US Postal Service suspends incoming parcels from China and Hong Kong

 

CNN’s Rashard Rose contributed reporting.

https://www.cnn.com/2025/02/04/busine...

The article below is a copy of the above link:

CNN Reports: The US Postal Service says it has temporarily suspended the acceptance of incoming international parcels from China and Hong Kong until further notice. It did not provide a reason for the suspension, but said in a statement Tuesday the flow of letters will not be affected. The Postal Service did not provide any additional information on the suspension when contacted by CNN. The announcement comes just days after US President Donald Trump signed an executive order that terminated the “de minimis” exemption, a long-standing rule that allowed anyone, including exporter The new rule is likely to affect e-commerce sites like Shein and Temu, which have built their gargantuan business models around this exemption. The relaxed restrictions and tax exemptions on cheap products have allowed more than a billion packages to pour into the US at low prices for consumers looking for deals on clothing to household goods. s, to ship packages worth less than $800 to the United States without duties or needing to undergo inspections. While it is unclear whether the suspension was related to the executive order, experts have told CNN the delivery of international parcels into the US would be “slowed down” if every package must be examined. Currently, US Customs and Border Protection has the authority to open and inspect all international packages, though in practice it doesn’t open every single item. This is a developing story and will be updated.

Me: I found it very interesting that Youtube creators that participated on the Temu affiliate program were reporting their accounts had been suspended. This helps to put the puzzle pieces together. This will have an affect on outstanding in transit orders and those who are creators. I'm sure we will see a shift in the tide as this gets worked out. Additionally, we as small business owners Auto/Equipment Repair we will feel this pinch as well. Let's hope for the best and its gets resolved quickly. We may have to begin paying shipping on Temu and Shein orders as well other over sea's company purchase/orders.

Canada unveils list of products covered by first round of 25% tariffs by the USA it's Shocking!!!!

https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/news/2025/02/list-of-products-from-the-united-states-subject-to-25-per-cent-tariffs-effective-february-4-2025.html  Click See Full List to access the complete list

https://edition.cnn.com/politics/live-news/trump-tariffs-presidency-news-02-02-25#cm6nw28h200563b6nvps5ixm1 Click see full list here to access the complete list 

The link's above are provided by cnn.com                

I encourage  you to visit this extensive list that will affect the USA and it's families. This is just one country Canada and it's alarming to say the least. Let me know your thoughts below.

Homemakers Challenges in 2025 & Dollar Tree Prepper Haul

I've been away for a while. I had been concentrating on my personal life and Youtube but now I'm back! Regardless of what side of the fence you stand on your choice of government or President. 

We all will be feeling the effects of the unsurmountable amount of debt the USA is in. We all are in the same ship for higher prices and it's challenges. 

 

Homemaker's are always in the fore front of my thoughts. As we

are the core to so many things in our homes. We are cooks, nurses, accountants, doctors, farmer, teachers, cleaners, carpenters, counselors, designers, seamstress/sewers, and so much more. 

Now, we are tasked at making miracles happen with tight food budgets and smaller pantry sizes. 

This is our opportunity to shine. We can challenge ourselves to do the uncomfortable. Learn new skills that will help you grow as a person and provide it's fruits to your family. I know many of us... 

I myself included will be fearful of starting something new out of fear and failure. We must acknowledge it's just a feeling and go beyond it. 

Make a list of new skills or projects. Give yourself a start date and just do it. I need to do this myself and not live in fear of failure or dismay. It's all a learning process for sure. I will be sharing here what are the new things I am doing along with a list later on this week. I may tweek it here and there as my days go. Until then friends. Have a Blessed Day.

Blondie on a Budget 1940 Full Length Movie Comedy Blondie And Dagwood

I love this movie simply click on it and select YouTube to see

it in full screen. It's a great family friendly movie that I personally enjoy. Have fun watching.

 

Merry Christmas Homemakers

 

Merry Christmas to All

I know I have been gone for a while. Sometimes life sends you curve balls. My mother became very sick to the point we thought she would not make it with much prayer and many months later she is still with us. Although, she is still unable to walk and her Alzheimer's keeps progressing. The weight of this journey was unlike anything else I experienced before. 

My family is doing well and today we are tucked in at home. This year we did 1 gift per child and it's working out great. We truly wanted to focus on the reason for the season. 

I know in many states there is alot of snow. Maryland is a chilly 34 degree's with no snow. I had hoped for snow it's been a while since we have had any. New fallen snow gives such a magical feel.

