Thursday, December 12, 2019

Additional Tariff's on Products Outside the Tariff War Effective January 2020

 This is an important Re-Post: This New Tariff will go into effect January 2020. What you may expect.

 IMO (Internal Maritime Organization2020? What is this? Not alot of people are aware of the coming changes in January 2020. These changes effect the fuel used by shipping tankers that carry imports and products around the world. So, how does that affect me? Let me tell you....

 In short the IMO was set up to reduce the amount of sulfur in fuels used in these ships. Many are not compliant and the costs associated for this upgrade is extremely expensive for the new scrubbers. These tankers require dry dock in order to have the installation of the scrubber for compliance therefore being out of commission until updated. Additionally, the fuel cost have risen with the new compliance. These costs will be passed on to the consumer via higher prices on goods. Between, the Tariff War USA and China prices in the local super markets, big box stores, and thrift stores have already gone up! Now, we have to consider the additional cost that will passed down to the consumer for the IMO 2020. 

This is Why Prepping is essential for all families. Your fore thought and consideration for your families well being will be a Blessing during hard times. Having water, food, and medicine for your home. I personally believe in having several months worth of food at all times. Lets not forget the importance of the necessary seasonal items like winter boots, coats, clothing and alternative forms of cooking/heating etc... Every family is unique and will have a different list of needs according to the climate/medical issues/ and more.

Below I have linked 2 articles but there are a ton more out there.

Here is a link with a short article written by Rueters: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-imo-shipping-factbox/factbox-imo-2020-a-major-shake-up-for-oil-and-shipping-idUSKCN1SN2BX
and here is a FreightWaves article: https://www.freightwaves.com/news/imo-2020-prep-is-already-increasing-cost-to-ship-goods-by-sea

Major Trucking Companies Going out of Business and it's Effects on You


Yesterday, I read a Yahoo article about Major Trucking Companies closing down. Here is a link to the article" https://news.yahoo.com/thousands-truck-drivers-lost-jobs-191300330.html?.tsrc=daily_mail&uh_test=1_02  

Alot of people don't understand the gravity of the situation. Let me shed some light. These truckers carry goods to our stores, warehouses, farms, trains, gas stations, and importers/exporters etc... There is a big event coming around the corner. If you take the time to see what products and goods are no longer readily being transported. It sheds a light to supply and demand. Alot of people don't think about how products like food get to the stores. There a chain of events that takes place for that to happen. Part of that chain is broken now with so many companies closing their doors and independent drivers unable to secure routes/deliveries. 

Farmers:
It also emphasizes on the farmers crop loss. The truckers carried hay/feed/propane to the farmers. The propane helped dry what little crops they had. The lack of propane leaves crops wet allowing it to go bad. The feed/hay for the animals that survived the floods. They have not been able to grow their own feed or harvest hay for animals. Some farmers have culled their animals no longer being able to feed them. These animals cows, pigs, chickens supplied meat/eggs to our stores. Think about it....

Goods:
The other goods no longer being run on the regular to our stores like gas, food, clothing, medicine, shoes, housewares, blankets, etc.. There may come a day your area will see the effects. We truly never think of the items we need till they are no longer available to us. If a Snowstorm or weather event like a Hurricane/Tornado are predicated there is a store run and shelves are empty within hours. Gas station tanks are empty. Now add the truckers that normally ran these products to replenish stock are no longer running regularly. 
Gas stations with empty tanks. This could effect your ability to get to work, home, stores, doctors appointments or evacuations. 

Reality:
Let me ask you a question. Have you visited a store that normally is fully stocked at all times and now find half empty shelves or lack of product. I have watched Walmart Employees talking to one another about something coming around the bend and how they are preparing for it. They spoke of lack of inventory or fourth coming supplies to their Walmart and surrounding Walmart's. I am in a Suburban area that is vastly populated. This would take a serious toll on the families that keep only a few days of food/supplies on their shelves. 

Its time to take stock of your pantry and make a list of things needed. Slowly add the additional foods and supplies your family normally uses. Have a goal for 2 weeks worth of food and water in your home and work up from there. Securing your home for tough days ahead. You will thank yourself later for your efforts.

