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.   

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.

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.

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. 

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. 

Gooseberry Patch Recipe Beef In Rosemary-Mushroom Sauce

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

https://thepioneerwoman.com/food-and-friends/how-to-make-stovetop-popcorn/

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. 

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. 

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. 

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.

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.

Spring Time Front Door Blooms

This is a simple front door Basket of Blooms I wanted to share from the Gooseberry Patch Book titled all through the Seasons recipes & crafts (Collectors Edition).

Choose a wire basket made to hang on a door. Line the basket with Spanish moss,then fill it with potting soil. Following the planting instructions for your climate, fill the basket with your favorite spring bulbs. Now, keep it watered...before you know it you'll have springtime color that will brighten your home.

Real Facts Dry Foods vs Canned in a Emergency

Dry Goods vs Canned Friend or Foe

When looking at emergency situations and events there are several things to consider.

 #1 You need Water!!!!! You cannot survive without water.
Now, that water is out of the way. Lets dive in.

                                         Dry Goods
Pro's                                                    
-They can last a long time if properly stored                    
-They can give you energy and nutrition you will need                  
-You can store alot without to much for spoilage
-You can buy them now at a reasonable price.  
-You can trade for other goods              
Con's
-You need water hydrate 
-They need time to hydrate
-They need time to cook
-They may need Spices
-You will use more of your cooking heat source to cook
wood,propane, or gas
-You may suffer food fatigue 
-You can't eat it raw

                                      Canned Goods

Cons: Canned goods have a shorter life span compared to dry goods. If not used within a reasonable amount of time they can be comprised (look below Can Safety). You need a can opener.

Pros:
 Most canned goods need no water. If your stressed out and can't get yourself together. Canned goods will be your friend. They can provide a quick way to eat and not use alot of your heat sources. Some canned foods can be consumed with no heat. Canned goods provide a different flavors that may help in a high stress situation and provide a form or normalcy. 


Having a variety of canned goods is important. Now, remember canned goods with high acidity have a shorter shelf life (tomato sauce, canned fruits, pasta sauces).

You will need to consider your families likes and needs. We have canned soups (various), beans, chicken, spam, corned beef hash etc.. 
I like to have foods that are pre-seasoned (canned) so that's less step to think about. 





                                          Can Food Safety!
All cans have a best by date here in the USA. These are a date provided by the food manufacturer to guarantee taste and nutritional value. Canned foods last well past their best by dates. I have consumed canned goods 2 years past the best by date. They were just fine. Remember to rotate your supply of food using the oldest first.

Important:
If your can is Bulging               Throw it Away!
If your can doesn't sit evenly   Throw it Away!
If your can is rusting                Throw it Away!
If the can is leaking                  Throw it Away!
If the air tight seal is gone        Throw it Away!

If your can has none of these possible issues open it look at it and smell it does it pass your visual, smell and taste test. Then your good to go.

Tip: in a Emergency situation use and keep all fluids that maybe normally drained from your cans to use for preparation of meals to lesson the use of your limited water.

My Personal Opinion: I feel its important to have both dry and canned goods as they both serve a purpose in different situations and life needs.

A Grateful Heart Proverbs 15:15

Dollar Tree Science for Kids Kit Gel Ball Review

I bought this Science for Kids kit from the Dollar Tree for $1.00. 

They normally bring them out during the warm months of the year. The kit contains instructions and the gel ball pack (sealed). The instructions are easy place in a container add water and watch them grow. I added a little over a cup of water and it took 30 minutes for them to get to the full size. I wanted to do this and see the difference from a Amazon Gel Ball kit I bought year ago and I can honestly say that these are just the same but cheaper. 

Check out the video for the short review. The enjoyed the size, colors, and consistency of the gel. Would I buy these again Yes! This would be a fun thing to do during the summer, trips, sleep overs, and picnics bring them in a zip lock baggy and let them play. If you squeeze them hard they will will turn to mush that is part of the fun for kiddos too. 

These are the items used:  kit, kitchen towel, scissors, glass measuring cup, and a little over 1 cup of water into the measuring cup.

 This is the sealed package containing  the 100 gel balls.

This is what the gel balls look like dry inside the measuring cup. 

 After 25-30 minutes all the water has been used to form the 100 gel balls featured below the colors are vibrant and fun.

Find Your Fairy Name

I saw this on the Victorian Trading Co. Blog. Victorian Trading Co. is a online store which I buy from and they have nice craft projects on their Blog. I saw this posted and wanted to share. I hope you enjoy finding your magical name.

Dollar Tree Easter Wreath DIY

March 11, 2018, I posted a quick Dollar Tree DIY for a Easter Egg Wreath. I wanted to re-post it here for all to enjoy. This was a quick and easy DIY. This can be found on my DIY Playlist as well on my channel Youtube. I really enjoyed the the beautiful glittered pastel colors. I did note in the video to hot glue the eggs on the sides to one another for a more secure display. My wreath is still in great shape. I am planning on sharing a few easy DIYs for Easter and Home soon.