I will be posting on the regular at least once weekly for all you again. I will be adding new journeys on my page. I feel with everything that is happening with the weather and devasting effects it's important to grow food. I don't have a green thumb to save my life so this will be fun and amusing all at the same time. Thank you again for supporting me.

Prepping On A Budget Dollar Tree Finds * Harvest Creek White Chicken Salad Shelf Stable *

 

                              https://www.harvestcreek.com

Harvest Creek Premium White Chicken Salad at the Dollar Tree for $1.25 also available for a limited time at Aldi (price may vary).  I'm always looking for shelf stable items for my kitchen and towards my preps that are adult and child friendly. As a family of 6 this is always on my mind. I came across Harvest Creek and looked them up. I found they have other flavors as well shown below.

Distributed by Crider, Inc. is a US-based company that manufactures canned and frozen poultry, and other food products. The company is located in Stillmore, Georgia and was incorporated in 1983. Crider, Inc. is a veteran-owned small business that has received federal contracts from the USDA to supply food to low-income populations and Indian reservations. They also supply products to retail, foodservice, school, and institutional customers. 

I'm loving that it is USA made product!!! The packaging is easy to open... just tear and eat. The shelf life date up to 2 years. Their products are gluten free. You can easily add this to any meal. A wonderful addition to any shelf. 

This is an easy grab in a SHTF and adverse weather conditions when you lose electricity for days on end. Great for you bug out bag, boat, office, and car emergency kit.

This would had been a wonderful addition when my husband got caught in a winter storm and all traffic on the highway stood still. It took him over 16 hours to get home for a normal 40 minute drive. Remember to update your car kits according to season my friends. 

Lastly, I had my children taste test it and they all loved it and asked for more. Bonus you can buy these in Bulk just visit their website www.harvestcreek.com  I hope you enjoyed my video review and this more detailed post. Keeping prepping my friends.

Southern Living Old Fashioned Apple Pie

 

     https://www.southernliving.com/recipes/old-fashioned-apple-pie

I was looking through some of my Southern Living Books and decided to share this recipe in honor of Christmas In July! I encourage you to visit their site and read the article. It gives some wonderful insights into options to create this masterpiece. 

Old-Fashioned Apple Pie

This double-crust apple pie is the perfect way to welcome fall.

By Southern Living Test Kitchen 

 

Updated on October 13, 2023

Active Time:

 

30 mins

Chill Time:

 

2 hrs

Cool Time:

 

1 hr

Total Time:

 

4 hrs 40 mins

Servings:

 

8

Ingredients

Crust:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for work surface

• 1 cup cold unsalted butter or cold vegetable shortening, cut into small pieces

• 1 tsp. kosher salt

Filling:

• 9 to 10 tart apples such as Granny Smith or McIntosh (about 4 lbs. total), peeled and thinly sliced

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp. ground cinnamon

• Dash of kosher salt

• 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust:

   Using your fingers, mix together flour, butter, and salt in a large bowl until butter is well incorporated. Gradually sprinkle 2 to 4 tablespoons very cold water into mixture, kneading as you add water, until dough just comes together. (You may not need to add all the water.) Turn dough out onto a lightly floured work surface; knead until it forms a smooth ball, 2 to 3 times. Divide dough in half, and shape into 2 disks. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap; chill at least 2 hours or up to overnight.

2. Add dough to pie dish:

   Unwrap 1 chilled dough disk, and place on a lightly floured work surface. Let stand at room temperature until slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle with flour; roll into a 12-inch circle. Carefully fit dough round into a 9-inch deep-dish glass pie plate, leaving a 1 ½-inch overhang around edges. Refrigerate until ready to use.

3. Prepare the Filling:

   Preheat oven to 425°F with oven rack in lowest position. Stir together apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl until apples are evenly coated. Spoon mixture into prepared piecrust; sprinkle mixture with butter.

4. Make lattice topping:

   Unwrap remaining chilled pie dough disk, and place on a lightly floured work surface. Let stand at room temperature until slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Sprinkle with flour; roll into a 12-inch circle. Cut into 12 (¾-inch-wide) strips. (Discard remaining dough scraps, or use for another purpose.) Arrange strips in a lattice design over Filling; trim strips as needed to meet the bottom Crust overhang. Fold dough edges under, and crimp using your fingers or a fork.

5. Bake pie:

   Place assembled pie on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake in preheated oven 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (leaving pie in oven); continue baking 45 minutes. Cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning; continue baking until juices are thick and bubbly, crust is golden brown, and apples are tender when pierced with a long wooden pick, about 30 minutes. Transfer pie to a wire rack, and cool at least 1 hour.