Thursday, October 31, 2019

First 10 Things You Would Do If the Banks Closed

This morning Alaska Prepper (Youtube) posted an excellent question. What would you do if you woke up and found out the Banks are closed and you cannot get any money out. The stock market collapsed. What are the first things you would do to prepare. Mind you that the 1st day people will be going through the motions trying to figure things out. By the 3rd day people will panic and will become more aggressive when their needs cannot be met.  Here is my list. I cheated a bit and did 11. 
1. Gather all money and change 2. Fill up gas tank/Propane also heavy chain for generator 3. Buy Food/medicine/water/paper goods 4.Buy black bags/wrap & window plastic insulator kits to keep out cold/door insulation. The black bags are black out curtains for windows (if needed). 5. Call family to make sure everyone is on same page and buying goods in case we need to bunker down as individual families or together. 6. Buy more ammo 7. Transfer foods into Mylar/Food Saver bags that are not immediately needed 8.Wash clothes, blankets, sheets, and coats in case of power/water outage. 9. Get important papers/docs into 1 place along with 1 week supply food/water/clothes/blankets etc for car in case of evacuation out of necessity or danger. 10. Set Up Bells/Pots Pans and other items on windows or in front of doors to hear intruders. 11. Look at your home/supplies see what else you need. Never Shop Alone have 2 or more people in case folks begin to rob/steal goods.

List down in the comments the 10 things you would do.

Thursday, October 10, 2019

California Rolling Black Out and Lessons Learned

Good Morning Friends,

California is experiencing Rolling Black Outs. They are experiencing extreme dry weather with winds that can cause fires. To contain the possibility of fire they are shutting down electricity to the mass's any where from 24 hours to 5 days or more.

This is a Prepper's time to find out what works in your preps and supplies. What doesn't and what you may need that you didn't even think about.

Non-Prepper's this is a time of awakening. Many are upset, taken aback, and confused how to even start to get everything they need. For those with medical conditions this is a very serious situation.
They maybe on machines that require electricity or medicine requiring refrigeration etc.

Generators may become a priceless commodity that can keep much needed machinery for medical survival or daily needs. Having enough gas to run them as well is extremely important.

I wrote an article how to keep cool during the old days some of these techniques may assist. Here is a link to my article: https://www.afrugallifenow.com/2019/07/how-homes-kept-cool-before-ac.html

I also wrote an article of canned food verse dry this may help to guide you on whats best for a rolling black out:https://www.afrugallifenow.com/2019/03/real-facts-dry-foods-vs-canned-in.html

If you have a generator make sure you have enough gas and use it wisely. When its turned on make sure to heat up any food you may need or water via hot plate, griddle, microwave etc..
Chain up your generator to something outside to make it difficult for thieves.

Rolling Black Out Short List Warm Weather: (note: cold weather is a different list)
Camper Stove, Grill, or other Camping style Stove
Fuel needed for these devices: propane, wood, charcoal
Do Not Leave portable Camper/Camping Stoves out for thieves after cool down bring them back inside for safe storage till next use.

Food quick easy no muss foods:
Water, Pre-packaged Drinks, Protein Drinks/Meal Replacement, Protein Bars, Fruit Bars, Granola Bars, Dry Cereal, Breads, Nuts, Popcorn (Pre-popped), Canned Chicken/Tuna Salad with Crackers kit, Canned Sardines, Snacks, Crackers, Peanut Butter, MRE's, Vitamins/Supplements, and Canned Fruit.

Quick meals that require no water just heating:
90 Second micro-wave items are pre-cooked just head and eat (Hormel Meals,/Rice/Pasta)
Canned foods like Chef Boyardee (other pastes canned), Soups (many kinds), Beans, Spam, Canned
Chicken/Beef, Quick Oatmeal etc.

Alternative lighting: LED products, Oil lamps, Flash Lights, Lanterns, Candles only when supervised. Light sticks for children to ease the transition and fears.

Water: to drink, flush toilets (if needed), cook, to hand wash clothes and line dry.

Keeping busy: Read, clean, organize, talk to one another, work on your hobby. Go through your home for donations, check up on neighbors, let everyone know you are there. Relocate your valuables to places not normally searched for.

