Skinny" Collins Bobby Stone - Harry "Stony" Stone Minerva Urecal - Judge Jack Mulhall - Clancy Daphne Pollard - Mrs. McGinnis Genres: Comedy, Crime, Drama Release date: February 4, 1943 Black & White version: • Kid Dynamite (1943) East Side Kids | Leo G...

Make A Easy Faux Glass Stained Dollhouse Miniature Door With A Cereal Box and Stickers in 1:12 scale

 In this video (above) I created a beautiful faux stained glass Dollhouse Miniature front door. You can use this technique for any room and tweak it to customize the look for different era's and styles.

I used:

Cereal box

Paint and paint brush

Washi tape (optional)

faux glass stained stickers (from Shein)

Earring backs for door knobs

Modge Podge (not required to coat)

Tacky Glue

I didn't have to buy anything. I used everything in my stash. There are alot of different ways to go with this technique. I could have made a rustic solid looking door with no faux glass stain. If you like to build up the borders/frame just apply more layers of the cut cereal boxes. I hope you enjoy the video above. 

Dollar Tree Finds That Are Budget and Prepper Friendly

 Hello friends here are my newest finds from the Dollar

Tree.  Recently there have been alot of Walmart close out finds. Finding better quality goods for $1.25 is amazing. 

This certainly helps families stretch those dollars. I especially like to share my foodie finds. I feel it's extremely important to stock up our pantry shelves for our families. This weeks finds are comfort foods. Enjoy the video above.  

Creating Mixed Media Junk Journal Page In My Craft Room On A Shoe String Budget

I wanted to share this video with all of you. Here you will see how I use a book to create a unique mixed media junk journal page. The book was one that didn't hold my attention....other supplies from my stash and Dollar Tree items are used. 

Many people ask what is the point to this? Great question. My books are small works of art that I keep on a shelf instead of walls. They are treasure's for my children, grand children and family to see. 

What are the guidelines? Good question. First there are no rules. That's right there is no right or wrong. How I love that! I watched many other You Tubers create different kinds of junk journal books. In many different genre's. These included lace/trims, shabby chic, magazine tear parts, life/moments, critter/animal themed and more. 

I became intrigued by mixed media. The textures, dark colors, inks,  metals, and other creative techniques. I found a style that I could truly embrace with joy. I encourage everyone to find a hobby that brings joy and relaxation. I will admit I am trying to spread my wings in other kinds of themes but I keep coming back to mixed media. Enjoy the video above and the process. 

 

Michael Kors Wonderlust Eau De Parfum Fragrance Review Suntan Lotion Coconut On The Beach Vibes

 I came across this gem many years ago and it has stayed with me. This will be my 5th bottle. I love the smell of sun tan lotion and beach.

If that is the vibe your looking for then add this one to your collection. This can easily transition into a signature scent. I consider myself a mixologist. Do a few spray Wanderlust and Michael Kors

main accords

almond

powdery

woody

floral

white floral

vanilla

warm spicy

amber

citrus

nutty 

Sexy Amber. This mix is beautiful. If you happen to have Michael Kors Wanderlust Sublime ( I believe it's been discontinued) do the Sexy Amber with that too. People will stop to compliment you. 

 Wonderlust by Michael Kors is a Oriental Floral fragrance for women. Wonderlust was launched in 2016. Wonderlust was created by Aurélien Guichard, Honorine Blanc and Alexis Grugeon. Top notes are Almond Milk, Bergamot and Pink Pepper; middle notes are Heliotrope, Jasmine Sambac and Carnation; base notes are Sandalwood, Cashmere Wood and Benzoin.

Estee Lauder Bronze Goddess Eau De Parfum Review Suntan Lotion Beach Vibes

Bronze Goddess Eau de Parfum 2019 by Estée Lauder is a Oriental Floral fragrance for women. Bronze Goddess Eau de Parfum 2019 was launched in 2019. Top note is Coconut; middle note is Tiare Flower; base notes are Vanilla, Amber and Sandalwood.