A Homemakers Summer Days

 

                               A Homemakers Summer

It's that time when the children are off from school. You get to sleep in and slow down. Gears shift from a daily drop off routine to a new home routine. I have boys and they are growing. They stay hungry when going through a growth spurt. That being said all 3 are at my toe asking for food constantly through out the day. I have to laugh because I'm not to sure where it all goes.

I had grandiose plans of doing a long list of changes in the home. They have shifted as the heat has slowed me down. Now our days are greeted with 100 degree weather. The plans we had for day trips have been set to the side. At least till the weather subsides.

There is a constant rumble and noise in my home. Yes, I have boys (gentle smile). When all becomes to still or quiet I look to see what is happening. 

I have found these days are joyful watching my boys grow and interact with one another. Their joy watching them eat a home cooked bake or meal. The smiles and conversations at the dining room table and the boundless questions of a curious mind.

These slow days I have learned to embrace.

Temu Kawaii, Stationary, Crafting, Planner & Diamond Painting Finds Haul!

 Here are some amazing Kawaii inspired items for crafting and  planning Temu (links below). Additionally, I found 2 beautiful Diamond painting kits that would be amazing for a beginner or a person that enjoys diamond painting with not to much free time on their hands. 

You wouldn't how excited I was to receive this package. I literally giggled with joy. I love anything Kawaii themed. I was able to find so many economical finds on Temu. Here on this video (above) you will see many items that are just a couple of dollars or less! Everything in this video is under $30.00!!! All the items I received I can happily report where Awesome! The Diamond Painting kits are great as well. I will be sharing a video on this (below). 

⬇️Download the Temu app to get 💰$100 coupon bundle via the link below:https://temu.to/m/udbixc0lkt8

🎁Use the code【afl11776】at checkout to get an extra 30% off (for new app users) Product Links: 15pcs Textured Paper Aesthetic Scrapbook Paper For Notebook Journaling Junk Journal DIY Art Craft Paper Stationery Supplies $2.99 https://temu.to/m/upnpt0fpj9f 4pcs Cartoon Dog Sticky Notes With 120 Sheets Cute Puppies Memo Messages Stickers Removable Stationery Sticky Notes $1.71 https://temu.to/m/uy814ttcntb Cute Cartoon Ziplock Bag Soft Cute Snack Candy Bag, Handmade Jewelry Dried Flower Small Object Storage Bag (three Styles Random) $2.49 https://temu.to/m/uazfxp54mwx 20pcs Pink Cartoon Cute Kitten Beautiful Day Letter Print Gift Bag - Reusable Storage Bag Home Packaging Bag $2.49 https://temu.to/m/udwh19wro2q 12 Rolls Flower Series Bronzing Washi Tape Journal Book Sticker Tape 1.5cm*2m $3.99 https://temu.to/m/ue2z5z78fcw 5pcs Cute Cartoon Seal Bag, Mini Jewelry Bag, Small Object Storage Bag, Snack Zip Bag, Packaging Bag, Home Decor, Christmas Gift, New Year Gift, Gift For Man, Gift For Woman $1.49 https://temu.to/m/uo9xhpsjnvq 1pc, 3D Cartoon Bear Rabbit PP Gift Bag, Easter Gift Bags, Storage Bag, Birthday, Party Gift Bag, Cute Creative Handbag, Storage Tote Bag, Wedding Baptism Gift Bag, Graduation School Start And Other Campus Activities Gift Bags $1.99 https://temu.to/m/u9kzepqg5ge 30pcs Vintage European Style PET Scrapbook Stickers Set For Journal Album Notebook Aesthetic Decoration Material Self-adhesive Craft Stickers $1.49 https://temu.to/m/uyvki4xwmol 3pcs, 20sheets Cartoon Combination Message Rabbit And Bear Alien N Times Stickers Student Stationery Message Paper Student Stationery Cute Sticky Note, Back To School, School Supplies, School, Sticky Notes, Aesthetic School Supplies, Stationary $0.99 https://temu.to/m/uva88b7ep6f 1pc Colorful Horse Pattern Diamond Painting Kit, DIY 5D Special Shaped Crystal Diamond Partial Diamond Painting Mosaic Crafts, Suitable For Home Wall Decoration Art, Frameless $1.21 https://temu.to/m/utgl25ngko9 1pc Cartoon Animal Combination Sticky Notes Journal Decorative Stickers Cute Stickers Note Book $1.17 https://temu.to/m/u072ka7b9a6 10/5 Pcs 12 * 8.5cm/4.72 * 3.34inch Creative Plan Notebook For Elementary School Cartoon Plan Notebook Elementary School Prize Small Gift Birthday Gift $1.99 https://temu.to/m/u3tbfmkkvhr 1pc Cat Pattern Diamond Painting Kit, DIY 5D Special Shape Crystal Diamond Partial Diamond Painting Mosaic Making Craft, Suitable For Home Wall Decor Art, Frameless $2.7 https://temu.to/m/uoo98f87t6s 3pcs, 20 Sheets Cartoon Combination Sticky Note Message Rabbit Bear Alien N Times Stickers Students Cute Handbook Note Pad Diary Stationery, Back To School, School Supplies, School, Sticky Notes, Aesthetic School Supplies, Stationary $0.99 https://temu.to/m/u8o6917a4br