Vehicles: remove all valuables from vehicles

Security: if you are un-armed make sure your neighbors know you are there. Set up a neighborhood watch to keep an eye out for predators. Leave a LED lantern/light on to let people know the home is occupied not empty. Halloween time is now you can find flashing lights/strobe that will let people know your are there and maybe watching TV. Keep doors/windows in lowers units locked. Place Christmas bells or other noise making devices on the doors or windows in case of a break in. Even pots and pans if they kick a door in will provide sound. Have whistles on all members of the family if there is trouble in the dark or day they can blow the whistle as an alert. Do not open Doors to strangers they may try to assault/rob/steal. This is a criminals paradise when grid down/rolling black outs.

Lastly, have a to-go bag/bucket with all documents/emergency supplies for 3-5 days in case of emergency evacuation. Take valuables if possible gold/silver/jewelry/coins.

This by all means does not cover everything but its a quick check off list for anyone who hasn't started prepping.

Friday, September 13, 2019

Home Weekly Wrap Up

Hello Friends, 

Thanks for coming by to visit. This week has been an interesting one indeed. The children came home sick with colds and passed it lovingly to the rest of the family. We have been struggling with this most the week. Many months ago I bought several Mucinex Children's Multi-system Cold/Flu Releif Night Time from the Dollar Tree. I knew it was inevitable that we would get sick through out the school year and I was right. These were a part of my Prepping efforts and it paid off. So, far we have used 3 bottles that go for $12.93 each online Walmart. I paid $1.00 each saving $35.79. I also picked up several Adult Mucinex they had available. We are well stocked and it was a Blessing.
This week I plan to transfer some of my cereal into long term food storage. I went online and bought some 5 mil 1 Gallon Mylar Bags that came with the oxygen absorber's. I always look for 5 mil it has a nice thickness. I will either use my food saver on the heat sealing mode or a flat iron to seal them. So, that will be an all day activity. My family will thank me later when times get tight (economically). We will still have their favorite cereals on hand.

 I have many glass jars that I have kept from pasta sauces, jelly jars, etc. I need to decide if I will use dried beans (several kinds), corn, rice, or pasta's in them. I also want to transfer some spices into smaller Ball Jars for longer term storage
.
Lastly, I will continue to work on my immediate and long term food storage re-organization. I will make a list of items I feel we need re-stock or I have completely used up. 

My Craft Room still awaits patiently for me and I have many idea's of things I want to create. 

Sunday, September 8, 2019

Prepping with Keystone Canned Beef and Ground Beef Review

Hello friends, 

I wanted to share a bit of my prepping efforts. I invested in 20 cans Keystone Beef 28 oz. These cans are over 1lb 8oz each. Keystone is a U.S.A. company. The meat is cooked during the canning process. So, all you have to do is heat, season to taste, and serve. This is perfect for those unable or not interested learning how to can. I will post my Keystone Ground Beef review below: please note the Keystone Ground Beef is a finer smaller portioned meat verse the Keystone Beef I just bought 20 cans of...
Perks for the Ground Beef:    
1. Its a fine ground beef small portions good for spaghetti sauce, fajitas, rice bowls etc..
  2. Great for those with dental issues and can not chew large pieces of meat. 

I chose to purchase the Beef because its has a bigger bite to it. I do plan on adding the ground beef to my pantry as well. Look below to see the video for the Ground Beef. Remember friends there is no wrong or right way to prep. Every person and family is different. The important thing is to Start! The average family has 2 or 3 days of food in their pantry. We need to get back to basics as our ancestors did and have a full pantry to get them by for months.

Friday, September 6, 2019

My Homes Weekly Wrap Up

Hello Friends,

This is my weekly wrap up in a letter form,lol, just for kicks. This was a exciting and emotional week for me. My children started school and it went well thank goodness. I however like most stay at home moms I struggled with the change. The lack of company and normal joyful sounds of play, questions, and daily activities came to a screeching holt. After 4 days I am much better now. My days are more at ease and my anxiousness has subsided. 

As I worked around the house to keep busy the silence was deafening. I had to leave and do some shopping therapy. I found my days went faster keeping busy. So, now I have alot of idea's, projects, and to do list's for my quite days. 