I bought this Gem a few years ago after experiencing the Bronze Goddess Eau Fraiche which is more of a skin scent verse the eau de parfum. I am always on the look out for the perfect summer scent with a hint of suntan lotion. This one comes very close. Check out the video. 

main accords

vanilla

coconut

sweet

amber

white floral

powdery

woody

lactonic

tropical

Walmart Rising Prices

 Walmart has officially announced price hikes due to tariffs.  Although, they have been steadily raising prices since Covid.  Walmart holds no loyalty to anyone but their Executive Branch's.

Looking at their financials they have reaped substantial gains. Now, they will take advantage of a bad situation on the backs of struggling Americans. Check out the video above. 

The Dollar Tree Store Food & Product Shrinkflation is Real and Deceptive Be Aware

 I'm a loyal Dollar Tree shopper and Youtube Hauler over 9 years. I have seen slowly over the years food, drink, and various product size's shrinking at the Dollar Tree Store. 

As families continue to struggle they are faced with more food insecurity. The Dollar Tree store is a go to for food, medicine, health hygiene, beauty, cleaning products and so much more. They help make ends meet when every little penny counts. 

This is what I found on my recent shopping trip. My video (above) I share how a go to product for our family Hungry Jack Pancake mix is being effected This is what is happening.

Hungry Jack Pancake Mix 16oz $1.25

Hungry Jack Pancake Mix 14oz $1.25 

(In the same box size) very deceptive

(These above are being phased out) 

Now it will be Hungry Jack Pancake Mix 12oz

$1.25

Please be more aware when shopping friends.

Prepping Possible Wheat Shortage a List of Items to have in your Pantry or Stock Pile

Winter wheat is off to a rocky start in 2025, with major production states like Nebraska, Texas, and South Dakota reporting poor early conditions, according to the first USDA Crop Progress report of the season released April 7. 

Nationally, 31% of winter wheat is rated good/excellent. But in some states, rough weather and dry soils are threatening yields just as the crop is entering key spring growth stages. 

What does this mean to you or your family? What should you consider adding to your pantry or stock pile. Remember the general rule keep your food in a cool, dry, and dark place for longevity. 

Next time you go shopping look at the ingredients you maybe surprised to see wheat in the ingredients. Here is a list of items to consider.

Common Wheat-Containing Foods:

• Breads: All types of bread, including white bread, whole wheat bread, rye bread, sourdough, biscuits, and bagels. 
• Pastas: Spaghetti, fettuccine, lasagna, ravioli, and other wheat-based pasta dishes. 
• Breakfast Cereals: Many breakfast cereals, though some are specifically labeled gluten-free and pancakes. 
• Baked Goods: Cakes, cookies, muffins, pies, pastries, and other baked goods. 
• Crackers and Biscuits: Various types of crackers, biscuits, and snack foods. 
• Pizza: Pizza crust, dough, and some toppings. 
• Snack Foods: Granola bars, energy bars, some types of chips and pretzels. 
• Process Meat and Deli Meats: Many processed meats, sausages, and deli meats may contain wheat-based ingredients. 
• Seitan: A meat substitute made from wheat gluten. 
• Soups and Sauces: Many canned and boxed soups and sauces may use wheat flour as a thickener. 
• Malted Drinks: Some malted drinks, like beer and ale, may contain wheat. 
• Other: Many other foods may contain wheat, including ice cream, soy sauce, and even some personal care products. 

Important Considerations for Wheat Allergy and Celiac Disease:

• Cross-Contamination: Be mindful of cross-contamination, especially in restaurants and when preparing food. 
• Hidden Wheat: Wheat can be hidden in unexpected places, such as in sauces, salad dressings, and processed foods. 
• Read Labels: Carefully check ingredient labels for wheat and its derivatives. 
• Gluten-Free Alternatives: Look for gluten-free alternatives to wheat-containing foods. 

Foods That May Contain Wheat (Check Labels):

• Couscous: Made from semolina, which is a type of wheat.
• Spelt: A type of wheat.
• Triticale: A hybrid grain between wheat and rye.
• Farro: An ancient grain that can be used like wheat.
• Semolina: A type of wheat flour used in pasta.