~ Esther Baldwin York
"There is a serene and settled majesty to woodland scenery that enters into the soul and delights and elevates it, and fills it with noble inclinations."
~Washington Irving
"The real things haven't changed. It is still best to be honest and truthful; to make the most of what we have; to be happy with simple pleasures; and have courage when things go wrong." ~ Laura Ingalls Wilder
Write menus for a week's meals at a time. Shop for staples once a week, fresh fruits and vegetables twice weekly.
When cooking, assemble all ingredients and utensils before beginning to prepare the dish.
If you have a freezer, make several cakes, pies, cookies, main dishes or sandwiches at a time and freeze some for future use.
Bake cake or cookies while washing dishes or cooking dinner. Pare vegetables while meat is browning.
Plan leftovers. Cook some foods to be served more than one, such as beef roast; use again for beef sandwiches, beef hash and beef pie.
Plan and organize daily work while working with hands (peeling potatoes, sweeping floor, etc.)
Every morning before breakfast, comb hair, apply makeup and a dash of cologne. Does wonders for your morale and your family's, too!
Think pleasant thoughts while working and a chore will become a "labor of love."
Have a hobby. Garden, paint pictures, look through magazines for home planning ideas, read a good book or attend club meetings. Be interested - and you'll always be interesting!
If you have a spare moment, sit down, close your eyes and just relax.
Have a weekly plan for scheduling such tasks as washing, ironing, baking, shopping, cleaning the refrigerator or washing the floors. One task done each day provides a sense of accomplishment and keeps work from piling up.
Alternate sitting-down tasks and standing-up tasks. Don't be on your feet too long.
Let the family help you. Very young children can set the table; older ones can help cook and wash the dishes. Include them in party plans.
Wear comfortable shoes and easy-fitting clothes while working.
Stand erect. Good posture prevents fatigue.
Have sink, work table, and counter tops at a height that is comfortable to eliminate strain.
Use a dust mop and long-handled dust pan. Use a self-wringing mop to prevent stooping.