I am embracing my home making it feel like a cozy oasis. I have alot of idea's and much to do to accomplish it. No. 1 I have alot to donate from my childrens toys, clothes, books, adult clothing etc.. I am on the fence on selling them instead. I need to decide what I want to do. The money/income from anything will help with the home and future needs of course. But I like to give back to the community just like I enjoy finding treasure someone else can too. 

My homemakers pantry has been neglected and disorganized. I have a lot to accomplish on that end including transferring food into Mylar bags with oxygen absorbers and putting them away for longer storage. Looking at my food stock and making lists of what my family needs. 

My home needs to get winter proofed once again. I have already bought the Duck brand window sealing kits, bought door draft stoppers from Christmas Tree Shop, and sealing tapes. I need to decide what day to start this much needed project as the Farmers Almanac has predicted a very cold winter for my area.  
Just a few things to put on my list. I need to make sure my children have winter coats, boots, and clothing for this winter. I have already bought coat from the thrift store for my older child but I may need 2 more for my younger children. I have to go through our small coat closet and see what I am working with. 

Lastly, I need to get back to a little me time. Bible Study (at home),reading good books, working on my Dollhouse Miniatures, and Scrap booking. Its been a long time since I have had free time like this. I need to re-claim me time and enjoy it. 

Thanks for popping in Friends take care

Wednesday, September 4, 2019

IMO 2020 More Prices Hikes on Import Goods outside the Tariff War What!!!

  IMO (Internal Maritime Organization2020? What is this? Not alot of people are aware of the coming changes in January 2020. These changes effect the fuel used by shipping tankers that carry imports and products around the world. So, how does that affect me? Let me tell you....

 In short the IMO was set up to reduce the amount of sulfur in fuels used in these ships. Many are not compliant and the costs associated for this upgrade is extremely expensive for the new scrubbers. These tankers require dry dock in order to have the installation of the scrubber for compliance therefore being out of commission until updated. Additionally, the fuel cost have risen with the new compliance. These costs will be passed on to the consumer via higher prices on goods. Between, the Tariff War USA and China prices in the local super markets, big box stores, and thrift stores have already gone up! Now, we have to consider the additional cost that will passed down to the consumer for the IMO 2020. 

This is Why Prepping is essential for all families. Your fore thought and consideration for your families well being will be a Blessing during hard times. Having water, food, and medicine for your home. I personally believe in having several months worth of food at all times. Lets not forget the importance of the necessary seasonal items like winter boots, coats, clothing and alternative forms of cooking/heating etc... Every family is unique and will have a different list of needs according to the climate/medical issues/ and more.

Below I have linked 2 articles but there are a ton more out there.

Here is a link with a short article written by Rueters: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-imo-shipping-factbox/factbox-imo-2020-a-major-shake-up-for-oil-and-shipping-idUSKCN1SN2BX
and here is a FreightWaves article: https://www.freightwaves.com/news/imo-2020-prep-is-already-increasing-cost-to-ship-goods-by-sea

Wednesday, August 14, 2019

The Signs of Recession are Clear..Are you Ready


Within these past few weeks major changes have occurred around the world.. including right here in the USA affecting our economy. Political decisions made with little to no care to the average American. Those making decisions with millions/billions of dollars in their banks, land, homes, and portfolios. They will not feel the struggle, pain, or difficulties the average person will. They have lost touch with reality and now we will tumble. 

The news is riddled with what is about to happen. Many say the 2nd greatest depression is heading our way. I'm sure it doesn't help that the Grand Solar Minimum (Weather) is wreaking havoc on farmers and our food supply around the world. Organizations stating a shortage of food will cause famine and hunger. Governments/Countries around the world have been stock piling seeds and other supplies in secure locations getting ready for whats to come. So, why are you not getting ready. 