Temu Jewelry Review Haul! Is It Worth It?

 Temu is an online website that can save you alot of money. Often you can find well crafted name brand dupes from jewelry, purses, tools, Montessori learning, dollhouse miniatures, crafting, prepping and soo much more. 

I have a playlist on my You Tube channel for Temu and all the items I have purchased since 2023. I provide honest reviews on everything. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=014cL3XAVzg&list=PL-5oAtVxljmxuB8PYPbEp6-MmE6AYhhq6

Here are the product links for my video and discount code.

⬇️Download the Temu app via 🔗LINK IN BIO to get 💰$100 coupon bundle 🎁30% off code (afl11776) for new app users (use at checkout) - Shop hundreds of items for under $5 - Free Shipping & Free Returns #temu #temuvday #TemuAffiliateProgram #temuinfluencerprogram Luxury Luminous Quar...👉 30% OFF❤️ 👉item link: https://temu.to/m/ukibu95l1ot Elegant 18k Plated R...👉 30% OFF❤️ 👉item link: https://temu.to/m/uzp1zrvkmn3 1 Strand/3 Strands 5...👉 30% OFF❤️ 👉item link: https://temu.to/m/urff10ein3o Women's Luxury Rhine...👉 30% OFF❤️ 👉item link: https://temu.to/m/uasci0ba5te Elegant Ring Inlaid ...👉 30% OFF❤️ 👉item link: https://temu.to/m/u28wmwpimhg Elegant Cocktail Rin...👉 30% OFF❤️ 👉item link: https://temu.to/m/uif0mjqf1bu Faux Aquamarine Sapp...👉 30% OFF❤️ 👉item link: https://temu.to/m/u6ul6x2qrx1 1pc Retro Square Red...👉 30% OFF❤️ 👉item link: https://temu.to/m/usetjutfzz3 Vintage Rectangular ...👉 30% OFF❤️ 👉item link: https://temu.to/m/uzue0qbqsg0

I hope you enjoy!

Colourpop Mystery Black Friday Box $49.00

Today, you will see my review for the Colourpop Mystery Black Friday Box I recieved. I hope you enjoy the video. 

 

Dollar Tree Has A $1.25 Hydroponic System Available To Grow Food Indoors

 As a homemaker & prepper I am always looking for ways to grow food. I ran across this Hydroponic self watering vase at the Dollar Tree for $1.25 to grow basil. The vase holds everything you need to grow it. Don't like basil no problem you can grow anything in this container system. I may be able to replicate the system myself as well. We should encourage each other to grow food/herbs for our family. 

Diy Dollhouse Miniature 1:12 scale Kitchen Chair Seat Cushion Tutorial

   In this video you will see a easy Diy Dollhouse Miniature 1:12 scale kitchen chair cushion tutorial. It provides a quick updated look to a kitchen chair and can be changed out per season. The smallest details can make such a big impact for any Dollhouse Miniature Scene.

Martha Stewart Classic Latkes Recipe

 Classic Latkes

By 

Martha Stewart Test Kitchen

 

 

Updated on February 9, 2023

Here is link to Martha Stewart website:  https://www.marthastewart.com/

I saw this recipe and had to share. Her website has wonderful recipes for your home.

PHOTO: JULIA GARTLAND

Prep Time:

55 mins

Total Time:

55 mins

Yield:

24

Potato pancakes make for festive starters at any party. Serve them with toppers like creme fraiche, trout roe, smoked trout, and lingonberry jam.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup potato starch

• ¼ teaspoon baking powder

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 2 pounds russet potatoes (about 4)

• 1 medium onion (8 ounces)

• 2 large eggs, lightly whisked

• Safflower oil, for frying

• Flaky salt, for serving

Directions

1. In a small bowl, stir together potato starch, baking powder, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper; set aside. Peel potatoes; place in a bowl of cold water. On the large holes of a box grater, grate potatoes and onion. Transfer to a fine sieve lined with cheesecloth and set over a large bowl.