Items Needed:

Hot Glue Gun
Glue Sticks
Wreath (of your liking)
Eggs from the Dollar Tree (your choice)

Up-cycle Clothes & Home Using What You Have

January, I presented myself with a challenge of sorts. I wanted to up cycle some clothes that didn't fit correctly, unflattering, or a bit damaged. I wanted to keep items with good fabrics, color, and condition to re-create a new looks. I still have not started..... 

What am I afraid of? 

I had not started my projects and they sit in a pile staring at me. What is holding me back?  I am not afraid of the fabric or messing it up.... well maybe a little. 

I am afraid of failing. 

I see I will need to push through this feeling and just start 1 project from start to finish. I will pick something simple. I already did my bedroom curtains which I lined with the white cotton center of a queen size bed ruffle. The thick tapestry ruffle left over will be valences for my home. 

So, this week I am pushing myself out of my comfort zone to create something more personalized for me. Something Unique and Different. I will share on my channel what I am going to do and steps I will take to make it happen. I will start and finish this regardless of how good or bad it may look,lol. Wish me luck!!!
Anything I cannot capture on a video I will post photos here on my Blog. 

Gooseberry Patch Royal Strawberry Shortcake

Royal Strawberry Shortcake

Thanks to Becky Smith from North Canton, Ohio, for sharing this recipe!  

1/4 c. butter
1/3 c. sugar
1 egg, beaten
2 c. all-purpose flour
4 t. baking powder
1/8 t. salt
1 c. skim milk
2 t. vanilla extract
3-3/4 c. strawberries, hulled and sliced
Garnish: light whipped topping, powdered sugar

In a large bowl, blend together butter and sugar. Add egg; mix well. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking powder and salt. Add flour mixture to butter mixture alternately with milk. Stir in vanilla. Spread batter in a greased 9"x13" baking pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 to 30 minutes. Cool; cut shortcake into squares and split. Place bottom layers of shortbread squares on dessert plates. Top with strawberries. Add whipped topping if desired. Add shortcake tops and more berries. Add more topping if desired. Makes 12 servings.

Nutrition Per Serving: 163 calories, 5g fat, 3g sat fat, 26mg cholesterol, 203mg sodium, 27g carbohydrate, 2g fiber, 9 sugars, 4g protein Exchanges: 1 starch; ½ fruit; 1 fat; ½ other carbohydrate

Natural Healing Hints and Tips

I was going through Pinterest this fine morning and came across a few items that I thought were food for thought. The first photo above shows a wonderful way of growing your own herbs inside. Beside is a short list of common herbs found in our kitchens that can provide healing properties. Most of us forget the ways of our ancestors and natural healing. 
Embracing the old to become the new of our everyday.

Lastly, I wanted to share this leaf identification. This is information most should know. I plead guilty I do not nor my children. My husband is another story he can identify alot of trees and leaves. In this day and age most young people and children cannot identify a indigenous plant,tree, birds, or animals for their immediate area or state. But these young people and children can identify clothing and shoe logos for hundreds of manufacturers. Times have changed but not in a good way the basic knowledge of our ancestors needs to embraced and re-introduced to our young people, children, and grand children.

Food When Times Are Lean Prepping

Lets, talk about quick easy and cheap food options. Alot of families are struggling right and will be in the future. Although, these may not be the most nutritious choice's out there this will provide full tummies. Always look for Sales, Coupon, Cash Back (offers), Rebates, and don't be afraid or prideful and visit a food bank. They are there to help. When you get back on your feet give back with either your time or food. 

Cheap Foods List:
Oatmeal
Rice
Pasta (Many Kinds)
Pasta Sauce
Top Ramen (change up the sauce, meat, or make into a cold salad)
Eggs
Beans (dried or canned)
Bread
Peanut Butter
Jelly
Cheese (grilled cheese sandwiches)
Hot Dogs 
Canned Soups/Veggies
Tortillas (Eggs, Lunch Meats, Rice/Cheese, Meats(Wraps)
Pancake Mix
Syrup (on sale or Dollar Tree)
Lastly, lets not overlook spices. Spices can elevate your meals to whole other level of enjoyment and satisfaction.

Tip: 

1. Canned Chili will serve well with Hot Dogs also on Baked Potatoes, or inside a fajita wrap with rice/cheese 












Sale Only items:

Potatoes Apples, Grapes, Bananas, Carrots, Lettuce, Spinach, Kale, Lemons, Pineapple, Leaks,etc....
(Apples can be made with Peanut Butter as a treat).


Save Gas run all errands on 1 trip. You will need to organize yourself, coupons, list for a effective day.

There are a ton of recipes online,library, and in books you may have in your library at home. Its time to open them up and make something new with what you have at home.