What Should We Do?
1. Don't Panic
2. Prepare: make list's of thing items your home/family needs
3. Buy Food: prices are already going up.Buy food your family consumes at prices that are reasonable before it becomes difficult.
Dry Good: Rice, Beans, Salt, Sugar, Flour, Seasoning to prevent food fatigue,Canned Goods. Buy Seeds grow your own food and herbs for medicinal purposes.
4. Medicine: Cold medicine, fever relief, pain relief etc..
5. Vitamins: keeping healthy will be important (multi-vitamin, vitamin C) etc.
6. Water: this is Life without water you cannot survive
7. Alternative forms for cooking: BBQ Grill, Camping Stoves, Propane, matches, lighters, wood stove, outdoor stove, fireplace 
8. Alternative forms for heat (cold regions): wood fireplace, stock up on seasoned wood, wood stove, propane, insulate drafty doors/windows, area rugs/carpet on cold floors, insulate basements.
9. Clothing (varies) we have 4 seasons here: Having coats, boots, warm clothing for the family, warm sheets and blankets, gloves, socks, and thermal underwear for layering, winter snow pants/suits.
10. The Kitchen can be Your Medicine Cabinet: Learn what herbs/seasonings you have to help cure ailments. Certain Teas will do the same. 
11. Learn a new skill like sewing, quilting, repairing broken items around the home, re-purposing what you have into something new.
canning, cooking,etc.
12. Store dry goods in longer term storage in Mylar bags, glass jars, or other containers, use bay leafs to detour bugs keep food in a cool dry place,
13. Keep an emergency kit in your car, work place, and buckets to grab and go for a vehicle in case of a evacuation. Keeping important documents in a water proof container, water, food, clothes etc.. a few days worth. 
14: Always Keep your Gas Tank Full!!!
15. If we have an EMP you will not have cell phone, cable, tv, computer, internet, no car use, no running water, no electricity.
Do you have enough information in library (Books) to get you by in difficult times. Have candles(lighters/matches) Check out my EMP Article
16. Embrace the old ways of living with no frills and simplicity.
17. Learning how to make meals, stews, bread, preserves,.... 
while mending clothing for growing families. Adding a scarf that has seen better days on a blouse for a different look. Think outside the box and make do with what you have.
18. Gold and Silver: small investments in Gold and Silver will help if the economy collapses. Do not purchase paper Gold and Silver. 
Get hard silver and gold in hand. Do Not Pawn your Jewelry for cash keep it for hard days ahead for cash/bartering.
19. Health and Wellness: having cleaning supplies is very important keeping a home clean will keep virus/disease at bay. This includes
personal health oral hygiene and body cleanliness. Buy cleaning supplies for the home, laundry detergent or alternatives like 100 Mule Borax. Wiping down surfaces/door knobs/ washing sheets/pillow cases blankets when loved ones are ill will keep bigger health issues from becoming worse. Buy body soap/wash, toothpaste, tooth brushes to be replaced every 3/6 months if ill immediately, shampoo/conditioners, razors, menstrual items,etc.   




Saturday, July 6, 2019

Dollhouse Miniature Ebay Finds


   Dollhouse Miniatures 1:12 Scale


  Here I share one of my passions Dollhouse      Miniature's in 1:12 scale. I bought these pieces in a  lot from eBay this week. When I saw them I knew  they had to be mine. The wood, design, and  function are wonderful and will compliment my  collection. I invite to follow my channel as I share  my 1:12 Buttercup thrift store find. I am doing a  series for a Haunted House. with the Buttercup model. See all the changes and creations I will share.

Friday, July 5, 2019

How Homes Kept Cool Before the A.C.

In the State of Maryland we have been struggling with 101 degree days and very humid conditions. To cope I keep a stand up fan that rotates in the main living area and keep the A.C. at 75 degree's. If I know I will be out for a long period of time I put it temperature at 77 degree's. The curtains on the windows stay closed. I decided to keep some of the plastic sheeting on the windows from the Winter. This has helped to keep the heat out. I need to perform this again on the windows I did not get to.

Our electricity began to act funny last night. I immediately thought Oh No!!! I can't deal with this crazy heat. I better look into alternatives. Here is what I found out. If you have any other ideas leave your suggestion below.