2. Gather mixture in cheesecloth and squeeze moisture out into bowl. Let stand until a white paste settles to bottom of bowl, about 2 minutes. Remove sieve; pour liquid out of bowl and discard, leaving behind white paste.

3. Add potato-onion mixture to bowl and sprinkle with baking-powder mixture; toss to coat. Add eggs; stir to combine.

4. Heat 1/4 inch oil in a large, heavy skillet (preferably cast iron) over medium-high until hot but not smoking. (Test with a shred of potato; if it sizzles immediately, it's ready). Reduce heat to medium. Working in batches to avoid crowding, scoop a scant 1/4 cup of potato mixture into oil; flatten with a spatula to 1/4 inch thick. Fry, turning once, until golden brown and crisp, 3 to 4 minutes per side. Using a slotted spatula, transfer to paper towels set over a baking sheet. Sprinkle with flaky salt. Repeat, stirring potato mixture between batches, and adjusting heat as needed while frying. Serve immediately.

Cook's Notes

Alternate between onion and potatoes when grating to keep the potatoes from discoloring.

Re-ment Detective Room Box Kit Dollhouse Miniature 1:12 scale

I am sharing 2 videos for your viewing pleasure. The one above is the unboxing of the kit in it's entirety. The second (below) is the complete scene of the detective room with a bonus girl's room. I am providing my Amazon affiliate link if you like to buy it for yourself:  https://amzn.to/3PZJoc6

As you will see I was delighted with the kit and all the interesting pieces that were included. Many of the pieces are items that would be difficult to find in the dollhouse miniature community. So, to find it all in one kit was great. Enjoy my friends.

Natural Disasters Are Rampant Around The World Today New York City

 

This has become a common place threat to New York City.

As people forge through sewage infested waters to get to safety.

Public rail system gets doused with water seeping through it's weak infrastructure. 

Vehicles swamped in water and the loss's through insurance. Vehicles considered total loss and salvaged. These vehicles will then be run through many states till the title becomes clear. The cars are detailed and sold as used. The homes, town homes, apartments, and sub-level units completely flooded with all worldly belongings gone. 

People having to be rescued from vehicles and homes due to these sudden floods. The devastation is terrible. Videos on social media like X (formerly know as Tik Tok), Facebook, Instagram, and Youtube. 

A Homemakers Letter's

 July 12, 2023

Dear Patience, 

It's been a long time since I have written my friend. I pray that all is well with you and the family. The time has past quickly these 2 months. The weather has taken a toll on my spirits sadly. I feel as if there is no escaping this humid heat.  I've been lingering at home not leaving much to town  visiting friends nor family. My husband and I read the paper last evening and much is happening that is worrisome. We both see on the horizon many changes that will affect everyone from the farmer to the buyer. I used to look forward to seeing the postal man come. But with the high prices of debt I leave our mail for several days before venturing into the heat to retrieve it. I know that is silly but it gives me a short reprieve. The flowers I spoke of before have finally found their home. The front of the estate is lively once again. It is joyous to see natures wonder at bay. As to my sewing project the pillow cases are waiting patiently for the right lace to match. The recipe you sent of Amber Pudding was delightful. I look forward to your next letter. Your Friend Ana

INGREDIENTS

• A pot of marmalade (preferably Mrs Warwick's) • 6oz (170g) suet • 4oz (115g) fresh breadcrumbs • 3 eggs METHOD 1. Grease a pudding basin or mould with butter and set aside. 2. Lightly beat your eggs in a bowl. 3. Add the suet, breadcrumbs and marmalade, mixing well. 4. Pour mixture into the greased basin and top with folded paper and a wet, floured cloth. 5. Boil on a rolling boil for 3 or 4 hours. 6. Turn out onto a plate and serve with a wine sauce, cream or custard.

You Tube Secret Giveaway Winner's!

 

Thank you all who came to visit my channel and participated in the Giveaway. If your a winner please leave me a comment with your name and mailing address on my video (link below). Please know your information will remain private all comments have to be approved by me before they are released to the world. This will verify it's you and your information. I will delete it after I write it down and it will never be released to the community/world no worries. Thank you again!

Drum Roll Please.....

The Winner's are 1. Jessamyn Sheridan 

                             2. Betty Sears

Congratulations go to this video  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fy8gYYdfY0Y

and leave a comment with your name/mailing address. I will write it down and delete it.