Modern Day
-Keep Curtains Closed
-Insulate your Doors and Windows 
-Use Room Darkening Curtains they keep the Light/Sun and a bit of the heat out.
-Keep that Plastic Wrap on the windows from winter it will help to keep the heat out and A.C. inside.
-Try not use the dryer or oven during peak heat hours
-Close off rooms that are not used and divert the ventilation for other rooms. 
-Place curtains for door entry ways for rooms not regularly used to keep out heat (summer) and cold (winter). Tension Rods work great for these kid of projects.
-Change your bed sheets to a cotton that will breath 

-Keep a pot/bucket of water in front of your fan it will help cool the room. You can also place them in the hallways etc..
-If it warm but a breeze/wind is present opens windows on opposite sides of your home to cool it down with the crosswinds.
-Set your ceiling fans in the counter clockwise direction
-Indoor small fountain can help cool the air
-Open your windows (if safe) for cool evening air
-Use hand fans found at the dollar tree's or other stores
-Use your umbrellas to keep the sun at bay while out. This used to be very fashionable back in the day.
-Light loose clothing

Historical Ways to Keep Cool
- Wet bed sheet or blanket place on door way and it will help to cool a room
-Wet a sheet or blanket on a windy day and place on your clothes line to cool the immediate area you maybe working in
-Fill a pot or bucket with water and place in a room/hallway to help cool
-If you work outdoors work early morning hours and late evening the coolest times
-Siesta a nap during the warmest time of the day (very common)
-Egyptians would place wet reeds on their windows and pots of water in their hallways to keep cool
-Back in the day fountains performed not only decorative function but a cooling of air. Many large homes/manors would have large fountains on their property to keep cool.
-Rich Romans would have water circulated through pipes in their walls to help cool their homes they would also have snow from the mountains brought to help cool their homes and drinks.
-Wind towers some homes had them to divert air into their homes when the winds picked up.
-Parasols and decorative hand fans served not only high fashion but protection from the sun and relief from the heat.
-Homes were built with deep window alcoves to keep the heat and cold back. Heavy materials/curtains where used to contend with both.
-Front porches and wrap around porches became a popular way to build. This provided shade from the heat and a place for the household to sit during those hot days.

Monday, July 1, 2019

What if there is a War


When we think of War we fear events that we have no control over. When it happens close to home and effects our lives we are shaken to the core. We immediately check on our family, bank, home, food, gas in vehicle and supplies. You may even wander about your home thinking what am I missing (plastic for windows/wood for fireplace/boots/coats for my children). What do I need that I don't have. Then worry may set in. A gnawing feeling of unease during tense times. You begin to wear a cloak of uncertainty everyday that leads to a depression. You wake up not wanting to and push through your days in a haze effecting those that love you and need your support. Being there but not truly there.
  
                                            Question?
Where is your Spiritual Armour? Is it on and Strong? Did you immediately takes minutes to ask God for guidance and wisdom during these times. Did you reach for the Bible or say a verse you may have memorized. Our Spiritual Armour is just as important as water, food, and medicine. Without a Strong Spiritual Armour we can be broken easily. Mislead by the mischievous... they will try to trick you when your tired and weak. If your Armour is on there is a constant light in your sight. You see things more clearly with a renewed sense of direction and inner strength.

We must work on our Spiritual Armour so we may be strong during times of havoc. Reach for your Bible today and begin or continue your journey with him to see clearly during the days when everything feels uncertain. 

Finale: We only fear what we are not prepared for. Prepare Spiritually and physically with your families needs so you will not have fear rather confidence knowing you will be okay during uncertain times. 

Thursday, June 20, 2019

My Prepper Pantry Comfort Food Edition

Today, at the Dollar Tree I was able to find the Duncan Hines Perfect Size for 1 Value Pack 10 individual packages. These normally are price at the Walmart 5.48 per package. I paid $1.00 each and bought 4. A savings of $17.92.  These savings allow me to spend that money in other preps. Additionally, they only require 3 table spoons of water to cook. 

When we think of Prepping we think of Water, Food, Medicine, and a means of self defense. However, we often forget in high stress situations/lean times comfort foods/items will give you and those around a boost in morale. Comforts foods/items can be sweets, hearty stews, home made breads, coffee, wine just as an example. Give your Pantry and Food Supply a quick peek and see if you have any comfort foods/ or items you may need to add. 







Sunday, June 2, 2019

My Prepping Today

I bought several of these Jolly Time Yellow Pop Corn Kernel bags from the Dollar Tree. I want to save these for long term use. Corn Kernels are considered a Almost Forever Food. All you have to do is place them in a glass jar then keep them in a cool dry place. These Do Not Need Oxygen Absorber(s). They need to retain their moisture in order to pop. Oxygen absorbers will deplete their moisture and will make them only good for home decor.

I like to re-use glass jars I have saved from sauces, salad dressings, pickles, jelly jars, etc.. These are very useful and economical for long term storage. Make sure they are clean and dry. Glass jars work great for pop corn kernels, rice, salt, sugar, pasta, and the list goes on and on. 
How to cook these corn kernels. Personally, I found a Whirley Popper in a thrift store several months ago in like new condition. This will work great with my Popcorn Kernels you add different flavors/spices to customize your treat. There are several other ways to cook these up. Here is a link to the Pioneer Woman and her secrets to popping corn



Saturday, May 18, 2019

The Forgotten Art of Basics

I can recall visiting my grandmother and seeing her sewing machine in the small room. There would be projects and a basket sitting beside it. 

Sewing was common place. I came to visit at age 5 and seeing a small stack of fabric for a simple project on her dining room table and next to that a cookie tin. As soon as I saw that cookie tin I knew I was in for such a treat. I struggled to pop open the lid to only find sewing supplies.
I knew from then on that I would not be having any Butter Cookies when I saw that tin. Although, I was a bit disappointed I forged through that tin with such curiosity. Trying to figure out what these small tools where meant for. I ran my fingers against the thread and zippers taken off of old clothing turned to rags. I shook a small container that held random buttons some of metal, ornate, simple, big/small, and shapes that delighted my eye's. I felt like found treasure. I can remember seeing prices of $.10 cents or $.25 cents for buttons, threads, notions. They cost so much more now. 

             The Lost Art of Sewing and Basics 
My mother was not a sewer nor do I ever recall her mending anything. My first lessons where watching my grandmother. Later in life middle school to be exact I learned sewing in Home

Economics. I learned to cook, sew, budget, balance a check book, and shop for food on a budget while in class. My first project was a tan cotton bag with handles. I was terribly proud of it although it was a bit lop sided. I made it myself and that's all that mattered.

It was a wonderful class for life basics. Sadly, many schools don't have it within their curriculum's any more. I feel a lot of us myself included have forgotten to pass on these simple lessons that mean so much when our children leave the nest to live on their own successfully. Learning to budget, cook, clean, and repair instead buying something new. Making do with what you have or getting creative with food in the pantry for meals on a budget. Lets encourage our children, grand children, and the community to embrace these basic life skills. Planting to seed for pride in ability, responsibility, and frugality. 

Monday, May 13, 2019

U.S. and China Tariff Problem


Looking at the information above provided by the U.S. Census. It
easy to see that America is a consuming country. A throw away mentality. If something breaks just buy another why even try to take the time to fix. When is the last time you went to a Shoe Repair/Cobbler or Vacuum Repair. Its a sad way to live when people do not appreciate nor value the goods they own or buy.
A false sense of security has been built. We shop and visually feel secure of the abundant supplies of food and product that we reach for when shopping. Never truly fearing a day that the shelf may be empty at the store. 

What should we be concerned about? These tariffs will not be paid by the companies bringing over the product. We the consumers will pay the cost so who really is hurting here. The average American consumer will be hurt. Its effects will be felt in every purchase we make or no longer will be able to afford. Do not be surprised if the items you normally reach for are higher in price or simply no longer available. The increase will take a hit on our budgets. This will decrease the amount of money we normally have to allocate on bills, electric, heat, food, medicine, doctors, car payments, insurance, mortgage, rent and the list goes on.

The unseen victims American farmers that are struggling with already ruined crops and financial loss's. They are going to get another blow to their business and families lives. The effects of the crop loss's are felt around the world with unusual weather causing crop devastation.  

Prepping will be vital for all our regular needs. Focus on the important things and set aside money to get your home and family in a better place for food, medicine, and all your normal needs. 

Tuesday, May 7, 2019

Pay Day Preps

Today, I bought Dollar Tree items and did a comparison with prices at Walmart. The savings are incredible. The money I saved allowed me to make a purchase of Augason Farms long term food that was on sale. I also noted that Walmart prices in a particular have risen in just a matter of a few weeks. This is a sound of alarm and concern. I hope you all make mental notes or have a binder/folder keeping track of your purchases location and price. This will help you make better purchasing decisions and keep track of whats happening in the economy. 

As most of us know the Big Box stores will steadily raise prices in small increments so its not such a big sticker shock. I knew this would occur with everything that is happening around the world with the Farmers and the effects of the weather. Food has declined in production due to harvest devastation. Gas prices have risen already hand in hand with the food prices. Its a cycle that cannot be helped but must be noted and acknowledged. I hope you all are taking the time to get ready with Water, Food, Medicine, and all your others needs. These small steps in preparation will be a blessings for days ahead when times are hard. 

Sunday, April 7, 2019

EMP Are You Really Ready?

         This Clip above is from War of the Worlds and the Effects of an EMP (Electro Magnetic Pulse)

An EMP is a difficult event to understand since this can happen either by the Sun or Man. In either case we will lose alot of modern day conveniences. Example:

-No Light
-No Phone
-No Vehicles will work
-No Water
-No Clocks/Watches
-No Cooking/Microwave/Refrigerator
-No Computer
-No Heating
-No Cooling
-No Generators
-No leaving your immediate area unless on foot
-No Sump Pumps working
-No Batteries will work

Possible Scenarios:
Planes, Helicopters, and Space Satellites, fall from the sky. Boats,Transporters, Cruise Ships stop working in the Oceans/Seas. No communication for help or ability to get it.

No working fire trucks, ambulance, or emergency assistance. No immediate law enforcement to help.

Nuclear Power Plants cannot cool themselves and fail!

No Medicine that requires cooling

No Bridges can rise or go back down (if caught in open position)

The list go's on and on

Now is the time to Plan. Practice 1 or 2 days of no electricity in your homes. How would you use your supplies. Do you have enough water? The water will not be working. Do you have a way to cook/heat food. Is it hot or cold outside?  How will you deal with cold weather? What foods do you have on the ready for easy consumption/cooking. Do you have back up light source (candles/oil lamps). Do you have enough lighters/matches. Have you thought of the bathroom Baby Wipes for cleaning (many options). Cleaning soiled clothes, First Aid Kit, Medicines. Do you have a place close buy to forage fruit trees. Do you have a garden use it and beware that others may help themselves. Does your library have books on natural healing, cooking, first aid, medicines, and more. Keeping your home clean is very important it will reduce the chance of illness/disease. The list goes on and on....

Keeping yourself busy will help if its cold outside. Keeping children busy and occupied will be best.
Thinking ahead of time for meals, weather, and anything your home may need to get by and getting it done as soon as you can.

Wood stoves and fireplaces will be your heating source and cooking area. If yo have neither think of what options are out there. I just wanted to give you all a bit of food for thought. I know I haven't covered everything but I wanted to plant the seed.







Thursday, April 4, 2019

Proverbs 31:10-31 The Wife of Noble Character


                                    Proverbs 31:10-31 New International Version (NIV)

Epilogue: The Wife of Noble Character

10 [a]A wife of noble character who can find?
    She is worth far more than rubies.
11 Her husband has full confidence in her
    and lacks nothing of value.
12 She brings him good, not harm,
    all the days of her life.
13 She selects wool and flax
    and works with eager hands.
14 She is like the merchant ships,
    bringing her food from afar.
15 She gets up while it is still night;
    she provides food for her family
    and portions for her female servants.
16 She considers a field and buys it;
    out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.
17 She sets about her work vigorously;
    her arms are strong for her tasks.
18 She sees that her trading is profitable,
    and her lamp does not go out at night.
19 In her hand she holds the distaff
    and grasps the spindle with her fingers.
20 She opens her arms to the poor
    and extends her hands to the needy.
21 When it snows, she has no fear for her household;
    for all of them are clothed in scarlet.
22 She makes coverings for her bed;
    she is clothed in fine linen and purple.
23 Her husband is respected at the city gate,
    where he takes his seat among the elders of the land.
24 She makes linen garments and sells them,
    and supplies the merchants with sashes.
25 She is clothed with strength and dignity;
    she can laugh at the days to come.
26 She speaks with wisdom,
    and faithful instruction is on her tongue.
27 She watches over the affairs of her household
    and does not eat the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise and call her blessed;
    her husband also, and he praises her:
29 “Many women do noble things,
    but you surpass them all.”
30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
    but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.
31 Honor her for all that her hands have done,
    and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.